Auto Insider: BMW i1: What the new entry-level electric car from BMW can do
At the 2021 IAA, BMW presented the i Vision Circular, a futuristic concept car that attracted more attention for its sustainable materials than its production focus. But the IAA creation could become reality as the upcoming BMW i1 before 2030.
In itself, the BMW i Vision Circular was only intended to demonstrate how ecologically perfectly a car can integrate into the environmental cycle in 2040. Sporty proportions and pleasing lines were not what attracted attention to the future model at the 2021 IAA in Munich.
But at least the design of the front and rear showed references to the vehicles of the new class , which will be launched this autumn with the iX3.
BMW will go electric in the coming years – and this would also make a compact class model like the i1 possible. This could offer a design more reminiscent of a minivan, with large glass surfaces and minimal overhangs. Quite different from the old 1 Series – a long hood at the front and rear-wheel drive. That's history, as the current 1 Series has long been a front-wheel drive vehicle with a corresponding platform, and is also available with all-wheel drive upon request.
Beyond powertrain and driving pleasure, the upcoming 1 Series is likely to be more about sustainability than ever before. Many modules presented in the 2021 concept car could make the leap to series production in the form of recycled materials such as steel, aluminum, plastic, and glass. While the proportion of reused components in current BMW vehicles is just under 30 percent, this is expected to gradually increase to more than 50 percent. However, the solid-state battery announced there will likely be a bit longer in the future.
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