BMW has created a "superbrain" to control the systems of Neue Klasse electric cars

BMW has revealed the Vision Driving Experience, an experimental electric car that runs the new "Heart of Joy" on-board computer. It's the brains behind future Neue Klasse models, the first of which will go into series production later this year at a plant in Debrecen, Hungary.

Here's What We Know

BMW says Heart of Joy integrates the control of the powertrain, brakes, regeneration, charging and steering into a single system that is 10 times faster than previous computers. This means that next-generation electric BMW models will take corners with greater stability and precision, requiring less action from the driver.

However, this raises the question: isn't BMW "digitising" driving too much? After all, the system actually reduces the role of humans, making steering more predictable and controllable. On the other hand, the increased computing power will allow for more efficient use of energy. The manufacturer claims that the advanced regenerative braking system improves efficiency by 25 per cent, and in most situations, mechanical brakes may not even be needed.

The BMW Vision Driving Experience won't go into production - it's purely a test platform for new technologies. BMW is in particular testing whether the electronics can handle 18,000 Nm of torque, which is a colossal amount. The prototype demonstrates the operation of the Heart of Joy using colour codes on the wheel rims: acceleration is indicated in green, energy recovery in blue and braking using friction brakes in orange.

The official world premiere of the BMW Vision Driving Experience will take place at the Shanghai Auto Shanghai 2025, which will take place from 23 April to 2 May.

Source: BMW