The BMW Group is pushing the boundaries of driving pleasure with its new high-performance test vehicle, the BMW Vision Driving Experience. This Vision Vehicle isn’t destined for production, but it’s a rolling laboratory for groundbreaking drivetrain and driving dynamics management technology—dubbed “Heart of Joy”—developed specifically for the Neue Klasse, BMW’s next generation of vehicles. This prototype recently underwent rigorous endurance testing at the BMW Performance Driving Center in Spartanburg, USA, offering a preview of the electric driving experience awaiting the Neue Klasse. Every fully electric Neue Klasse model will benefit from the Heart of Joy, with the first model slated for production later this year at Plant Debrecen in Hungary. The Heart of Joy adds a fourth dimension – BMW’s hallmark Sheer Driving Pleasure – to the existing trio of Neue Klasse characteristics (electrical, digital, circular). Oliver Zipse, Chairman of the Board of Management of BMW AG, showcased the small black box at IAA 2023. It’s important to reiterate: the control unit will be produced; the Vision Vehicle will not.
Frank Weber, member of the Board of Management of BMW AG, responsible for Development, explains, “The Heart of Joy enables us to take driving pleasure not just to the next level, but another one beyond that. In addition, we are further increasing efficiency, and therefore boosting range, as in future the driver will brake almost exclusively using energy regeneration. This is Efficient Dynamics squared.”
The Heart of Joy control unit, responsible for the drivetrain, brakes, charging, recuperation, and steering subfunctions, processes information ten times faster than previous systems. Combined with BMW Dynamic Performance Control software, it calculates driving dynamics functions with unprecedented speed and precision. Developed entirely in-house, leveraging over a century of BMW engineering expertise, the Vision Vehicle generates a staggering 18,000 Newton meters (13,269 lb-ft) of torque. This extreme capability ensures the system can handle the demands of everyday driving with ease.
Energy recovery during braking, or recuperation, is a key element, creating a symbiotic relationship between the drivetrain and braking functions in electric vehicles. Within the Neue Klasse’s innovative electronics architecture, the Heart of Joy is one of four central control units, uniquely combining drivetrain and driving dynamics functions. These innovative control functions are protected by several patent applications. The high-performance unit manages acceleration and braking, vehicle stabilization, dynamic steering, and charging. The central processing unit and BMW Dynamic Performance Control software, developed in-house, allow all connected actuators to respond instantly, with millisecond-range latencies. Traditional systems use separate control algorithms for drive and brakes, limiting the full handling potential of powerful electric vehicles.
The result is a harmonious and silent driving experience, regardless of the situation or speed. In dynamic driving, the Heart of Joy and BMW Dynamic Performance Control deliver unparalleled cornering poise. The car exhibits impressive traction, navigating corners with exceptional precision. Fewer control inputs are needed, maintaining the car’s line with greater stability. This leads to consistent, reproducible cornering behavior and more intuitive, smooth steering. At low speeds, such as in stop-start traffic or parking, the direct signal transmissions and rapid processing provide an even more compelling experience. In D or B driving modes, or with Active Cruise Control, the parking brake or parking lock, stopping and restarting blend seamlessly.
Integrated control of the drivetrain, braking, and energy recuperation enhances energy efficiency. For 98% of drivers, conventional brake inputs are unnecessary. Regenerative braking provides sufficient power for normal driving. Only during hard braking, such as in emergencies, do the friction brakes engage. Overall, this system boosts efficiency by up to 25%.
The BMW Vision Driving Experience test vehicle illustrates the Heart of Joy’s operation with illuminating color codes on the wheel rims: green for acceleration, blue for energy recuperation, and orange for friction braking.
Four entirely new “super-brains” will power future BMWs. These high-performance computers intelligently combine previously separate functions. The Heart of Joy “super-brain,” developed entirely in-house, consolidates four key control units into a single high-performance computer.
The other three “super-brains” manage automated and highly automated driving, infotainment, and basic functions like climate control, comfort systems, vehicle access, and interior/exterior lighting.
The BMW Vision Driving Experience will make its official world premiere at Auto Shanghai 2025.
Summary:
- BMW Vision Driving Experience test vehicle
- Heart of Joy drivetrain and driving dynamics management system
- Developed for the Neue Klasse vehicles
- 10x faster processing than previous systems
- Up to 25% increase in efficiency through recuperation
- World premiere at Auto Shanghai 2025
Disclaimer: This information is based on a press release from BMW and is provided for general knowledge and entertainment purposes only. It is not intended as an endorsement or recommendation for any specific vehicle or technology. Specifications and features are subject to change.
Source: BMW
This article was crafted with assistance from Gemini
