Arguably the most significant selling point of BEVs (battery electric vehicles), and what really put Tesla on the map in the first place, is mindboggling acceleration. The phrase’ instant torque’ is widely used but little understood. In short, electrical motors have instant access to all the force they need to turn. It’s not dependent on how fast it’s already spinning.
That’s why you see electric cars leave internal combustion engine vehicles for dead off the line. The BMW iX M60 is BMW’s flagship sporty SUV. It comes with launch control, allowing you to – on the rare occasion – max out its acceleration potential.
Based on the BMW iX owner’s manual, this blog post explains how to activate the BMW iX M60’s launch control and considers whether or not you should! As always, please read your owner’s manual before operating your car, especially with features as powerful as this!
Table of Contents
Does the BMW iX have launch control?
The standard BMW iX doesn’t come with launch control. However, the BMW iX M60 has launch control installed and ready to use. Launch control is a software program.
This is what allows you to push both pedals at the same time without damaging the drivetrain. It also incorporates traction control and stability control systems (among others). Before I explain how to use launch control in the BMW iX M60, let me explain something. You can’t use it all the time.
First of all, certain conditions must be met. I’ve written about these below (‘When should you use launch control?’). Second, launch control is actually awful for your car. Sure, it’s fine for the occasional use, but if you activate launch control every time your iX M60 accelerates from the traffic lights, you’ll quickly find yourself in trouble.
This is because of the extreme torque (twisting forces) applied to your car. It genuinely damages the powertrain. As a result, you shouldn’t overuse launch control in your iX M60.
How to use BMW iX M60 launch control
Using launch control in the BMW iX M60 is simple. Ensure it’s safe to do so, and then follow the instructions below:
- Bring your car to a complete stop.
- Look all around you (including behind) to check the road and weather conditions permit you to use launch control.
- The drive-ready state must, of course, be switched on.
- Press My Modes.
- This button sits in the center console.
- Choose the SPORT drive mode.
- Use your left foot to push the brake pedal as far down as possible.
- Hold it there!
- Next, use your right foot to push the accelerator pedal all the way down.
- Your left should still be held on the brake.
- A finish line flag appears on the instrument cluster.
- This indicates that launch control is ready to be used.
- Release the brake pedal to activate the launch control. You’ll speed away!
- This must be done within a few seconds of the flag appearing in the instrument cluster.
- If the flag disappears, launch control cancels.
How to cancel the launch control process
If you find yourself with both feet on each pedal regretting your decision, canceling launch control in your iX M60 is easy. Do either of the following:
- Release your foot from the accelerator pedal; or
- Wait for the flag icon to disappear.
Under all normal operating conditions, the launch control is switched off. You must follow the instructions in the owner’s manual to activate it.
When should you use launch control?
Realistically, launch control should be kept to track situations – off the road and away from other vehicles. It is technically possible to use the iX M60’s launch control anywhere.
However, you must take due care and attention and correctly assess the risks to other road users (and yourself!). Launch control involves enormous amounts of torque.
Although the car’s onboard computers do much of the work for you, losing traction could be catastrophic. Thus, before attempting to use launch control, check the following conditions:
- The weather and road should be dry. Any rain, snow, or ice (etc.) results in a loss of traction.
- There shouldn’t be any other traffic or road users around.
- This includes pedestrians, cyclists, horses, motorcyclists, cars, trucks, transport trucks, and so on.
- It also includes them if they’re stationary or not directly on the road!
- Ensure the road is free from any dirt, debris, or contaminants.
- For example, watch for mud or oil.
- You must be able to see down the road you’re driving down – your vision mustn’t be impeded by fog, mist, tight curves, low branches, etc.
- The first 300 miles (500 km) of the iX M60’s life is its ‘breaking-in period’. During this time, launch control shouldn’t be used.
- You should drive gently in general.
- Ensure the steering wheel points straight, and you have no wheel alignment problems.
- Don’t use it if you have any abnormal tire wear, warning lights, or indeed any other suspected faults.
- Don’t break any local traffic laws, such as the speed limit!
Head to your local BMW service center or dedicated shop if the launch control isn’t working.
Reading your owner’s manual is essential. It gives you up-to-date advice on your vehicle. You’ll find a version below if you can’t access your physical copy.
FAQs
What is launch control in a BMW iX M60, and how does it work?
Explanation of what launch control is and how it’s activated in the BMW iX M60.
Is launch control available in all BMW iX models?
Clarification on which BMW iX model(s) come equipped with launch control.
Why should I use launch control, and when is it appropriate?
Information on the benefits of launch control and the recommended scenarios for its use.
Is launch control safe to use on public roads?
Guidance on the safety aspects of using launch control in everyday traffic.
What are the potential risks or drawbacks of using launch control frequently?
Explanation of why launch control should not be used excessively and its potential impact on the vehicle.