The countdown to the third generation of the BMW X1 has started. For the first time, it also comes as a fully electric SUV. This winter, the camouflaged prototypes of the upcoming BMW iX1 have been allowed to evolve on snow and ice close to the Arctic Circle.
Snow-covered roads and specially prepared ice rinks are perfect for the BMW Group's winter test center outside Arjeplog, Sweden. New prototypes are tested to the maximum under typical Nordic winter conditions every year. This winter, camouflaged prototypes of the BMW iX1 electric SUV have followed in the electric wheel tracks of the prototypes of the BMW iX3, BMW i4, BMW iX, and BMW i7 close to the Arctic Circle.
After thorough testing and refinement of the interaction between electric motors, four-wheel drive, high-voltage battery, chassis and charging system on the prototypes of the BMW iX1, the cars can once again set course for warmer skies. The winter test has also provided valuable data for the optimal heat control for short charging time and long-range - even at temperatures below freezing.
The third electric SUV from BMW
With the fifth generation of BMW eDrive technology, the BMW iX1 builds on the electrical expertise BMW has shown on previous models. The BMW iX1 will be the third electric SUV from the German brand. With two electric motors (one on the front axle and one on the rear axle) coupled to the xDrive four-wheel drive, the BMW iX1 electric SUV guarantees the optimal balance between comfort and sportiness. Based on the values from the current development stage of the prototypes, the BMW iX1 achieves a combined electrical consumption of 17.3 to 18.4 kWh and a range of 413 to 438 km.
Based on a very flexible architecture, the BMW iX1 electric SUV is produced on the same production line as the other new BMW X1 models with internal combustion engines and as plug-in hybrid versions.
Series production of the new BMW iX1 models will start in the autumn.
