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BMW’s entry-level EV gets a Neue Klasse makeover in renders and spy shots
BMW’s smallest crossover looks set for a significant all-electric reboot. Spy photographers have recently caught heavily camouflaged prototypes believed to be the next-generation BMW iX1, and digital artists have already imagined what the subcompact EV could look like under the marque’s Neue Klasse design and dedicated EV architecture.
The present X1 launched its third generation in 2022 and continues on the UKL2 modular platform shared with the BMW 2 Series Active Tourer and the MINI Countryman. That rear- and all-wheel-drive architecture also spawned the current iX1 electric variant, which uses a 64.7 kWh pack and is available in single- and dual-motor configurations. But BMW’s broader shift toward purpose-built electric architecture — showcased most recently by the new iX3 — suggests a different path for the next iX1.
What the spy shots and renders are telling us
According to the prototypes seen testing, BMW appears to be preparing an iX1 built on Neue Klasse principles while keeping the internal-combustion X1 on the existing UKL2 underpinnings. That means a fully dedicated EV chassis and a fresh exterior and interior language tailored to electric performance and efficiency.
Digital renderings from virtual artist Avarvarii give us a vivid preview: black, upright kidney elements, sharper wheel arches, flush door handles, and a sleeker roofline. The imagined livery — ‘Burnt Orange Metallic’ — is eye-catching, but the design cues point to a broader strategy: make the smallest BMW EV look distinctive and modern while leveraging economies of scale.
Expected specs and technology
Early details are still speculative, but the projected specification list reads like a credible Neue Klasse playbook:
- Standard rear-wheel drive for the base model, with optional dual-motor AWD variants
- 800-volt architecture for faster charging and improved efficiency
- Panoramic iDrive display and the latest BMW infotainment OS
- Sleeker, more aerodynamic bodywork and EV-optimized packaging
If BMW follows the Neue Klasse philosophy, expect significant improvements in range, charging speeds, and interior user experience compared with the current UKL2-based iX1.
Market positioning and pricing
Positioning will be crucial. BMW likely aims to keep the iX1 as the entry-level electric crossover — affordable, practical, and premium enough to attract buyers stepping into the BMW EV lineup. Rumors suggest UK pricing could fall below the £40k mark, which translates to roughly $53k in the US, though final prices will depend on specs and local incentives.
Quote highlight:
“An iX1 on Neue Klasse architecture could reset expectations for small premium EV crossovers — better range, faster charging, and a distinctly electric design language.”
How it compares to siblings
Compared to the iX3 and larger Neue Klasse models, the future iX1 will likely emphasize urban agility and efficiency rather than outright performance. Still, optional dual-motor setups should offer brisk acceleration and all-weather traction for buyers wanting extra capability.
Whether BMW will keep ICE and EV X1 variants visually aligned or fully separate remains to be seen. For now, the company appears to be splitting strategies: evolve the electric model into the Neue Klasse era while maintaining the combustion X1 until a platform change is needed.
Final thoughts
The next-gen iX1 looks promising on paper. A dedicated EV chassis, 800-volt tech, and BMW’s latest interior tech could make it one of the more compelling entry-level premium electric crossovers. For enthusiasts and city drivers alike, this could be the BMW that brings Neue Klasse benefits to a broader audience. Watch for an arrival around 2027, with official details and pricing to follow as BMW unveils the program.
Source: autoevolution
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