Photo: Baldauf
BMW was caught testing a new coupe prototype with strong Neue Klasse vibes and revolutionary tech. The Neue Klasse Coupe that no one saw coming features wheel hub motors on all four corners. This is the first confirmation that BMW is quite advanced with its hub-wheel motor technology and also the first public appearance of an electric coupe.
BMW is preparing to revolutionize its lineup with the launch of the Neue Klasse lineup in 2025. The first model slated to start production is the iX3 successor, which was previewed in March by the Vision Neue Klasse X concept. BMW previously showcased the Vision Neue Klasse sedan, which is expected to arrive much later. The Neue Klasse family will be much larger, though.
So far, we have learned that BMW plans at least eight models based on the Neue Klasse architecture, including three exclusive to the Chinese market. Among them, rumors claim BMW might launch an i4-sized coupe, although no information was offered. BMW hasn't started testing other vehicles besides the upcoming iX3, although the i3 sedan should already be in development. However, our photographers snapped a true gem, which might be the rumored i4 coupe or something even crazier.
The new coupe prototype sports a radical silhouette that reminds us of the BMW i8 trendsetter. The rear raises high above the front, creating a striking stance. It also features front headlights and a kidney grille that are unmistakably Neue Klasse. This doesn't necessarily mean the prototype also uses the Neue Klasse architecture. After all, we've seen before that the upcoming G65 X5/iX5 would launch with Neue Klasse design despite continuing on the Cluster Architecture (CLAR).
The first indication that this prototype is something else is the absence of the brake calipers. Instead, it features what appear to be wheel hub motors. Although this technology hasn't proved its worth when used by Lordstown Motors in its failed electric pickup, BMW is giving it another spin. The German carmaker has partnered with Continental to back electric motor startup DeepDrive, which developed a revolutionary wheel-hub motor.
DeepDrive works on a dual-rotor, radial-flux motor that can be installed in a central drive unit or as a wheel hub drive in electric vehicles. The wheel-hub unit integrates Continental brake technology, making it a standalone drive-brake module. DeepDrive touts improved efficiency, allowing an electric vehicle to drive over 500 miles (800 km) on a charge.
DeepDrive's website lists three variants of the wheel-hub motor, with power levels between 150 kW (201 hp) and 250 kW (335 hp). This means that the BMW coupe could boast over 1,300 horsepower, confirming previous rumors about a potential i3 M model with one megawatt of power. Based on the same rumors, the coupe prototype could also use an 800-volt architecture.
However, wheel hub motors pose significant challenges, including the weight, which in DeepDrive's case is up to 80 lbs. (37 kg). This huge unsprung mass will likely compromise ride quality and handling, which are the pride of any BMW car. I'm sure BMW takes this very seriously, and the tests will validate (or not) their wheel-hub motor strategy.
The prototype's shape and revolutionary new tech suggest that this might be an experimental vehicle rather than a mainstream model. However, the car in the pictures features production mirrors and even windshield wipers. This indicates that it's not just an odd concept but a prototype very close to production. When considering these characteristics combined, the i8 vibes are even stronger.
So far, we have learned that BMW plans at least eight models based on the Neue Klasse architecture, including three exclusive to the Chinese market. Among them, rumors claim BMW might launch an i4-sized coupe, although no information was offered. BMW hasn't started testing other vehicles besides the upcoming iX3, although the i3 sedan should already be in development. However, our photographers snapped a true gem, which might be the rumored i4 coupe or something even crazier.
The new coupe prototype sports a radical silhouette that reminds us of the BMW i8 trendsetter. The rear raises high above the front, creating a striking stance. It also features front headlights and a kidney grille that are unmistakably Neue Klasse. This doesn't necessarily mean the prototype also uses the Neue Klasse architecture. After all, we've seen before that the upcoming G65 X5/iX5 would launch with Neue Klasse design despite continuing on the Cluster Architecture (CLAR).
The first indication that this prototype is something else is the absence of the brake calipers. Instead, it features what appear to be wheel hub motors. Although this technology hasn't proved its worth when used by Lordstown Motors in its failed electric pickup, BMW is giving it another spin. The German carmaker has partnered with Continental to back electric motor startup DeepDrive, which developed a revolutionary wheel-hub motor.
DeepDrive works on a dual-rotor, radial-flux motor that can be installed in a central drive unit or as a wheel hub drive in electric vehicles. The wheel-hub unit integrates Continental brake technology, making it a standalone drive-brake module. DeepDrive touts improved efficiency, allowing an electric vehicle to drive over 500 miles (800 km) on a charge.
DeepDrive's website lists three variants of the wheel-hub motor, with power levels between 150 kW (201 hp) and 250 kW (335 hp). This means that the BMW coupe could boast over 1,300 horsepower, confirming previous rumors about a potential i3 M model with one megawatt of power. Based on the same rumors, the coupe prototype could also use an 800-volt architecture.
However, wheel hub motors pose significant challenges, including the weight, which in DeepDrive's case is up to 80 lbs. (37 kg). This huge unsprung mass will likely compromise ride quality and handling, which are the pride of any BMW car. I'm sure BMW takes this very seriously, and the tests will validate (or not) their wheel-hub motor strategy.
The prototype's shape and revolutionary new tech suggest that this might be an experimental vehicle rather than a mainstream model. However, the car in the pictures features production mirrors and even windshield wipers. This indicates that it's not just an odd concept but a prototype very close to production. When considering these characteristics combined, the i8 vibes are even stronger.
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