BMW TO TAKE ON PORSCHE TAYCAN

BMW will launch its first model based on a new platform that’s been engineered solely for electric vehicles.

The pioneer is the iX, which BMW describes as a Sports Activity Vehicle. Two versions will be available, badged as the iX xDrive 40 and the xDrive 50.

The 40 is powered by a pair of electric motors that produce 326bhp, and the 50 by a 523bhp pairing. Battery sizes are 71kWh and 105.2kWh respectively for maximum ranges of 257 and 380 miles. Prices start at £69,905 for the 40 in Sport trim and top out at £94,905 for the 50 in M Sport trim. Those heavy prices bring the iX into competition with the Porsche Taycan and the stunning Audi e-Tron GT.

■ Richard Hammond will be unveiling his latest project at the London Classic Car Show, which is being held at Syon Park from June 25-27.

The broadcaster has started his own classic car restoration business, The Smallest Cog. Clearly nobody would want Hammond going near their precious classic, so he’s teamed up with fatherand-son restorers Neil and Anthony Greenhouse.

Hammond will be at the show on June 26, tickets can be found at theclassiccarshowuk.com