- BMW M has unveiled a prototype for a possible electrical M3
- The subsequent M3 will supply patrons a selection between fuel and electrical powertrains
- The electrical powertrain is anticipated to characteristic a quad-motor setup able to delivering four-digit horsepower
BMW is creating a brand new technology of electrical automobiles, recognized collectively because the Neue Klasse, with some fashions set to type the idea of the primary devoted M vehicles powered fully by batteries.
One of many Neue Klasse EVs shall be an electrical model of the next-generation 3-Sequence, anticipated to debut in 2026 and probably badged because the i3. The automobile was previewed by final 12 months’s Imaginative and prescient Neue Klasse idea, which may even affect the design of a fuel model of the following 3-Sequence.
BMW Imaginative and prescient Neue Klasse idea
The 2 variations of the following 3-Sequence will share comparable exterior and cabin designs however shall be constructed on separate platforms. The electrical model will make the most of BMW’s Neue Klasse devoted EV platform, whereas the fuel model is anticipated to make use of an up to date model of the present 3-Sequence’ CLAR platform.
Each variations could have M3 variants, BMW M boss Frank van Meel revealed in October. BMW M has now launched a number of images of a camouflaged prototype believed to be the electrical M3.
Frank van Meel
The prototype options flared wheel arches and camouflage much like what BMW M used on i4-based check mules for a quad-motor electrical powertrain that has been in public testing since 2022. The powertrain is anticipated to ship peak output as excessive as 1,341 hp in some purposes.
BMW M has confirmed that every motor will energy a person wheel, enabling exact and infinitely variable torque distribution. By leveraging varied sensors and driver inputs, resembling steering angle and accelerator place, the system will optimize torque distribution to realize impartial, linear, and predictable dealing with, even on the restrict.
Prototype for electrical BMW M3 based mostly on Neue Klasse platform
The powertrain can be being designed with linear energy supply in thoughts, which BMW M has said is a core attribute of its automobiles. This implies BMW M’s EVs may keep away from the extraordinary head-jerking acceleration typically seen in different high-performance EVs. Van Meel has hinted that the electrical M3 may characteristic a system much like Hyundai’s simulated gear shifts. He has beforehand said that such a system helps drivers gauge acceleration and pace with out trying on the devices, which may be notably useful in excessive conditions, resembling on a racetrack.
No particulars have been disclosed concerning the battery being examined within the prototype. Nevertheless, BMW is creating a sixth-generation battery design for the Neue Klasse EVs, which may probably energy the electrical M3. These batteries will make the most of cylindrical cells as an alternative of the present prismatic design and, together with different enhancements, are anticipated to ship a 30% vary enhance over BMW’s current EVs.
2024 BMW M3 CS
As for the gas-powered model of the following M3, it’s anticipated to retain the present mannequin’s twin-turbocharged 3.0-liter inline-6 engine. Van Meel has beforehand said that this engine will adjust to future emissions laws.
Earlier than the electrical 3-Sequence arrives, BMW will launch an electrical X3 as the primary Neue Klasse EV. Presumably badged because the iX3, the electrical SUV is scheduled for launch in 2025. BMW M has not but confirmed whether or not there shall be a devoted M model of the automobile.
