BMW is preparing to reshape the future of electric mobility with the upcoming launch of its first Neue Klasse series production model—the next-generation BMW iX3. Currently undergoing final prototype testing at BMW’s test center in Miramas, France, the vehicle is set for a world premiere at IAA Mobility 2025 in Munich. Production will commence by year-end at BMW’s state-of-the-art plant in Debrecen, Hungary.
Described as a milestone in BMW’s transformation, the new iX3 represents a paradigm shift in automotive innovation. “Longer range, faster charging, and intelligent systems—this is a new chapter in driving pleasure,” said Mike Reichelt, Head of Neue Klasse BMW. “The iX3 is not just a car; it’s the debut of our future mobility vision made real.”
Breakthrough Technologies Power the Neue Klasse Vision
The new iX3 integrates several next-gen technologies that will eventually power all future BMW models—regardless of drivetrain. Key highlights include:
- BMW Panoramic iDrive: A revolutionary user interface offering head-up visuals across the windscreen (A-pillar to A-pillar), a matrix-lit central display, and an illuminated haptic steering wheel. It runs on the new BMW Operating System X, enhancing safety and user interaction under the brand’s philosophy: “Hands on the Wheel, Eyes on the Road.”
- 6th Generation eDrive (Gen6): A completely redesigned electric powertrain offering up to 800km range (WLTP) and 400kW ultra-fast charging, capable of delivering 350km of range in just 10 minutes. The innovative cylindrical cell battery offers 20% higher energy density.
- Heart of Joy Control Unit: BMW’s new central “superbrain” processes driving commands 10x faster than previous systems, enabling smooth, stable cornering, seamless regenerative braking (usable down to zero speed), and a significant leap in responsiveness and control.
- Bidirectional Charging (V2L, V2H, V2G): Turning the iX3 into a mobile power source and an energy hub for homes and grids. The intelligent charging flap uses AI to detect driver intent and open automatically at familiar charging stations.
- Driver Assistance Powered by AI: BMW introduces the “Superbrain of Automated Driving” with a 20x processing boost. Enhanced features include motorway-to-city transition aids, lane change warnings, cooperative braking, and the new Motorway & City Assistant. A standout innovation is the system’s ability to maintain function even with mild driver overrides, offering intuitive semi-autonomous control.
Setting the Benchmark for Smart, Sustainable Mobility
The iX3 is more than a high-performance EV—it’s BMW’s blueprint for a connected, sustainable automotive future. BMW’s new modular architecture and zonal electronics underpin over-the-air updates, full digital integration, and a host of patent-backed innovations in battery design, vehicle control, and UI projection technology.
“The Neue Klasse is BMW’s boldest technological leap in decades,” said Reichelt. “It redefines how we build, drive, and interact with vehicles—while maintaining the spirit of Sheer Driving Pleasure.”
BMW also confirmed that these breakthroughs will soon cascade across all its product lines and segments, ensuring that every future BMW—electric or combustion—benefits from the Neue Klasse DNA.
