BMW has unveiled a fresh teaser of its upcoming production electric crossover, which is currently known as the iNext. The published image shows that the car will feature a steering wheel of unusual geometry. The German press office explained that this design is intended to improve visibility of the instrument panel and give the driver more free legroom. The company also believes that this steering wheel shape will clearly indicate the direction and angle of wheel turn when the car is driving in autonomous mode.
In addition, the crossover will be equipped with a large curved touchscreen. It will display instrument readings and information from the multimedia system. The screen will have a special anti-glare coating and a frame made of magnesium.
The exterior of the production model will echo the iNext concept, which was showcased a year earlier aboard a Lufthansa Boeing 777°F aircraft. The new model will be larger than the iX3, which is slated to go on sale in 2020.
The crossover's range will depend on the chosen modification. Depending on the version, the car will be able to travel from 450 to 700 km without recharging. The most powerful variant of the electric vehicle is likely to receive a powertrain of up to 800 horsepower. The car will also have an autonomous driving system, but details about its operation have not yet been disclosed.
Production of the new model will start at the plant in Dingolfing, Germany. The car's premiere is expected in 2021. By 2025, BMW plans to release a total of 25 production models with electrification, 12 of which will be fully electric.
