[CES 2026] BMW Unveils AI Voice Assistant for Noir Klasse "New iX3" for the First Time

Higher Efficiency, Longer Range, and Faster Charging
New Driving Dynamics... First Introduction of Bidirectional Charging

On January 6 (local time), BMW showcased a range of next-generation innovative technologies applied to the first mass-produced model of its future vision, the "Noir Klasse," the "BMW New iX3," at CES 2026 in Las Vegas, USA.

For the first time among global car manufacturers, BMW also unveiled its AI-powered voice assistant, the "BMW Intelligent Personal Assistant," which is equipped with Amazon's "Alexa+" technology.

BMW's first Noir Klasse model, the 'BMW New iX3'. BMW

The "New iX3," based on the software-defined vehicle (SDV) concept, will deliver an ever-evolving user experience. BMW plans to sequentially apply the core technologies of the Noir Klasse to a total of 40 new and facelift models to be introduced by 2027.

The BMW Intelligent Personal Assistant utilizes generative AI based on a large language model (LLM) to understand language and generate responses autonomously. Passengers can not only control vehicle functions through natural conversation, but also intuitively ask and receive answers about information and knowledge beyond the vehicle itself. It is also possible to request multiple commands simultaneously in a single sentence.

The "sixth-generation BMW eDrive" technology applied to the "BMW New iX3" features a high-efficiency electric motor, a newly designed cylindrical cell-based high-voltage battery, and 800V technology.

The "BMW New iX3 50 xDrive" is equipped with two electric motors, delivering a maximum output of 469 horsepower (345kW) and a peak torque of 65.8kg·m (645Nm), accelerating from a standstill to 100km/h in just 4.9 seconds. The high-voltage battery system has a capacity of 108.7kWh, providing a maximum driving range of 805km per charge according to WLTP standards.

By adopting a cylindrical cell-based high-voltage battery, BMW has improved cell-level energy density by 20% and charging speed by 30% compared to the previous generation. The "cell-to-pack" structure, which directly integrates cylindrical cells into the high-voltage battery, further increases energy density. The "pack-to-open body" design, which integrates the battery as part of the vehicle body structure, reduces overall vehicle weight.

BMW's first Noir Klasse model, the 'BMW New iX3'. BMW

Charging performance has also been enhanced. The New iX3 supports ultra-fast charging up to 400kW, allowing drivers to secure a range of 372km (WLTP standard) in just 10 minutes using an 800V DC fast charger. Charging from 10% to 80% battery capacity takes about 21 minutes. Thanks to BMW Group's proprietary battery management technology based on an integrated switching matrix, 400V DC chargers can also be used. AC charging is supported at 11kW as standard and 22kW as an option.

The New iX3 offers a wide range of bidirectional charging functions, including V2L, V2H, and V2G, enabling not only mobile power supply but also home energy storage and revenue generation through electricity sales. A charging port compatible with the North American Charging Standard (NACS) is provided as standard, improving access to the Supercharger network, and the included CCS adapter allows the use of other charging operators' infrastructure.

In addition, the BMW Symbiotic Drive optimizes interaction between the driver and driving assistance systems, providing a new dimension of driving experience. The driver's acceleration, braking, and steering controls are seamlessly integrated with AI-based software to deliver the "pure joy of driving."

BMW's first Noir Klasse model, the 'BMW New iX3'. BMW

With the BMW Highway Assistant, drivers can drive hands-free at speeds of up to 130km/h. Both lane keeping and automatic lane changing are supported, and the driver can authorize a lane change with a simple glance at the side mirror. In conjunction with navigation route guidance, the system proactively suggests lane changes at highway junctions and exits, allowing drivers to experience Level 2 autonomous driving assistance functions in a wider range of situations.

The newly introduced Highway and City Assistants support complex urban driving, including automatic stopping and restarting based on traffic light recognition. BMW plans to determine the introduction of advanced driver assistance features according to each market and will continue to expand them through over-the-air software updates.

BMW's first Noir Klasse model, the 'BMW New iX3'. BMW