New BMW iX1 previewed
BMW’s all-electric compact crossover to rival Mercedes-Benz EQA, offering 438km rangeBMW has begun teasing its long-awaited replacement for the small i3 electric hatch, the BMW iX1, which will go toe-to-toe with rivals like the Mercedes-Benz EQA and Volvo XC40 Recharge.
Releasing images of the pure-electric small SUV in action at BMW's test facility in Arjeplog, Sweden, the German brand said the 2023 BMW iX1 had entered the final stages of development ahead of its global launch in the European Autumn this year.
Explaining the need for winter testing, BMW said the cold temperatures put the electric motors and battery pack under extra burden.
Despite the new images of the iX1 suggesting it might be related to the current X1, the iX1 will be based on the incoming third-generation X1 that will also debut late this year.
The new model moves from the UKL2 platform to the more modern CLAR architecture that has been developed for both electric and combustion powertrains.
BMW has yet to release full technical details on what battery will power the iX1, but has announced its smallest EV will come with dual electric motors, providing all-wheel drive.
The car-maker has also confirmed its new entry-level electric car will cover 413-438km on a single charge and offer power consumption of between 17.3-18.4kWh per 100km on the WLTP cycle.
Those figures suggest a battery pack size of around 74kWh, which means it's likely to feature a powertrain closely related to the current BMW iX3.
Following its unveiling later this year, first deliveries of the iX1 are tipped to commence in early 2023.
Despite the heavy camouflage, the latest images of the iX1 indicate that BMW might be planning to offer the new-generation X1 (including the EV) with a smaller, squarer take on its trademark kidney grille.
A further rendering has also been revealed, showing slimmer headlights with arrowhead DRLs and blue surrounds for the grille and side air intakes that denote its EV status.
Expect further teasers in the build-up to the iX1 launch later this year.
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