BMW has increased the range of its iX1 and iX2 electric vehicles, bringing them closer to competition in a rapidly evolving market. The updates, while modest, represent a clear effort to keep these entry-level EVs competitive as rivals push for longer distances on a single charge.
Range Improvements and Technical Tweaks
The iX1 eDrive20 Sport now offers a usable range of 318 miles, up from 293. The xDrive30 variant sees an 18-mile increase, now reaching 288 miles. Similarly, the iX2 models gain range: the eDrive20 hits 318 miles, while the xDrive30 achieves 294 miles.
These gains aren’t simply software updates; BMW has made hardware changes to achieve them. The most significant is the adoption of a new silicon-carbide inverter, designed to reduce energy consumption. The company also hints at optimized wheel bearings to minimize frictional losses, though specifics remain undisclosed.
Pricing and Charging Remain Consistent
Despite the upgrades, pricing for the updated iX1 remains in line with previous models, starting at £43,555 for the eDrive20 Sport and topping out at £55,145 for the xDrive30 Shadow Edition. The iX2 starts at £43,880 and reaches £55,850. Charging speeds remain unchanged at a maximum rate of 130kW, allowing a 10-80% top-up in around 29 minutes. Performance figures also stay consistent: the eDrive20 accelerates from 0-62mph in 8.6 seconds, while the xDrive30 manages the sprint in 5.6 seconds.
Broader Trends and Competition
These improvements come alongside similar upgrades for the MINI Countryman Electric, which shares the same platform and battery technology. The EV market is becoming increasingly competitive, with rivals like Audi’s Q4 e-tron and the Tesla Model Y offering compelling alternatives. The iX1 and iX2 originally targeted the Volvo XC40 Recharge (now EX40) and Mercedes EQA, but the landscape has shifted dramatically since their 2022 launch.
BMW’s move is a calculated response to these changes, ensuring its smaller EVs remain relevant while the industry races toward longer ranges and lower emissions. The next-generation iX1, expected in 2027, will feature a redesigned platform inspired by BMW’s Neue Klasse design language.
Performance Downgrade for the M5
In a separate but related development, BMW has revised the M5 super-saloon’s powertrain to meet upcoming Euro 7 regulations. The V8 engine has been detuned from 577bhp to 535bhp to reduce emissions. However, BMW has offset this reduction by increasing the electric motor’s output, maintaining a combined power figure of 717bhp. The real-world driving experience of this revised M5 remains to be seen.
The adjustments to both the iX1/iX2 and the M5 demonstrate BMW’s commitment to navigating increasingly strict emissions standards while maintaining competitive performance across its lineup.
