BMW Vision Driving Experience: A Glimpse into the Neue Klasse

BMW has unveiled its “Heart of Joy” demonstrator, the Vision Driving Experience vehicle, offering a significant preview of the brand’s future design language and technological advancements for its upcoming Neue Klasse series of electric vehicles. While BMW emphasizes that this four-door “Vision Vehicle” isn’t destined for production, its striking resemblance to what is expected to be the next electric 3-series (likely to be named the i3) is undeniable. With the production of the first Neue Klasse model, the iX3, starting later this year, the Vision Vehicle strongly suggests what lies ahead.

Beyond its aesthetic appeal, the Vision Vehicle serves as a mobile testbed for the next generation of driving dynamics technology. This includes the complex electronic systems that ensure both driver safety and the signature BMW driving experience within the Neue Klasse EV architecture.

The Vision Vehicle boasts impressive power, reportedly generating a remarkable 13,269 lb-ft (17,990 Nm) of torque. While this figure is likely measured at the wheels rather than the crankshaft, similar to GMC’s approach with the Hummer EV, it still indicates significant power output. BMW states that this extreme power is carefully managed to maintain everyday drivability. The vehicle also visually communicates its operational status through colored wheel displays: green for acceleration, blue for energy recuperation, and orange for friction braking.

BMW’s strategy for the Neue Klasse series aims for visual parity between its internal combustion engine (ICE) and EV models, while maintaining distinct driving characteristics. The Vision Vehicle is instrumental in fine-tuning the feel of these new EVs, ensuring they retain the brand’s trademark driving dynamics while rigorously testing the durability of new technologies.

The “Heart of Joy” control unit manages the drivetrain, brakes, charging, energy recuperation, and steering. BMW claims a tenfold increase in computing power, enabling millisecond adjustments to vehicle parameters. A key innovation is the integration of the drivetrain and braking systems under a unified control system. This approach enhances sustainability by reducing reliance on traditional brakes, maximizing energy recuperation, and increasing efficiency by 25 percent. BMW even suggests that conventional brakes will primarily be used for emergency stops, with regenerative braking handling the rest.

Beyond sustainability, BMW emphasizes the enhanced handling capabilities unlocked by the “Heart of Joy” superbrain. With all parameters communicating and controlled centrally, the vehicle promises “exceptional levels of precision” and greater traction, requiring fewer driver inputs. In less enthusiastic driving scenarios, the system seamlessly integrates features like Active Cruise Control, the parking brake, Auto Hold, and start-stop.

However, this highly integrated and automated approach raises concerns about the driving experience becoming too clinical. With EVs already removing some of the traditional driving “feel,” the “Heart of Joy” system risks further distancing drivers from the experience. BMW’s description of the driving experience as “Harmonious and Noiseless” doesn’t entirely alleviate these concerns. While the promise of assured handling and exceptional cornering abilities is appealing, these qualities alone don’t necessarily translate to a fun and engaging driving experience.

While the technology sounds impressive on paper, and real-world testing is still to come, the question remains: will the engineers manage to infuse the Neue Klasse with some of that classic “Ultimate Driving Machine” spirit? Only time will tell.