Summary
- BMW is set to unveil its first electric car based on the Neue Klasse platform by the end of the year
- The new batteries for the Neue Klasse cars will use cylindrical cells and have internal cell-to-pack architecture
- The adoption of the new batteries will increase efficiency by 20%, range by 30%, and charging speed by 30%
- A new module called BMW Energy Master will control the transition from 400 to 800 volts in the Neue Klasse cars
- BMW will offer two types of electric motors on the Neue Klasse platform, with rear-wheel and all-wheel drive models available
Article
BMW’s Battery Innovation
BMW is revolutionizing their electric vehicles with the introduction of the Neue Klasse platform. One of the key advancements is the transition from prismatic cells to cylindrical cells for their batteries. These new cells, available in two formats, will result in batteries with internal cell-to-pack architecture, leading to weight savings and increased energy density. These improvements will allow for an overall efficiency increase of 20% and a 30% boost in range. Additionally, the batteries will enable faster charging speeds, with a 10-minute stop at the charging station providing up to 186 miles of travel.
Sustainable and Cost-Effective Solutions
In addition to performance enhancements, BMW is also focused on sustainability and cost reduction with their battery technology. By streamlining components and processes, BMW aims to cut production costs by up to 50% while decreasing CO2 emissions during manufacturing. The gains expected from BMW’s efforts include increased efficiency, autonomy, and reload speed by 20%, 30%, and 30% respectively. This commitment to sustainability extends to BMW’s Energy Master module, which ensures efficient power management and diagnostic monitoring within the vehicles.
Electric Motor Innovation
The Neue Klasse platform will also feature innovative electric motor options, with BMW offering both rear-wheel drive and all-wheel drive models. The rear motors will utilize EESM electric motors, while the front motors will feature ASM-type motors. This dual-motor setup allows for increased power and torque, as well as enhanced traction management. With the ability to control power delivery to individual wheels, BMW is offering a new level of performance and efficiency in their electric vehicles.
Flexibility and Adaptability
BMW is designing the Neue Klasse platform to be extremely flexible and adaptable to various vehicle types. This versatility extends to the potential for different cell chemistries in the batteries and the incorporation of the Energy Master module in future BMW, MINI, and Rolls-Royce models. The platform’s architecture allows for one, two, three, or even four motors, providing a wide range of power and torque options for different vehicle configurations.
Future Production and Models
Production for the first Neue Klasse electric car is set to begin in August, with a planned debut by the end of the year. This initial vehicle will be an electric SUV comparable in size to the current X3 model. Following this launch, BMW has plans to release an electric sedan in 2026, adding to their electric vehicle lineup. In the lead-up to these releases, BMW will continue to explore and showcase the innovative features of the Neue Klasse platform, including bidirectional charging, advanced infotainment systems, and driving assistance technologies.
Conclusion
BMW’s electric vehicle revolution is well underway, with the upcoming Neue Klasse models set to redefine efficiency, performance, and sustainability standards. From cutting-edge battery technology to innovative electric motors, BMW is paving the way for the future of electric transportation. With production slated to begin soon and a lineup of new models on the horizon, BMW is set to make a significant impact in the electric vehicle market. Stay tuned for more exciting developments from BMW as they continue to shape the future of electric mobility.
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