It looks as though BMW is finally transitioning its EV interests away from fringe/specialty models—the i3 and i8—which have until now represented its somewhat exploratory entry into the alternative drivetrain, and diving into the mainstream revolution which is set to take place in this decade. The first entry is the iX3, an SUEV.

It was only a matter of time, of course. Another two or three years of EV-shy marketing and BMW would be teetering on the threshold of anachronism. BMW understands the nature and psychology of the U.S. market, where EV sales have remained relatively sluggish. In that way, the appearance of the iX3 is far more telling than the appearance of the brand-enhancing token i3 that preceded it by nearly a decade.

The iX3 is an alternative version of the X3, of course, which makes for an easy component carryover during production. WLTP ratings give the iX3 a 285-mile range—a very respectable number.

A few numbers. The iX3 can receive an 80% charge at a fast-charge station in 34 minutes. It packs an 80 kWh battery complement and a 282-HP motor that spins the rear axle. It can hit 62 in 6.8 seconds.

But, if you’re a green-minded American buyer looking for an ecologically relevant SUV with a bit of pep, don’t get excited just yet. The iX3 won’t, as of now, be making it to U.S. shores. BMW is launching sales in China, where the EV is currently king of cars.