BMW is preparing a number of new EVs based on what it calls the Neue Klasse platform, and now the automaker has taken to Munich to preview them with the Vision Neue Klasse concept. While its design bears many similarities to the striking i Vision Dee that preceded it, this concept adds more features that we'll be seeing in the first production EV.

The Vision Neue Klasse takes on a striking evolution of the brand's past vehicles, with an overall shape that takes a more futuristic spin on the traditional three-box sedan profile. A sloping "shark nose" hood flows into the simple front fascia, which features a pair of illuminated kidney grilles that extend horizontally and integrate slim daytime running lights at each end. BMW says it created the unique lighting sequences using 3D printing. The taillights mimic the front end with their long horizontal housings, which feature lighting signatures similar to the grille and headlights in front. Contrasting the concept's bright paint are subtle black bumpers, with an upturned diffuser at the back for a sportier look. The Vision Neue Klasse rides on large 21-inch wheels, which feature a cross-spoke design inspired by BMW's race cars. BMW says it printed its logos onto the bodywork instead of using metal badges.

The concept's slippery shape pays dividends in terms of aerodynamics, allowing for a 30 percent increase in range and 25 percent increase in efficiency compared to BMW's existing EVs. And thanks to the sixth-generation eDrive tech that lies beneath the sleek bodywork, the Neue Klasse also boasts respective increases of 20 and 25 percent in terms of density and efficiency, along with 30 percent faster charging. The eDrive system will be built at BMW's upcoming plant in Debrecen, Hungary, which won't use any fossil fuels and will build BMW's first Neue Klasse model when construction is finished.

Stepping inside the Vision Neue Klasse reveals a simple interior with a retro twist, featuring corduroy fabric seats in mustard yellow to match the yellow panels on the doors and dash. The dashboard is devoid of anything but the edgy steering wheel and the paralellogram-like touchscreen, with nearly no buttons to be found. BMW even ditched chrome and leather, a decision that not only simplifies the design but also improves the vehicle's carbon footprint. The simplicity of the interior is further highlighted by the single bracket that attaches the front seats to the floor, which leads to an increase in legroom for rear passengers.

Within the paralellogram-shaped panel that houses the touchscreen lies BMW's latest iteration of iDrive, which finally ditches the iDrive controller that accompanied the brand's infotainment system since day one. The features that do remain include the multifunction steering wheel and Intelligent Personal Assistant, while the central display continues to offer touchscreen interaction. The real highlight is what the brand calls Panoramic Vision, which spans the entire width of the windshield, projecting information into the driver's line of sight along with the existing head-up display. Both the driver and front passenger can control Panoramic Vision with gesture controls, and the feature will translate into the production Neue Klasse models.

The exact production version of the Vision Neue Klasse should come in the form of the next 3-Series sedan, which will enter production in 2025 before arriving at dealers sometime in 2026.

What do you think of BMW's future design direction?

Image Credits: BMW