BMW South Africa has announced the local launch date for the recently revealed iX1, with the SA arm of the Munich-based car manufacturing confirming its first-ever all-wheel-drive compact electric SUV will arrive on SA shores during the first quarter of 2023.
Revealed in xDrive30 guise, the iX1 makes do with the German marque’s “latest” eDrive technology. The system features two integrated drive units found on the front and rear axles. Taking into consideration this model’s “boost” effect, the compact e-SUV produces 230 kW. The xDrive30 produces 494 Nm.
The automaker has said that the iX1’s all-wheel-drive system ensures “supreme” traction and directional stability in all situations. The firm says the iX1 xDrive30 sprints to 100 km/h from a standstill in 5.7 seconds.
The fifth-generation eDrive tech comprises “highly efficient” charging capability. It also includes the “improved” charging software found in the i7 luxury saloon. The iX1’s high-voltage battery is sited flat within its underbody.
BMW says the battery allows for an all-electric range of between 413 km and 438 km. However, these figures are predicted values that have been based on the car’s current stage of development.
Inside, the iX1 features the company’s curved dual digital display set-up. The system incorporates BMW’s new-generation operating system.
