BMW’s electric vehicle strategy reveals a distinctive approach: the simultaneous operation of two different platforms — CLAR and Neue Klasse. While many automakers are shifting toward unified electric architectures, why is BMW maintaining this dual-platform strategy?
This article explores the background, structure, advantages, and challenges of BMW’s dual-platform strategy and examines what strategic rationale underpins this direction in the EV era.
CLAR: A Flexible Evolution of BMW's Legacy
Introduced in 2015, CLAR (Cluster Architecture) is a modular vehicle platform developed by BMW. It is based on rear-wheel drive and is designed to accommodate internal combustion engines (ICE), plug-in hybrids (PHEV), and battery electric vehicles (BEV), making it a multi-powertrain platform.
Current BMW electric vehicles such as the i4, i5, and i7 are all built on the CLAR platform. In essence, they share the same architecture as their combustion-engine counterparts, with the powertrain swapped out for electric components.
- Pros: High manufacturing flexibility, cost efficiency, and compatibility with existing production lines
- Cons: Not fully optimized for EVs — limitations in weight distribution, space efficiency, and thermal management
CLAR-based EVs have been effective during the transitional phase of electrification. However, there are inherent technological limits to this approach when preparing for a fully electric future.
Neue Klasse: BMW’s Dedicated EV Platform for the Future
Scheduled to enter mass production in 2025, Neue Klasse is BMW’s all-new, EV-dedicated architecture. The name — which means "New Class" in German — references a pivotal 1960s BMW lineup and signals a new standard for the electric era.
Neue Klasse represents more than just a platform. It encompasses redesigned vehicle architecture, software, powertrains, digital UX, and battery technology — a holistic reinvention of BMW's approach to mobility.
- Fully optimized EV design: Flat floor, slimmer battery packs, improved aerodynamics
- 6th-generation eDrive system: High-efficiency motors and integrated inverters to boost range and performance
- Neue Klasse digital stack: New operating system and HUD-based interface
With Neue Klasse, BMW aims to challenge early adopters of EV-only platforms like Tesla, Hyundai, and Volkswagen.
Why Maintain Two Platforms Now?
Many consumers ask: “If Neue Klasse is the future, why continue with CLAR-based EVs?”
There are three main reasons for this dual-track strategy:
- Different market transition speeds
The shift from ICE to EV varies greatly by region and segment. BMW needs a global strategy that accommodates both current demands and future trends. - Production efficiency and risk mitigation
CLAR-based vehicles can be produced in existing factories. In contrast, Neue Klasse requires new manufacturing infrastructure with higher initial investment and risk. - Strategic flexibility during transition
Until Neue Klasse is fully scaled, CLAR allows BMW to test the market, refine technologies, and adapt its roadmap accordingly.
The i Series as a Strategic Bridge
As mentioned earlier, current i-series models — i3, i4, i5, i7 — are based on the CLAR platform. However, upcoming models such as Neue Klasse-based i3, iX3, and iX4 will introduce a new paradigm in EV design.
In this sense, the i Series stands at the forefront of the platform transition. Even when models share a name, such as i3, the underlying platform (CLAR vs Neue Klasse) introduces fundamentally different engineering philosophies.
Even as Neue Klasse becomes BMW’s EV backbone, CLAR-based hybrids and combustion models will likely continue in parallel — reflecting BMW’s preference for multi-layered strategic flexibility rather than a single-solution approach.
What Does the Future Hold?
BMW plans to expand Neue Klasse models from 2025 onward. However, a full transition will take time. CLAR and Neue Klasse are expected to coexist at least into the mid-2030s.
This could create consumer confusion — but it also provides choice. CLAR appeals to traditional BMW fans, while Neue Klasse offers a cutting-edge EV experience for early adopters.
Conclusion: Dual Strategy — Risk or Opportunity?
BMW’s dual-platform approach may seem complex and expensive in the short term. But given the uncertainties and varying paces of EV adoption, strategic flexibility through dual architecture may prove advantageous in the long run.
By developing both CLAR and Neue Klasse, BMW is shaping its present and future simultaneously. This is not just a technical choice — it’s a reflection of brand philosophy and market positioning.
Transition breeds confusion. But when managed with clarity and purpose, even complexity becomes a source of brand strength.
Coming Next: Can Neue Klasse Compete with Tesla?
BMW is betting big on Neue Klasse to regain leadership in the EV market. But Tesla’s dominance in software, brand identity, and platform engineering is a formidable challenge.
The next article will delve into a detailed comparison between BMW Neue Klasse and Tesla’s platform strategy, along with their respective strengths in software, production, and brand transformation.
[BMW EV Strategy Series #3 – “Can BMW Beat Tesla with Neue Klasse?”]
Coming soon.
Comments
Post a Comment