- A new electric version of BMW M3 is currently in progress
- The head of BMW M division anticipates that his electric sports vehicle will outperform everything
- Possibly named i3 M, the electric M3 version may not debut until 2026 or 2027
The esteemed car manufacturer BMW, recognized for crafting iconic sports vehicles, has outlined a performance strategy for its upcoming generation of electric cars.
The development is ongoing for this new lineup, all of which will be built on the cutting-edge Neue Klasse platform. BMW’s M performance division is committed to designing M vehicles from these new models. Among these will be an electric version of M3, a model that stands out as one of the most vital and historic in the division’s lineup.
According to Frank van Meel, who leads BMW’s M division, in an interview with Motor Trend, the forthcoming electric sports car based on the Neue Klasse platform “is projected to outshine all previous contenders.”
Expected to be included in an expanded 3-Series range, this sedan might bring back the i3 branding under the i3 M nameplate.
BMW has initiated trials of a high-performance 4-motor powertrain in an i4 prototype since 2022. While BMW has not disclosed the power output of that prototype, Motor Trend suggests that the upcoming performance vehicle is poised to deliver approximately 1,000 kw, equating to about 1,341 hp. This would position the electric sport sedan as the most robust production M vehicle ever created, surpassing the power of nearly all other electric cars on the market, including the Lucid Air Sapphire and Tesla Model S Plaid.
BMW has internally developed its next-gen electric motors, focusing on creating lightweight and compact designs.
M models have traditionally emphasized driving dynamics over sheer power. This trend appears set to continue into the electric era, despite the remarkable power that this electric car is expected to deliver. Van Meel highlighted the importance of “neutral, linear, and predictable” handling, thresholds, and chassis control.
Traditionalists will be pleased to know that van Meel has confirmed the availability of rear-wheel drive in the electric vehicle era, albeit without the 4-motor powertrain.
The electric version of M3 is anticipated to be launched around 2026 or 2027.
