BMW Expands Its EV Future with the Neue Klasse Lineup
BMW is accelerating its electric vehicle (EV) ambitions with the introduction of the next-generation i3 sedan, following earlier previews of the iX3 SUV. Both models are part of BMW’s innovative Neue Klasse platform, a new EV lineup aimed at setting new industry benchmarks.
While the iX3 will be the first to hit production later this year, the i3 sedan is expected to launch in early 2026. Recent cold-weather tests in Sweden reveal that the i3 will incorporate design elements from the Vision Neue Klasse concept, featuring sleek double headlamps, a wide grille, and a futuristic profile.
Futuristic Interior with Panoramic iDrive
BMW is redefining in-car technology with its upcoming Panoramic iDrive system, which spans the entire dashboard as a full-width display. This replaces the traditional instrument cluster and is complemented by a large central touchscreen for infotainment.
Cutting-Edge Battery & Charging Tech
One of the standout features of the Neue Klasse platform is its 800V electrical architecture, enabling:
✔ 30% faster charging than current BMW EVs
✔ 30% increase in driving range
✔ New Gen6 cylindrical battery cells (20% more energy-dense than previous versions)
For perspective, the BMW i4 eDrive40 currently offers an EPA-estimated 484 km range and a 10-80% charge time of 31 minutes. With a 30% efficiency boost, the upcoming i3 sedan could deliver close to 630 km of range and a sub-22-minute charge time.
Advanced Motors & Smart Driving Tech
BMW is implementing electrically excited synchronous motors (EESM) on the rear axle and adding an asynchronous motor (ASM) on the front axle for xDrive models. Additionally, BMW’s new “Heart of Joy” electronic control unit (ECU)—built entirely in-house—integrates drivetrain and dynamics, offering 20x the computing power of current models for enhanced efficiency and performance.
What’s Next?
The iX3 SUV is undergoing hot-weather testing in South Africa and will be the first Neue Klasse model to launch. The i3 sedan will follow in early 2026, featuring BMW’s signature kidney grille, now integrated with cameras and radar for advanced driver-assistance features.
While full specifications are yet to be revealed, BMW’s latest advancements suggest that the Neue Klasse lineup will deliver faster charging, longer range, and smarter performance than ever before.
