BMW iX1 Electric to launch in October, full details inside
Luxury car manufacturer BMW appears to be on the verge of launching the much-anticipated iX1 electric SUV in the Indian market. Reports suggest that the launch of this massive e-SUV is expected to take place in October 2023.
What’s particularly interesting is that BMW may position the iX1 in a relatively affordable price range, between Rs 60-65 lakh (ex-showroom). If this pricing strategy materializes, it would make the iX1 the most affordable electric car in BMW’s lineup for Indian consumers. However, it’s worth noting that the company has not officially confirmed or provided any hints regarding the pricing details at this stage.
As the launch date approaches, more information and official details about the BMW iX1, including its features, specifications, and pricing, are expected to be revealed by the company. This move reflects BMW’s commitment to expanding its electric vehicle portfolio and catering to the growing demand for electric cars in the Indian market.
The forthcoming BMW iX1 electric SUV is anticipated to bear a resemblance to the third-generation fuel-powered BMW X1, which made its official debut in the Indian market the previous year. This similarity could extend to design elements, features, and possibly the platform, allowing the iX1 to maintain the familiarity and appeal of its fuel-powered counterpart.
However, one notable distinction could be in the manufacturing and assembly process. Reports suggest that BMW might not opt for local assembly of the electric iX1 in India. This decision may have implications for the pricing of the electric model, as locally assembled vehicles often benefit from reduced import duties and production costs. Consequently, it’s possible that the iX1 could be positioned at a slightly higher price point compared to locally assembled electric cars in the Indian market.
The absence of local assembly for the iX1 may also have implications for availability and production volumes. BMW may choose to import the electric SUV in limited quantities initially to gauge market demand and assess the response of Indian consumers to the electric variant of the X1.
Overall, while the iX1 is expected to offer the familiar attributes of the X1 model, the decision regarding local assembly and its potential impact on pricing and availability remains a significant factor to watch as BMW prepares for the launch of its electric SUV in the Indian market.
When it comes to the exterior design of the BMW iX1 electric SUV, customers can expect a sense of familiarity as it shares many style elements with its fuel-powered sibling, the BMW X1. However, to establish its unique identity as an electric vehicle (EV), BMW is likely to incorporate some cosmetic changes and updates.
One of the anticipated updates involves a redesigned LED headlight setup, which not only enhances the vehicle’s aesthetics but also improves illumination for better visibility. Additionally, the iconic BMW twin-kidney grille, albeit faux in this case, might receive an update to reflect the EV’s identity. These changes could involve modifications to the grille design or the inclusion of unique styling elements to signify its electric character.
Furthermore, the iX1 is expected to feature new and distinctive alloy wheel designs, a key aspect of a vehicle’s overall look. These wheel designs will likely complement the electric SUV’s aesthetics and contribute to its visual distinction.
The rear of the iX1 may also undergo some updates or styling changes, aligning it with the overall design language of the EV.
In summary, while the BMW iX1 will share design elements with the X1, these planned updates aim to create a visual distinction for the electric variant, highlighting its electric nature and setting it apart as a unique offering in the BMW lineup.
