What does seamless really mean when it comes to the future of driving? 

In this fourth episode of Inside Neue Klasse, Nicki Shields meets BMW experts Marcel Ottmann, Head of User Interface Design Systems, and Daniel Fischer, Senior Creative Technologist, live at the 2025 IAA Mobility in Munich. Together, they explore how design and technology converge in the Neue Klasse to create an effortless, intelligent experience – first previewed in the all-new BMW iX3. 

From predictive climate control and Plug & Charge to personalised comfort features in the My BMW App and intuitive mood lighting – in the Neue Klasse, every element works in harmony, so the car adapts to you, not the other way around. 

Tune in to discover how BMW is shaping interaction, anticipation, and personalisation into a new era of mobility. 

(00:00) Introduction 

 
(02:05) What makes design feel seamless? 

 
(03:37) Anticipation: when the car knows before you do 

 
(09:57) How to create a seamless user journey 

(15:19) Personalisation: how the Neue Klasse adapts to you 

 
(16:30) Connecting your digital life with your car 

 
(21:24) Outro 

Find out more about our host Nicki Shields 

What does the future of electric mobility sound like?

In this episode of Inside Neue Klasse, Nicki Shields is joined by Renzo Vitale, Creative Director Sound BMW Group, to explore BMW HypersonX – the innovative sound concept designed for the Neue Klasse.

Powered by BMW Operating System X, HypersonX responds to your driving style, shifting from calm and refined in Personal Mode to energetic and expressive in Sport Mode. More than just acoustic design, it creates an emotional link between driver and vehicle – shaping how mobility feels through sound.

The episode wraps with a playful sound recognition challenge. Can you guess the tones along with Nicki and Renzo?

Tune in to hear how sound becomes a core part of the BMW driving experience.

(00:00) Introduction

(01:51) Renzo’s favourite road trip song

(03:10) Emotion and resonance in electric driving

(08:13) The element of silence

(10:30) Designing BMW HypersonX

(14:15) Sound recognition challenge

(17:57) Outro

Find outmore about our host Nicki Shields

How does the digital future feel inside a BMW?

In this second episode of Inside Neue Klasse, Nicki Shields sits down with David Leister, BMW User Interface Design Lead, to uncover the story behind the BMW Panoramic iDrive — a new interaction experience designed to bring clarity, personalisation, and seamless integration into every drive.

From early sketches to human-centric digital systems, this conversation explores how the Neue Klasse interior is built entirely around the driver and their digital lifestyle.

The episode ends with a challenge that puts intuitive thinking to the test.

Tune in to see how interaction in the Neue Klasse becomes second nature.

(00:00) Introduction

(03:11) What superpower would David’s dream car have?

(03:46) What makes the BMW Panoramic iDrive seamless?

(12:07) Challenge: Nicki vs. David

(14:00) Outro

Find out more about our host Nicki Shields

What defines the unmistakable driving feel of a BMW?

In this first episode of Inside Neue Klasse, Nicki Shields speaks with Torsten Müller, Chief Engineer of BMW Dynamic Performance Control, to explore the Heart of Joy — the central computing unit that powers the driving experience in the Neue Klasse.

From early development ideas to dynamic test drives, this conversation uncovers how technology turns emotion into experience.

The episode wraps up with a light-hearted coordination challenge that puts driving intuition to the test.

Tune in to discover how a new era of mobility is still driven by joy.

(00:00) Introduction

(03:02) What the Heart of Joy feels like

(11:48) What superpower would Torsten’s dream car have?

(12:42) Challenge: Nicki vs. Torsten

(15:46) Outro

Find out more about our host Nicki Shields⁠

Imagine leaving everything behind – no mobile phone, no internet – and focusing on one question: how can we envision a future with zero emissions?

That’s exactly what our last episode’s GAME CHANGER did. Daniela Bohlinger, a name familiar to design enthusiasts, is also known for constantly pushing beyond her boundaries. Bohlinger, the Innovation Strategist for Sustainability at BMW Group, is also a professor in Umeå, Sweden.She is engaged in various design competitions as a jury member and in international scholarships. Bohlinger is brave enough not only in talking about existing boundaries, but also in changing the systems for a holistically positive future vision.

Check out our last episode for insights into the future of individual mobility and how shifting perspectives can drive a more sustainable tomorrow.

(00:00) Introduction

(07:14) When was the last time you stepped out of your comfort zone? 

(13:53) A vision of where the future of mobility is heading

(16:33) What was your inspiration or role model? 

(24:08) How does nature inspire you? 

Find out more about our hosts ⁠⁠Charlie Martin

Life often takes unexpected turns, leading us down entirely new paths. Some fear these unpredictable changes, while others embrace them with open arms. 

This episode’s GAME CHANGER, Cathy Hackl, has built her journey around constant change, overcoming obstacles, and embracing surprises – some anticipated, others completely unexpected. Cathy Hackl is a tech and gaming executive and CEO of Spatial Dynamics, a company specialising in spatial computing and AI solutions, including gaming. Recognized as one of Ad Age’s Leading Women of 2023, Cathy also graced the cover of Forbes Latam’s 100 Most Powerful Women 2023 issue and was named as one of Vogue Business’s 100 Innovators.

Tune in to this episode for inspiration on how to transform unexpected challenges into game-changing moments.

(00:00) Introduction

(11:35) My North Star.

(07:58) When someone tells me NO!

(26:09) What was the last new thing you tried? 

(15:10) Everything I do moves me forward

Find out more about our hosts ⁠Charlie Martin

We all carry small sources of energy – our phones, laptops and cars. Lithium-ion batteries power the world today, and the technology is evolving fast. What’s the next game-changing breakthrough, especially in the car industry?

Our GAME CHANGER in this episode is Dr. Peter Lamp, Principal Expert for Battery Cell Technology at BMW. He played a key role in developing lithium-ion cells for the i3 and i8 and has led BMW’s R&D in battery cell technology since 2012.

Tune in to discover how the world is charging today and what the future holds for automotive battery innovation.

(00:00) Introduction

(02:26) What is your definition of a “game changer”? 

(09:05) Witnessing the process of developing lithium-ion batteries.

(14:15) What were your inspirations? Who has been your role model? 

(20:41) What was the game-changing moment in your life? 

Find out more about our hosts Charlie Martin

Plastic pollution in the oceans and on shores is a well-known and growing problem. But have you ever wondered why we don’t see more of it scattered along the beaches? This question inspired this episode’s GAME CHANGER, Fionn Ferreira, to dig deeper. 

Ferreira is an Irish inventor, chemistry student and Forbes 30 under 30 listee. He grew up near the Irish coast in a family of boat builders, and his connection to the sea fuelled his passion for purifying water. Join us as Fionn shares his journey, revealing how his curiosity and innovative mindset led him to develop a groundbreaking idea for purifying water and eventually caught the attention of “Iron Man” himself. 

(00:00) Introduction

(03:59) What inspired you to start your journey?

(11:26) How does this technology work to collect microplastics using magnets? 

(25:38) What will be the next step?

(28:17) How dare you?

Find out more about our host Charlie Martin.

Have you ever had that one idea that made you think, "This is it"?  

In 2022, the BMW iX Flow, the world’s first color-changing car, captured global attention.  Like every groundbreaking innovation, it all started with an idea. 

This episode’s game changer is Dr. Stella Clarke. With a background in mechanical engineering from Australia, the USA, and Munich, Clarke has been a development engineer at BMW since 2007. It was her vision to apply E Ink technology—familiar from e-readers—to revolutionize how vehicles can change their color. 

Check out this episode to hear how Dr. Clarke implemented her groundbreaking idea.

(00:00) Introduction

(02:59) What is your definition of a “game changer”? 

(03:42) The creative process

(06:40) The difference between hearing an idea and actually holding it in your hands

(07:51) From idea to product - How does the process work?

(17:40) What have been the game-changing moments in your life?

(20:30) How can you dare?

Find out more about our host Charlie Martin.

Welcome to the first episode of the new BMW audio series, GAME CHANGER. This episode’s change maker is David Zilber. He is a professional chef, fermenter, food scientist, and author from Toronto, Canada. What if you knew that the next big culinary breakthrough might come from a tiny microbe living in the food you eat every day? Tune in to this episode to discover how a lab next to a kitchen could bring about the next big culinary change.

(00:00) Introduction

(02:56) How is the microorganism used in food? 

(08:49) Who were your role models? 

(14:26) What was the most surprising food flavour? 

(26:41) How dare you? 

(31:06) What is food for you?

Find out more about our host Charlie Martin.

An audio series about those who change the world around them.

Every major innovation starts with someone leaving familiar terrain and stepping over the boundary to something new. People who take this step are game changer, who also change the world a little. This podcast introduces a few of the pioneers who are making a mark on the world. Stay tuned!

Find out more about our hosts: 

Charlie Martin https://gocharlie.co.uk/

Narrowly evading the threats that pursued them on the road, the new superheroes seek refuge in Key's office, where they have access to mega-computers. Now that the gem is in their possession, a bridge must be built between the real and digital worlds. It all seems simple enough, but what if the superheroes begin to doubt each other? What if they question their quest, leading to a cyber mess at the climax of the final battle? Will they be able to bring the gem to Gaia? 

Want to find out more about our superheroes? Click here: https://www.bmw.com/en/podcast/bmw-fictional-podcast-freeing-gaia.html

(00:00) Introduction 

(00:35) Cyber Mess threats Gaia

(04:20) Reema shares her doubts with Caleb

(05:56) Key gets a moment to share her feelings with Dee

(07:53) Gaia sends a direct message! Danger is near

(08:46) Key creats a bridg between the real and the virtual world

(09:11) Cyber mess is here!

(11:11) Reema pushes her electric power to its limits

(11:52) Reema, Caleb and Key brings the Gem to Gaia

(13:48) The BMW Vision Neue Klasse is born!

(14:43) It's party time.

(15:00) The BMW i Vision Dee meets the BMW i Vision Circular and BMW super iX for the first time!

Back in real life, Key, Reema, and Caleb attempt to find the hidden gem. But they must first relive their darkest memories, recall their greatest dreams, and rediscover their fondest joys. Every step brings them closer to their goal, but also to a concealed threat that awaits them. They risk not only their lives, but the future of Gaia, as well. When it comes to protecting her best companion BMW Super iX, Reema utilizes all her powers. Reema and the BMW Super iX seize control of their own destiny, harnessing the power of electrified driving.

Want to find out more about our superheroes? Click here: https://www.bmw.com/en/podcasts/bmw-fictional-podcast-freeing-gaia.html

(00:00) Introduction 

(02:13) Key shares how she discovered her powers

(04:09) Reema finds her inspiration

(04:49) Three forces connect

(05:37) Harmonia! 

(06:22) A road trip with the BMW iX

(11:22) Caleb leads Reema and Key into the darkest part of the forest

(11:38) The Cosmic Gem 

(14:55) The three superheroes are attacked by an unknown threat

(15:18) Key gets shot

(20:07) Boosted by Reema's power, Super iX drives them to safety

Not knowing what the real mission is, Key and Reema head out to convince Caleb. All Caleb needs are the reassuring words of his loyal pal Ivee (BMW i Vision Circular): "Trust in your power". Who sent them the message, what awaits them, and which challenges they will face is unknown. The only certain thing: They must join forces to find its source.

Want to find out more about our superheroes? Click here: https://www.bmw.com/en/podcasts/bmw-fictional-podcast-freeing-gaia.html

(00:00) Introduction 

(01:29) Reema and Key find Caleb

(02:36) Caleb is the enchanter's nightshade

(05:06) Caleb and the BMW i Vision Circular

(08:31) Reema shows off her electrical powers

(12:55) Three superheroes on the virtual world

(13:21) Gaia meets the three heroes

(16:17) The Mission

On a day like any other, Key, the 32-year-old digital genius, is traveling through the digital world, solving problems in seconds using her superpower: she is a digital soul who dominates the digital world. That is, until her computer is hacked by a mysterious force which sends a message she can't decode on her own. Shocked by the intrusion into her personal laptop, she has only one goal: to unlock and find the source of the message. While conversing with her best friend, BMW i Vision Dee, she gathers clues and sets out to unravel a mystery—beginning a journey that will change her life.

Want to find out more about our superheroes? Click here: https://www.bmw.com/en/podcasts/bmw-fictional-podcast-freeing-gaia.html

(00:00) Introduction 

(00:15) GAIA is talking to you

(04:06) Key surprises her boss with her superpower

(04:54) "Hello, can you hear me?"

(06:19) Key asks her best friend BMW i Vision Dee for help

(08:56) Time for a virtual party

(10:30) Key meets Reema

(11:25) BMW Super iX meets the others

(19:36) Key finds the third force

From the darkest hole in the deepest woods to the most hidden corner of the virtual world, dive into an adventurous world not far from our own, where cars are not just cars and superheroes confront an unknown threat. Gaia – a very advanced AI force created from the universal knowledge of humans throughout history – is being held captive by an unknown threat. In a hushed voice, she sends a mysterious message to three individuals with unique companions and extraordinary gifts.

Want to find out more about our superheroes? Click here: ⁠https://www.bmw.com/en/podcasts/bmw-fictional-podcast-freeing-gaia.html⁠

New episode ... no, wait, what? This is the end? It’s true, we are at the end of our journey. After 10 episodes of ELECTRIC MYTHS, we have finally reached the end of the road. Of course, the many discussions, opinions, and new myths surrounding e-vehicles and electric driving will continue, but Tomi and Charlie have covered the current hot topics. Today’s episode takes one more look at the big picture: E-cars are too complicated. What is there to this myth? If you have listened carefully over the last 9 episodes, you can now test out your expert knowledge. Are you ready for one last round of myth-busting? Tune in and have fun!

(00:00) Introduction

(03:30) Electric car public charging stations

(04:45) Ranges of electric cars

(05:35) How to charge electric car

(06:15) battery life of electric car

Find out more about our hosts Charlie Martin and Tomi Adebayo.

Check out some behind-the-scenes photos and more details: https://www.bmw.com/en/electric-future/electric-car-myths-podcast.html

Another Friday, another episode, another myth, but thankfully the hosts remain the same. In today’s episode, Charlie and Tomi talk about a myth that has kept a stubborn grip in our society for many years: E-cars are just a stop-gap solution. Are they really? Electromobility is undoubtedly an important step for the future development of the automotive industry, but is it THE alternative? What do Tomi and Charlie think? You’ll have to listen for yourself to find out the answer. A new episode of ELECTRIC MYTHS.

(00:00) Introduction

(02:45) The future of electric cars

(04:30) Fuel cell technology cars

(03:50) Will all cars be electric in the future?

Find out more about our hosts Charlie Martin and Tomi Adebayo.

Check out some behind-the-scenes photos and more details: https://www.bmw.com/en/electric-future/electric-car-myths-podcast.html

It’s Friday again and you know what Friday means: Charlie and Tomi are going after more myths! In this episode, our hosts explore the myth that e-cars overload the power grid. What’s it all about? What would actually happen if everyone switched to electric cars overnight and we all had to charge them? Would it risk the collapse of our power networks? Charlie and Tomi answer all these questions in this brand-new episode of ELECTRIC MYTHS. Spoiler: There’s nothing we need to worry about.

(00:00) Introduction

(02:00) Can the grid handle electric cars?

(03:15) Smart grid technology

(04:00) Vehicle-to-Grid

(05:50) Electric cars affect on power grid

Find out more about our hosts Charlie Martin and Tomi Adebayo.

Check out some behind-the-scenes photos and more details: https://www.bmw.com/en/electric-future/electric-car-myths-podcast.html

How high are the costs for an EV? Is it affordable? Choosing the right vehicle to buy is a long-term decision and many factors have to be taken into account. This episode of ELECTRIC MYTHS dives into this topic by exploring the following myth: Electric cars are too expensive. Join Charlie and Tomi as they take a closer look at this claim, its origins, and the question of whether or not it is true. 

(00:00) Introduction

(01:32) Are electric vehicles expensive to run?

(03:30) Cost comparison to combustion engine cars

(06:36) Saving money on the long run

(07:46) Summary of the cost advantages of EVs

Find out more about our hosts Charlie Martin and Tomi Adebayo.

Check out some behind-the-scenes photos and more details: https://www.bmw.com/en/electric-future/electric-car-myths-podcast.html