BMW has unveiled the Vision Neue Klasse X, which previews the design language of the brand's upcoming electrified SUVs, including the iX3. The newly introduced SAV (Sports Activity Vehicle) is a sibling of the Vision Neue Klasse all-electric sedan concept that made its debut in September last year. BMW claims that both concepts represent different kinds of vehicles that modern buyers want, ranging from sporty sedans to cutting-edge SAVs. While there is no official information on the Neue Klasse X's powertrain or range, the SAV is said to employ the automaker’s sixth-generation eDrive technology, which claims an increase of 30% in the range alongside comparable enhancements to charging time. Let's learn more about this electric SAV concept, which is slated to go into production next year at the brand's Debrecen facility in Hungary.
BMW Vision Neue Klasse X: Exterior and Interior
The kidney grille on the Neue Klasse X is one of the most distinctive design features, with two tall, slim components. It is inspired by the Neue Klasse sedans and coupes of the 60s and is enhanced by LEDs, which give it a distinct light signature and three-dimensional look. The electric SUV concept has a coral silver paint job and a profile similar to the BMW iX. It comes equipped with integrated spoilers, 3D-printed parts, and sleek LED taillights at the rear. The rear windows sport the familiar Hofmeister Kink, with a reflective print instead of the standard chrome borders.
The BMW Vision Neue Klasse X's interior features a unique material called 'Verdana,' which is free of petroleum and made entirely of minerals and plants. Both the centre console and lower door panels are made of this material. Marine plastics sourced from abandoned fishing nets have been used to create injection-moulded components for the first time. For specific components, this raw material accounts for 30% of the overall composition. Recycled mono materials make up the car's side skirts and the attachments on the front and rear.
The Hyperson Wheel's personalised sound experience and BMW Panoramic Vision are two of the interior's prominent features. The user experience of the SAV is further enhanced with a new three-dimensional head-up display and a steering wheel with touch-based controls.
BMW Vision Neue Klasse X: Powertrain
The Munich-based company highlights that the Vision Neue Klasse X has a sixth-generation e-Drive technology. In contrast to the prismatic cells that were previously in use, there are now round lithium-ion battery cells with a volumetric energy density that is more than 20% higher. The updated powertrain incorporates an 800-volt system allowing for 30% faster charging. The sixth generation of BMW eDrive adds up to 30% more range owing to new technology and enhanced aerodynamics while lowering drag by 20%.
The dynamic performance of the new SAV will greatly depend upon ‘four high-performance computers’, according to BMW's statement. While addressing them, Frank Weber, a member of the Board of Management of BMW AG, said, "The BMW of the future will have four new super-brains: high-performance computers working smartly together on what, up until now, was processed separately. We developed the first super-brain completely in-house. It integrates the entire powertrain and driving dynamics with up to ten times more computing power. The second super-brain will enable the next quantum leap in automated driving,”. He added “Going forward, we will combine four key control units in a single high-performance computer. The result will be more dynamic performance, more precision, more efficiency, and even more fun to drive."
The first Vision Neue Klasse X production car will be made at BMW's Debrecen plant, in Hungary and released into international markets sometime in 2025. More details about the final model are expected to become available closer to the market launch. As mentioned, BMW's Vision Neue Klasse sedan concept debuted in September last year. BMW intends to release six electrified vehicles based on the Neue Klasse platform.
Write your Comment