BMW reveals entry-level iX1 EV with up to 475 km of range
BMW expands iX1 lineup with FWD version called the eDrive20
Earlier this year, BMW distributor SMC Asia Cars Distributors Corp. officially revealed the third-generation X1. Not only does the crossover look sportier than ever, but it now also features a more high-tech and sophisticated cabin, along with a 2.0-liter turbo-diesel engine that makes a respectable 150 PS and 350 Nm of torque.
But some BMW customers are curious if the automaker will bring its zero emissions version into the market, the iX1. Revealed last year, the iX1 serves as the smallest electric crossover yet from BMW. But don't be fooled by its size as the iX1 is powered by a pair of electric motors – delivering 317 PS and 494 Nm of torque, along with an estimated range of up to 439 km
Compared to the iX3, the AWD iX1 is actually quicker and more powerful as it produces 31 PS and an extra 94 Nm of pull. This presents a unique conundrum to BMW as the smaller iX1 is faster than the bigger iX3. However, BMW could instead bring a less powerful version of the iX1, and the company recently revealed it.
Say hello to the BMW iX1 eDrive20, the entry-level version of the all-electric crossover. It slots below the eDrive30 AWD version but still packs a punch thanks to a powerful electric motor driving the front wheels. It makes 204 PS along with 247 Nm of torque which is still plenty fast for the crossover.
Like the AWD variant, the FWD version also comes with a 64.7 kWh lithium-ion battery although this one has a slightly longer range of up to 475 km thanks to the absence of a rear motor. Recharging the battery via the standard 11kW charger will allow drivers to recharge the iX1 eDrive20 in 6 hours and 30 minutes. Opt for the optional 22kW charger and it can do it faster in just 3 hours and 45 minutes. Go for the DC fast charging system that's rated up to 130 kW, the iX1 can be recharged to 80% in as little as 29 minutes.
It can go from 0 – 100 km/h in 8.6 seconds which makes the eDrive20 slightly slower compared to the AWD eDrive30 which can do it in 5.7 seconds. It also has a relatively lower top speed of 170 km/h which is 10 km/h less than the eDrive30.
To make the iX1 eDrive20 stand out from the more powerful eDrive30, it gets a different kidney grille that consists of diamond-like inserts as opposed to the vertical slats. It also gets a different set of alloy wheels although it's highly likely that it can be fitted with larger (or sportier) wheels, depending on customer preference.
While it may be the entry-level variant, the FWD-only iX1 eDrive20 still comes with plenty of in-car amenities. It has BMW's new Live Cockpit Plus which consists of a 10.25-inch digital instrument cluster, a 10.7-inch media display, dual-zone automatic climate control, the latest iDrive system with Apple CarPlay & Android Auto, a host of intelligent driver aids, as well as park assist.
The iX1 eDrive20 will be available in Europe starting in November 2023. With that, perhaps we can expect the iX1 to make its way to the Philippines sometime next year. The only question now is will SMC Asia Cars Distributors Inc. offer both the AWD and FWD or just one of the two?
