BMW’s futuristic Neue Klasse EV household is beginning to take form — actually on this case. That is our first take a look at what would be the coupe model of BMW’s new battery-electric lineup, and if our spies (and our eyes) are to be believed, this prototype is sporting impartial, hub-mounted motors. Lengthy urged as a pure evolution from the usual motor-and-axle structure supplied by present EVs, hub motors wanted some growth time to beat a number of inherent disadvantages, key amongst them the quantity of un-sprung mass they add to every suspension nook.
What precisely are we on about right here? Properly, look carefully on the wheel on the prototype beneath. Discover something peculiar? For those who mentioned “there is no brake caliper,” you would be appropriate. That is as a result of we’re in all probability not brake rotors right here, however the outer face of the hub-mounted motor, which possible incorporates the hydraulic braking system into the meeting itself. We talked about the load situation above, however as you might need already surmised, this configuration imparts the extra problem of managing waste warmth from the braking system. However bear in mind, that is BMW — the corporate that made “turbine” wheels a factor.
What we learn about this platform is at the moment outweighed closely by what we do not, however BMW urged some specs when the idea sedan was proven within the second half of 2023. In comparison with the pack within the present i4, BMW says its newly-developed battery cells will provide 20% extra vitality density and 30% sooner theoretical charging speeds. And never solely will the batteries be able to storing extra vitality for a similar dimension pack, however BMW says total automobile driving effectivity will enhance by as much as 25% — and as a lot as 40% in winter due to a brand new warmth pump. BMW believes this may quantity to a 30% vary enhance vs. the corporate’s current-gen EVs.
On condition that this prototype has what seems to be a production-intent physique form underneath all that camo, BMW cannot be too removed from able to share particulars about its next-gen powertrains. We should admit, we’re curious.
BMW Imaginative and prescient Neue Klasse X revealed