Summary
- BMW will use the Energy Master control unit for its next-generation Neue Klasse electric vehicles
- The automaker will employ more compact, cost-efficient induction motors at the front wheels
- Neue Klasse vehicles will be built on an 800-volt platform and switch to cylindrical batteries with a 20% boost in energy density
- BMW may be able to cut battery costs by 50% by using LFP chemistry in some models
- Neue Klasse models have not been officially named or confirmed, but will likely be sourced from Mexico for the U.S. market
Article
BMW is revealing new details about the tech that will be featured in its next-generation Neue Klasse electric vehicles. One of the key components will be the Energy Master, a central control unit mounted on the battery pack that will manage both low- and high-voltage electricity flow. This unit will be over-the-air updatable and will control everything from the power supply for the motor to onboard systems running on low voltage. The automaker will also use more compact and cost-efficient induction motors at the front wheels, while sticking with the EESM design for the rear wheels.
The Neue Klasse will be built on an 800-volt platform, offering a 30% boost in range and 30% faster charging compared to previous models. The new family of EVs will also switch to cylindrical batteries with a 20% boost in energy density, installed directly into the pack to reinforce the body structure. BMW has been slowly revealing technical changes for these EVs over the years, but there are still some details that have not been covered in releases. For example, the use of LFP chemistry to potentially cut battery costs by 50% in some models has not been specified.
Despite the lack of official names or confirmed alphanumeric badging, the Neue Klasse has been previewed by sedan and SUV concepts and has been in pre-production since November. The first Neue Klasse EV is currently being built in Hungary and is expected to be sourced from Mexico for the U.S. market. BMW has not yet revealed which models in the Neue Klasse lineup might utilize LFP chemistry and other specific technical details have not been fully disclosed. The automaker’s commitment to innovation and efficiency is apparent in the new technology being integrated into these electric vehicles.
The Energy Master control unit and the use of induction motors at the front wheels represent significant advances in BMW’s electric vehicle technology. With improvements in range, charging speed, and energy density, the Neue Klasse is poised to set a new standard in the electric vehicle market. BMW’s decision to develop the hardware and software for the Energy Master control unit in-house demonstrates the company’s dedication to quality and innovation. The switch to cylindrical batteries and the reinforcement of the body structure will also contribute to the overall performance and safety of these vehicles.
As BMW continues to refine and develop its Neue Klasse electric vehicles, it is clear that the automaker is focused on staying at the forefront of electric vehicle technology. The strategic decisions made regarding battery chemistry, motor design, and energy management reflect BMW’s commitment to sustainability and efficiency. By creating a platform that offers significant improvements in range, charging speed, and energy density, BMW is positioning itself as a leader in the electric vehicle market. The company’s dedication to producing high-quality, innovative electric vehicles is evident in the details revealed about the Neue Klasse lineup.
Overall, BMW’s next-generation Neue Klasse electric vehicles are shaping up to be highly advanced, efficient, and innovative. The combination of the Energy Master control unit, induction motors, and 800-volt platform will set a new standard in electric vehicle technology. With improvements in range, charging speed, and energy density, the Neue Klasse will offer consumers a compelling option in the electric vehicle market. BMW’s commitment to developing high-quality, sustainable electric vehicles is clear, and the details released about the Neue Klasse lineup highlight the company’s dedication to excellence in electric vehicle innovation.
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