BMW has unveiled the third-generation X1, which comes with a choice of petrol, diesel and plug-in hybrid powertrains. As a first, an all-electric derivative will join the model line-up. Logically, it is called iX1.
The importance of the X1 for BMW cannot be underestimated, especially on the B2B market. Today, the plug-in hybrid model represents the lion’s share of fleet sales, but starting from the end of this year, the leading role could be played by the new iX1 xDrive30. It is the first all-wheel drive all-electric BMW in the compact segment.
It looks like a regular X1, but technically, the iX1 is an entirely different car, with its twin electric motors delivering 313 hp and 494 Nm. With these numbers, it even outperforms the iX3, which has to content itself with 286 hp and 400 Nm: 5.7 seconds are enough for the iX1 to reach 100 kph from a standstill.
Up to 438 km
According to BMW, the iX1 xDrive30 averages between 17.3 et 18.4 kWh/100 km, resulting in a driving range of between 413 and 438 km. The battery has a gross capacity of 66,5 kWh and the battery should be able to draw 160 kW from a DC fast charger and the onboard charger should handle AC at a rate of 11 kW.
From the outside, it takes a trained eye to distinguish the iX1 from its ICE and PHEV siblings. The X1 and iX1 adopt the typical design features of the latest BMW models, with the exemption of the gigantic kidney grill. Especially the square wheel arches, the angular body lines, the slim LED headlights and the elegant rear window catch the eye.
Generous equipment
In the cabin, the new BMW Curved Display takes centre stage. It comprises two wide-screen displays boasting a 10.5 and 10.7-inch diameter, respectively, controlled by BMW’s Operating System 8. The almost iconic rotary iDrive controller has not been carried over: all vehicle functions must now be operated by means of the touch screen of by voice recognition.
The standard equipment includes the BMW Maps navigation system, a leather sports steering wheel, automatic two-zone climate control, a rain and light sensor, four USB ports, a parking assistant with reversing camera and a comprehensive suite of advanced driver assistance systems.
The all-electric iX1 will be built in Regensburg, Germany, alongside the ICE and PHEV models of the X1. It can be ordered from October onwards.
