BMW iX
The BMW iX has established itself as a leading electric vehicle (EV) in terms of range and performance. During a long-term test conducted by InsideEVs last year, the iX achieved an impressive 351 miles on a single charge, exceeding its EPA-rated range of 307 miles. Although the test was conducted under favorable summer conditions, the iX has demonstrated reliability even in winter, making it a dependable option for long-distance travel. BMW has recently enhanced the iX with updated trims, a larger battery, and improvements in power, efficiency, and range.
The latest update to the iX, known as the Life Cycle Impulse (LCI), introduces significant upgrades. The previous trims—xDrive50 and M60—have been replaced with new variants: xDrive45, xDrive60, and M70. These new models feature increased energy content, as stated by BMW, and offer improved driving capabilities. The xDrive45 is equipped with a 95-kWh battery pack, providing an estimated range of 280-300 miles. The xDrive60, which replaces the xDrive50, comes with a larger 110-kWh battery, offering a range of 330 miles—a slight increase over the previous model’s 307-mile range with its 105.2-kWh battery. The M70, also equipped with the 110-kWh battery, may see a slight reduction in range due to its higher power output and larger 23-inch wheels. However, the EPA range figures for the M70 have not yet been released.
BMW has also introduced several technical upgrades to enhance the iX’s efficiency. A new silicon-based inverter has been added to improve energy transmission efficiency, reducing energy losses and increasing range. Additionally, improvements in wheel bearings and more energy-efficient headlamps contribute to a 10% boost in overall efficiency. Despite these enhancements, the voltage architecture remains unchanged, meaning the maximum charging rate stays at 195 kW. In a previous charging test by InsideEVs, the iX charged from 10% to 80% in just 41 minutes.
Power has been significantly increased across the updated models. The xDrive45 now delivers 402 horsepower, while the xDrive60, replacing the 516-horsepower xDrive50, generates 536 horsepower. The M70, the top-tier variant, offers 650 horsepower in Boost Mode, an improvement over the previous M60’s 610 horsepower. Torque figures for the new models have not been disclosed but will be updated once available.
Exterior changes to the iX are relatively subtle but noteworthy. The previously optional $2,500 Sport Package is now standard on the xDrive60. This package includes darker exterior accents, such as blacked-out bumpers, dark clear tail lamps, and updated graphics for the kidney grille. Four new color options are available: Arctic Race Blue Metallic, Frozen Deep Gray, Space Silver Metallic, and Tanzanite. Additionally, optional M Sport brakes with red calipers and an M logo are available for those seeking a sportier look.
The iX LCI refresh is part of BMW’s strategy to address a recent decline in sales. Although BMW achieved record EV sales in the U.S. last year, iX sales dropped by 11%, partly due to its high starting price of $87,250 and increasing competition from more affordable electric crossovers. In contrast, BMW’s more budget-friendly electric sedans, the i4 and i5, have performed well. With the introduction of the new entry-level xDrive45 variant and improved range on higher trims, BMW aims to revitalize the iX’s market appeal. Deliveries of the updated iX are expected to begin in the first half of this year, with pricing details to be announced later.
In summary, the BMW iX has solidified its position as a high-performing electric vehicle with impressive range capabilities. The latest updates, including new trims, a larger battery, enhanced power, and improved efficiency, further elevate its appeal. While exterior changes are minimal, the inclusion of the Sport Package as standard and new color options add to its aesthetic value. BMW’s efforts to address sales challenges through these upgrades reflect its commitment to maintaining the iX’s competitiveness in the evolving EV market.
1 - 0
Alfa Romeo has stated that an electric drivetrain will replace the gas-powered Giulia (shown above) in the upcoming years. It is anticipated that the base model will generate approximately 350 horsepower, whereas the Veloce will generate nearly 800 horsepower. The top-tier Giulia, which is expected to produce more than 1000 horsepower, will still go by the iconic Quadrifoglio appellation. With a range of up to 500 miles and 800-volt, ultra-rapid charging capabilities, the new Giulia will be manufactured on the Stellantis Group's STLA Large platform. According to recent reports, the Giulia will also be available with combustion engines, just as the 2025 Dodge Charger.
0 - 0
For a new brand called Afeela, Honda has teamed up with Sony—yes, the same company that made the PlayStation. In 2026, its first model—the unimaginatively called Afeela 1—will be released. Technology is the main focus of the sedan, which has a suite of 40 sensors that feed a Level 2+ driving assistance system and a number of screens spread throughout the dashboard. Two 241-hp electric motors will provide all-wheel drive for the Afeela 1, which Afeela hopes will have a 300-mile range. The $102,900 Signature trim will be the sole model available in 2026, and sales will first be limited to California. The $89,900 Origin trim will be available in 2027.
5 - 1
Although Acura's next electric crossover will be powered by a novel electric architecture created by parent company Honda, the ZDX, the brand's first electric vehicle, is based on the Chevrolet Blazer EV. In addition, the new SUV will have a sloping roofline for a coupe-like shape and bring back the RSX brand from the early 2000s. The RSX will be the first car to employ Honda's new operating system, ASIMO OS, and it will share its platform with the company's 0-series EVs. The SUV will go on sale in late 2025 after being constructed at Honda's new Ohio site.
2 - 0
This incredibly swift V12 soft-roader has the potential to introduce the Maranello howl to Dubai's Big Red, a massive shifting sand dune that requires a great deal of traction and torque to effectively climb. But a manufacturer of automobiles built to get from point A to point B as quickly as possible, one that has long capitalized on the advantages of sylphic frontal regions and tarmac-skimming centers of gravity, does not seem like a manufacturer of cars with neither of these features. Nevertheless, the Ferrari Purosangue SUV is as far from a World War II Jeep as a payphone and an iPhone are.
Additionally, that is what the market desires, and a long lineup has resulted from appropriately assessing that erratic field of demand.
2 - 0
The Difference in Cost Between ICE and EV Vehicles Is Closing Quickly
Electric vehicles (EVs) have historically been more expensive than traditional combustion engine (ICE) cars, and while they remain more costly in many parts of the world, the gap is narrowing. As of December 2024, the average EV in the U.S. was priced at $55,000, about 12% more than the typical gas-powered car. However, this situation is improving as battery costs decrease and more affordable EV models enter the market.
Data from Jato Dynamics, an automotive industry data firm, reveals that the average price of EVs has dropped by 25% since 2018. According to their latest report, titled "EV Price Gap: A Divide in the Global Automotive Industry," the cost of EVs is decreasing faster than many might expect. In the U.S., the price difference between EVs and ICE vehicles was about 50% in 2021, but by 2023, this had decreased to just 15%.
In Europe, however, the price gap has not decreased as quickly. While the difference was 27% in 2023, it actually increased to 29% in 2022 before falling slightly to 22% in 2024. Despite these improvements, EVs in both Europe and the U.S. are still, on average, more expensive than those in China.
In the first half of 2022, the average price of a new EV in China was $33,400 (€31,829), significantly lower than the $58,600 (€55,821) in the European Union and $67,000 (€63,864) in the U.S. This price disparity underscores how much more affordable EVs are in China, with the price difference being 75% and 101% more expensive in Europe and the U.S., respectively. This trend has continued into 2023, where EVs were, on average, 115% more expensive in Europe and 118% more expensive in the U.S. compared to China.
This pricing disparity is a key factor in the rapid adoption of EVs in China. In 2024, approximately 40% of all cars sold in China were plug-in hybrids or battery electric vehicles (BEVs). The wide availability of affordable EV options in China is driving this trend, as data from Jato Dynamics shows that nearly 80% of EVs purchased in China in the first half of 2023 cost under $42,000 (€40,000), with a third of them priced under $21,000 (€20,000).
For comparison, a brand-new Volkswagen ID.4 Pro in China was priced about 30% lower than in the U.S. in 2023, without even considering the $7,500 federal tax credit available to some U.S. buyers. However, this tax incentive is not available for all U.S. EV models in 2025, and it could be eliminated altogether under the Trump administration.
Felipe Munoz, a global analyst at Jato Dynamics, explains that the narrowing price gap between BEVs and ICE vehicles cannot be attributed solely to the availability of cheaper EVs. While car manufacturers are improving both the quality and affordability of electric offerings, the cost of ICE vehicles has risen overall. This price increase is largely due to stricter regulations, higher standards, and the addition of more advanced technological features, all of which have contributed to higher retail prices for these cars. Meanwhile, the cost of batteries used in EVs has fallen, which has helped reduce their prices.
In the U.S., Kelley Blue Book reported that the average price of a new EV in July 2024 was $56,520, compared to $48,401 for a typical ICE vehicle, marking a 16.8% price difference. Jato Dynamics found that the price gap between EVs and ICE vehicles in the U.S. had decreased significantly, from 53% in 2018 to just 15% in 2024. During this period, the price of EVs dropped by 11%, while the price of ICE vehicles rose by 14%, further contributing to the narrowing of the price gap.
In conclusion, the cost of EVs is becoming more competitive with that of traditional combustion engine vehicles, especially in markets like the U.S. and China. Although EVs are still generally more expensive in the U.S. and Europe compared to China, the global automotive landscape is shifting. As battery prices continue to fall and more affordable models become available, the adoption of electric vehicles is expected to accelerate, driving further reductions in the price difference between EVs and ICE cars worldwide.
1 - 0
The Wagoneer S EV
7 - 0
resenting the INMOTION RS, a super scooter that the INMOTION team has redesigned. Its two 2000w motors (highest output: 8400w) provide amazing speed and the capacity to climb hills. With its numerous riding modes and the first transforming system in the world, the INMOTION RS makes it simple to transition between comfort and toughness. It's ideal for both comfort-seekers and thrill-seekers, and it's great for off-road excursions and city exploration.
youtube.com/shorts/0KSVo0l1CD...
1 - 0
"Exclusive First Look: Incredible Vehicles You Won’t Believe Exist!"
"Get ready for an extraordinary experience as we unveil an exclusive first look at some of the most incredible vehicles you won't believe exist! Discover cutting-edge technology and futuristic designs that push the boundaries of innovation in the automotive world. Don't miss out on this thrilling showcase of jaw-dropping vehicles!"
watch video on watch page
0 - 0
Welcome to NextGenNow - Your Gateway to Tomorrow's Tech! Explore the world where innovation meets possibility. NextGenNow is your premier destination for cutting-edge technology, showcasing advancements in science, gadgetry, and futuristic innovations. From AI breakthroughs to robotics, we bring you the front-row ticket to the tech revolution.
Discover the unseen with in-depth reviews of the latest gadgets and exclusive interviews with the brilliant minds behind the breakthroughs. Stay ahead of the curve and connect with the future today. Subscribe to NextGenNow and join us on the journey of extraordinary tech exploration. #NextGenNow #TechInnovation #FutureTechJourney
20 February 2024