BMW’s electrical transition simply took a significant step ahead on the 2026 Chicago Auto Present, the place the all-new BMW iX3 made its official U.S. debut, and quietly launched some of the vital updates but for American EV consumers: the NACS charging port.
This marks the primary time BMW has proven a manufacturing model of the iX3 in each North American specification and geared up M Sport and Tesla’s Charging Normal (NACS) connector. It’s a small element with massive implications.
BMW Embraces NACS within the U.S. Beginning with the iX3
The brand new iX3 might be BMW’s first U.S.-bound EV constructed on the Neue Klasse platform, bringing not solely new structure and improved vary but in addition a brand new method to charging infrastructure compatibility.
Whereas BMW confirmed in 2023 that it could undertake the NACS plug beginning in 2025, the iX3 proven in Chicago is the primary bodily have a look at the change. Positioned on the left rear quarter panel, the NACS port replaces the beforehand commonplace CCS port and can enable entry to Tesla Superchargers throughout North America. House owners will be capable of cost by way of the older CCS commonplace with an adapter.
That is greater than a comfort function, it’s a strategic transfer. Supercharger entry has lengthy been thought of the gold commonplace for dependable, quick EV charging within the U.S., and BMW’s adoption of NACS will straight enhance the usability and confidence of its EV lineup for American prospects.
U.S.-Spec iX3: Constructed for American Wants
In contrast to the previous-gen iX3 that was by no means supplied within the U.S., this all new 2026 mannequin is a full US spec BMW. However greater than that it’s BMW’s first Neue Klasse EV promising enhancements in vary, efficiency, driving engagement and packaging.
Key options embody:
- NACS charging port for full compatibility with Tesla Supercharger community
- Projected ~300–340 mile EPA vary
- Neue Klasse EV platform with improved effectivity and packaging
- Twin-motor all-wheel drive possibility (anticipated at launch)
- U.S.-specific tow hook and tools
- Extremely anticipated next-gen iDrive
- BMW’s newest design language
the NACS Port And Why You Ought to Care
For EV buyers within the U.S., charging entry is without doubt one of the greatest deciding elements. With BMW becoming a member of different main OEMs in adopting NACS, the iX3 is positioned to be some of the accessible premium electrical SUVs when it comes to public charging, particularly for long-distance journey.
This additionally alerts that future BMW EVs for North America, together with the forthcoming Neue Klasse sedan, will function NACS ports and native Supercharger entry, decreasing dependence on fragmented third-party charging networks.
Ocean Wave Blue
The outside colour on this instance is what BMW calls Ocean Wave Blue. It’s an all new metallic possibility that’s extremely affected by lighting. As you may see within the two pictures above, very delicate photograph therapies convey out very totally different colours.
Our Take
The iX3 is an enormous second for BMW. Sure EV gross sales are down within the US as a result of elimination of subsidies. However this one would possibly simply be adequate to make consumers overlook in regards to the cash that’s not on the desk. And crucially it units the stage for what’s subsequent – the total rollout of BMW’s future EVs together with the electrical 3 Collection coming later this yr.
