The dawn of BMW’s Neue Klasse era is upon us, with the all-electric iX3 set to make its grand entrance at the IAA Mobility show in Munich this September. This debut isn’t just about unveiling a new model; it’s the ignition of an ambitious plan to roll out over 40 new and updated vehicles by 2027, spanning all drivetrain variants and segments.  

iX3: The Dawn of a New Generation

The iX3 isn’t merely an addition to BMW’s lineup; it marks a new generation of cars. As the first model built on the Neue Klasse architecture, the iX3 represents a significant shift towards electrification. This platform is engineered to enhance range, charging speed, and overall efficiency, setting new benchmarks for electric vehicles.  

Under the hood, the iX3 will feature BMW’s sixth-generation eDrive technology, which promises substantial improvements in energy density and thermal management. While exact specifications are yet to be confirmed, the focus is on delivering a driving experience that aligns with BMW’s performance heritage, even in an electric package.  

The BMW i3 and iX3

An Ambitious Roadmap: 40 Models by 2027

BMW’s strategy extends beyond the iX3. The company plans to introduce more than 40 new and revised models by 2027, encompassing a diverse range of drivetrains—from traditional internal combustion engines to hybrids and fully electric vehicles. This comprehensive approach ensures that BMW caters to a broad spectrum of consumer preferences while steadily advancing towards a more sustainable future.

BMW’s Gen6 Architecture – Technological Advancements Across the Board

The BMW Gen6 EV Architecture is a quantum leap for the brand. It has the ability to not just increase performance, range and charging speeds. It will also make the brand’s EVs cheaper to produce while allowing engineers more freedom to create a more engaging driving experience. 

The biggest shift from Gen5 to Gen6 is BMW’s move from prismatic to cylindrical cells—a strategy that mirrors Tesla’s approach. The new cells have a 46mm diameter and come in two heights: 95mm and 120mm.

Why does this matter? Because this Cell-to-Pack (CTP) design eliminates the old modular structure, allowing the battery cells to be integrated directly into the pack. The result? A lighter, more compact, and more efficient battery with improved thermal management. In plain terms, it’s a leaner, meaner energy storage system that maximizes every millimeter of space.

A common thread among these upcoming models is the integration of cutting-edge technology clusters. Features such as advanced driver assistance systems, enhanced connectivity, and next-generation infotainment are set to become standard across the lineup. This technological infusion aims to redefine the driving experience, making it more intuitive, safe, and enjoyable.

The BMW i3 – the electric 3 Series

Supercharged Charging: 800V System & Lightning-Fast Speeds

BMW’s Gen6 battery architecture is built around an 800V charging system but remains backward-compatible with 400V. This flexibility allows it to adapt to different global charging infrastructures.

The numbers? 300 km (186 miles) of range in just 10 minutes. That’s a 30% improvement over Gen5, making range anxiety a thing of the past.

BMW claims that the Gen6 battery is significantly lighter while offering 40-50% lower manufacturing costs than its predecessor. Weight reduction improves driving dynamics, and lower production costs will (hopefully) trickle down to more competitive pricing for consumers.

Looking Ahead

The introduction of the iX3 marks a pivotal moment in BMW’s evolution with a subtle nod to the past. The new infotainment system promises to be more driver oriented, the exterior styling has nods to the 70’s and 80’s and the Heat of Joy processing units promise a more natural feeling EV. Will it deliver? We should know in about a year as the first cars hit dealer showrooms.