The BMW Group has unveiled its latest high-performance test vehicle, the BMW Vision Driving Experience, a prototype designed to push the limits of driving pleasure. While not intended for mass production, this Vision Vehicle serves as a rolling test platform for the advanced drivetrain and driving dynamics technology developed for BMW’s next-generation electric models under the Neue Klasse banner.
At the heart of this prototype is the “Heart of Joy,” an advanced control system engineered to redefine electric driving. BMW recently put the system through a rigorous endurance test at the BMW Performance Driving Center in Spartanburg, USA, where it demonstrated its full potential. As part of an exclusive preview presentation, the company provided insights into how the Heart of Joy will shape the electric driving experience in the Neue Klasse models, set to launch later this year from BMW’s Plant Debrecen in Hungary.
The Heart of Joy introduces a new dimension to BMW’s core philosophy of Sheer Driving Pleasure, complementing the Neue Klasse’s focus on electrification, digitalization, and sustainability. The small black control unit at the core of this system is set for series production, even though the Vision Vehicle itself will not enter the market.
Enhancing Driving Pleasure and Efficiency
BMW’s Head of Development, Frank Weber, highlighted the transformative impact of the Heart of Joy, stating that it elevates driving pleasure to unprecedented levels while also enhancing efficiency. The system significantly improves regenerative braking, allowing the vehicle to rely almost entirely on energy recuperation, reducing the need for conventional braking. This efficiency boost aligns with BMW’s Efficient Dynamics strategy, maximizing range and sustainability.
The Heart of Joy control unit represents a leap in processing power, operating ten times faster than previous systems. By integrating the drivetrain, braking, charging, recuperation, and steering functions, it delivers unmatched responsiveness. The BMW Dynamic Performance Control software, developed entirely in-house, refines vehicle handling with precision derived from over a century of BMW engineering expertise.
One of the most impressive demonstrations of this system’s capabilities comes from its ability to manage extreme torque levels. The Vision Vehicle produces a staggering 18,000Nm of torque, ensuring that the control unit can seamlessly handle everyday driving conditions with ease.
Unparalleled Driving Dynamics and Handling
By combining drivetrain and braking functions, the Heart of Joy enables smoother energy recovery and braking processes, enhancing efficiency by up to 25 per cent. Conventional braking is required only in emergency situations, with the regenerative system handling 98 per cent of daily driving scenarios.
The system’s real-world benefits are most evident in dynamic driving situations. It enhances traction and cornering precision, requiring fewer steering corrections while maintaining a stable and predictable driving line. At lower speeds, such as in stop-start traffic or during parking manoeuvres, the rapid signal processing ensures an ultra-smooth experience.
Advanced Integration for the Neue Klasse
The Heart of Joy is one of four high-performance computing units that will define BMW’s future vehicles. These next-generation systems consolidate multiple functions that previously required separate control units, streamlining performance and responsiveness. In addition to driving dynamics, the remaining three units will oversee automated driving functions, infotainment, and essential vehicle operations like climate control, lighting, and access systems.
To visually demonstrate the system’s operation, the Vision Driving Experience test vehicle features illuminated wheel rims, with green indicating acceleration, blue for energy recuperation, and orange for conventional braking.
World Premiere at Auto Shanghai 2025
The BMW Vision Driving Experience will make its official world premiere at Auto Shanghai 2025, providing a global audience with a closer look at BMW’s groundbreaking advancements in electric performance and driving dynamics.
