BMW Unveils Revolutionized “Heart of Joy” Computer System for Future Electric Vehicles
BMW has been working diligently on its Neue Klasse platform, designed to elevate the future of electric vehicles. Influenced by the iconic design and performance characteristics of its legacy vehicles, the platform promises a significant leap forward in electric driving capabilities. Recently, BMW announced an enhancement to the platform: the deployment of advanced onboard computers boasting ten times the processing power of existing models.
The “Heart of Joy”: BMW’s Futuristic Computer System
BMW refers to these powerful onboard processors as the “Heart of Joy.” These computers are central to managing both electrical and digital systems in the vehicle. They are crucial for enhancing what BMW terms as “driving pleasure,” a core aspect of the automaker’s automotive philosophy.
The Heart of Joy offers not just an enhancement but a complete redefinition of the driving experience. Frank Weber, BMW’s board member, emphasized the system’s capabilities, stating, “The Heart of Joy enables us to take driving pleasure not just to the next level, but another one beyond that.”
Enhancing Efficiency and Range
According to BMW, this advanced system will significantly boost overall efficiency. One of the primary ways it achieves this is through improved energy regeneration during braking. In the future, drivers will rely almost exclusively on energy regeneration, drastically reducing the need for traditional brakes, except in emergencies. This feature, described as “Efficient Dynamics squared,” will not only enhance driving experience but also extend vehicle range.
BMW Vision Driving Experience: Testing the Heart of Joy
BMW is currently testing the Vision Driving Experience prototype at the BMW Performance Driving Center in South Carolina. This testing environment, equipped with a dedicated track and sprawling manufacturing facility, allows for comprehensive assessments of the vehicle’s capabilities.
The Vision Driving Experience is powered by a proprietary BMW system that can generate up to 13,269 ft-lb of torque. This is roughly twenty times more power than an average internal combustion engine truck. BMW asserts that if the control system can handle such extreme power, it will smoothly manage the demands of everyday driving.
Regenerative Braking and Efficiency
BMW also announced a 25 percent increase in efficiency due to the extensive use of regenerative braking. This innovative approach relies heavily on energy regeneration to power the vehicle, making traditional brakes necessary only in emergencies or unexpected situations. This shift can dramatically extend the range and performance of electric vehicles.
Production Plans and Future Outlook
The first Neue Klasse vehicle, expected to be an SUV, is set for production in Hungary later this year and will also be manufactured in the United States eventually. Pricing details have yet to be released, but the anticipated introduction marks a significant milestone in BMW’s electric vehicle lineup. This new model will likely incorporate the advanced “Heart of Joy” system, setting new standards in electric vehicle technology.
Explore more photos of the BMW Vision Driving Experience.
Your Thoughts Welcome
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