Patent drawings suggest the shape of the production BMW Neue Klasse

Leaked patent drawings reveal the upcoming BMW iX3 electric SUV, which is expected to hit the market next year. As the first production model built on BMW's new “Neue Klasse” platform, the iX3 has a design strongly marked by the curves of the Vision Neue Klasse X Concept.

Although the patent images are low-resolution, they reveal a striking resemblance to the concept vehicle, with notable exceptions such as replacing the fin-shaped side mirrors with conventional ones and the use of protruding door handles for greater practicality. The production version also has smaller wheels, a reduced panoramic sunroof and thicker pillars, indicating a focus on everyday utility.

The iX3's interior remains undisclosed, but it's expected to include BMW's new digital cockpit with a central touchscreen and a panoramic display that stretches across the entire windshield. Sustainable materials and a more conventional steering wheel are expected, which will be more conventional than the avant-garde design in the concept.

The Neue Klasse platform, which will also be used by the i3-badged sedan, supports single- and dual-engine configurations and promises power from 220 to 440 kW (300 to 600 hp). BMW claims its next-generation battery technology will enable a 20 percent increase in energy density and a 30 percent improvement in charging speed and a range that can exceed 800 kilometers on a single charge.

All Neue Klasse electric vehicles will have two-way charging, allowing owners to power their homes or electrical appliances with the vehicle.