We’ll be the first to admit that BMW has surprised us with the launch of the so-called Dune Taxi. New quick video published on Youtube by the company’s Middle East division shows a wild pure electric off-roader with beefy tires and huge ground clearance. With 400 millimeters (15.7 inches) of wheel travel, this eccentric EV showcased its ability to go anywhere in the promo film starring the X6 M Competition and iX M60.
This high-powered, all-electric monster sports a massive new grille from the company, but we think the kidneys – perhaps for the first time – are proportionate to the body. The Dune cab appears to have gullwing doors and a roof scoop, part of a natural fiber reinforced polymer body. Sleek LED headlights at the front and rear give the off-roader a futuristic feel while the stripped-down cab features a full roll cage and “Cosworth” inscription on the center control stack.
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BMW hasn’t put out a press release on the Dune Taxi yet, though it does share some interesting specs in this action-packed video. We know the electric motor produces a combined output of 400 kilowatts and instant torque of 1,000 Newton-meters, which make 536 hp and 738 lb-ft, respectively. The tool looks real though some parts of the clip appear to be using CGI too much.
Speaking of blurring the line between what’s real and what’s not, the Dune Taxi made a slalom maneuver to dodge a bunch of two-wheeled X5 E53s before climbing a 130-degree incline. The video ends with the 2021 Concept XM, which will be released in production form on September 27.
It’s unclear whether the nearly five-minute video is just to show the xDrive and M with a high dose of “i” or BMW really wants to race Dune Taxi. This will make the Audi RS Q E-Tron E2 run for its money at the Dakar Rally.
