BMW brings joy to the heart with its latest electric prototype

In addition to having a star quality look, BMW’s Vision Driving Experience houses a very special electronic heart.

The BMW Vision Driving Experience is a unique prototype designed to explore the extremes of driving. Not intended for mass production, this vehicle serves as a rolling laboratory to test the “Heart of Joy,” an advanced technology for managing the powertrain and driving dynamics. It’s conceived for the next generation of electric models of the Neue Klasse, promising a revolution in the driving experience.

Recently, the prototype underwent rigorous testing at the BMW Performance Driving Center in Spartanburg, United States. BMW has also revealed the technological foundations of the Neue Klasse, with production of its first 100% electric model scheduled at the Debrecen plant in Hungary by the end of the year. The “Heart of Joy” adds a new dimension to the electric, digital, and circular signature of the Neue Klasse: the joy of driving, the true DNA of the brand.

At the heart of this innovation, the “Heart of Joy” control unit offers a computing power multiplied compared to previous systems. Capable of managing transmission, braking, steering, and energy recovery functions with unprecedented speed, it allows for near-instantaneous response to driver actions. This technology, protected by several patents, is the result of over a century of driving dynamics expertise accumulated by BMW.

During testing, the Vision Driving Experience generated an impressive torque of 18,000 Nm, demonstrating the system’s ability to control extreme power levels. This performance also ensures a smooth transition between stop and restart, providing a seamless experience in all circumstances.

Electric, but better!

The “Heart of Joy” introduces for the first time the simultaneous control of transmission and braking functions, increasing energy efficiency by 25%. In most cases, energy recovery during braking is sufficient, avoiding the use of traditional brakes. This sustainable approach reflects BMW’s commitment to greener mobility.

To illustrate these advances, luminous color codes on the rims indicate the different modes: green for acceleration, blue for recovery, and orange for friction braking.

The combination of the “Heart of Joy” and BMW’s Dynamic Performance Control software redefines handling standards. Turns are negotiated with unprecedented precision, and adjustments are minimized. Even at low speeds, fluidity remains optimal, whether in stop-and-go mode or during parking maneuvers.

The BMW Vision Driving Experience will make its world debut at Auto Shanghai 2025, offering the public a glimpse of BMW’s vision for the future of driving. This prototype exemplifies the brand’s commitment to pushing the boundaries of innovation, redefining driving pleasure for the electric era.