To promote its electric vehicle (EV) momentum, BMW is introducing the next-generation Neue Klasse family of vehicles. The focus is on higher efficiency and achieving a real-world range of 300 miles, rather than relying on bigger battery packs. This approach aims to avoid an inflated carbon footprint associated with larger battery packs.
BMW’s chief development officer, Frank Weber, emphasized the importance of efficiency over battery size. The Neue Klasse lineup is set to deliver efficiency gains of up to 20% across different models. BMW believes that current EV customers are satisfied with a range of 250 to 310 miles in practical driving conditions. The company is striving for a 30% increase in range with the Neue Klasse, aiming to meet customer needs without unnecessary excess.
The upcoming Neue Klasse EVs, set to launch in the next two years, will mark a shift for BMW by developing EVs from scratch rather than adapting existing gasoline models. These new EVs will feature a unique design language that will influence future BMW models. The first model, an electric crossover SUV, is expected to begin production soon.
BMW’s strategy reflects a growing consensus in the automotive industry that chasing extreme range numbers with larger batteries may not be the most sustainable approach. By prioritizing efficiency and real-world usability, BMW is positioning itself as a leader in the evolving EV market.
For further details and images, please refer to the original article on Automotive News Europe.