BMW Reveals New Tech Details for Next-Generation Electric Vehicles
BMW recently unveiled more information about the advanced technology featured in its upcoming Neue Klasse electric vehicles. The German automaker shared insights on motors and energy management systems that will be integrated into these cutting-edge EVs.
The highlight of the tech upgrades is the introduction of the Energy Master, a central control unit located on the battery pack. This innovative component will oversee the flow of both low and high-voltage electricity, managing various aspects such as power distribution to the motors and onboard systems operating on low voltage. BMW developed the hardware and software for the Energy Master in-house, ensuring seamless integration and over-the-air upgradability.
BMW Vision Neue Klasse X concept
BMW also revealed its plan to utilize more compact and cost-efficient induction motors for the front wheels of the Neue Klasse models. This marks a departure from the current-excited synchronous motors used in previous BMW electric vehicles. The company will continue to employ electrically excited synchronous motors for the rear wheels.
Furthermore, BMW emphasized that the Neue Klasse cars will be built on an 800-volt platform, offering a 30% increase in range and faster charging times. The shift to cylindrical batteries with enhanced energy density will be a key feature, with the batteries directly integrated into the pack to strengthen the vehicle’s structural integrity.
Pre-production example of first BMW Neue Klasse electric vehicle at plant in Hungary
Despite the detailed technical disclosures, BMW has yet to reveal certain specifics about the Neue Klasse lineup. The company hinted at the potential use of LFP chemistry to reduce battery costs by 50% in select models, but the exact models benefiting from this technology remain undisclosed.
The upcoming models from the Neue Klasse series have not been assigned official names or alphanumeric designations. After teaser sedan and SUV concepts in 2023 and 2024, BMW began pre-production of the Neue Klasse vehicles last November. The first Neue Klasse EV, currently under production in Hungary, is still under wraps. BMW plans to source vehicles for the U.S. market from Mexico.