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.
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 and 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 100 km/h in an impressive 5.6 seconds and reach a top speed
of 180 km/h. It has a WLTP range of between 417 km and 449 km.
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.

