The launch of the extensively redesigned BMW X2 has led to the introduction of the brand’s first ever all-electric variant, the iX2. It is scheduled to make its debut in March 2024 as a single trim variant, the iX2 xDrive30, and will be produced alongside the combustion-powered X2 at BMW‘s factory in Regensburg, Germany.
Visually, the new X2 is quite a bit different than the outgoing model, although the styling differences between the X2 and the iX2 are quite minor. It rocks very similar front and rear fascias to the combustion models but obviously has faux kidney grilles and lacks any exhaust pipes. However, it’s beneath the surface where the most substantial changes have been made.
Read: New 2024 BMW X2 Is An X1 In Ostentatious Running Shoes
The iX2 will initially be available exclusively in xDrive30 guise. This model combines an electric motor at the front axle with one at the rear axle to deliver a combined 309 hp (230kW / 313 PS) and 364 lb-ft (494 Nm) of torque. Feeding these motors with juice is a 64.8 kWh battery pack and while not a performance-focused SUV, the iX2 xDrive30 can still hit 62 mph (100 km/h) in an impressive 5.6 seconds and reach a top speed of 112 mph (180 km/h). It has a WLTP range of between 417 km and 449 km (259 – 279 miles).
As standard, the iX2 xDrive30 rolls out special 17-inch light alloy wheels and includes a regenerative braking system. It is further differentiated from the combustion models due to the presence of strengthened cross members for the front and rear bumpers that are designed to help protect the battery in a crash.
BMW has equipped the iX2 xDrive30 with its Combined Charging Unit that enables AC charging at a rate of 11 kW as standard, allowing it to be charged from 0 to 100% in 6.5 hours. When connected to a 22 kW AC charger, that time drops to 3 hours and 45 minutes. The iX2 also supports 130 kW DC charger that drops the charge time further, allowing the battery to be filled from 10-80% in 29 minutes. The compact model also has a thermal management system to cool or warm the battery before the driver stops at a fast-charging station.
Customers who order the iX2 will have the option to purchase the Connected Home Charging package, aimed at reducing energy costs and minimizing the SUV’s carbon footprint. This package includes load-optimized charging, which adjusts the charging rate based on the available power in the home. Furthermore, it intelligently utilizes energy generated by a household’s solar panels. The entire system can be conveniently controlled through the My BMW App.
BMW says the global warming potential of the iX2 xDrive30 through its lifecycle is around 30% lower than the European market X2 sDrive20i and around 60% lower if it is charged exclusively using renewable power.
No plans for a North American rollout
While a complete list of markets where the iX2 will be available has not been officially confirmed, a BMW representative mentioned to CarScoops that “the iX2 is currently not planned for the U.S.” It’s certainly disappointing news for potential customers on this side of the Atlantic.
