BMW Vision Driving Experience and Visionary Technologies at Auto Shanghai 2025
The BMW Group made a grand statement at Auto Shanghai 2025, presenting a sweeping showcase of its future-forward innovations and iconic models. Central to its display was the “Neue Klasse” initiative, promising revolutionary advancements in technology, design, and driving dynamics, along with a powerful homage to the brand’s rich legacy.
Neue Klasse Innovations: Heart of Joy and Panoramic iDrive
BMW revealed the BMW Panoramic iDrive, a next-generation display and control system tailored specifically for Chinese customers, featuring the all-new Operating System X. This is complemented by the Heart of Joy central computer, showcased through the BMW Vision Driving Experience prototype — a high-performance test vehicle pushing the limits of driving dynamics with cutting-edge speed and control technology.
The Heart of Joy system, with its lightning-fast data processing (ten times faster than previous systems), redefines responsiveness in areas like braking, steering, and drive management, setting new standards for electric driving dynamics.
Neue Klasse Production Milestones
BMW announced that the first Neue Klasse model, the iX3, will roll off the production line in Debrecen, Hungary, by the end of 2025, with a China-specific version to follow in 2026 as part of the “At Home in China” strategy.
MINI Celebrates Motorsport Legacy with New John Cooper Works Models
MINI, part of the BMW Group, also took the spotlight, debuting the new MINI John Cooper Works lineup. Paying tribute to the brand’s motorsport roots, visitors witnessed classic rally models and the new MINI Cooper Convertible — celebrating its market launch in China.
Special Editions for China: 50 Years of BMW 3 Series and M4 Nürburgring Tribute
BMW honored the 50th anniversary of its legendary 3 Series with a limited BMW 3 Series 50 Years Edition exclusively for China, combining bespoke design elements with sporty performance.
Additionally, BMW celebrated its long-standing relationship with the Nürburgring through the BMW M4 Edition Nürburgring. Limited to just 53 units, this special model boasts a stunning Frozen Deep Green metallic finish and exclusive design cues inspired by the world-famous racetrack.
Expanding Horizons: BMW M235L Gran Coupé and Art Collaborations
BMW also introduced the M235L Gran Coupé, the second M Performance model produced in China, designed to blend luxury with sportiness.
In the realm of art and technology, BMW showcased the BMW Art Car #20 by Julie Mehretu and the BMW i5 Flow NOSTOKANA, an innovative vehicle featuring colour-changing paint technology inspired by South African artist Esther Mahlangu.
Occupying 5,000 square meters, BMW’s stand at Auto Shanghai was the brand’s largest ever, highlighting its commitment to blending heritage with futuristic innovation. With over 42 vehicles on display, BMW and MINI reaffirmed their leadership in both technological advancement and emotive driving experiences for the future.
