BMW Debuts Neue Klasse: Next 3 Series First to Feature

【PCauto】BMW is advancing one of the most significant transformations in its brand history. Bernd Körber, BMW's product lead, and Adrian van Hooydonk, design chief, revealed that the new Neue Klasse design language will be implemented across BMW's entire product lineup within the next four years.

Neue Klasse Will Unify BMW's Design Language

The urgent need for visual coherence in the product line is the driving factor behind this large-scale design update. As pure electric models such as iX3, i4, i7, etc. continue to join, the current internal combustion engine and plug-in hybrid models are gradually showing differences in design.

Van Hooydonk stated: "We must ensure the entire product series adopts a unified design language, transforming BMW's appearance and feel."

Körber also emphasized the necessity of synchronized updates: newly launched electric vehicles cannot make existing combustion engine models appear outdated, and the coexistence of two completely different design styles is extremely disadvantageous for brand development and consumer perception.

Therefore, Neue Klasse is not exclusively for electric vehicles - it will become a unified design standard covering all drivetrain formats including EVs, PHEVs, and ICE vehicles.

New Class Represents the Technological Innovation of BMW

Neue Klasse is far more than just a styling update—it embodies BMW's forward-looking, integrated technology platform. This platform will adopt advanced configurations including the critical sixth-generation eDrive electric propulsion system, an 800V high-voltage architecture supporting ultra-fast charging, and all-new cylindrical battery technology.

Official data shows that the new battery technology can increase energy density by about 20%, which means longer range with the same volume; Charging speed is expected to be improved by 30%, significantly reducing replenishment time. Most notably, costs are projected to drop by a remarkable 50%, which is crucial for the pricing competitiveness of future models.

Körber thus defines Neue Klasse as the foundation for "next-generation vehicles encompassing powertrains, digitalization, advanced driver-assistance systems, and more."

Next-Gen 3 Series to Pioneer Neue Klasse Design Language

BMW has established a clear timeline for this product update cycle, with the entire plan to be completed in less than four years:

The all-new iX3, built on the dedicated all-electric Neue Klasse platform, will enter mass production in 2025 as the first model featuring this design language. It will be followed by the next-generation 3 Series, which will become the first core product to adopt the Neue Klasse design.

Additionally, although the current G60 5 Series just had its global debut in 2023, BMW plans to make it the second model—after the next-gen 3 Series—to implement the Neue Klasse design language. This means the current 5 Series will incorporate the unified Neue Klasse styling during its mid-cycle refresh.

Following updates to the 3 Series and 5 Series, the redesign will extend across BMW's entire lineup. According to the plan, the X5, 2 Series (including Coupe and Gran Coupe variants), X2, flagship 7 Series, and full-size X7 SUV will all be successively updated or redesigned with the Neue Klasse design language.

Körber confidently stated that starting with the launch of the next-gen 3 Series/iX3 on the pure-electric platform, the new design language will be rolled out across the entire product portfolio within three and a half years.

BMW Targets Over 50% BEV Sales by 2030  

This comprehensive and rapid innovation of both design language and technological platforms are directly aligned with BMW Group's electrification strategy - aiming for battery electric vehicles (BEVs) to account for over 50% of total sales by 2030. The adoption of Neue Klasse design language plays an important role in achieving this strategic goal.  

By implementing a unified design language and advanced electrification platform, BMW is ensuring its product portfolio remains competitive in the coming years. Regardless of powertrain type, all vehicles will deliver a distinctive brand identity and cutting-edge technological driving experience to customers.