The BMW Group has introduced the BMW Vision Driving Experience, a high-performance test vehicle designed to push driving limits and refine new technology. This prototype will not enter series production but will serve as a testing platform for the “Heart of Joy” drivetrain and driving dynamics management system, which was developed for BMW’s next-generation Neue Klasse vehicles.
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Photo: BMW
The vehicle underwent endurance testing at the BMW Performance Driving Center in Spartanburg, USA. The company also provided insights into its electric driving experience development program. Every fully electric Neue Klasse model will feature the Heart of Joy, with the first taller electric model set for series production later this year at Plant Debrecen in Hungary.
Photo: BMW
Photo: BMW
Frank Weber, BMW AG Board Member for Development, highlighted that the Heart of Joy aims to elevate driving pleasure while increasing efficiency. Future BMW models will rely primarily on energy regeneration for braking, improving range and performance.
Photo: BMW
The Heart of Joy control unit processes information ten times faster than previous systems, integrating drivetrain, braking, charging, recuperation, and steering functions. Combined with BMW’s Dynamic Performance Control software, developed in-house, this system enhances driving dynamics and handling precision. The prototype generates 18000 Newton meters of torque, ensuring the control system can handle extreme power demands.
Photo: BMW
Photo: BMW
Energy recovery under braking integrates drivetrain and braking functions, optimizing efficiency. The Heart of Joy is one of four key control units in the Neue Klasse, managing acceleration, braking, stability, steering, and charging. The millisecond-level response time improves handling compared to conventional systems, where drive and brake controls operate separately.
Photo: BMW
Photo: BMW
The system enhances cornering precision and stability while ensuring a smooth, noise-free driving experience. At low speeds, quick signal processing improves responsiveness in stop-start traffic and parking. Additionally, integrated control of drivetrain, braking, and energy recuperation boosts efficiency by up to 25%, with 98% of braking handled through recuperation rather than traditional friction brakes.
Photo: BMW
Photo: BMW
The Vision Driving Experience test vehicle uses illuminated wheel rim color codes to indicate acceleration (green), energy recuperation (blue), and friction braking (orange). Four high-performance computing units, developed entirely in-house, will manage various functions in future BMW models, including automated driving, infotainment, and climate control.
The BMW Vision Driving Experience will make its world premiere at the Auto Shanghai 2025 show.
