BMW Unveils Vision Neue Klasse: A Glimpse into the Future of EVs

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The trajectory of BMW’s automotive design is about to undergo a remarkable transformation in the years to come. Renowned for its luxurious sport sedans and SUVs, BMW has now offered a tantalizing preview of their future electric vehicle lineup with the unveiling of the Vision Neue Klasse concept. This concept not only showcases the visual aesthetics but also the cutting-edge technology that will define BMW’s forthcoming generation of electric vehicles, set to make their debut starting in 2025. The official presentation of this groundbreaking concept is scheduled for the upcoming 2023 Munich auto show.

Oliver Zipse, the CEO of BMW, had indicated last summer that the inaugural Neue Klasse vehicle would be a sedan positioned in the 3-Series segment, followed by a dynamic sport utility vehicle. During a recent earnings call, he reiterated that the Munich concept serves as a faithful representation of an imminent production model within the Neue Klasse lineup.

As discussions revolve around the production model referred to by Zipse, speculation arises that it could potentially manifest as an electric iteration of the upcoming 3-Series, bearing the nomenclature of the i3. It’s noteworthy to mention that BMW already retails an electric version of the current 3-Series in the Chinese market, aptly named the i3.

The nomenclature “Neue Klasse” alludes to BMW’s trailblazing dedicated platform for electric vehicles. This platform boasts a remarkable degree of versatility, accommodating an array of vehicle sizes and categories while seamlessly integrating BMW’s sixth-generation electric motor and battery advancements. A notable enhancement comes in the form of a novel cylindrical cell design for the batteries, marking a departure from the current prismatic cell configuration. This innovation, in conjunction with other refinements, is poised to yield a substantial 30% improvement in driving range compared to BMW’s existing battery technology.

At first glance, the Vision Neue Klasse concept captivates with its distinctive and bold proportions, reminiscent of design elements previously observed in the i Vision Circular and i Vision Dee concepts. BMW has underlined that the proportions of the Neue Klasse vehicles will deviate from convention, serving not only aerodynamic objectives but also enhancing interior spaciousness. It’s important to underscore that quintessential BMW traits, such as the iconic kidney grille and the Hofmeister kink in the rear side window, will endure, albeit adapted with contemporary interpretations. BMW also emphasizes that novel materials will contribute to the future recyclability of these vehicles.

The Vision Neue Klasse concept affords a glimpse into a minimalist yet technologically sophisticated interior, drawing parallels with the interior ambiance found in Tesla vehicles. Evolving from the cabin of the i Vision Dee concept, the Vision Neue Klasse introduces the next evolutionary stage of BMW’s iDrive interface.

A central tenet of the design philosophy was to minimize the presence of analog controls, a principle BMW adheres to diligently. Although a select number of controls are retained on the steering wheel, the lion’s share of interaction occurs through a central infotainment screen, a voice-activated assistant, gesture-based commands, and an expansive head-up display spanning the width of the windshield.

This innovative head-up display, aptly named the “Panoramic Vision,” is engineered to project information at the optimal height within the driver’s field of vision. Meanwhile, a distinct head-up display capable of projecting 3D graphics is positioned to supplant the traditional instrument cluster. BMW has elucidated that this display will convey vital information, such as alerts for automated driver-assist systems and navigation directives, through immersive 3D animations directly within the driver’s line of sight.

Notably, the Panoramic Vision display will synergize with ambient lighting features to conjure a visually immersive experience corresponding to various driving modes. For instance, when the vehicle is engaged in Sport mode, the concept orchestrates a display characterized by a vibrant yellow backdrop, symbolizing a dynamic driving mode.

In the coming months of 2023, BMW intends to divulge additional insights regarding its forthcoming Neue Klasse lineup. The automaker has already confirmed that the debut Neue Klasse model will be manufactured at a state-of-the-art facility currently under construction in Debrecen, Hungary, with production slated to commence in 2025. Subsequent production of Neue Klasse vehicles is earmarked for existing BMW plants in Munich, Germany, and Shenyang, China, starting in 2026. Additionally, a manufacturing hub in San Luis Potosí, Mexico, is poised to commence Neue Klasse production in 2027. This ambitious expansion underscores BMW’s resolute commitment to shaping the future of electric mobility.

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More about Electric Vehicle Innovation

• BMW Official Website
• 2023 Munich Auto Show
• BMW Neue Klasse Announcement
• BMW i3 Electric Vehicle
• BMW Electric Mobility
• BMW Sustainability Initiatives
• BMW Manufacturing Locations