BMW has unveiled a new addition to its electric vehicle lineup, showcasing the iX1 eDrive20 at the IAA Mobility event. This entry-level electric SUV is set to hit the market in November, providing a more affordable option for eco-conscious drivers.
Diverging from the all-wheel-drive configuration of the previously available iX1 xDrive30, the iX1 eDrive20 features a single electric motor, positioned on the front axle. It’s worth noting that BMW has transitioned the “eDrive” designation to encompass all their electric cars with just one motor.
See also: BMW iX1 electric crossover teased, make debut at the end of this year
The front motor in the iX1 eDrive20 can deliver up to 150 kW, with a temporary boost. The power source is the same high-voltage battery found in the iX1 xDrive30, boasting a usable energy content of 64.7 kWh. BMW estimates a range between 430 to 475 kilometers for the iX1 eDrive20, based on preliminary WLTP values. Both iX1 variants are manufactured at the Regensburg plant, paralleling their combustion engine counterparts.
This move by BMW follows closely behind the world premiere of the Mini Countryman, which shares the same platform as the iX1. The Mini SUV was recently introduced with two purely electric variants, including the Mini Countryman SE ALL4 with 230 kW, akin to the iX1 xDrive30, and the Mini Countryman E, equipped with a 150 kW front-wheel drive motor. The latter achieves a range of up to 462 kilometers according to WLTP standards.
Performance-wise, the iX1 eDrive20 can accelerate from 0 to 100 kph in 8.6 seconds with its new basic drive and boasts an electronically limited top speed of 170 kph.
Charging remains consistent across all models due to the identical battery. The standard 11 kW onboard charger necessitates 6.5 hours for a full charge, while opting for the 22 kW unit reduces this time to 3 hours and 45 minutes. DC fast charging is supported up to 130 kW, and the standard charging process from 10 to 80 percent is estimated to take just 29 minutes, with reliability ensured through battery preconditioning.
See also: BMW iX1 xDrive30 : specifications, battery and range
The iX1 eDrive20 comes equipped with BMW’s latest technologies, including the new BMW iDrive with ‘QuickSelect’ and the BMW Operating System 9, promising enhanced digital content, faster over-the-air updates, and optimized access to various online services, such as third-party apps, extended navigation, parking services, and personalized options through My Modes.
With a recommended retail price of 47,900 euros, the new base iX1 eDrive20 aims to make emission-free driving accessible to a broader audience, compared to the 55,000 euros price tag of the iX1 xDrive30. BMW intends to accelerate the adoption of e-mobility and make eco-friendly driving a compelling choice for a wider range of consumers with this latest addition to its electric vehicle lineup.
