The front end is marked by a slanted "shark nose" hood, and two glowing horizontal kidney grilles extend to the bumper's edges. Angled LED running lights are housed at each corner of these grilles. 3D printing is utilized by BMW for several of these lighting components.
A raised black diffuser at the lower part of the bumper lends the Neue Klasse concept a sportier look than the i Vision Dee. It sports new 21-inch wheels that not only replace the earlier neon green ones but also nod to the traditional cross-spoke design seen in BMW's racing heritage. Extended taillights reflect the design of the front-end grilles and lights. The car's new minimalist logo is printed on both the front and rear fenders, eliminating the need for any metal badges.
BMW calls the overall design "almost monolithic," leading to a 30 percent range increase and 25 percent higher efficiency compared to its existing electric vehicles. This concept integrates BMW's sixth-generation eDrive technology, boasting 20 percent greater energy density, 25 percent improved efficiency, and 30 percent quicker charging times.
BMW Vision Neue Klasse
While specific range details aren't disclosed, BMW has indicated that a range of up to 621 miles (1,000 kilometers) could be achievable. Production of the new eDrive system will take place in BMW's under-construction Debrecen, Hungary plant, which aims to operate without using fossil fuels.
The interior showcases BMW's newest iDrive interface on a uniquely shaped parallelogram touchscreen. While retaining existing features like the BMW Intelligent Personal Assistant and multifunction steering wheel controls, BMW is introducing a "Panoramic Vision" feature. This new feature will extend visual information across the windshield, augmenting the traditional head-up display. Both the driver and the front-seat passenger can interact with Panoramic Vision using gesture-based commands.
BMW Vision Neue Klasse
The Neue Klasse interior adopts a simple, retro look. The mustard yellow corduroy seats harmonize with matching yellow accents on the dashboard and door panels. A "squircular" steering wheel and display screen are the only elements on the dash, maintaining the minimalist design. There is no chrome or leather ornamentation, making for a simpler carbon footprint during manufacture. The front seats are anchored to the floor with a single bracket, which creates more leg space for back-seat passengers.
“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.”says Frank Weber, member of the Board of Management of BMW AG responsible for Development.
The BMW Neue Klasse is slated for production in 2025 at the Debrecen, Hungary plant, with commercial availability expected by 2026. Information on pricing, range, and charging capabilities will be revealed when the production model is fully introduced.
Source: BMW
