We already know that BMW is working on a new platform for electric vehicles called the Neue Klasse. The German manufacturer says the Neue Klasse platform will make its debut in January during CES 2023 in Las Vegas.
BMW’s Nicolas Peter, BMW’s chief financial officer, said the company would unveil a “vehicle of vision” associated with the Neue Klasse during CES. Confirmation came during Q3 earnings call
In BMW parlance, vision vehicle is the term used for concept cars. Although a concept car even though the concept planned for CES is not necessarily a complete vehicle.
The concept could be just the interior of the vehicle, as Peter said during the call that the concept would “support” the automaker’s digital expertise.
The Neue Klasse platform was developed to replace the current UKL and CLAR platforms by supporting internal combustion engines in various hybrid configurations, but those plans have changed. This new platform will be electric only and will support FCEV.
The new platform is even more flexible than the current one, allowing engineers to vary the wheelbase length to suit a variety of body styles.
Vehicles built on the Neue Klass platform will adopt a more aerodynamic design to help optimize range.
The battery pack will use new cylindrical cells, and the 6th generation electric motor will be smaller and more powerful with increased efficiency. Put all that together and BMW promises a 30 percent increase in range when compared to current electric cars.
Head of engineering and research and development at BMW, Frank Weber, said in Septermber that the Neue Klasse platform can support single, dual and even quad motors. The platform will be very flexible to use in many different models. In theory, BMWās Neue Klasse Platform can support for Supercar with quad-motor and 1,341 HP.
The first Neue Klasse-based vehicles will be built at the production facility in Debrecen, Hungary, starting in 2025. The Neue Klasse-based vehicles will also be built at the existing plant in Munich, Germany, starting in 2026.
According to BMW CEO Oliver Zipse said in August BMWās first Neue Klasse EV platform will debut in compact sedan and sporty SUV.
