BMW is facing production delays for some BMW iX1 orders in Europe due to shortages of 17- and 18-inch wheels, according to a report by Automobilwoche.
The supply issue is expected to disrupt deliveries of the electric SUV during the summer months, with some customer orders potentially delayed until autumn.
“There are still enough wheels for production in May, but already in June the capacities will not be sufficient,” a BMW production manager said in a letter to dealers cited by Automobilwoche.
The report said BMW has not disclosed the exact cause of the shortage but confirmed the company is working with suppliers to address the issue. The production manager reportedly added that “it will probably take some time before this bottleneck is resolved.”
The disruption affects standard wheel configurations rather than optional high-performance variants. Smaller wheel sizes are commonly selected by EV buyers because they generally improve ride comfort, reduce costs and maximize driving range.
According to the report, BMW has suggested customers switch to 19-inch wheels as an alternative. However, the larger wheels reportedly require upgrades to higher trim packages, increasing vehicle prices by around €1,900 ($2,100).
The wheel changes may also slightly reduce driving range. A BMW iX1 equipped with 17-inch wheels is rated for up to 515 km (320 miles) of range, while versions fitted with 19-inch wheels deliver about 509 km (316 miles). Models with 20-inch wheels are rated at 491 km (305 miles).
Automobilwoche reported that at least one dealer delayed an iX1 delivery by approximately three months because of the shortage.
“The iX1 has become our bread and butter vehicle,” one dealer told the publication.
The supply disruption comes as demand for electric vehicles in Europe continues to grow and ahead of an expected facelift update for the iX1 lineup.
