BMW Introduces Sixth-Generation eDrive System With 800V Technology For Neue Klasse EVs

BMW has unveiled a transformative leap in electric vehicle (EV) technology, introducing its sixth-generation eDrive system featuring advanced 800V architecture for its upcoming Neue Klasse lineup.

This technological breakthrough, revealed at the company’s Tech Days event in Landshut, Germany, showcases BMW’s transition to cylindrical battery cells. The company will employ two distinct cell formats: 4695 cells (46mm diameter, 95mm height) for sedans and sports cars, and taller 46120 cells (46mm diameter, 120mm height) for SUVs and larger vehicles. This cell-to-pack architecture eliminates the need for intermediate modules, resulting in lighter vehicles and improved energy density.

The performance improvements are substantial: the new system delivers 30% faster charging speeds and 30% greater range compared to current models. Notably, vehicles equipped with this technology can gain up to 186 miles (300 km) of range from just a 10-minute charging session, though BMW has yet to specify the exact charging power in kilowatts.

Central to this advancement is the innovative BMW Energy Master, a sophisticated control unit that manages the transition between 400V and 800V systems, cooling, and power distribution. This unit, designed and manufactured in-house, is strategically positioned near the rear seats for easy maintenance while maintaining continuous monitoring of charge status, battery health, and temperature management.

The Neue Klasse platform introduces tremendous flexibility in motor configuration, offering both electrically excited synchronous motors (EESM) for rear wheels and asynchronous motors (ASM) for front wheels. This versatility enables BMW to produce vehicles with one to four motors, providing unprecedented control over power delivery to individual wheels. The rear motors feature an innovative mechanical system that adjusts transmission ratios based on vehicle speed, optimizing efficiency across different driving conditions.

Production of these revolutionary vehicles is set to start this August at BMW’s Plant Debrecen in Hungary, with the first model being an electric SUV comparable in size to the current X3. A 3 Series-sized electric sedan will follow in 2026. The manufacturing strategy emphasizes sustainability, with BMW implementing a “local for local” approach to battery production near key vehicle assembly plants in Europe, China, Mexico, and the USA.

Moreover, BMW projects a 50% reduction in production costs while simultaneously reducing CO2 emissions during manufacturing. The new electric motors are expected to be 40% more efficient, 20% less expensive to produce, and 10% lighter than their predecessors.

Dr. Joachim Post, BMW AG Board Member, emphasized the company’s commitment to technological flexibility stating, “We want to offer our customers the best drive concept for every need while leading in electric mobility.”

Read More: BMW Vision Driving Experience: How The ‘Heart of Joy’ ECU Boosts EV Range And Efficiency

By incorporating advanced battery technology, efficient motors, and sustainable manufacturing processes, BMW is positioning itself at the forefront of the EV industry with its Neue Klasse platform and its innovative 800V system.

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