BMW is giving us a closer look at the upcoming 3-Series EV with the unveiling of the Vision Driving Experience concept. This new prototype, while not destined for production, offers a preview of the design and technology that will feature in the next generation of BMW’s electric sedans, particularly the i3 model, a fully electric version of the 3-Series.
Building upon the 2023 Vision Neue Klasse concept, the Vision Driving Experience showcases some of the advanced systems that will define the future of BMW electric vehicles, ensuring the brand’s iconic driving dynamics are maintained. While the overall body closely mirrors the Vision Neue Klasse design, the Vision Driving Experience features subtle changes, such as a thinner integrated headlight and grille element, alongside a large lower front bumper opening intended to cool the car’s batteries.
A Powerful New “Superbrain” for Driving Dynamics
BMW introduces a significant technological innovation with the Vision Driving Experience—an advanced control unit named the “Heart of Joy.” This system integrates key functions like drivetrain management, braking, charging, regeneration, and steering, all into a single, powerful unit. This will be a key feature in every electric Neue Klasse model, including the upcoming iX3 electric SUV.
BMW’s “Heart of Joy” combines drivetrain and driving dynamics into one cohesive system, a first for the automaker. The result? Faster processing speeds, nearly instant responses, and improved efficiency and range. According to BMW, this system processes data ten times faster than previous control units, with latencies measured in milliseconds.
One of the standout features of this system is its integrated braking and energy recuperation control. In most driving scenarios, the vehicle relies on regenerative braking, eliminating the need for traditional friction brakes, which increases overall efficiency by up to 25%. This system ensures smooth transitions when stopping or restarting, regardless of driving modes like D or B or while using functions like Auto Hold or active cruise control.
Color-Changing Wheels and Futuristic Cabin Features
BMW is also experimenting with color-changing wheels in this concept. The wheels change color to indicate various driving modes: green for acceleration, blue for energy recovery, and orange for friction braking. While BMW didn’t go into specifics on how this technology works, the concept draws inspiration from previous models like the i Vision Dee, which used “E Ink” technology for color-shifting body panels.
The Vision Driving Experience’s interior gives a glimpse into the future of the 3-Series EV. The cabin features a large, hexagonal screen at the center of the dashboard, alongside a thin display stretching across the entire width of the car. This screen provides essential information, such as speed and time, with a futuristic design similar to that seen in BMW’s Vision Neue Klasse and the Panoramic iDrive system.
BMW’s Vision for the Future
The Vision Driving Experience concept is just one piece of BMW’s broader strategy to evolve its electric vehicle offerings. The first Neue Klasse model, which will incorporate the Heart of Joy system, is set to begin production later this year at BMW’s Debrecen plant in Hungary. The new 3-Series, expected to use the same Neue Klasse platform, is set to debut in the coming months, bringing BMW’s cutting-edge technologies to the road.