Munich, — The BMW Group has officially launched the new BMW iX3 as the first production model in the Neue Klasse lineup, embodying a holistic approach to product sustainability throughout the entire vehicle life cycle. From supply chain and production to end use, the vehicle is built around energy efficiency, secondary materials, and reduced carbon emissions.
CO₂e Savings Achieved Within One Year of Driving
When charged using Europe’s standard electricity mix, the BMW iX3 50 xDrive delivers a lower carbon footprint than comparable combustion engine models after approximately 21,500 kilometers. Using electricity from renewable sources, the breakeven point can be reached in just 17,500 kilometers, offering customers CO₂e benefits in less than a year of use.
Decarbonized Supply Chain and Gen6 Battery Cells
BMW has cut CO₂e emissions during product development by 35% by leveraging secondary materials, renewable energy, and process innovations. The iX3’s Gen6 high-voltage battery cells are made with 50% recycled cobalt, lithium, and nickel, and are manufactured using renewable energy — reducing CO₂e emissions per watt hour by 42% compared to the Gen5 cells.
Circular Materials: From Ocean Waste to Recycled Aluminum
The iX3 incorporates environmentally responsible materials throughout:
- 30% of the underhood compartment and front storage cover is made from recycled maritime plastic, such as discarded fishing nets and ropes.
- 80% secondary aluminum is used for wheel carriers and swivel bearings.
- 70% secondary aluminum is used for the cast alloy wheels.
“Design for Circularity” in Practice
BMW applies the “Design for Circularity” framework, which emphasizes:
- Secondary-first use of materials,
- Strategic material selection, and
- End-of-life disassembly optimization.
As a result, one-third of all materials used in the BMW iX3 50 xDrive are recycled. One example is the Econeer seat cover in the Essential interior trim, made entirely from PET mono-materials—including fabric, adhesives, and backing—all derived from recycled PET, improving recyclability.
20% Lower Energy Consumption Than Previous Model
Following the BMW EfficientDynamics strategy, the new iX3 achieves a 20% reduction in energy consumption compared to its predecessor (WLTP combined). This is largely due to enhanced aerodynamics, reduced rolling resistance, and optimized powertrain and onboard energy use.
Fossil-Free Production at Debrecen Plant in Hungary
The iX3 is manufactured at BMW Group’s new Debrecen plant in Hungary, developed under the BMW iFactory principle. It is the first BMW facility to operate entirely without fossil fuels, relying solely on renewable electricity.
- Up to 25% of the plant’s annual electricity needs are met by on-site solar panels.
- Excess energy is stored and used to heat paint shop ovens.
- The plant emits only 0.1 tons of CO₂e per vehicle produced, about two-thirds less than other BMW manufacturing facilities.
BMW Group’s Net Zero Commitment
BMW Group is aligned with the Paris Climate Agreement and is targeting Net Zero emissions by 2050. The company aims to cut CO₂e emissions by at least 40 million tons by 2030, using 2019 levels as a baseline.
TÜV-Certified Carbon Footprint Transparency
BMW continues to lead in emissions transparency with publicly accessible, TÜV-certified product carbon footprints. The full lifecycle emissions report for the BMW iX3 50 xDrive is available online and in the My BMW app, providing consumers with verified information on CO₂e impact and material sourcing.
