BMW is gearing up for a major transformation with the upcoming launch of its first electric car based on the Neue Klasse platform. This new vehicle is poised to introduce cutting-edge technologies and set new benchmarks in terms of efficiency and performance.
Recently, at a Tech Day event held at the Landshut plant in Munich, BMW disclosed some key technical details about the upcoming range of vehicles. One of the major highlights is the shift from prismatic cells to cylindrical cells for the batteries of the Neue Klasse cars. These batteries will come in two formats – 4695 cells for sedans and sports cars, and 46120 cells for SUVs and larger vehicles.
The new batteries will feature an internal cell-to-pack architecture, eliminating the need for intermediate modules. This design not only reduces weight but also increases energy density, leading to significant improvements in efficiency. BMW claims that the new batteries will enhance overall efficiency by 20%, increase range by 30%, and enable charging speeds that are 30% faster than current models.
In addition to performance gains, BMW is also prioritizing sustainability with its new batteries. The company’s dedicated battery centers are focused on reducing components, cutting costs by up to 50%, and minimizing CO2 emissions during production.
To further enhance efficiency, BMW will introduce the Energy Master module in all Neue Klasse cars. This module will control the transition from 400 to 800 volts, manage the cooling system, power the onboard electrical system, and oversee the control unit. The Energy Master will offer diagnostic services for monitoring charge status, health, safety, and temperature management.
The Neue Klasse cars will feature two types of electric motors – EESM motors at the rear and ASM motors at the front. This dual-motor setup will enable two-wheel drive and all-wheel drive configurations, providing high power and torque levels for optimal traction and performance.
Production of the first Neue Klasse car is set to commence in August, with a public unveiling planned for later this year. The initial model will be an electric SUV comparable in size to the current X3, followed by an electric sedan in 2026. BMW’s innovative platform will also incorporate bidirectional charging, advanced infotainment systems, and supercomputers for driving assistance features.
As BMW continues to unveil more technical details about the Neue Klasse platform, it is clear that the company is at the forefront of electric vehicle innovation. Stay tuned for more updates as BMW paves the way for the future of electric mobility.