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BMW has revealed its Vision Neue Klasse (new class)
The automotive giant has given us a glimpse of the look and upcoming performance of the next generation of its 4x4s.
But these will not be SUVs (sports utility vehicles), but rather sports activity vehicles (SAV), with the emphasis on minimalism and ultra-fast computer systems, which the German company calls “super-brains”.
Production will begin next year, starting with an all-new iX3 mid-size electric family SAV. The first models are expected in showrooms by the end of 2025.
The Neue Klasse They will include all-wheel drive and be powered by a choice of purely electric, hybrid, petrol, diesel and even hydrogen models.
The revealed Neue Klasse
It follows the minimalist Neue Klasse concept sedan from 2023, which goes back to basics – the basis for the next BMW 3 Series and beyond.
BMW AG President Oliver Zipse said the BMW Vision Neue Klasse X “showcases the breadth of our future BMW model range.”
BMW has created a new platform that uses ultra-fast “super-brain” computing systems and promises better performance, improved efficiency and a more fun driving experience.
BMW Vision Neue Klasse
What can we expect from after-sales service?
There are few things that BMW hasn’t changed with these new after-sales services.
They are more technologically advanced, performance is better, charging is faster and autonomy has increased, and thanks to the new platform they have increased ground clearance and efficiency.
They will showcase the sixth generation of the company’s eDrive electric technology.
A combination of better aerodynamics (including a 20 percent reduction in drag), new tire designs and a special braking system for battery electric vehicles (BEV) will increase efficiency by up to 25 percent.
The new technology shown in the concept is expected to be applied to the upcoming iX3. The electric vehicle is expected to have a 30% improved range and faster charging speeds to deliver a range of 186 miles in 10 minutes.
And thanks to new lithium-ion battery cells with 20% higher energy density, there is a 30 percent increase in battery life and up to 30 percent in charging speeds. Your new after-sales service should charge 186 miles of range in just 10 minutes.
Will it fit in my garage? BMW Vision Neue Klasse
First exit : Like the new BMW iX3 and X3
Built production: 2025, new “i-Factory” in Debrecen, Hungary
Price: TBC but expected to be around £65,000
Style: Sports Activity Vehicle/4×4
Length: 4726mm
Width: 2046mm
Height: 1670mm
Wheelbase: 2,897mm
Sources of energy: Electric, hybrid, gasoline, diesel (select markets) and hydrogen
They will also launch a new generation of high-performance computers – which BMW calls “superbrains” – which form the heart of BMW’s new internally developed transmission and chassis control system.
The four super-brains are designed to deliver “a superior driving experience tailored to individual needs” and work together to improve dynamic performance, precision, efficiency and enjoyment.
One superbrain is dedicated to autonomous driving and another to the powertrain.
Recycling is at the heart of the new X models to help reduce the carbon footprint of production, with the use of very interesting materials.
Recycled plastic, including discarded fishing nets, already makes up 30 percent of interior materials, but BMW has also developed an entirely plant-based, mineral-based, petroleum-free surface material called “Verdana” for the interior. This will be used in the lower part of the door panels and in the center console.
The injection molded parts will also use marine plastic waste recovered from the sea for the first time.
The iconic – and much smaller – BMW grille is back and combines with the headlights to create a welcome lighting effect for drivers as they approach.
BMW says the next-generation X range will offer a clean, minimalist design that is spacious and open.
The BMW brand grille is reinvented as a three-dimensional sculpture with vertically aligned and backlit contours.
The grille combines with the headlights to create a welcome lighting effect for approaching drivers.
The vehicle’s powerful and athletic rear features center-reaching lights that are individually controlled with variable intensity to convey an expressive depth effect.
Flush glass surfaces and glossy Coral Silver exterior paint give the vehicle a lightweight feel.
BMW Group Head of Design Adrian van Hooydonk said: “The X models will always retain a strong character: monolithic, streamlined and with a very distinctive vertical interpretation of the BMW light signature. »
What does the interior of the Vision Neue Klasse X look like?
The driving position will be slightly raised and the driver will be able to use an all-new large-screen version of the head-up display – BMW Panoramic Vision – which projects at the driver’s ideal height.
Recycled plastic, including discarded fishing nets, will be used inside, as well as BMW’s new all-plant, mineral and petroleum-free surface material called “Verdana” which will feature in the doors and center console.
The X range will be focused on space and light, with the new iX3’s all-electric vehicle architecture and long wheelbase providing even more space inside.
It’s wider, taller and longer than the just-released BMW iX2.
The large windows and panoramic glass roof give the interior a relaxing, naturally lit atmosphere, which is complemented nicely by the warm recycled textiles.
And the ambient exterior lighting continues inside, with backlighting and sound effects.
The driver should benefit from the central integration of the “intuitive touchscreen” with the dashboard, which comes with advanced BMW Intelligent Personal Assistant voice control and free haptic multifunction on the steering wheel.
The driving position will be slightly raised and the driver will be able to use an all-new large-screen version of the head-up display – BMW Panoramic Vision – which projects at the driver’s ideal height.
The large windows and panoramic glass roof provide a relaxing, light-filled interior feel, with an abundance of natural light entering the cabin.
A popular feature with electric naysayers in particular, drivers can customize the car’s sound with the touch of a finger on the steering wheel.
BMW says: “Thanks to this digital function, car occupants can enjoy their favorite sound on any journey. »
When can I expect to purchase one?
Pricing will come later, but the iX3 is expected to start around £65,000.
More details will be revealed before the first iX3 and X3 models go into production, with the iX3 to be developed in a new “i-factory” in Hungary from 2025.
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