Summary
- BMW’s development head confirmed that the next M3 will be fully electric
- The M3 will have a coexistence with the combustion version
- The electric M3’s name has not been confirmed yet, but may keep M3 in the name
- The design of the electric M3 will likely be a sportier version of the electric 3 Series
- The electric BMW M3 will use an 800V architecture and have the potential for up to 1 megawatt of power
Article
The automotive world is shifting towards electric vehicles, and BMW is following suit with their iconic M3 model. Frank Weber, BMW’s development head, has confirmed that the next generation M3 will be fully battery-electric. While there will still be a combustion version available, the future of M3 performance will be in the electric model. Expectations for the electric M3 are high, with promises of a wild and exhilarating driving experience.
The name of the electric BMW M3 has not yet been confirmed, although BMW has filed a trademark application for iM3. It is unlikely that the car will be named with the “i” prefix, as it is reserved for BMW’s EV lineup. The design of the electric M3 is expected to be a simple three-box sedan with clean lines and characteristic BMW elements. BMW’s new energy-dense battery cells will allow for more efficient packaging and a lower ride height compared to current EVs.
The powertrain of the electric BMW M3 will likely be based on BMW’s Neue Klasse platform, featuring an 800V architecture and a sixth-generation eDrive system for improved range, charging speed, and efficiency. The potential for a quad-motor system offering up to 1,341 horsepower has been mentioned, although production capabilities may limit this figure. The electric M3 is expected to be all-wheel drive with the ability to shift to a rear-wheel drive mode for a more dynamic driving experience.
Although BMW has not confirmed a release date for the electric M3, it is speculated to arrive around 2027. The introduction of the Neue Klasse platform with the iX3 crossover and the electric 3 Series sedan will precede the electric M3. Pricing information has also not been announced, but based on BMW’s previous models, the electric M3 could start around the price of the current combustion model, with a more powerful version priced at around $100,000. BMW is moving towards a fully electric lineup, with performance models like the M3 leading the charge.
Overall, the electric BMW M3 is expected to revolutionize the performance sedan segment with its electrified powertrain and advanced technology. The transition to electrification is a bold move for BMW, aligning with the industry’s shift towards sustainable mobility. The electric M3’s design, powertrain, and driving dynamics are poised to set a new standard for electric performance vehicles. With advancements in battery technology and power delivery, the electric M3 promises to deliver an exhilarating driving experience while reducing emissions and environmental impact.
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