BMW unveiled its next generation of electric vehicles, dubbed the Neue Klasse, back in August 2023.
Just over a year later, the first of BMW’s Neue Klasse test vehicles, the X SUV, rolled off the production line at the automaker’s facility in Debrecen, Hungary, signaling the start of the final phase before official production begins in late 2025.
Related: What it’s really like to experience an F1 race in Las Vegas for the first time
BMW Neue Klasse Production Facility
The BMW Neue Klasse’s final step to series production is officially underway
Beginning production of new models at any facility starts with the production of near-series vehicles. This step is especially important for ensuring all steps of production flow together smoothly. As a result, all logistics processes, manufacturing equipment, and employee operations are under scrutiny to iron out any issues.
“The production of the first test vehicles in Debrecen is an important milestone in commissioning the new plant,” said Milan Nedeljković, a member of the Board of Management of BMW AG responsible for Production.
BMW Neue Klasse Production Facility
At this point in the process, BMW Neue Klasse’s near-series production is essentially underway. Materials are delivered to the plant daily, and test vehicles are rolling off the production line consistently. Running these tests helps identify areas that need further optimization, with a focus on refining and perfecting the processes.
Related: What BMW’s next-gen X3M might look like
Two BMW Neue Klasse models will launch the next generation
The BMW Vision Neue Klasse arrives as a four-door sedan with few lines and a transparent front grille similar to that on current-gen models. The idea behind the model is for consumers to see it as an extended living space. Like with most electric vehicles, there are few switches. Instead, drivers control the vehicle’s various functions via a panoramic display that sits front and center.
In keeping with the “Sport Activity Vehicle” mantra, the BMW Vision Neue Klasse X debuts in the form of a versatile SUV with a design language similar to its sedan sibling. Equipped with seating for four and an interior designed with circularity in mind, the Neue Klasse X features sustainable materials throughout the cabin. Like the Vision Neue Klasse sedan, the Neue Klasse X features few switches and a panoramic display.
BMW hasn’t unveiled any performance or efficiency specifications yet. At the concept’s unveiling back in 2023, BMW claimed a 30% increase in range and charging speed, as well as a 25% increase in efficiency over its current EV offerings.
BMW’s current EV lineup focuses on competitive range and charging speed
BMW currently offers four EVs, all of which bear the i Series moniker. Starting at $57,900 MSRP, the entry-level BMW i4 boasts a 318-mile maximum range. The i4 M50 brings the heat, with a 3.7-second 0-to-60 MPH time and a starting price just shy of $71,000 MSRP. The BMW i4 features DC fast charging capability and can charge from 10% to 80% in just over a half hour.
Starting at $67,100, the BMW i5 features a 295-mile range. The track-ready i5 M60, starting at just over $84,000 MSRP, hits 60 MPH in just 3.7 seconds. Like the entry-level model, the BMW i5 can charge from 10% to 80% in 30 minutes.
BMW i4
The only SUV entry in BMW’s all-electric lineup, the iX starts at $87,250 MSRP with a range topping out at 309 miles. The performance-boosted iX M60 starts at $111,500 MSRP and passes the 60 MPH mark in 3.6 seconds. When connected to DC fast charging, the BMW iX can reach 80% charge in 35 minutes.
At the top of the range lies the BMW i7, with a starting price topping $105,000 MSRP. The base model is the most efficient, topping out at 314 miles of range. The i7 M70 starts at $168,500 MSRP and hits 60 MPH in just 3.5 seconds. The BMW i7 can charge 90 miles of range in 10 minutes, reaching 80% charge in just under half an hour.
Final thoughts
I’ve never been a fan of BMW, but the Neue Klasse models have piqued my interest. The transition to electric has made every automaker fair game in my book. While there’s no pricing, performance, or range data available yet, it’s clear from videos and photos that BMW has upped the ante when it comes to luxury and interior design. While the minimalist interior might not suit some consumers, I’m willing to give it a fair shake.
Related: How higher-speed automatic braking could save thousands of lives annually
