BMW Incurs Over 10 Billion Euros on Neue Klasse Project
BMW Unveils Ambitious Neue Klasse Project
BMW is set to unveil its most ambitious microsoft project yet, the Neue Klasse, which extends far beyond the 2026 iX3 electric crossover. This project management offensive, going well beyond electric vehicles (EVs), represents a significant shift in BMW's strategic direction.
The European market launch for the iX3 is scheduled for next spring, with the public debut taking place next week at the IAA Mobility Show in Munich. BMW CEO Oliver Zipse has already hailed the iX3 as the "best overall product in the industry."
The iX3 is not the only model benefiting from the Neue Klasse project. The i3, sold in China as a stretched 3 Series EV, will follow the iX3 in a long-wheelbase version. The i3 sedan is scheduled for launch in 2026.
BMW has invested "well over" €10 billion in the Neue Klasse project over the past five years, marking the largest investment the company has ever made. This investment has not only been used for vehicle development but also for engineering sixth-generation electric motors and batteries.
The Neue Klasse project is not limited to Europe. BMW designs China-specific products locally at the Designworks Shanghai Studio. Furthermore, BMW has partnered with major Chinese tech firms for in-car software, reflecting the company's commitment to embracing technological advancements.
BMW has also spent a significant portion of the Neue Klasse funding on strengthening its battery manufacturing infrastructure. The company has built an all-new factory from the ground up for the iX3 at the Debrecen site in Hungary, where series production of the "NA5" will begin in November.
By the end of 2027, nearly the entire BMW lineup will benefit from Neue Klasse, with more than 40 new or refreshed models launched. The next-generation iDrive will be rolled out across all cars, regardless of size or powertrain.
Despite the immense investment in Neue Klasse, BMW remained profitable throughout the process. The U.S. market launch for the iX3 is scheduled for the summer, with only the iX3 50 xDrive available at launch, but a more affordable iX3 40 sDrive has been confirmed and will follow shortly after. For China, the iX3 will be offered in a long-wheelbase version.
The Neue Klasse project is a testament to BMW's commitment to innovation, sustainability, and customer-focused design. As the automotive industry continues to evolve, BMW is positioning itself as a leader in the electric vehicle revolution.
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