Neue Klasse sets tone of BMW's next generation of models

German premium automaker BMW unveiled the BMW Vision Neue Klasse model on Saturday, offering a sneak peek into forthcoming BMW models characterized by electrification, digitalization and sustainability.

The Vision model is being showcased at the IAA Mobility show, held in Munich, Germany, from Tuesday to Sunday, which is drawing significant interest from visitors.

The automaker plans to roll out six Neue Klasse models within two years, from sedans to sports activity vehicles. Production of the models will start in 2025 at BMW's Debrecen plant in Hungary, with subsequent production planned at facilities in Germany, China and Mexico.

Oliver Zipse, chairman of the board of management of BMW Group, said: "The BMW Vision Neue Klasse combines our ability to innovate in the core areas of electrification, digitalization and circularity, leading BMW into a new era."

As a new generation of BMW models, the Neue Klasse represents a major technological leap that will propel Efficient Dynamics to new heights, with 30 percent more range, 30 percent faster charging and 25 percent more efficiency, thanks to the sixth-generation BMW eDrive technology, according to Zipse.

This is achieved through highly efficient electric motors and new round battery cells with more than 20 percent higher energy density than before.

Frank Weber, member of the board of management of BMW responsible for development, said: "With the Neue Klasse, we have embarked on the biggest investment in the company's history. We are not just writing the next chapter of BMW; we're writing a whole new book. That's why the Neue Klasse will certainly impact all model generations."

New design language

The BMW Vision Neue Klasse represents a significant design advancement, symbolizing the dawn of a new era and highlighting the strategic importance of the Neue Klasse for BMW, according to the automaker.

Its exterior incorporates design elements that will characterize various Neue Klasse models — simple, elegant and timeless. The all-electric architecture has introduced fresh opportunities for interior design.

The BMW Vision Neue Klasse exhibits classic BMW features, like strong wheel arches, a sleek "shark nose" front and 21-inch aerodynamic wheels inspired by motor sports. Its bold, nearly solid body with distinct front and rear contours and ample window space introduces a new, striking aesthetic.

"The design of the Neue Klasse is typically BMW and so progressive. It looks like we skipped a model generation," said Adrian van Hooydonk, head of BMW Group Design.

Digital user experience

Inside the car, the next-generation BMW iDrive offers a seamless blend of real and virtual user experiences by integrating data from driving, infotainment, vehicle electronics and the BMW cloud.

Analog controls are minimized, with interaction through the BMW Panoramic Vision, Central Display and multifunctional steering wheel.

The BMW Panoramic Vision, debuting in the Neue Klasse, projects information at the ideal height and across the windshield, complementing the 3D head-up display.

Both the driver and front passenger can engage with content on the BMW Panoramic Vision, creating a shared experience, and drivers can easily transfer information from the Central Display with a simple gesture.

Ambient lighting and display elements on the Central Display and BMW Panoramic Vision work together to enhance the user experience, which can be customized using My Modes. For instance, Sport Mode uses a dynamic yellow background for specific displays.

The BMW Intelligent Personal Assistant's voice control enhances user interaction, delivering a modern interpretation of the brand's driver-centric approach.

CO2-reduced production

The BMW Vision Neue Klasse also introduces innovative solutions to enhance the use of recycled materials and reduce mixed materials in its exterior. It features easily detachable components made from single-source materials, which improves recycling.

To be produced at the fossil fuel-free Debrecen plant and using raw and secondary materials with reduced CO2 emissions, the Neue Klasse promotes resource-efficient individual mobility.

Electrification, digitalization and circularity are the core elements of the transformation that is being shaped by BMW Group and began with the electrified models of its i brand.

The earlier-unveiled prototype BMW i Vision Circular highlights the potential that can be leveraged by implementing a circular economy that reduces consumption of raw materials and lowers CO2 emissions. The BMW i Vision Dee, on the other hand, demonstrates how digital, human-centric technology can enrich the user experience.

All these topics are now coming together in the BMW Vision Neue Klasse, a vehicle that represents the whole range of technological innovations through which BMW is demonstrating its future sustainability.

The BMW Vision Neue Klasse signals the start of a new era of individual mobility that is rich in digital experiences, locally emission-free and circular in the long term — guaranteeing typical BMW driving pleasure for generations to come, the automaker said.