BMW expands electric vehicle lineup with Neue Klasse platform

BMW is advancing its electric vehicle strategy through the Neue Klasse platform, marked by the production of the iX3 and i3 models. The iX3, the first production model of the Neue Klasse, is being manufactured locally in China via a partnership with Brilliance Automotive, utilizing LFP battery technology to achieve significantly lower prices compared to European models.

In Munich, production of the high-performance i3 has commenced, featuring a battery capable of over 900 kilometers of range and rapid charging capabilities. The Neue Klasse architecture also introduces significant upgrades in active safety, with systems designed to prevent collisions through advanced driver assistance and integrated computing.

Further developments include a potential range-extended iX5 specifically for the Chinese market by 2028, utilizing a turbocharged engine as an onboard generator. Additionally, BMW is testing a high-performance iX5 M variant featuring four electric motors to compete in the luxury electric SUV segment.