Revolutionizing Electric Vehicle Performance: The Impact of BMW's Vision Driving Experience on the Future of E-Mobility

BMW Group, has introduced the Vision Driving Experience, a groundbreaking test vehicle. Though not designed for mass production, this innovative model is set to influence all future electric vehicles under the Neue Klasse banner, especially through one of its standout features—the "Heart of Joy."

At the heart of the Vision Driving Experience is the "Heart of Joy," an advanced control unit that manages crucial vehicle functions such as the drivetrain, brakes, charging, recuperation, and steering. This unit is designed for exceptional speed and efficiency, processing data ten times faster than previous generations.

This remarkable processing speed enhances integration between BMW's Dynamic Performance Control software and the vehicle’s various control systems. In traditional setups, drive systems and brakes operated independently. Now, the "Heart of Joy" combines them, reducing response times to mere milliseconds. As a result, drivers experience superior performance and responsiveness, with feedback instantly reflecting their inputs.

The combination of the "Heart of Joy" with BMW Dynamic Performance Control takes driving dynamics to new heights. This synergy allows for exceptionally smooth handling, requiring fewer adjustments from the driver. For instance, when tackling sharp corners, the vehicle maintains stability and precision, making demanding routes feel easy and secure.

In everyday situations, such as negotiating busy urban traffic or parking in tight spaces, this technology genuinely shines. Direct signal transmissions and rapid information processing translate to seamless control, making the driving experience enjoyable and free from stress, regardless of speed or situation.

Sustainability is a major focus of the "Heart of Joy." By seamlessly connecting the drivetrain, braking, and energy recuperation systems, this advanced control unit maximizes energy efficiency, which is crucial in today's world where eco-consciousness is on the rise.

For example, under normal driving conditions, the regenerative braking system efficiently covers around 98 percent of braking requirements without engaging traditional brakes. This means that conventional brake usage is reserved for emergency situations or sudden stops, enhancing overall safety and longevity of the braking system.

This smart integration results in significant improvements in energy efficiency of up to 25 percent, effectively extending the vehicle's range. For instance, if a conventional electric vehicle has a range of 300 miles, this innovation can push it to approximately 375 miles under similar conditions, offering drivers much-needed peace of mind.

As BMW gears up to release its Neue Klasse lineup, the Vision Driving Experience will have a lasting impact on its electric vehicle strategy. With cutting-edge technology leading the way, BMW is well-positioned to set benchmarks in the electric vehicle market.

The BMW Group emphasizes a dual focus on high performance and sustainability. As global electrification trends gain momentum, the benefits of the "Heart of Joy" become apparent. It offers drivers a rich experience characterized by rapid responsiveness, unparalleled control, and a commitment to ecological responsibility.

The inclusion of advanced technology such as the "Heart of Joy" exemplifies a broader commitment to environmental sustainability in the automotive industry. E-mobility represents more than just a shift from combustion engines to electric batteries; it is about rethinking how vehicles function and integrate into our daily lives.

BMW’s innovations mark a shift to creating vehicles that are not only more efficient but also adaptable and more friendly to the environment. By enhancing the relationship between electric propulsion and braking systems, consumers have access to sustainable options that align with the industry's responsibility towards our planet.

As the automotive industry evolves, the BMW Vision Driving Experience is at the forefront of innovation and progress. The "Heart of Joy" is set to redefine expectations, combining performance with sustainability that meets modern consumer demands. Frank Weber, member of the Board of Management of BMW AG responsible for development, summarises the situation fittingly: “This is Efficient Dynamics squared.” The first taller Neue Klasse electric model will enter series production later this year, in Debrecen, Hungary – with the “Heart of Joy” on board.

For both automotive enthusiasts and eco-aware drivers, these advancements signal a movement toward smarter and greener transportation. As we approach this electric age, the Vision Driving Experience unfolds the potential for a sustainable future driven by both technological excellence and creative engineering.

As other manufacturers begin to adopt similar advancements, it will be fascinating to see how the industry continues to innovate in e-mobility. With promising roadways ahead, exciting innovations are on the horizon, not only reshaping the act of driving but also respecting our planet—thanks to the trailblazing efforts of the BMW Group.

Notes from BMW Press:

Computer processing now ten times faster

The Heart of Joy control unit for the drivetrain, brakes, charging, recuperation and steering subfunctions processes information ten times faster than previous systems. Working in tandem with the BMW Dynamic Performance Control software, the Heart of Joy computes all the driving dynamics functions with a whole new level of speed and precision. The software has been developed entirely in-house on the back of experience in the field of driving dynamics amassed by BMW engineers over more than a century. The Vision Vehicle develops 18,000 Newton metres (13,269 lb-ft) of torque. The reasoning behind this is that if the control system can deal with an explosion of power of this magnitude, it will be able to handle the demands of everyday driving with ease.

Energy recovery under braking (also known as recuperation) sees the drivetrain and braking functions of electric vehicles forming a symbiosis. In the innovative electronics architecture of the Neue Klasse, the Heart of Joy is one of four central control units and combines drivetrain and driving dynamics functions for the first time. These innovative control functions are protected by several patent applications. The high-performance unit controls acceleration and braking, vehicle stabilisation, dynamic steering functions and charging management. The central processing unit and perfectly coordinated BMW Dynamic Performance Control software developed in-house enable all connected actuators to respond directly and with minimal delay: latencies are in the millisecond range. By contrast, conventional systems have separate control algorithms for the drive system and brakes. This means the full handling potential of vehicles with powerful electric drive systems cannot be fully exploited.

Precise cornering and the smoothest stopping process in the history of the car

The driver and passengers here experience a harmonious and noiseless driving feeling – regardless of the situation and speed they are travelling at. In dynamic driving scenarios, the new Heart of Joy / BMW Dynamic Performance Control combination serves up cornering poise and assurance beyond compare. The car generates impressive traction and can be threaded through corners with exceptional precision. Fewer control inputs are required and the car’s line can be maintained with greater precision and stability. This helps the car to develop consistent, reproducible cornering behaviour and allows it to be steered more intuitively and smoothly. At low speeds – such as in stop-start driving or when parking – direct signal transmissions and rapid information processing ensure an even more compelling driving experience. In driving modes D or B, or when using Active Cruise Control, the parking brake or parking lock, stopping and restarting merge seamlessly into one another.

Recuperation fuels a 25 per cent increase in efficiency

Furthermore, integrated drivetrain, braking and energy recuperation control allows energy to be used more sustainably. 98 per cent of drivers do not need to make any inputs using the conventional brakes. The braking power generated using energy recuperation is sufficient for normal, everyday driving. Only under heavy braking, e.g. in an emergency situation, is intervention required from the friction brakes. All in all, this system increases efficiency by up to 25 per cent.

The BMW Vision Driving Experience test vehicle demonstrates how the Heart of Joy works using illuminating colour codes on the wheel rims: acceleration is indicated in green, energy recuperation in blue and braking using the friction brakes in orange.

Four totally new super-brains will go to work in the BMW of the future. These high-performance computers cleverly combine various elements that previously ran separately. The Heart of Joy was developed 100 percent within the company. It allows four important control units to be brought together within a single high-performance computer.

Another three super-brains are responsible for features including automated and highly automated driving, infotainment and basic functions such as climate control and comfort-enhancing systems, vehicle access, interior and exterior lighting.