In a major step in its journey towards automotive innovation, the BMW Group has unveiled its latest design concept, the BMW Vision Neue Klasse. This visionary vehicle, which debuted at the IAA Mobility 2023 International Motor Show in Munich, offers a glimpse into what the next generation of BMW brand vehicles will encompass.
The exterior of the BMW Vision Neue Klasse is characterised by a clear, elegant, and timeless design language. Key signature elements, such as the iconic kidney grille and the Hofmeister kink, have been retained, accentuating the vehicle’s unmistakable BMW identity. The streamlined design approach highlights powerful wheel arches, a retracted greenhouse, and a forward-slanting ‘shark nose’ front end, all of which are classic BMW features.
The vehicle’s exterior paintwork in ‘Joyous bright,’ with a subtle yellow hue, adds a futuristic touch, while distinctive black side skirts and bumpers add contrast. Importantly, the increased use of secondary raw materials and a more resource-efficient production process underscore BMW’s commitment to circularity.
The interior of the BMW Vision Neue Klasse is a testament to innovation and digitalisation. Analogue controls have been minimised, making room for seamless human-car interaction through the BMW Panoramic Vision, central display, multifunction buttons on the steering wheel and voice control via the BMW Intelligent Personal Assistant. BMW Panoramic Vision projects information at the ideal height into the driver’s line of sight and extends across the entire width of the windshield. This feature fosters a shared user experience between the driver and the front passenger, offering unprecedented customisation as well.
Under the hood is the sixth-generation BMW eDrive technology that includes newly developed round battery cells with a 20 per cent higher energy density than previous versions. This advancement enhances charging speed by up to 30 per cent and boosts the vehicle’s range by an additional 30 per cent, while overall vehicle efficiency increases by up to 25 per cent.
The BMW Vision Neue Klasse represents a convergence of three core elements: electrification, digitalisation, and circularity. It aligns with the BMW Group’s ongoing transformation incorporating digital experiences, emissions-free driving, and long-term circularity that commenced with the electrified BMW i models. The Neue Klasse takes sustainability seriously. It is manufactured at a new plant in Debrecen without fossil fuels, incorporating a significant use of raw and secondary materials produced with reduced CO2 emissions.
Overall, the BMW Vision Neue Klasse offers a compelling glimpse into the future of the BMW brand. It is a blend of striking design, digital innovation, and environmental consciousness.
