BMW starts iX1 launch plans with teaser image

BMW has revealed a teaser image of its forthcoming iX3 all-electric compact SUV. The newcomer will sit below the i4, iX3 and iX in BMW's expanding BEV line-up and will be the closest match in terms of size to the outgoing i3, which will disappear from the range this summer.

As part of its launch preparations, BMW has set up an iX1 page on its corporate website, but revealed no specific details about the car. However, previous announcements from the brand suggest that the iX1 will be built on a platform designed to accommodate an internal combustion drivetrain, plug-in hybrid or pure electric drive. The new iX is expected to be fractionally longer and wider than the current car, with a predicted length of 4.6m – almost exactly the same as a Volkswagen ID.4.

According to a report from industry-watching site BMWBlog, the iX1 will launch with two versions badged eDrive20 and eDrive30. The entry level model is expected to be fitted with a single motor on the rear axle while the eDrive 30 will have an additional motor on the front axle. Power outputs are expected to be 200bhp and 250bhp respectively.

While no information has been given about the battery size or specification, BMW has revealed predicted WLTP range figures of between 256 and 272 miles. Although provisional, these figures would suggest a battery size of between 65 and 70kWh, which is smaller than almost all its similarly-sized competition currently offer. For example, the Hyundai IONIQ 5 and Kia EV6 both come with 76kWh packs while the Audi Q4 features a 77kWh pack.

Unlike the iX3, which is assembled in China, the iX1 has been earmarked for production at BMW’s Leipzig plant in Germany. The plant currently builds a number of BMW’s smaller models including the i3. The plant will also be the production base for the next-generation MINI Countryman which shares its platform, battery and motor layout with the new iX1.

Production is expected to start early 2023 ahead of UK deliveries later next year. The X1 range will launch initially with just an internal combustion engine option with PHEV and pure-electric versions to follow.