BMW HypersonX brings emotional sound design to Neue Klasse electric vehicles

Discover BMW HypersonX, a unique sound system tailored for Neue Klasse EVs, offering immersive audio and emotional connection. Learn more about its features.

BMW is ushering in a new era in sound design with the launch of HypersonX — an emotionally immersive audio system developed specifically for the next-generation electric vehicles under the Neue Klasse platform.

At the heart of this breakthrough lies the idea of forging a deep emotional connection between driver and machine. HypersonX is more than a soundscape — it’s a precisely tuned audio palette that responds to driving dynamics and mood. Developed by the BMW Group Sound Design Studio, the system comprises 43 distinctive sound signals tailored to Personal and Sport driving modes.

The technological foundation of HypersonX is BMW’s Operating System X, embedded in the new digital vehicle architecture. It enables exceptional responsiveness and seamless sound modulation, resulting in an experience rich in depth and clarity. The audio design focuses on three key principles: humanity, warmth, and precision.

Crucially, a new algorithm generated over nine million sound variations, from which BMW engineers distilled a brand-typical sonic DNA. With its deep low-frequency emphasis and spatial modulation, HypersonX creates an enveloping in-cabin experience — particularly during acceleration, where layered sound evokes a three-dimensional sense of motion.

The welcome sound further enhances this emotional interaction. It features recorded voices of BMW Design Studio employees in their native languages — a subtle yet powerful human touch that underscores the brand’s focus on empathy and personalization.

HypersonX will debut in upcoming Neue Klasse models, including the Vision Neue Klasse X. Elements of this immersive system were demonstrated at CES 2025 and drew considerable attention. Notably, the Vision Neue Klasse X features a Personal Sound Experience function with the HYPERSONX WHEEL, allowing passengers to accompany each journey with personalized sound in real time.

Renzo Vitale, BMW Group’s Creative Director of Sound, emphasizes that HypersonX gives each Neue Klasse model a unique acoustic identity. Vitale — an accomplished acoustic engineer and pianist — has been instrumental in previous BMW sound projects, including collaborations with Hans Zimmer.

Some analysts expect that elements of the Neue Klasse technology stack — including potentially HypersonX — could be extended to other BMW Group brands, such as MINI and Rolls-Royce.

With HypersonX, BMW takes a bold step toward the emotional future of electric mobility — where sound becomes not just an accessory but a defining element of the driving experience.

Source: bmwgroup.com