BMW is revolutionizing the Software-Defined Vehicle (SDV) landscape with a groundbreaking digital nervous system, set to debut in the upcoming Neue Klasse models. The German automaker is implementing four high-performance computing units—aptly named “Super brains”—which will manage critical vehicle functions, offering superior intelligence, efficiency, and performance. This technological leap will enable seamless software updates, enhanced driving dynamics, and advanced automated driving capabilities.
A New Era of Automotive Intelligence
For the first time, BMW is integrating a fully reengineered electronic architecture designed to support all drivetrain variants and vehicle segments. The Neue Klasse models will incorporate four “Super brains,” consolidating computing power into specialized domains:
- Infotainment System: Enhancing user experience with AI-driven personalization and ultra-fast processing.
- Automated Driving: Advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS) and autonomous features for safety and convenience.
- Driving Dynamics: Optimized handling, stability, and performance with real-time adaptive controls.
- Core Vehicle Functions: Efficient management of climate control, vehicle access, and energy consumption.
This new architecture delivers 20 times more computing power than current BMW models, ensuring the vehicles remain digitally up-to-date through continuous over-the-air (OTA) upgrades.
Lightweight, High-Performance Wiring Architecture
BMW’s reengineered electrical framework introduces a zonal wiring harness, reducing 600 meters of wiring and cutting 30% of its weight compared to previous generations. The vehicle’s wiring is categorized into four zones—front, center, rear, and roof—each managed by a zonal controller connected to the Superbrains. This modular approach enhances reliability, speeds up data transmission, and simplifies future upgrades.
Additionally, the integration of Smart eFuses replaces up to 150 traditional fuses, offering intelligent energy distribution throughout the vehicle. These digital fuses improve efficiency by selectively deactivating non-essential power consumers, contributing to a 20% enhancement in overall energy efficiency.
Seamless Software and AI-Driven Innovation
The Neue Klasse’s advanced Shared Service Layer (middleware) provides a stable software foundation for continuous improvements. This software framework enables:
- Real-time cybersecurity protection
- Scalable AI-powered features
- Flexible OTA software updates
- Cross-domain data integration for enhanced machine learning capabilities
“With the introduction of the Neue Klasse, we are entering a mode of software development where we achieve software continuity. This means we continuously develop software rather than starting from scratch each time,” says Christoph Grote, Senior Vice President of BMW Group Electronics and Software.
Cutting-Edge Software Development at Scale
BMW is harnessing its state-of-the-art Code Craft software development platform, which leverages AI-powered tools to accelerate innovation. Operating on 75,000 virtual CPUs, Code Craft enables over 10,000 software developers to collaborate globally, processing up to 200,000 software builds daily. This represents a 130x increase in development productivity compared to a decade ago.
The development teams are working on:
- 1,000+ software modules
- 20+ GB of software
- 500+ million lines of code
With this high level of computational power, BMW is ensuring that the Neue Klasse will be a benchmark in software-defined automotive technology.
The Future of Mobility: Scalable and Sustainable
The Neue Klasse’s digital transformation will extend beyond initial launches, ensuring that future BMW models—across all segments—benefit from this cutting-edge architecture. BMW remains committed to technological openness, enabling seamless scalability across various powertrains, from fully electric to hybrid and combustion engines.
The first fully electric Neue Klasse model is set to enter series production at BMW’s Debrecen plant in Hungary later this year. This milestone underscores BMW’s leadership in next-generation vehicle technology, redefining efficiency, intelligence, and customer experience in modern mobility.
Conclusion: A Paradigm Shift in Automotive Engineering
BMW’s Super brains-powered Neue Klasse is set to redefine the automotive industry, combining unparalleled computing power, lightweight architecture, and AI-driven innovation. By seamlessly integrating software and hardware, BMW is not just enhancing driving dynamics but also ensuring that vehicles remain continuously upgradable in the digital age.
With this bold step forward, BMW cements its position as a pioneer in Software-Defined Vehicles, paving the way for more connected, intelligent, and efficient mobility solutions in the future.