Unveiling of BMW's Future Layout This Week squares off
BMW is embarking on a significant transformation with the introduction of its Neue Klasse, marking a new era for the automotive giant. This ambitious project, BMW's largest investment to date, according to Frank Weber, Head of Development, is set to underpin and shape more than 40 new models within the next two years.
The Neue Klasse will see BMW's traditional sites for gas-powered vehicles, such as Munich, converted exclusively for EV production. This transition, though expensive and challenging due to the need for employee retraining and familiarization with electrification and other EV disciplines, is a necessary step for BMW's future.
The Neue Klasse will offer a variety of powertrains, including electrified, internal combustion, PHEV, and hydrogen, catering to a diverse range of customer needs. One of the most anticipated additions is the electrified M3, currently being tested, which is expected to offer nearly 700 horsepower.
The Neue Klasse architecture includes the upcoming iX3 and will pave BMW's road forward. The iX3 reveal on September 5 will offer a glimpse into where all new BMWs are heading. In addition, BMW has unveiled an electrified concept car, the VDX, in Shanghai, with over 1,300 horsepower and 13,000 pound-feet of torque.
The Neue Klasse is not just about power; it's about digitalization. Features like Panoramic Vision and voice commands are set to bring digitalization to a new level. The elimination of the traditional gauge cluster is one of the most obvious changes in the Neue Klasse cockpit.
The Neue Klasse is also a step towards sustainable vehicle manufacturing. Some components of the Neue Klasse, such as the under-hood storage compartment, are made partially from recycled materials like maritime plastics. The project aligns with BMW's commitment to sustainable vehicle manufacturing and eventually recycling.
Working with a supply chain of over 2,700 Tier 1 suppliers, including global automotive suppliers providing complete systems or key components directly to BMW, has led to approximately 35% reduction of CO2e from the production process. Major partners include technology companies like Qualcomm, which co-developed automated driving assistance systems for the Neue Klasse vehicles.
The Neue Klasse requires an adjustment period for BMW's performance standards. The Neue Klasse era will undoubtedly require a slight reconfiguring of our brains and how we interact with and drive new BMWs. New plants like Debrecen have become significant for BMW due to the Neue Klasse.
Some of the new models, like the i1 and i2, will be introduced in segments BMW hasn't previously explored. The Neue Klasse will eventually offer a diverse range of vehicles, catering to a variety of customer needs and preferences.
In conclusion, the Neue Klasse is more than just a new line of vehicles; it's a revolution in electrification and digitalization for BMW. The iX3 reveal on September 5 will provide us with a glimpse into BMW's future, a future that promises to be electric, digital, and sustainable.
