Auto giant BMW making substantial investment in electrification with $10 billion commitment to Neue Klasse platform for electric vehicles.
BMW Unveils Neue Klasse EV Platform and New iX3 Model at IAA Mobility
BMW has made a significant stride in the electric vehicle (EV) market with the introduction of its new Neue Klasse platform and the unveiling of the new iX3 model at the IAA Mobility in Munich.
The German automobile brand has invested more than €10 billion in the development of the Neue Klasse platform, which is expected to be a key investment for BMW in the global premium electric vehicle market. This platform uses 20% less energy consumption compared to previous models, a significant leap in technology that has led BMW to skip a generation in its car development.
The Neue Klasse platform is designed to cover multiple vehicle segments, including compact saloons and larger SUVs. BMW plans to launch six new cars from this platform by 2027 and update around 40 models with its new technologies.
One of the first models to be produced from the Neue Klasse platform is the new iX3. The iX3 will begin production in late 2025 in a Hungarian factory powered by renewable energy. It is scheduled to go on sale in Europe in March 2026 at a price of around €68,900. The new iX3 boasts a charging power of 400kW and can provide a range of up to 372km in just a 10-minute charge.
Jochen Goller, BMW board member who heads up Customer, Brands and Sales, stated that the success of the Neue Klasse in the electric market could define BMW's future, but the company's existence is not dependent on it. He played down the threat of cheaper Chinese EV rivals increasing their share of the market, questioning the profitability of these brands.
The near doubling in the cars' range could help win over many electric car sceptics. The Neue Klasse rollout will serve as a litmus test for Germany's ability to remain competitive in the premium EV market as Chinese players expand in Europe with cheaper models.
Oliver Zipse, Chairman of the BMW Board, referred to the Neue Klasse launch as a "once-in-a-lifetime moment." The Neue Klasse platform includes advanced 'superbrain' systems, new software, batteries, electric motors, and new technologies, positioning BMW to compete with both Chinese rivals and Tesla in the EV market.
In addition to the new iX3, BMW introduced a new range of EV vehicles, called Neue Klasse, at the Munich Motor Show. The company also previewed the i3 at the IAA Mobility, reflecting the pressure on Europe's carmakers to reinvent themselves in the electric era. Chinese EV brands Leapmotor, BYD, and GAC are expected to debut new models at IAA Mobility, adding to the competitive landscape.
The Neue Klasse platform and the new iX3 model are part of BMW's strategy to strengthen its position in the global EV market and ensure its future success.
