BMW uses Fortnite video game to tease iX2 electric SUV

BMW has teased its upcoming iX2 electric crossover in the popular video game Fortnite.

In an effort to promote the upcoming SUV coupe, Fortnite players will be able to complete challenges to get the chance to virtually customise the upcoming model.

Images of the car in the game featured in BMW’s press release don’t reveal too much about the model, except for its prominent illuminated grille.

However, BMW has confirmed the car will “show up in prototype disguise [form] in the Car Creator” until more is revealed about the car at its “communication launch” on October 11.

From October 4 to 11, players can customise the colour of the car from a “limited palette of gamified paint schemes”. Also customisable are the wheels and contents of the boot.

After the vehicle is detailed on October 11, series paint colours, wheels and interior options will be customisable in the game.

The car can be found in a virtual city dubbed “Hypnopolis”, which contains various challenges needed to unlock the customization option for the iX2, and features various ‘easter eggs’ pertaining to the BMW brand.

A virtual representation of the company’s headquarters, among other touches, can also be discovered in-game.

The iX2 marks the first time the X2 crossover has been electrified, and BMW confirmed during its 2023 annual conference it will launch alongside the new combustion-powered X2 before the end of the year, with first customer deliveries expected to start next year.

The electric iX2 is expected to feature the same powertrain as the iX1 xDrive30e.

The electric SUV has a dual-motor all-wheel drive system making a combined 230kW and 494Nm, good for a claimed 100km/h sprint time of 5.6 seconds and a range of between 413 and 438km on a single charge.

With the iX1 and iX2, BMW will have direct rivals for the Audi Q4 e-tron, which comes in regular SUV and coupe SUV (“Sportback”) body styles.

Inside the cabin, it’s expected the next-gen X2 range will be largely identical to the X1 with the BMW Curved Display featuring a 10.7-inch infotainment screen and 10.25-inch digital driver display.

The iX2’s Fortnite debut isn’t the first time BMW has ventured into the digital world.

The brand has previously held a design competition called the BMW Group Supplierthon in order to scout and promote talented virtual developers, with the winner’s technology integrated into its supplier and partner network.

MaibornWolff GmbH took out the honours in the ‘in-car experience’ category, creating a system that logs driver’s efficiency statistics and driving style and allows them to compete virtually with other BMW owners.

MORE: Everything BMW X2