In a groundbreaking announcement, BMW is ushering in a new era of high-performance sedans by confirming the arrival of the next-generation BMW M3 as a fully electric vehicle in 2027. Frank Weber, the head of product development at BMW, shared this electrifying news during a recent roundtable discussion with journalists in Portugal, coinciding with the global launch of the BMW i5. This bold step signifies BMW’s commitment to embracing electric mobility without compromising its legendary performance standards.
The Evolution of an Icon
The decision to transform the iconic M3 into a battery-electric vehicle represents a watershed moment in the world of sports sedans. For decades, the roar of a combustion engine has defined the M3 experience, but now, BMW is rewriting the rules of high-performance driving.
Frank Weber’s announcement was crystal clear: “The next M3 will be battery-electric, fully battery-electric.” This shift underscores BMW’s determination to marry the exhilarating performance of the M3 with the sustainability of electric power.
Dual Powertrains for Choice and Excellence
BMW recognizes that enthusiasts have diverse tastes, and not everyone is ready to bid farewell to combustion power. Alongside the all-electric M3, BMW will offer a combustion engine model, featuring a modified version of the current 3.0-liter six-cylinder turbo gasoline engine known as the S58. This engine will meet stringent Euro 7 emissions standards, ensuring that the combustion-powered M3 continues to deliver exceptional performance.
Frank Weber emphasized the importance of offering both options, stating, “We will not have two different classes – there will be co-existence of the solutions in the market, which is necessary.” This approach honors the M3’s heritage while embracing the future.
Cutting-Edge Platform and Performance
While not officially confirmed by BMW, the next-generation M3 is expected to leverage the Neue Klasse platform showcased in the recent Vision Neue Klasse Concept. This platform promises advanced technology and exceptional performance, providing the ideal foundation for the M3 EV.
While specific power output figures remain undisclosed, Weber hinted at an astonishing one-megawatt electric powertrain. This visionary setup incorporates four electric motors, allowing for dynamic power distribution between the front and rear axles. In practical terms, drivers could switch seamlessly between all-wheel drive and rear-wheel drive, echoing the versatility of modern ICE-powered BMW M models.
Pioneering Electric Performance
BMW’s commitment to electric performance extends beyond the M3. The brand recently showcased its dedication to electrification with a modified i4 M50 prototype, equipped with four electric motors capable of generating one megawatt of power. To illustrate this setup’s potential, BMW presented a captivating computer-generated video featuring the i4 executing a “tank turn” maneuver, a testament to the independent control of each motor.
In sum, the announcement of the M3 EV represents more than just a transition to electric power. It’s a testament to BMW’s vision for the future of high-performance driving, one that combines electrification with legendary M-series performance.
While we eagerly await specific technical details, the next-generation BMW M3 EV, slated for a 2027 debut, promises to deliver an electrifying driving experience while contributing to a more sustainable automotive future. With BMW’s storied history of performance innovation and its commitment to electric mobility, the M3 EV is set to redefine the boundaries of electric sports sedans. Stay tuned for more exciting developments as BMW paves the way for the future of performance driving.
