BMW iX3 1000 km range Smashes Official Estimates with 626-Mile Run

The BMW iX3 is exceeding expectations in more ways than one, particularly in the one department where EVs are typically disappointing: range. The BMW iX3 1000 km range feat was accomplished on a single charge on public roads, where the electric crossover traveled 1,007.7 km (626.1 miles) from its Debrecen plant to its Munich headquarters.

The test vehicle—a 50 xDrive variant—still had 2% of its battery remaining upon arrival, meaning it exceeded its official WLTP estimate of 800 km (497 miles) by more than 200 km (120 miles). The impressive achievement is a powerful statement about the real-world capabilities of modern electric vehicles.

Here is a closer look at the advanced technology that made this record possible.

The Technology: 800V eDrive

The remarkable achievement was thanks to BMW’s all-new sixth-generation eDrive technology, a hallmark of the Neue Klasse electric architecture. This new system drastically improves efficiency and performance over previous generations.

Feature	Specification	Impact on Performance
Platform	Sixth-Generation eDrive (Neue Klasse)	40% more efficient than the Gen-5 system.
Architecture	800-Volt	Reduces energy losses and supports ultra-fast charging.
Max DC Charging	400 kW	Allows a 10–80% charge in approximately 21 minutes.
Powertrain (50 xDrive)	Dual-Motor All-Wheel Drive	Produces 345 kW (469 hp) and 645 Nm (476 lb-ft).
Acceleration	0–62 mph in 4.9 seconds	Despite the long-range battery, the SUV is highly responsive.
Battery Size	108.7 kWh (Net Usable)	Provides the energy density for the long-distance feat.

The Conditions: Uphill and Under Duress

To conserve energy, the BMW team employed several measures for the journey from Debrecen, Hungary, to Munich, Germany. The route itself was challenging, being mostly uphill (Debrecen is 120 meters above sea level; Munich is 520 meters).

The efficiency measures included:

HVAC OFF: Heating and air conditioning systems were kept off, along with the multimedia system.
Route Selection: The team avoided high-speed freeways and mapped a route that minimized traffic lights to maintain momentum.
Public Roads: Crucially, the test was completed on public roads, not in a controlled laboratory environment, validating the vehicle’s real-world potential.

BMW iX3 - rear shot, parked — Source: BMW

Shattering Estimates

The BMW iX3 1000 km range run provides crucial context for owners. While it is highly unlikely future owners will cover 1,000 kilometers on a single charge under normal conditions (as they would use heating/cooling), the test proves the vehicle’s incredible efficiency potential. The result significantly exceeds both the official WLTP rating of 805 km (500 miles) and the expected EPA rating of around 400 miles, demonstrating that the Neue Klasse platform delivers real-world range that surpasses traditional laboratory testing.

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