BMW has simply launched the iX and i4 electrical autos, in addition to an electrical model of the present 3-Collection completely in China, however these might be outdated ranging from 2025 by a brand new era of BMW electrics based mostly on a platform dubbed the Neue Klasse (German for “New Class”).
The Neue Klasse platform is being developed from the onset for electrical powertrains, with an authentic plan to have it additionally assist internal-combustion engines in varied hybrid configurations having been deserted. The platform might be able to supporting a hydrogen gas cell, nevertheless.
The primary Neue Klasse-based car might be constructed at a plant beneath building in Debrecen, Hungary, beginning in 2025. Neue Klasse-based autos are additionally confirmed to be constructed at an present plant in Munich, Germany, beginning in 2026.
The primary Neue Klasse-based car might be a sedan sitting within the 3-Collection section, and will probably be adopted by a sporty SUV, BMW Group CEO Oliver Zipse mentioned on Wednesday when saying monetary outcomes for the primary half of 2022.
Oliver Zipse
Code-named the NK1, the sedan is anticipated to be a member of the next-generation 3-Collection household, probably a successor to the aforementioned electrical 3-Collection launched in China earlier this yr because the i3 (the quirky i3 electrical hatchback is lifeless). The following 3-Collection, which is due across the center of the last decade, must also supply internal-combustion energy, seemingly utilizing an up to date model of the present era’s CLAR platform. BMW predicts that even by 2030, near half its autos bought globally will nonetheless have an internal-combustion engine, although most of those are prone to be electrified in some kind. The remaining might be be based mostly on the Neue Klasse platform.
The platform will permit engineers to differ the wheelbase size, and autos based mostly on the platform will tackle a extra aerodynamic design to assist maximize vary. In consequence proportions will differ from the previous, not just for aerodynamics but in addition to spice up inside area. The platform may also use sixth-generation electrical motor and battery expertise at BMW, which guarantees improved energy and effectivity. To offset the burden of the batteries, BMW will enhance the usage of composite supplies for each the interior construction and physique panels, together with the usage of carbon-fiber-reinforced plastic in some fashions.
BMW sees the introduction of the Neue Klasse platform as important a shift because the introduction of the unique Neue Klasse platform within the Sixties, a platform that underpinned a collection of sedans and coupes that set the course for BMW even to at the present time.
“We see the Neue Klasse as an entire reset for the automobile and our understanding of mobility,” Zipse mentioned. “Over the following three years, our preparations might be intense, encompassing all areas of the corporate.”
