MUNICH - German automaker BMW unveiled the iX3, the first model of its Neue Klasse line-up, in Munich on Thursday. The company said the vehicle was developed with Chinese technology partners in areas including batteries, artificial intelligence and autonomous driving.

The iX3, scheduled for production in 2026, marks the start of BMW's plan to launch more than 40 new or updated models worldwide by 2027. BMW's Shenyang plant in Northeast China's Liaoning province, its largest production site outside Germany, also presented a version of the iX3 tailored for Chinese consumers.

"No matter which drive technology is used, BMW's entire product line will benefit from the innovations of the Neue Klasse," said Oliver Zipse, chairman of the board of management. "The iX3 is the successor to one of our most successful all-electric models and also marks the beginning of a new era."

China is BMW's largest single market and a key part of its global supply chain. The company employs more than 3,000 designers, engineers, software experts and test specialists in China.

The China-specific iX3 will feature localized driver assistance systems and integration with the country's digital ecosystem. BMW is working with Chinese partners including CATL, EVE Energy, Momenta and Alibaba on batteries, artificial intelligence and autonomous driving.

BMW said trial production of next-generation cylindrical battery cells has already started in Shenyang.

Analysts say BMW's integration of the Neue Klasse with China reflects the country's growing importance in the global EV supply chain and consumer market.

"BMW's strategy illustrates the depth of China-Europe industrial cooperation and the potential for further integration in electric mobility," one industry expert said.