Up front, BMW will optionally use lower-cost, lower-power Asynchronous motors (ASM). Their design makes them better suited for regenerative braking, thus the front-axle placement. There will be two varieties of ASM motor, one making 161 hp, and another making 241 horsepower.

At a technical presentation in Germany, BMW explains how batteries, motors and innovative components are transforming its future.

The Gen6 battery found in the Neue Klasse EVs will be more power-dense, thanks to a switch to cylindrical cells that replace prismatic ones in the current lineup. BMW will offer its minute, 1.8-inch-diameter cells in two different heights (3.

BMW’s taking what it calls a ‘technology-open approach’ with the Neue Klasse, giving rise to a variety of electric motor layouts - though don’t expect any front-wheel drive BMW EVs to directly replace the current BMW 1 Series. That’s because while single-motor power will be offered, it’ll be mounted on the rear only to drive the rear wheels.

An alternative solution for the Mini brand would be a synergy with another automaker that could possibly supply them with a FWD architecture, although this is pure speculation at