BMW electrics get cold test

BMW is putting prototypes of its new electric models through the Arjeplog winter test centre in Sweden.

It’s part of an intensive development programme to prepare the cars for market launch in 2020 and 2021.

The BMW iX3, BMW i4 and BMW iNext will have their drive and suspension components tested under extreme weather and road conditions at the edge of the Arctic Circle, on the icy surfaces of frozen lakes and icy slopes.

The tests will determine if the high-voltage batteries, BMW eDrive technology and the suspension control systems demonstrate high levels of performance and reliability.

The BMW iX3 is due to go on sale next year and will feature the fifth generation BMW eDrive technology for the first time. The car has a 400km range and may use 150kW DC charging stations.

The BMW i4 has a 600km range and can sprint to 100km/h in four seconds. A premium mid-range car, also with fifth generation BMW eDrive technology, it is due to be produced starting 2021.

The BMW iNext has similar technology for highly automated driving and is scheduled to be produced from 2021.