KATHMANDU: BMW’s new-generation iX3 electric SUV has received a strong response in China, securing tens of thousands of preliminary orders shortly after opening for pre-sales.
The “Neue Klasse” BMW iX3 opened for pre-orders at the Chengdu Auto Show on August 21. It is priced between $40,000 to $50,000 in China.
According to a report by 36KR, some BMW dealerships in major markets received nearly 80 preliminary orders each in the first week.
However, BMW is facing a unique challenge as it currently has no physical display vehicles at dealerships. Display units are not expected to reach more than 500 dealerships across China until late October.
As a result, sales teams are currently relying on brochures and digital images to show the vehicle to potential buyers.
The strong response comes despite the lack of display units. The new iX3 offers a CLTC range of up to 919 km in its top variant. Real-world testing around Qinghai Lake has reportedly recorded more than 800 km of range.
The electric SUV also comes with advanced driver-assistance technology developed with Momenta. The system is offered as standard across the range.
The iX3 also features an intelligent cockpit with Alibaba’s Qwen and DeepSeek artificial intelligence models for voice interaction.
BMW plans to begin the first deliveries in November. However, large-scale deliveries are not expected until 2027. Some customers may have to wait until January 31, 2027, for their vehicles.
BMW has said the delay is linked to final quality checks and verification of the new technologies used in the iX3.
