As we shift deeper into the age of electrification at BMW, you’re going to start noticing that we use the words ‘Neue Klasse’, and want to bring you up to speed.
Neue Klasse, which directly translates to ‘New Class’
in English, is more than just a turn of phrase or a new model series badge. Neue Klasse is a vision that encompasses the entire future of automotive at BMW as we move into the next phase of electric vehicles.
A brief history of BMW Neue Klasse
To best understand the cultural significance of Neue Klasse today, we have to first revisit the past.
As the ’
50s came to a close and the ’
60s ramped up, business at BMW was turbulent. It was a tipping point where something had to change in order for the brand to see another decade. The introduction of the Neue Klasse series of cars was a pivotal moment for BMW. This new line of compact, sporty sedans, which included the BMW 1500, was a radical departure from the previous offerings and turned business around.
BMW Neue Klasse was a game-changer in terms of design. It featured a clean and modern aesthetic, with a focus on functionality and practicality. The cars were more compact than previous models, making them easier to maneuver in the growing urban sprawl. They also offered impressive interior space and comfort, setting new standards for the segment.
Under the hood, the Neue Klasse showcased BMW’s engineering prowess. The cars were powered by a range of innovative four-cylinder engines that offered a blend of performance and efficiency. These engines were known for their smoothness and durability, characteristics that have since become hallmarks of BMW’s engineering philosophy.
Neue Klasse established BMW as a leader in the premium automotive segment and was a testament to the brand’s ability to reinvent itself in times of crisis and emerge stronger than ever.
Neue Klasse present day and beyond
Today, BMW is reviving the essence of Neue Klasse with BMW Vision Neue Klasse, using it as the foundation for electrification.
“With the Neue Klasse, we are bringing mobility for the next decade to the roads from 2025 – and taking BMW into a new era,”
says Oliver Zipse, CEO BMW Group.
The BMW Vision Neue Klasse will combine BMW’s ability to innovate in three key areas: electrification, digitalisation and circularity.
In this way, we are always able to stay two steps ahead of the future: The Neue Klasse is already bringing the mobility of the next decade to the roads in 2025 – and leading BMW into a new era,” says Zipse.
The legacy of the Neue Klasse lives on, reminding us of the BMW’s commitment to excellence and driving pleasure. As 2025 approaches, we’ll be able to share more details and specifics about the vehicles that will be released under the Neue Klasse umbrella and how you can get inside one.
