Just a couple of years ago the only EV BMW sold was the i3, but as part of a rapidly growing line-up, by the end of 2022 there will be five all-electric models on offer. 

The latest model to join the ranks is the iX1 which will be hitting dealerships later in the year. It’ll likely be the German brand’s most affordable EV, and it’s set to be a big seller when you consider the popularity of rivals like the Mercedes EQA. 

Here are five things you need to know about it.

Spacious interior

BMW iX1

The iX1 is based on the regular X1 SUV, and even though this might be BMW’s most compact SUV, it still offers an impressive amount of roominess that makes it an attractive choice for families. 

Thanks to larger dimensions than the outgoing X1 – its 53mm longer, 24mm wider and 44mm taller – there’s plenty of room. With three seats in the rear that individually slide and fold, it makes this SUV a very practical tool. In terms of the boot, it measures 540 litres with the rear seats upright and 1,600 litres once they’re folded. 

Stylish design

BMW iX1

Some of BMW’s designs have proven quite controversial in recent months, but the X1 offers a particularly classy design that will please many. 

The front-end design uses a smaller grille than what we’re used to seeing from BMW these days, but it’s still smart and eye-catching, with contrasting gloss black and chrome elements coming together well. Slim LED headlights are also included as standard, while it’s only the iX1’s blue design elements that make it stand out as ‘electric’ – but it’s pleasingly subtle. 

BMW’s latest infotainment systems

BMW iX1

BMW’s infotainment systems continue to be some of the best around, and for the iX1, it receives the German brand’s latest set-ups to really enhance the experience. 

Known as ‘BMW Operating System 8’, it’s placed on the brand’s ‘Curved Display’, which uses a 10.25-inch digital instrument cluster and 10.7-inch touchscreen as standard , which merge together to create a single piece of glass that’s perfectly angled towards the driver. It really enhances the look of the interior, while unlocking a range of connected services, such as the brand’s clever voice control and cloud-based navigation with ‘live’ traffic updates. 

Powerful electric setup

BMW iX1

The iX1 launches with a single powertrain called ‘xDrive 30’, and uses two electric motors (one on either axle), with the combined result being an impressive 309bhp and 494Nm of torque – more than any Mercedes EQA currently on sale. 

Thanks to such healthy performance figures, the iX1 is able to sprint from 0-60mph in just 5.5 seconds, with BMW also promising a particularly sporty driving experience. 

Good range and quick charging speeds

BMW iX1

The iX1’s 65kWh battery might not be as large on paper as some rivals – including the Volvo XC40 Recharge – but thanks to impressive efficiency, BMW says it’s able to drive up to 272 miles on a single charge. 

It’s also able to rapid charge at speeds up to 130kW, meaning a 10-80 per cent charge can take place in under half an hour, or that 75 miles of range can be added in just 10 minutes.