BMW's Digital Architecture
BMW’s Neue Klasse transforms its electric vehicle architecture
BMW’s Neue Klasse introduces a new electric platform built around central computing, in-house energy control, structural batteries, and an 800-volt system that delivers faster charging, sharper dynamics, and a software-led driving experience.
It is nothing less than a project of the century in which BMW is investing billions: The Neue Klasse (New Class) marks a decisive step into the future of electric mobility for the Munich-based premium manufacturer. At the heart of this new generation is a state-of-the-art architecture that not only fundamentally influences vehicle design, but is also intended to take the electric powertrain to a new level.
BMW boosts EV intelligence with new super brains
A central element of this new e-platform is the high-voltage battery. It is equipped with a highly intelligent control unit called the Energy Master, which manages all essential functions in the area of high- and low-voltage power supply as well as data communication relating to the electric drive. At the same time, BMW is introducing a high-performance computing module that, together with other super brains, is designed to deliver the typical BMW driving experience. With the New Class, BMW is switching to a highly networked and software-centric vehicle architecture that redefines the character of driving.
The Heart of Joy takes driving pleasure to the next level. We are also achieving a further efficiency boost and thus greater range, as the driver will in future brake almost exclusively via recuperation
These four completely new super brains will be at work in the BMW of the future: high-performance computers that intelligently bundle what previously ran separately. The Heart of Joy super brain was developed entirely in-house. Three other super brains are responsible for automated and highly automated driving, infotainment, and basic functions such as climate and comfort, vehicle access, and interior and exterior lighting.
“The Heart of Joy takes driving pleasure to the next level. We are also achieving a further efficiency boost and thus greater range, as the driver will in future brake almost exclusively via recuperation,” comments Frank Weber, Member of the Board of Management responsible for Development. And incidentally, the superbrains not only make the New Class future-proof because such an architecture is easier to update and upgrade than many individual control units. BMW also retains control over all key functions because, for the first time, the hardware and software were developed exclusively and independently in Munich.
Neue Klasse centralises power control with the in-house Energy Master
In previous electric vehicles, the power electronics were often distributed, for example in separate components or in modules within the battery. In the New Class, however, a central part of the electric drive's super brains is moving to the penthouse – i.e., the top of the battery pack.
The control center for all power flows in the vehicle is located on the roof of the high-voltage battery system. BMW refers to this unit as the Energy Master, which is developed and produced entirely in-house. It is the interface to the on-board power supply, monitors the battery, and controls the electric motor(s) as well as communication between the high-voltage and low-voltage systems. This proximity to all relevant components allows the vehicle's energy management to be handled particularly effectively.
Cell-to-pack design cuts weight and boosts BMW’s driving dynamics
The decision to dispense with classic battery module production and to insert the new round cells directly – BMW refers to this as cell-to-pack – also saves space, weight, and costs. The fact that the battery is structurally integrated into the vehicle floor (pack-to-open body) enables a flatter design. All of this contributes to a lower centre of gravity and thus to greater driving dynamics, a classic BMW characteristic that is to be retained in the fully electric era.
800-volt design delivers sharper response and faster charging
The combination of high system voltage, short response times, and highly integrated control logic results in immediate, direct drive behavior. The New Class is designed to feel more lively, especially during intermediate sprints or spontaneous evasive maneuvers in critical situations, because control interventions – for example, in the event of traction loss – take place in real time.
In addition, the 800-volt architecture allows for remarkable ranges to be recharged in very short periods of time. Short charging breaks and continuously available power ensure a completely new ease of travel.
The sound is also different: instead of a classic engine sound, there is a subtle hum that BMW can tune for different models. This creates a new, futuristic sound that, according to the manufacturer, is more emotionally appealing than simple silence.
In-house battery and Energy Master development strengthens BMW’s EV control
By deciding to keep the development and production of the high-voltage battery and the Energy Master in-house, BMW ensures maximum control over quality, technology, and costs. The BMW plant in Landshut plays a central role in this, producing the highly complex control unit in a highly automated process. Production is being continuously expanded – by 2026, up to 700 employees are expected to be working in the Energy Master production area.
The New Class focuses on a holistic electric concept in which highly integrated battery cells, central control units (Penthouse), and powerful computers (Heart of Joy) provide a completely new driving experience. The Power of Joy results from the sum of technological innovations and is reflected in increased dynamics, comfort, and range.
The key feature here is the close integration of the electric motor, battery, energy distribution, and vehicle architecture. The fact that the key systems—from the Energy Master to the motor and battery control systems—were largely developed in-house gives BMW a high degree of freedom and flexibility. This means that the driving experience can be continuously enhanced via software updates, which is just as new as the combination of driving dynamics and state-of-the-art electric drive technology.
