New BMW Neue Klasse X points the way to the BMW SUV of the near future

BMW has introduced the BMW Vision Neue Klasse X, a concept car that the brand hopes will revolutionise electric mobility and set new standards in the electric vehicle market as part of its ‘Neue Klasse’ generation of cars. We expect to see the production version arrive in 2025.

The Vision Neue Klasse saloon concept was shown at 2023 Munich Motor Show and this electric SUV model follows on from that. Like the saloon, the BMW Vision Neue Klasse X SUV showcases the future of BMW design and technology. It’s not the distant future either, we’ve already seen the production version of this Neue Klasse X testing and the saloon is expected to be revealed in production form towards the end of 2024. 

The Neue Klasse X concept’s design has many similarities with the exclusive images we published in 2023 detailing how the production car could look. Adrian van Hooydonk, head of BMW design, says that; "the BMW Vision Neue Klasse X offers a preview of the upcoming X models within the Neue Klasse lineup, maintaining their distinctive character with a vertical interpretation of the BMW light signature."

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The BMW Neue Klasse X blends familiar BMW design themes with the new Neue Klasse language from the saloon, taking a slightly less adventurous approach than the four-door car. The kidney grille has a more classic look with the headlights pushed out to the corners of the car. The flanks have a clean look with a crease low down to accentuate the powerful stance. Cameras replace traditional door mirrors and the door handles are concealed within a windowline that is conspicuously low to add extra light into the cabin.

At the heart of the Vision Neue Klasse X is the sixth generation of BMW eDrive technology, featuring new battery cells with an 800-volt electrical system. This advancement enables faster charging speeds, with the capability to charge to a 186-mile range in just 10 minutes. We don’t have the official range figure yet but BMW has indicated that we can expect a range increase in the region of 30 per cent. Given that the current BMW iX3 offers a range of 285-miles, that would mean the final production car could offer more than 350-miles on a full charge. 

In addition to its advanced battery technology, the Vision Neue Klasse X has the new BMW Panoramic Vision, a cutting-edge display system that projects key information across the full width of the windscreen. This feature aims to enhance the driver's visibility and safety, improving access to critical information while on the road. BMW has also used newly developed plant-based materials to reduce the car’s environmental impact while contributing to what the designers hope is a more natural and welcoming atmosphere. 

Other innovations found on the Vision Neue Klasse X are the advanced new tyre designs and a special brake system specifically engineered for fully-electric vehicles. These enhancements are said to increase overall vehicle efficiency by up to 25% while optimising performance.

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Adrian van Hooydonk, head of BMW Group Design, underscores the importance of these innovations, stating; "The Vision Neue Klasse X represents a significant milestone in BMW's electrification strategy, showcasing our commitment to pushing the boundaries of electric mobility. With its groundbreaking features and iconic design, the Vision Neue Klasse X sets a new standard for electric vehicles, delivering unparalleled performance, efficiency, and sustainability."

It’s likely that the production version of the Neue Klasse SUV will use a single rear-mounted electric motor for rear-wheel drive in its entry-level guises. Although a quad-motor, four-wheel drive variant could also be offered along the lines of the one already in development for the all-electric BMW M3. We’ll know more when the Neue Klasse saloon is unveiled in production form later this year and when the Neue Klasse SUV follows in 2025.