BMW's Latest Electric Vehicles Feature 43 Layers of Synthetic Sound and No Regrets | Carscoops
BMW has introduced a preview of what passengers can anticipate in terms of sound from its new generation of electric vehicles, known as the Neue Klasse.
The HypersonX soundscape evolves when the driver switches between Personal and Sport modes.
According to the brand, these sounds feature fewer notes compared to previous electric vehicles, yet offer greater depth and range.
The initial Neue Klasse electric vehicles are set to launch this fall, and alongside updates to the exterior design, dashboard arrangement, and electric platform, a new auditory experience accompanies this generation. BMW has revealed a hint of the sounds we can expect when we eventually take the wheel of the 2026 iX3 and the 2027 i330 sedan.
This is not BMW’s first venture into creating distinctive soundscapes for its electric vehicles. The company previously enlisted Hans Zimmer to compose signature sounds for the i4 and i7. However, BMW asserts that the new HypersonX soundscape, crafted by their in-house Sound Design Studio, is more intricate and refined.
Related: BMW Confirms iX3 Launch in September, Plans to Introduce Over 40 New Models by 2027
The Neue Klasse vehicles feature a new audio control unit that enhances the dynamic range. BMW states that while the new soundscape utilizes fewer notes than previous systems, it provides richer color and depth for a more natural experience.
HypersonX incorporates 43 distinct sound cues and driving sounds for the Personal Mode and Sport Mode settings. When the driver accelerates, the car transitions through three-dimensional sound layers to evoke a sense of speed.
The development team focused not only on how the electric vehicles feel exhilarating at full acceleration but also on the sounds that greet you upon opening the door and within the interior. BMW drew inspiration from art, science, light, and nature, even incorporating sounds generated by a choir comprised of staff members.
“The unique sound spectrum of HypersonX plays a significant role in imparting a distinct acoustic character to each Neue Klasse model,” explains Renzo Vitale, Creative Director of Sound Design at BMW Group.
“By prioritizing precision, warmth, and lightness, we establish a direct emotional connection between the driver and their vehicle.”
The first production BMW to feature the HypersonX soundscape will be the iX3 SUV, the electric counterpart to the recently updated X3, which is slated to debut this September.
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