Just a few weeks ago, the Bavarian manufacturer believed that a battery-powered M3 was “possible.” Today, probability has turned into certainty: the next generation will be 100% electric.
Frank Weber, BMW’s head of product development, cleared all doubts during an event organized by the brand in Portugal to mark the launch of the i5. The first ever electric M3 will appear in 2027. And it will be very powerful.
Neue Klasse platform for its power of more than 1000 hp
If there are no surprises, the upcoming M3 will be based on the Neue Klasse platform, the architecture that will give life to the new generation of electric BMWs from 2025.
In addition to 30% more autonomy and 25% overall efficiency compared to current batteries, this platform could allow the Bavarian sports car to achieve potential power of 1340 hp and transmit it to the ground with the help of four electric motors.
BMW has been working on a model with four electric motors based on the i4 for some time, although no launch date has yet been set. When launched, the M3 is expected to surpass the i7 M70 xDrive, which is currently the most powerful electric car in BMW’s lineup, at 660 hp.
Silent BMW M3 but “sensational” ?
There is an expectation “very high”as Frank Weber mentioned, speaking directly to the brand’s fans: “Some may miss the sound, but there is no need to worry. They will love the way the car drives. It will be incredible.”
However, at this point, BMW doesn’t seem necessarily ready to ditch its inline-six engine, as evidenced by the new BMW M2, the upcoming variations that will result from it, or the even more exclusive M3 and M4 that will arrive later.
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Source: Auto Plus
Robert is an experienced journalist who has been covering the automobile industry for over a decade. He has a deep understanding of the latest technologies and trends in the industry and is known for his thorough and in-depth reporting.