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 experience 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 end in a range improvement of 30% over BMW’s present batteries, the automaker has stated.

The primary Neue Klasse EV will arrive in 2025, doubtless as a 2026 mannequin within the U.S. Will probably be a sedan in the identical section because the 3-Sequence, and presumably badged as an i3, a nameplate already used on an electrical model of the present 3-Sequence sedan sold exclusively in China.

The sedan might 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 comparable dimension 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 – Picture credit score: Baldauf

Four more Neue Klasse EVs will comply with in fast succession, although these will most definitely be totally different variations of the preliminary sedan and crossover, comparable to a wagon or coupe-like crossover.

Not like BMW’s present EVs, the Neue Klasse fashions will characteristic distinct styling to tell apart them from BMW’s gas-powered lineup. The look was previewed by BMW’s Vision Neue Klasse concept that debuted on the 2023 Munich auto present and is a detailed illustration of the preliminary sedan.

The crossover prototype appears 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 stated Neue Klasse proportions will differ from the previous, not just for aerodynamics but additionally to spice up inside area.

BMW Imaginative and prescient Neue Klasse idea

There is no shot of the inside, however BMW has promised head-up shows spanning the windshield, and automatic driver-assist options ranging as much as Degree 3 on the SAE scale of self-driving capability. Degree 3 means a automobile that allows hands-off, eyes-off operation in particular circumstances, however requires the driving force to be able to take again management at a second’s discover.

The primary Neue Klasse EV might be constructed at a plant below building in Debrecen, Hungary, beginning in 2025. Neue Klasse EVs may even be constructed at current BMW crops in Germany and China, beginning in 2026, and in San Luis Potosí, Mexico, beginning in 2027.

Keep tuned for updates as growth continues.