Investing.com -- BMW’s (ETR:BMWG) Neue Klasse (NK) platform represents a pivotal development in the company’s electric and software vehicle strategy, combining new architecture, cost reductions, and global manufacturing alignment. According to Jefferies, the platform positions BMW as the first traditional automaker to match Tesla (NASDAQ:TSLA) and advanced Chinese OEMs in software-defined vehicle (SDV) and EV powertrain capabilities. The NK architecture centers on four domain controllers handling core functions, driving dynamics, comfort systems, panoramic heads-up display and ADAS, through a zonal system powered by less than 400W. This setup simplifies wiring and supports flexible regulatory compliance. With full SDV integration, BMW expects future development costs to decline across its vehicle range. Strategically, BMW has emphasized retaining control over its software stack and intellectual property. While some competitors have outsourced core systems, BMW has chosen to internally manage integration, supported by partnerships like Momenta for ADAS. It is also localizing content partnerships, including Huawei, Baidu (NASDAQ:BIDU), Tencent, and Alibaba (NYSE:BABA) for China-specific applications, while maintaining a uniform core architecture. The platform will be deployed across 40 new or extensively revised models within 36 months. Production begins with the iX3 in Q4 2025 in Europe, followed by China in mid-2026 and later North America, with Mexico serving as a key hub. Ten plants across the three regions will adopt the NK platform, which is expected to cut manufacturing costs by 10%. BMW forecasts a 30% drop in powertrain costs moving from Gen 5 to Gen 6 technology. Battery energy density will rise by 20%, and cell costs are projected to fall by 40–50%. The 800V battery system will support bi-directional charging and allow 350km of range to be added in 10 minutes. The platform targets a range of up to 800km with a usable 108kWh battery and claims an efficiency rate of 15kWh/100km, supported by silicon carbide inverters, improved cooling and motor efficiency. Compared to the current iX3, BMW estimates a 330km increase in range. NK’s rollout is also part of BMW’s strategy to stabilize its China market position, where it holds a 3% share. Local sourcing in China is expected to lower bill-of-materials costs, while U.S. operations will increase local content to navigate tariffs and meet EV incentives. BMW aims for a globally balanced manufacturing footprint as EV and battery adoption expand. The company projects free cash flow to rise from €5 billion in 2024 to €6–7 billion by 2026–27 as investment levels peak and taper. Don't miss out on the next big opportunity! Stay ahead of the curve with ProPicks AI – 6 model portfolios fueled by AI stock picks with a stellar performance this year... In 2024 alone, ProPicks AI identified 2 stocks that surged over 150%, 4 additional stocks that leaped over 30%, and 3 more that climbed over 25%. That's an impressive track record. With portfolios tailored for Dow stocks, S&P stocks, Tech Stocks, and Mid Cap stocks, you can explore various wealth-building strategies. So if BMWG is on your watchlist, it could be very wise to know whether or not it made the ProPicks AI lists.

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YouTube video by Eclipse Software Defined Vehicle

Volkswagen arbeitet an einer Zukunft mit Software-definierten Fahrzeugen. Das erste SDV (Software Defined Vehicle) wird 2027 vorgestellt.