BMW previews electric SUVs of the future with Vision Neue Klasse X
BMW has lifted the lid on its next-generation electric SUVs with the unveiling of a new concept.
The Vision Neue Klasse X follows on from last year’s Vision Neue Klasse saloon concept at the Munich Motor Show and carries over the “aesthetics, technology, sustainability, and philosophy” of the Neue Klasse proposition to the SUV sector.
This will spawn the brand’s ‘X’-branded electric SUVs of the future – with the first version due to go into production in 2025. The five-seat SUV is likely to succeed the existing iX3 as a rival to the new Audi Q6 e-tron.
It will be built on BMW’s Neue Klasse platform, which draws on the name of the first generation of Neue Klasse cars from the 1960s and 70s and will underpin around six BMW models due to launch from 2025 to 2027.
Styling for the future electric SUVs will be reimagined with a pared-down design language that the brand represents a major leap forward in both exterior and interior design. Highlights include a reimagined vertical kidney grille arrangement, along with large window areas and a panoramic glass roof to flood the interior with natural light.
“The BMW Vision Neue Klasse X provides a look ahead to the X models of the Neue Klasse. The same principles apply to our Sport Activity Vehicles: electric, digital and circular,” said Adrian van Hooydonk, head of BMW Group Design.
“The X models will always remain strong in character: monolithic, clean and with a very distinctive vertical interpretation of the BMW light signature.”
The Vision Neue Klasse features a central display integrated into the instrument panel, providing both front passengers with optimal access to all infotainment functions, and the BMW Intelligent Personal Assistant. A panoramic display projects key information across the full width of the windscreen and will be complemented by the enhanced BMW 3D head-up display.
The concept also uses the latest, sixth generation of BMW eDrive technology to provide new levels of efficiency. It includes new lithium-ion battery cells that – combined with a new 800V architecture – will improve charging speed by up to 30%, allowing vehicles to build a 186-mile (300km) range in some 10 minutes.
Enhanced aerodynamics, new tyre designs and a special brake system for fully electric vehicles help increase overall vehicle efficiency by up to 25%.
Natalie Middleton
Natalie has worked as a fleet journalist for nearly 20 years, previously as assistant editor on the former Company Car magazine before joining Fleet World in 2006. Prior to this, she worked on a range of B2B titles, including Insurance Age and Insurance Day. Natalie edits all the Fleet World websites and newsletters, and loves to hear about any latest industry news - or gossip.
