BMW teased Neue Klasse i3 as it conquers the snowy roads of Sweden
BMW is pushing forward with its electric vehicle plans, revealing prototype testing for the upcoming i3 sedan, following the earlier glimpses of the iX3 SUV. These vehicles are part of the automaker's "Neue Klasse" lineup, a fresh generation of EVs designed to set new standards. The iX3 is set to be the first of these new models to roll off the production line later this year, with the i3 following shortly after.
The i3 prototypes, seen undergoing cold weather testing in Sweden, use some of the design elements we first saw in the Vision Neue Klasse concept. Notable features include the signature double headlamps and a wide grille. The prototypes display a similar profile to the concept, but some changes have been made for production.
Inside, BMW plans to introduce the Panoramic iDrive system, which features a full-width display across the dashboard, replacing a traditional instrument cluster. This system will be paired with a large central touchscreen for infotainment.
A significant aspect of the Neue Klasse platform is its 800V electrical architecture. This system allows for 30% faster charging and a 30% increase in range compared to current BMW EVs. The vehicles will use BMW's Gen6 batteries, which feature new cylindrical cells that are 20% more energy-dense than the previous prismatic cells. The power units will include an electrically excited synchronous motor (EESM) for the rear axle, and xDrive models will add an asynchronous motor (ASM) on the front axle.
BMW has also developed a new "Heart of Joy" electronic control unit (ECU) that integrates drivetrain and driving dynamics. This ECU, developed entirely in-house, uses four "super brains" to provide over 20 times the computing power of current BMW vehicles. This advanced system is designed to improve efficiency and performance.
The iX3, which has been undergoing hot weather testing in South Africa, will be the first of the Neue Klasse models to enter production. The i3 sedan will follow, launching in early 2026. Both models feature an updated design with a sportier feel and the signature kidney grille, which now incorporates cameras and radars for advanced driver-assistance systems.
The exact specifications are still to be revealed, but BMW has indicated that the new platform will deliver significant improvements. To put this into perspective, the BMW i4 eDrive40 has an EPA-estimated range of up to 301 miles and can charge from 10% to 80% in 31 minutes. A 30% improvement would suggest a range just shy of 391 miles and a charging time of less than 22 minutes.
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