BMW has been noticed testing an electrical compact crossover considered a member of its much-hyped Neue Klasse EV household.

German for “New Class,” the automobiles will trip on a next-generation EV platform that guarantees improved energy and effectivity. The batteries will characteristic a brand new cylindrical cell design (as an alternative of the present prismatic cell design), and along with different enhancements ought to lead to a vary enchancment of 30% over BMW’s present batteries, the automaker has mentioned.

The primary Neue Klasse EV will arrive in 2025, doubtless as a 2026 mannequin within the U.S. It will likely be a sedan in the identical phase because the 3-Collection, and probably badged as an i3, a nameplate already used on an electrical model of the present 3-Collection sedan bought completely in China.

The sedan shall be adopted shortly by a crossover, doubtless the mannequin seen right here testing. The crossover may even doubtless arrive as a 2026 mannequin within the U.S., and could also be badged an iX3, given its related measurement to the X3 which is about to be redesigned. An electrical model of the present X3 is already bought abroad as an iX3, so the Neue Klasse model will doubtless find yourself as its successor.

2026 BMW iX3 (Neue Klasse) spy photographs – Photograph credit score: Baldauf

4 extra Neue Klasse EVs will comply with in fast succession, although these will more than likely be completely different variations of the preliminary sedan and crossover, comparable to a wagon or coupe-like crossover.

In contrast to BMW’s present EVs, the Neue Klasse fashions will characteristic distinct styling to differentiate them from BMW’s gas-powered lineup. The look was previewed by BMW’s Imaginative and prescient Neue Klasse idea that debuted on the 2023 Munich auto present and is a detailed illustration of the preliminary sedan.

The crossover prototype appears to be like to have extra rounded edges than the chiseled idea, however parts just like the entrance fender strains and headlights built-in with a large grille seem to have been faithfully transferred over for manufacturing. BMW mentioned Neue Klasse proportions will differ from the previous, not just for aerodynamics but in addition to spice up inside area.

BMW Imaginative and prescient Neue Klasse idea

There is not any shot of the inside, however BMW has promised head-up shows spanning the windshield, and automatic driver-assist options ranging as much as Stage 3 on the SAE scale of self-driving functionality. Stage 3 means a car that allows hands-off, eyes-off operation in particular circumstances, however requires the motive force to be able to take again management at a second’s discover.

The primary Neue Klasse EV shall be constructed at a plant below development in Debrecen, Hungary, beginning in 2025. Neue Klasse EVs may even be constructed at present BMW vegetation in Germany and China, beginning in 2026, and in San Luis Potosí, Mexico, beginning in 2027.

Keep tuned for updates as growth continues.