BMW has officially confirmed that the first model from its Neue Klasse electric lineup will be the iX3, an electric SUV positioned in the 3 Series segment. The production version will be unveiled at IAA Mobility 2025 in Munich next September, marking a significant milestone in BMW’s electrification strategy.
Neue Klasse Kicks Off a Major Model Offensive
The announcement came alongside BMW’s 2024 annual report, where the automaker emphasized its aggressive rollout of over 40 new and updated models across all segments by 2027. Pre-series production of the iX3 began in November 2024 at BMW’s new Debrecen plant in Hungary. While early test vehicles were heavily camouflaged, BMW has now made it official that this SUV will carry the iX3 designation, effectively replacing the previous iX3, which was based on the CLAR platform and discontinued last year.
At the business report presentation, BMW CEO Oliver Zipse confirmed that the production model, currently undergoing final testing, will shed its camouflage at IAA Mobility. “This BMW will be released onto the market as the BMW iX3,” Zipse stated, reinforcing the company’s commitment to Neue Klasse technology.
Advanced EV Platform with 800V Charging
The iX3 will introduce BMW’s sixth-generation electric drive system, moving from prismatic cells to large-format round cells with a cell-to-pack design. The 800V architecture will enable faster charging times, a key advancement over BMW’s current EV lineup. The new technology is expected to significantly improve efficiency and range.
BMW also showcased early development footage of the iX3, emphasizing that it remains a true X model, maintaining BMW’s signature driving dynamics. Alongside the iX3, the automaker is developing a Neue Klasse electric sedan, which is expected to be named i3. This model, previewed at IAA 2023, is slated for production at BMW’s Munich plant.
Vision Neue Klasse X Provides Design Cues
BMW first hinted at the iX3 with the Vision Neue Klasse X concept, unveiled in early 2024. This concept provides a strong indication of the production model’s design language and proportions, which remain partially concealed under test vehicle camouflage.
With the iX3 leading the Neue Klasse era, BMW is preparing for a rapid transition toward next-generation EVs, setting the stage for a highly competitive electric SUV market. The official debut in September 2025 will reveal whether the iX3 can redefine BMW’s standing in the premium EV segment.