From the Neue Klasse lineup
At Auto Shanghai 2025, the BMW Group is unveiling a bold new era of mobility and bringing its vision for future vehicle generations to life. The spotlight falls on its latest innovations from the Neue Klasse lineup, including the futuristic BMW Panoramic iDrive, the high-performance Heart of Joy central computer, and a range of China-exclusive advancements that underscore BMW’s commitment to its most important global market.
“Innovative strength, a pioneering spirit and sheer driving pleasure – these characteristics are deeply rooted in BMW’s DNA,” said Oliver Zipse, Chairman of the Board of Management of BMW AG.
“In the Neue Klasse, they can be experienced by our customers on a whole new level: the user interface is even more intuitive, the design even more progressive, and the driving experience even more precise and dynamic. By the end of this year, we will be putting the mobility of the future on the road.”
At the heart of this showcase is the BMW Panoramic iDrive, an advanced display and control concept that marks a step change in how drivers interact with their vehicles. Unveiled in a version tailored specifically for the Chinese market, the iDrive is paired with the BMW Operating System X, a software platform refined through collaboration with local tech partners. This version includes China-exclusive digital features, designed with regional user preferences in mind.
Meanwhile, BMW’s newly unveiled “Heart of Joy” takes centre stage in Shanghai. This high-performance central computer is set to redefine driving dynamics across the Neue Klasse models. Calculating drive, braking, charging, recuperation and partial steering functions at unprecedented speed, it processes data ten times faster than its predecessors and achieves response times in the millisecond range. It’s already powering the specially developed BMW Vision Driving Experience, a high-performance test car designed to push this next-gen tech to its limits.
This one-of-a-kind vehicle features innovative luminescent paintwork that changes colour in the dark, highlighting BMW’s push for technological and aesthetic innovation. Active aerodynamics, up to 3g lateral forces, and 18,000 Newton-meters of torque make it a formidable platform for testing. Although not destined for production, it is a powerful demonstration of what’s to come from the brand.
China role
China plays a key role in BMW’s global development strategy, which is reflected in the localisation of the Neue Klasse initiative. In 2026, a separate model of the iX3 will launch in China, designed by BMW’s team in Shanghai and built at the Shenyang plant. This is part of BMW’s “At Home in China” strategy, which aligns production and innovation closely with local market demands.
Further showcasing BMW’s commitment to digital innovation, the Panoramic iDrive features the latest generation of BMW’s Intelligent Personal Assistant for China, developed in partnership with tech giant Alibaba. This AI-powered assistant features deep integration with local language models and will soon incorporate “AI Reasoning by Deepseek”, allowing for seamless interaction between the driver, vehicle, and the digital world.
BMW isn’t alone in the spotlight. MINI, another member of the BMW Group, is using the event to debut the new generation of John Cooper Works models. The brand pays tribute to its storied motorsport heritage with displays including a classic Mini from the Monte Carlo Rally and the MINI John Cooper Works Pro – fresh from victory at the 24 Hours Nürburgring. Visitors can also explore the latest MINI Cooper Convertible, making its debut in the Chinese market.
Across nearly 5,000 square metres at the National Exhibition and Convention Centre – the world’s largest automotive exhibition – BMW presents a diverse array of vehicles. Highlights include the original BMW 1500 from the 1960s’ Neue Klasse era, the visionary BMW Vision Neue Klasse and BMW Vision Neue Klasse X concepts, and cutting-edge technology displays like the full-scale Panoramic iDrive installation.
Celebrations continue with two China-exclusive models. The BMW 3 Series 50 Years Edition marks 50 years of the brand’s most successful sedan, with a limited run of 2,500 units featuring unique design and luxury touches. Meanwhile, the BMW M4 Edition Nürburgring pays homage to the legendary German racetrack, with only 53 units produced. Each features motorsport-inspired details and exclusive paintwork.
Not to be missed is the locally produced BMW M235L Gran Coupé, now the second M Performance model made in China. Offering a powerful 2.0T engine with 221 kW output and a lengthened wheelbase for improved comfort, it bridges luxury and sport in true BMW fashion.
Rounding out the display is an array of design and artistic highlights. BMW is debuting Art Car #20, created by American artist Julie Mehretu, and the colour-shifting BMW i5 Flow NOSTOKANA, inspired by South African artist Esther Mahlangu. Adding a touch of elegance, the BMW Concept Skytop Roadster hints at a future of luxury open-top driving.
With its largest and most ambitious presence to date, BMW is not just making an appearance at Auto Shanghai 2025 – it’s making a statement. This is the future of driving, born from innovation, powered by technology, and tailored for the world’s most dynamic automotive market.
Image: Oliver Zipse, Chairman of the Board of Management of BMW AG, seen at Auto Shanghai 2025. Credit: BMW Group
