BMW is on the verge of launching a new 3-Series, available in both traditional gas-powered and electric versions. The electric variant is expected to carry the i3 badge, marking a new era for the iconic sports sedan. Following the 2023 Vision Neue Klasse concept, BMW has now introduced the Vision Driving Experience, a new concept vehicle that previews key technologies designed to uphold the brand’s signature driving dynamics.
A Glimpse into BMW’s Future Engineering
While the Vision Driving Experience will not enter production, its design closely resembles the Vision Neue Klasse concept and aligns with spy shots of the upcoming 3-Series. Notable differences include a slimmer integrated headlight and grille element, along with a larger lower front bumper opening, likely for battery cooling.
Introducing the “Heart of Joy”
At the core of this concept is BMW’s new control system, dubbed the “Heart of Joy.” This advanced unit integrates key functions such as drivetrain management, braking, charging, regeneration, and steering. It will be standard across all Neue Klasse electric models, including the upcoming iX3 SUV.
The Heart of Joy is one of four central computer units in the vehicle’s electronic architecture and marks the first time BMW has combined drivetrain and driving dynamics controls into a single system. The automaker claims this technology will not only enhance driving pleasure but also improve efficiency and range.
Developed entirely in-house, the Heart of Joy collaborates with BMW’s Dynamic Performance Control software, processing data 10 times faster than previous systems. This results in near-instantaneous responses, measured in milliseconds. The system’s advanced energy recuperation capabilities also allow drivers to rely less on traditional friction brakes, potentially boosting efficiency by up to 25%. Additionally, seamless stop-and-go functionality is promised, whether the car is in drive mode, using active cruise control, or Auto Hold.
Color-Changing Wheels and a Futuristic Cabin
BMW is experimenting with color-changing wheels to visually indicate the Heart of Joy’s activity—green for acceleration, blue for energy recuperation, and orange for friction braking. While the exact technology behind this feature remains unspecified, BMW has previously used “E Ink” for color-changing body panels in its i Vision Dee concept.
Inside, the Vision Driving Experience concept previews the next-gen 3-Series EV’s interior. A large, hexagonal center display dominates the dashboard, while a thin, full-width screen provides key driving information such as speed and time. This design aligns with the Vision Neue Klasse concepts and the Panoramic iDrive system unveiled at CES 2025.
Production Timeline
BMW has confirmed that the first Neue Klasse model will enter production later this year at its Debrecen, Hungary plant. The highly anticipated 3-Series EV, featuring the Heart of Joy technology, is expected to debut in the coming months, ushering in a new chapter for BMW’s renowned sports sedan.
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