BMW has unveiled its next-generation iX3, signalling a bold step forward in the company’s ambition to integrate sustainability across the full life cycle of its vehicles. Developed as part of the Neue Klasse initiative, the new iX3 embodies the BMW Group’s intensified focus on decarbonisation, responsible sourcing, and energy efficiency, all central to the company’s carbon neutrality targets set for 2030 and 2050.
Through extensive environmental planning during the vehicle’s design, manufacturing, and operational stages, the iX3 50 xDrive demonstrates how BMW is reshaping premium electric mobility. When powered using Europe’s general energy mix, the vehicle achieves a lower CO₂ equivalent (CO₂e) footprint than a comparable internal combustion engine model after just 21,500 kilometres. If charged exclusively with renewable electricity, that break-even point drops to approximately 17,500 kilometres, allowing drivers to offset emissions within the first year of use.
BMW’s sustainability push is most evident in the dramatic changes made across the supply chain. A reduction of 35 per cent in supply chain emissions was achieved during development, largely by relying on recycled materials and renewable energy. The Gen6 battery cells in the iX3’s high-voltage storage system use 50 per cent recycled cobalt, lithium, and nickel. Moreover, the use of renewable energy in both cell production and the processing of anode and cathode materials has led to a 42 per cent reduction in CO₂e per watt hour compared to the Gen5 cell.
