Overview

The fully electric version of the new BMW X1 is the BMW iX1. It is based on the contemporary U11 platform and is intended to suit individuals wishing to have a small luxury SUV that does not consume petrol or diesel. It retains the identical shape of the SUV as the regular X1, with a sophisticated electric power system rather than a conventional engine.

This electric SUV offers the comfort of a family vehicle to the driver, but with a quick response that is only possible with an electric car. It is not difficult to drive in the city, and it also works well on highways. The driver sits high in the driving position, providing the driver with a clear view of the road. BMW has also been keen on ensuring that the iX1 is easy to operate using the latest technology and handy features to use in everyday life.

The BMW iX1 has numerous luxury features such as a curved digital display, voice recognition, touch controls, parking system, heated seats, navigation, automatic climate control, and automatic tailgate. Although it is a luxury car, its design is convenient and easy to use.

Engine and Performance

Since the BMW iX1 is fully electric, it does not have a petrol or diesel engine. Rather, it employs two electric motors which combine to generate 313 horsepower. This two-motor system transmits the power to all four wheels, which provide the SUV with great grip and stability in various road situations.

There are no gear changes as in a normal car, and the automatic transmission gives the car a very smooth drive. The immediate power transmission contributes towards the iX1 accelerating fast to travel 0 to 100 km/h in 5.6 seconds. This contributes to it being one of the fastest small electric SUVs in its category.

The battery pack has a capacity of approximately 64.7 kWh, which offers a range of approximately 417 km in a normal environment. The WLTP range will be between 413 km and 438 km depending on the variant and driving style.

It is also very convenient for charging. The battery can be charged within approximately 29 minutes using a high-power DC charger to charge between 10% and 80 percent. The AC charger charges the battery in approximately seven hours; thus, overnight charging is a viable alternative to use on a daily basis.

The BMW iX1 has a maximum speed of 180 km/h, which is sufficient to drive in urban areas and on highways. The silent electric engine also renders all journeys tranquil and restful.

Exterior

The BMW iX1 is a car that looks modern and sporty and can be identified on the road. The front of the SUV is equipped with the typical kidney grille of BMW of bold upright design. The thin LED headlights provide the car with a crisp and high-end appearance, and the smooth lines on the body make the SUV look powerful and classy.

It is small and can fit into narrow streets of the busy city streets, but at the same time the car has enough space to accommodate passengers and luggage. It is 4500 mm long, 1845 mm wide, 1616 mm high, and it is balanced in shape, making it look sporty and practical.

Ground clearance of 170 mm enables the car to navigate comfortably through speed breakers and rough roads. The premium appearance is finished with the stylish LED taillights and contemporary tailgate design at the back.

Colors

BMW iX1 comes in six very appealing colors:

• Black Metallic
• White Solid
• Green Metallic
• Silver Metallic
• Grey Metallic
• Orange Metallic

All these color choices will enable buyers to get a finish that suits their personal style. The SUV also boasts 490 liters of boot space, which is enough to use in shopping, family outings, and other day-to-day luggage.

Interior

The interior of the BMW iX1 is meant to be comfortable, luxurious, and technologically advanced. The luxury impression is immediately created when you get into the car with its high-quality finish and clean design of the dashboard. The interior consists of materials of high quality that provide the cabin with a rich look without making it look complicated.

The movable sport seats are very comfortable when on long drives. The seating position can be easily adjusted by drivers and passengers to make it more comfortable. The warmed-up seats provide additional comfort in cold weather.

The large Curved Display that occupies most of the dashboard features the digital instrument cluster and central touchscreen as a single, modern unit in BMW. This design facilitates easier visibility of driving data and adjustment of car parameters.

There is also an automatic two-zone climate control in the cabin, which gives both passengers in the front of the cabin the ability to make the vehicle cool to their preferred temperatures. Large chrome trims and high-quality finishes enhance a sleek look in the interior.

The automatic tailgate ensures that it is easy to transport luggage, and the roomy cabin can accommodate five occupants. There is also good legroom and headroom for rear passengers and hence a comfortable ride even during long journeys.

The BMW iX1 offers a quiet driving experience by almost no engine noise generated by the electric motor. This assists in making the cabin a serene and soothing place.

Infotainment

The BMW iX1 has the newest BMW Live Cockpit Plus and BMW Operating System 8, which provides customers with a simple and user-friendly experience with the infotainment system.

The car has a 10.25-inch digital instrument display and a 10.7-inch central touchscreen. The two displays are understandable and easily accessible. The touch controls or voice commands allow drivers to navigate, adjust the vehicle settings, entertain, and other things.

The system has inbuilt navigation, and thus, routes and charging stations can be easier to locate. The quick response to the touchscreen and neat menu design ensure that the daily use of the car is easy for both new and experienced drivers.

Safety

BMW has furnished the iX1 with numerous safety features to assist in safeguarding occupants and enhance driving confidence. The SUV is equipped with eight airbags, which are an added advantage, protecting the SUV in the event of an accident.

Parking Assistant assists drivers with parking in narrow areas more easily, whereas the Reversing Assistant will keep in mind the final part of the driving path and reverse in case it is necessary. These are features that come in handy particularly in small parking spaces.

The all-wheel-drive system also enhances stability and grip on roads, particularly during wet weather or on rough roads. The iX1 is a secure family and daily ride thanks to modern safety technology in combination with BMW.

Charging, Battery and Range

The BMW iX1 has a 64.7 kWh battery giving it an approximate range of circa 417 km of driving range, with official WLTP ranges of 413 km to 438 km based on equipment and driving conditions.

BMW suggests that the battery should be charged to approximately 80 percent when used in normal everyday life in order to ensure the long life of the battery. In cases of a long journey, the drivers will be able to recharge the battery to 100 percent in cases where they require more range.

The iX1 has strong points such as fast charging. A standard AC charger can be charged in approximately 7 hours, with a DC fast charger taking between 10 per cent and 80 per cent to charge the battery in approximately 29 minutes.

Dimensions and Practicality

The BMW iX1 will be practical and can be used in everyday life, but it will also provide high-level comfort. It can carry five individuals and thus fits both families and individual drivers.

Its 490-litre boot is sufficient to house shopping bags, suitcases and day-to-day luggage. The SUV has a weight of approximately 2010 kg, which contributes to stability when driving.

The equal size results in easier parking over larger luxury SUVs and yet providing ample room for passengers. The BMW iX1 offers a blend of utility and high-quality in a compact electric SUV, whether in the city or on a long journey.