Despite products that are still “motorsport” in 2023, such as the new M2, M3 and other M4s, BMW M will have to electrify itself. And even if the German company postpones the deadline as much as possible, the big leap to a 100% electric sports car won’t take long.

As Auto Express journalists write, after the launch of the first BMWs based on the new Neue Klasse architecture, “It’s time to present the most powerful models”which will be introduced between 2026 and 2027. Dirk Hacker, director of M model development, also reveals some interesting details.

Up to four electric motors for the electric BMW M

“We are working on a number of ideas for a powertrain with four electric motors and many new features. We work in several areas, be it our own software, electric motors or batteries. But the most important aspect is the emotional aspect: we have to create an attractive car. »

Work on the first electric BMW M has already begun. Over the past few weeks, a very specific i4 M50 has been seen with an even wider body and more aggressive details, hinting at a powerful model, but not necessarily more efficient than the best current electric sports cars.

Focus on driving pleasure

“Compared to our competitors, we don’t have the fastest models from 0 to 100 km/h. However, I think many other aspects matter, such as the setting, the sound and the driving experience. In short, it’s the whole “package” that should encourage people to buy”says Dirk Hacker.

Electricity allows engineers to “play” a lot on a technical level. We have a few ideas and I think we will test them first on the next thermal models before moving on to the electric ones. Artificial gear shifting systems? It’s technically possible, but is it really useful? Instead, we focus on sound and vibration. »