Summary
- BMW will unveil their first next-generation electric vehicle, the Neue Klasse iX3, at the 2025 Munich auto show
- The electric vehicle entered pre-production at BMW’s plant in Hungary and is expected to borrow styling from the Vision Neue Klasse X concept
- The Neue Klasse will debut BMW’s next-generation interface and electric powertrain hardware
- BMW confirmed the use of compact, cost-efficient induction motors for all-wheel-drive models and 800-volt electrical architecture
- The Neue Klasse version is expected to be sold in the U.S. and may be built in Mexico to qualify for U.S. tax credits
Article
BMW has confirmed that the first of its next-generation electric vehicles will be unveiled at the 2025 Munich auto show and will be known as the iX3. This model is part of a family of EVs called Neue Klasse, which was first previewed with a camouflaged prototype at BMW’s annual financial results conference. The iX3 entered pre-production in November at BMW’s Debrecen, Hungary plant and is expected to take styling cues from the Vision Neue Klasse X concept unveiled in March 2024.
The Neue Klasse line of electric vehicles will showcase BMW’s next-generation interface, including a panoramic head-up display and AI integration. It will also feature advanced electric powertrain hardware, with the company confirming the use of compact, cost-efficient induction motors to power the front axle in all-wheel-drive models and current-excited synchronous motors at the rear. The vehicles will also have an 800-volt electrical architecture and cylindrical battery cells installed directly into the pack, with some models using LFP chemistry to reduce costs.
The Neue Klasse models are named after a family of vehicles from the 1960s that helped set BMW on its current path. They will be part of BMW’s efforts to expand its electric vehicle lineup and offer more sustainable mobility options to customers. In addition to the iX3, BMW is also expected to release a sedan based on the Vision Neue Klasse concept, which could potentially revive the BMW i3 name.
BMW has announced that the Neue Klasse vehicles will be produced in multiple locations, including Hungary, Germany, and Mexico. This distribution could potentially help the vehicles qualify for U.S. tax credits, although challenges may arise due to the previous administration’s stance on EVs and trade issues. Despite these obstacles, BMW is committed to bringing the Neue Klasse lineup to the U.S. market and providing customers with innovative, electrified transportation options.
The BMW iX3 was the automaker’s first attempt at an all-electric derivative of the X3, but it was not sold in the U.S. The upcoming Neue Klasse version of the iX3 is expected to be offered to American consumers, marking a significant step in BMW’s electrification strategy. The company is focused on delivering a seamless and intuitive user experience with its next-generation interface and integrating AI technology to enhance the driving experience for customers.
Overall, BMW’s Neue Klasse represents the automaker’s vision for the future of mobility, one that is sustainable, innovative, and customer-centric. By introducing new electric vehicles under this banner, BMW is signaling its commitment to leading the way in electric mobility and setting new standards for the industry. With advanced technologies and a focus on user experience, BMW is poised to make a significant impact in the electric vehicle market with the upcoming iX3 and other models in the Neue Klasse lineup.
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