BMW was the focus today at the Shanghai Auto Show 2025 and presented its latest Tech Marvel: The Vision Driving Experience (VDX). While the first impressions often focus on the design, the true highlight of the VDX is below the surface: the groundbreaking heart of the Joy Control unit.
The heart of joy is not just another ECU in a car; It is a leap forward and serves as the central “brain” of the future BMW electric cars. Management of drive train, braking, steering and recreational functions processes the system data surprisingly ten times faster than the earlier architectures of BMW. The result? A new standard for BMW driving pleasure, electricity and efficiency.
Heart of joy
This new supercomputer was mainly associated with the upcoming new class vehicles from BMW, a term that we equate exclusively with the new electrical architecture of the brand as NCAR. BMW has clarified an interesting point today that expands the scope of new class: The car manufacturer does not strictly differentiate between its flexible Clar platform (used for combustion, hybrid and electric vehicles) and the purely electrical NCAR. According to a BMW spokesman, this inclusive approach ensures that customers receive a coherent experience and combine the latest technology and the latest design in the entire range, regardless of the architecture.
BMW also says that the heart of joy will expand to future electrical models based on the Clar platform, including excited SUVs such as the rumors IX5, IX6 and IX7. These vehicles also benefit from the GEN6 electromotors and catter batteries from BMW, which promise remarkable improvements within reach, performance and charging functions.
Why this integrated approach? BMW’s strategy is uncomplicated: to eliminate the product differentiation barriers and offer buyers a uniform premium experience regardless of platform specifications. While the complete details on Clar-based electrical models with at least 2027 with the debut of the IX5 will remain under closure, enthusiasts do not have to wait long for further findings. The upcoming new class IX3 will probably reveal more via BMW’s vision in the near future.
