Introducing the BMW Vision Neue Klasse: The automobile industry has seen a myriad of changes over the years, but none as transformative as what we’re witnessing today. At the helm of this transformation stands the BMW Group with its revolutionary new design concept, the BMW Vision Neue Klasse.
Set to be unveiled at the much-awaited IAA Mobility 2023 International Motor Show in Munich, this vision vehicle not only offers a glimpse into the future of BMW but also signals a paradigm shift in automobile design and sustainability.
“The BMW Vision Neue Klasse combines our ability to innovate in the core areas of electrification, digitalization and circularity,” says Oliver Zipse, Chairman of the Board of Management of BMW AG. “In this way, we are always able to stay two steps ahead of the future: The Neue Klasse is already bringing the mobility of the next decade to the roads in 2025 – and leading BMW into a new era.”
Table of Contents
The Exterior: A Symbiosis of Tradition and Innovation
Adrian van Hooydonk, the head of BMW Group Design, quipped, “The design of the Neue Klasse is typically BMW and so progressive it looks like we skipped a model generation.” At first glance, the Neue Klasse captures the essence of this statement perfectly.
From its powerful wheel arches to its iconic “shark nose” front end, BMW’s design DNA is unmistakable. Yet, the new design manages to breathe fresh air into these timeless characteristics. The aerodynamic 21-inch wheels give a nod to motorsports, while the monolithic body and vast window areas herald a new aesthetic.
And let’s talk about that striking “Joyous bright” exterior paintwork! This subtle yellow hue, in conjunction with black side skirts and bumpers, adds a contemporary, forward-thinking feel to the vehicle. But it’s not just about looks – BMW is pioneering a future-focused approach with an increased use of secondary raw materials and a commitment to enhancing circularity in vehicle production.
Redefining Interaction: The Vehicle’s Front-End Evolution
The iconic BMW kidney grille and double headlights have been reinterpreted in the Vision Neue Klasse, merging tradition with modernity. But the evolution doesn’t end with aesthetics. An intricate lighting effect sets the stage for an intuitive interaction between the vehicle and its human counterpart.
As one approaches the vehicle, E Ink elements located on the side windows guide the user towards a sensor area, initiating the vehicle’s automatic door opening mechanism.
Inside the BMW Vision Neue Klasse: A Digital Cocoon
Moving from the exterior to the interior, the Vision Vehicle offers a unique digital oasis. With analog controls reduced significantly, the next generation of BMW iDrive offers a driving experience that’s more immersive than ever.
The new BMW Panoramic Vision stands out here – a feature that projects vital information into the driver’s line of sight and across the entire width of the windscreen. With this, both driver and co-passenger can interact with displayed information, marking a shared user experience.
And it doesn’t stop at interactive displays. The interior design itself, free of decorative chrome or leather, promotes sustainability without compromising on luxury. Spacious individual rear seats, light-colored instrument panels, and a flattened steering wheel design come together to create a spacious and comfortable environment.
Towards a Greener Tomorrow: Sustainability and Innovation
The Vision Neue Klasse isn’t just a car; it’s an emblem of sustainable production. Manufactured at the state-of-the-art Debrecen plant, it champions an environment-first approach. Remarkably, this plant operates entirely without the use of fossil fuels. The implications are profound – a leading automaker is actively shunning non-renewable sources, paving the way for a more sustainable industry.
Additionally, BMW’s new vehicle emphasizes the use of both raw and secondary materials produced with a significantly reduced CO2 footprint. By increasing the utilization of secondary raw materials and reducing material variety, BMW ensures an optimal balance between production efficiency and environmental responsibility.
And this eco-conscious approach doesn’t end at the assembly line. An enhanced dismantling concept has been integrated to ensure that once a Neue Klasse vehicle reaches the end of its lifecycle, it can be recycled more efficiently, feeding back valuable materials into the production ecosystem.
Under the hood, the Neue Klasse showcases BMW’s commitment to sustainable power with its sixth-generation eDrive technology. This innovative electric drive train ensures high energy efficiency across various phases of vehicle use. From reducing air and rolling resistance to intelligent heat management for the electric drive train, every aspect has been refined to enhance energy optimization.
Furthermore, this new technology introduces round battery cells that boast an energy density over 20% higher than the previously used prismatic cells. What does this mean for the end user? A remarkable improvement in driving range by up to 30%. But that’s not all. Charging speeds for the Neue Klasse models are anticipated to increase by up to 30% as well.
With these advancements, BMW is not only improving the overall efficiency of the vehicle by up to 25% but also ensuring that longer journeys on electric power become a standard feature.
Paving the Way for Future Mobility
BMW’s Vision Neue Klasse isn’t just a new vehicle – it’s a statement. It embodies BMW’s commitment to shaping a future characterized by electrification, digitalization, and circularity. With this vehicle, BMW is not only promising an unparalleled driving experience but also ensuring sustainability and eco-friendliness for generations to come.
In a world that’s rapidly evolving, the BMW Vision Neue Klasse serves as a beacon, guiding us toward a future where innovation and sustainability coexist in harmony.
