BMW iX

The passenger compartment of the iX remained stable in the frontal offset test. Dummy numbers showed good protection of the knees and femurs of both the driver and passenger. BMW showed that a similar level of protection would be provided to occupants of different sizes and to those sitting in different positions.  Analysis of the deceleration of the impact trolley during the test, and analysis of the deformable barrier after the test, revealed that the iX would be an aggressive impact partner in a frontal collision. In the full-width rigid barrier test, good protection was provided to all critical body areas of the driver and rear passenger, except for the chest of the passenger, protection of which was adequate. In both the side barrier test and the more severe side pole impact, protection of all critical body areas was good and the car scored maximum points in this part of the assessment. The iX has a centre airbag to mitigate occupant to occupant injuries in the event of a lateral collision.  In Euro NCAP’s test, the airbag worked well, with good protection of the dummies’ heads.  Limitation of the extent to which a body is thrown to the other side of the car in a side impact was also good.  Tests on the front seats and head restraints demonstrated good protection against whiplash injuries in the event of a rear-end collision.  A geometric analysis of the rear seats also indicated good whiplash protection.  The iX is equipped with an advanced e-Call system which notifies the emergency services in the event of an accident.  A multi-collision braking system is also standard, to prevent secondary collisions.  However, the system did not meet Euro NCAP’s requirements and was not rewarded.