Sources close to BMW say its latest prototype leaves all others in the dust. Developed under the Neue Klasse concept, the model, which is being called the BMW Vision Driving Experience (VDX), has some describing it as the most powerful M prototype ever. It’s not intended for commercialization in its current form, however, the learnings generated from such a superb piece of machinery will no doubt be well applied to the future Neue Klasse lineup.
Aside from performance, the EV previews BMW’s “Heart of Joy” software stack, promising superfine technology to complement driving pleasure. Drivers are getting excited about what’s to come out of the German motoring “powerhaus” if this is what the prototype is delivering.
BMW’s latest prototype is being called the most powerful M ever
The BMW VDX is making big waves, not least of all for its Heart of Joy software. The system, which is making its first showing in this prototype, features four integrated control devices, also called “superbrains,” that react significantly faster than anything installed in present production models.
But here’s the information you’ve been waiting for: the “most potent M” apparently produces an incredible output anywhere from 1,300 hp to 1,700 hp. This hasn’t been officially confirmed, but what has been is that the Vision Driving Experience has a tremendous 13,269 lb-ft (17,990 Nm) of torque, and that’s more than enough to generate talk for sure.
What this comes down to is that BMW can essentially adjust the power output in this Neue Klasse model at will. It remains to be seen whether the precision-engineered Heart of Joy control system has a handle on such a volume of power, however, BMW stays true to form by aiming for the stars.
What else does the BMW VDX have to offer in concept form?
Some who have seen photos of the Vision Driving Experience concept model say it looks like an M version of the earlier Vision Neue Klasse concept, but there’s so much more than that going on under the hood and in the computer.
The Heart of Joy system offers flawless simultaneous control of the brakes, drivetrain, and energy recuperation “with a new level of speed and precision,” according to BMW. The chassis and engine are incorporated into a single unit with a reaction latency of under a millisecond. This is quite an incredible figure, considering that it’s 10 times faster than any existing model.
Is it 2, 3, or 4 motors?
BMW reports that the VDX has all-wheel drive, meaning the electric vehicle must have one motor at the front and at least one at the back. It’s more likely to have a quad-motor setup, meaning four of them, seeing as it’s the brand’s most powerful prototype ever. A quad-motor M EV is capable of delivering one megawatt, or 1,341 hp, and this sounds in line with the VDX specs.
What impact is the VDX prototype going to have on future models?
BMW has no plans to put the VDX into commercial production, unfortunately. However, learnings gathered during development will be applied to all Neue Klasse cars in the range, and here’s where future performance starts to attract attention. EVs in the days to come will offer a smoother ride both when driving at lower speeds and during full-throttle acceleration.
Whether the new technology is applied to a regular iX3 or the already confirmed electric M3, the entire NK portfolio will be taking advantage of the fresh developments. But this is not the only fresh development on the go: BMW has also formed a collaboration with Toyota to work on a hydrogen model.