BMW IX1: a new 100% electric model confirmed, test – BMW IX1 (2022): our first contact with the electric X1
Test – BMW IX1 (2022): our first contact with the electric X1
Upon its launch, the new BMW X1 presents a relatively complete motorization offer. In addition to the conventional and micro-hybridization thermal versions, the 100 % electric IX1 is already available. In prices as in performance, with 313 hp in support, it ensures the top of the range of the little Bavarian SUV. Almost sporty, really ?
BMW IX1: a new 100% electric model confirmed
After the IX3, BMW is about to launch a second 100% electric SUV. This will be based on the new generation of the X1 and will therefore be named IX1. Here is the first teaser.
BMW confirmed that the IX1, a 100% electric variant of the X1, will arrive by the end of the year, shortly after the presentation of the heat engine model which will have rechargeable hybrid versions. The German manufacturer has just unveiled the first teaser image of the SUV revealing the design of its grille. This photo seems to tell us that the IX1 will have a rather aggressive new light signature thanks to LED lights. He will also have a large grille with the famous double-hariced, however very controversial. There are some similarities with the IX3, the first 100% electric SUV of the propeller. This teaser would also give us a taste of the thermal BMW X1 which should share most of its body panels with the IX1.
Oliver Zipse, Chairman of the BMW AG Board of Directors, said IX1 will arrive at the end of 2022. He revealed that the X1 and the IX1 will inherit the latest connectivity technology, such as the highly anticipated XM, and the future 3 and X7 series restyled. Indeed, as we have already seen in the spy photos of the X1 and the IX1 which have already traveled the canvas, they will both have a curved digital dashboard and the operating system 8. BMW describes IX1 as “spacious and compact”, which would tend to confirm rumors that this future generation is greater than the previous one.
No more detail
Although we do not know the power of the 100% electric powertrain, it has been confirmed that the BMW IX1 will be equipped with fifth generation Edrive technology. According to initial information, the autonomy of this new “zero emission” vehicle should be between 412 and 438 km according to WLTP standards.
The Bavarian manufacturer will offer several types of powertrain for its entry -level SUV, according to the same strategy as with the largest X3 and IX3. Thus, the third generation of the X1 will always be in the catalog with petrol, diesel, rechargeable hybrid and 100% electric hybrid groups. This is what is possible thanks to the flexibility of the UKL/FAAR update platform which will be used for all compact models from BMW and Mini including countrymanman. BMW should expand its range with 15 completely electrified models in 2022, thus covering 90% of current segments.
Test – BMW IX1 (2022): our first contact with the electric X1
Upon its launch, the new BMW X1 presents a relatively complete motorization offer. In addition to the conventional and micro-hybridization thermal versions, the 100 % electric IX1 is already available. In prices as in performance, with 313 hp in support, it ensures the top of the range of the little Bavarian SUV. Almost sporty, really ?
This third generation of the BMW X1 will therefore be, without surprise, that of high dose electrification. No choice, grams grams ! A fortiori for a model representing the bulk of the brand’s sales in Europe (and in the world, with more than 2.5 million units sold on the two previous version), and whose segment occupies the top of the basket. Small chic backpackers are popular and all-electrical, the landscape is starting to fill: the IX1 XDRIVE30 (62.5 kWh useful) will find the Mercedes EQA (66.5 kWh), Audi Q4 e-tron ( 77 kWh), Lexus UX 300E (54.3 kWh), Volvo XC40 Recharge (75 kWh). Without forgetting the absolute scarecrow Tesla Model Y, closer to the upper segment, however (but offered at comparable prices).
Like the aforementioned rivals (apart from the Q4 e-tron designed on the specifically 100 % electric MEB platform), the X1 technical basis was provided to be available in any type of architecture possible. Simple thermal, micro-hybridization (23i and 23D), Phev and all-electric. And since it is a question of confusing anyone, as much as not being noticed (unlike the EQA which plays the originals in relation to the GLA) and is similar to a conventional X1: few elements distinguish the IX1 At first glance, apart from a monogram, the now classic blue straps around logos, and blue inserts in shields. that it is possible to trade for a more classic finish, as on the M Sport finish of our test. Looking closely, we notice that the foundations were reshaped for the benefit of aerodynamics (0.26 of CX, well placed for a high perched size).
Chronos: 313 hp in great shape
While waiting for the hybrid versions PHEV expected for 2023, the most powerful of which will point to 326 hp cumulative (xdrive 30th), the IX1 thus represents the standard bearer of the model. It has two electric motors (one per axle) developing a total of 313 hp in combination, activated sport mode. Our first test, quite brief, still made it possible to highlight the full health of the X1 thus rigged. and his surprisingly balanced, and almost agile behavior despite his mass: 2.085 kg for a 4.50 m SUV ! The batteries being located in the floor (now classic arrangement) allow the center of gravity to be lowered. Good news, the presence of a few reinforcements to compensate for overweight (anti-rapprochement bar at the front) and the firmed suspension does not penalize comfort, overall cozy.
The arrangement of the IX1 is identical to that of the X1 thermal. It takes up the same double curved screen to the driver, with the last OS 8 interface. Only difference: a palette on the left of the steering wheel activates a “boost” function.
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Its operation does not reserve any surprises, as planned. With 494 Nm constant delivered as soon as you stick your foot to the floor, this grip is not kidding (5.6 s from 0 to 100 km/h). The push then remains linear, as always in electric. But severely muscular, and the “Boost” function, activated with the only steering wheel palette (located on the left), still brings renewed vigor. Guaranteed effect, especially with the artificial sound activated thoroughly ! Created by Hans Zimmer please, which also signs the “soundtrack” of all electric BMW. Rolling loud is rather fun, it flanks you with a smile on his lips, but the huhing of flying saucer can quickly tire. We will therefore not be deprived of deactivating it, or even staying in Eco Pro mode in order to preserve the battery.
The route was unfortunately too short to overcome the battery, check the 438 km of advertised autonomy (WLTP), or put it to the test of the load. On this point, it is classic: the IX1 accepts 130 kW in rapid DC load, allowing to go from 20 to 80 % in a little less than 30 minutes in theory.
The 313 hp are enough to tear off its 2 tonnes of a lightning. 5.6 s from 0 to 100 km/h, these are almost sporty times.
While waiting to take a magnifying glass in detail its energy performance, the IX1 has however gave us a rather limited consumption, noted to 16.8 kWh / 100 km (better than the manufacturer values !) on a varied layout, alternating moderate relief and autobahn. traveled at a very moderate pace it is true and by folding with a few principles of eco-driving. The deceleration recovery is powerful, but the choice of regeneration degrees, by a touch in front of the central armrest (one of the rare remaining physical commands, next to the gearbox selector), is not very clear : some grips and handling of the central screen are necessary to have an overview of different levels. Via driving pallets, it’s always simpler.
On a daily basis, some concessions
The transplant of the battery pack and the second engine on the rear axle is not without effect on the modularity and the practical aspects of the electric X1. Rather talented in the matter in its thermal versions, its services are more banal in IX1: it loses its sliding bench, and the trunk falls from 540 to 495 l (1.600 to 1.495 l in maximum capacity, bench folded). A value always very well placed in front of its rivals, only the Audi Q4 e-tron is (a little) better. For the rest, nothing fundamentally different from a classic X1. Materials and finish are high, and the layout of the driving position remains the same. We thus find a large storage under the central armrest, and a space devolved to the load of smartphone by induction at the bottom of the dashboard.
Compared to a thermal BMW X1 in traction, the trunk loses 55 l of volume. The bench remains fractionable and tilting, but no longer slides.
The arrival of a hypothetical wiser version of the IX1 (nothing is confirmed by BMW), provided with a single engine at the front, would preserve a little more trunk volume, a few tens of kilometers of autonomy. And above all to lower the starting price of the IX1: it starts at 55.150 € (excluding bonus of 2.000 €). Opposite, the XC40 408 hp charging requires 58.000 € and a basic Tesla Model is displayed at 49.990 € (less efficient, but with comparable autonomy). The IX1 remains less expensive, however, than its direct rivals with equivalent version (minimum 68.300 € for an q4 e-tron 50, 60.€ 700 for an EQA 350 and 64.€ 990 for the model y great autonomy).
BMW IX1 technical characteristics (2022)
| Model Try: BMW IX1 XDRIVE30 m Sport | |
|---|---|
| Dimensions L x W x H | 4.50 / 1.85 / 1.64 m |
| Wheelbase | 2.69 m |
| Mini / Maximum trunk volume | 495 L / 1.495 L |
| Unloaded weight | 2.085 kg |
| Motorization | Two electric motors, one per axle |
| Maximum combined power | 313 CH |
| Maximum torque | 494 nm |
| 0 to 100 km/h | 5.6 s |
| Max speed | 180 km/h |
| Announced autonomy / Maximum load power | 438 km (WLTP) / 130 kW (DC) |
| Mixed consumption | 17.3 l / 100 km (announced WLTP) – 16.6 kWh / 100 km (raised) |
| Bonus 2022 | 2.000 € |
| Prices | from 55.150 € (model tried: 59.050 €) |
Few elements, apart from the “i” monograms and the blue strapping around the logos, do not distinguish the electric X1. Always the same muscular look that evokes an X5 in reduction.
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- – Mastered consumption, even at high rate
- – Performance
- – Balanced behavior, despite the weight
- – Not yet “small” electric motorization
- – High prices
- – Some practical concessions (bench, trunk)
Astraction made of some practical details, the IX1 has retained all the qualities of its petrol and diesel counterparts. The electric BMW X1 remains a successful car, and especially particularly pleasant on the dynamic level. Too bad, the IX1 is also the most elitist in the finance side range. While waiting for a call version, perhaps ?