- BMW M has unveiled a prototype for a possible electrical M3
- The subsequent M3 will provide patrons a alternative between gasoline and electrical powertrains
- The electrical powertrain is predicted to characteristic a quad-motor setup able to delivering four-digit horsepower
BMW is growing a brand new technology of electrical automobiles, recognized collectively because the Neue Klasse, with some fashions set to kind the idea of the primary devoted M vehicles powered totally by batteries.
One of many Neue Klasse EVs will probably be an electrical model of the next-generation 3-Collection, anticipated to debut in 2026 and probably badged because the i3. The automobile was previewed by final yr’s Imaginative and prescient Neue Klasse idea, which will even affect the design of a gasoline model of the following 3-Collection.
BMW Imaginative and prescient Neue Klasse idea
The 2 variations of the following 3-Collection will share comparable exterior and cabin designs however will probably be constructed on separate platforms. The electrical model will make the most of BMW’s Neue Klasse devoted EV platform, whereas the gasoline model is predicted to make use of an up to date model of the present 3-Collection’ 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 pictures of a camouflaged prototype believed to be the electrical M3.
Frank van Meel
The prototype options flared wheel arches and camouflage just like what BMW M used on i4-based take a look at mules for a quad-motor electrical powertrain that has been in public testing since 2022. The powertrain is predicted to ship peak output as excessive as 1,341 hp in some functions.
BMW M has confirmed that every motor will energy a person wheel, enabling exact and infinitely variable torque distribution. By leveraging numerous sensors and driver inputs, reminiscent of steering angle and accelerator place, the system will optimize torque distribution to attain 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 would possibly keep away from the extraordinary head-jerking acceleration usually seen in different high-performance EVs. Van Meel has hinted that the electrical M3 might characteristic a system just like Hyundai’s simulated gear shifts. He has beforehand said that such a system helps drivers gauge acceleration and pace with out wanting on the devices, which might be notably helpful in excessive conditions, reminiscent of on a racetrack.
No particulars have been disclosed in regards to the battery being examined within the prototype. Nonetheless, BMW is growing a sixth-generation battery design for the Neue Klasse EVs, which might probably energy the electrical M3. These batteries will make the most of cylindrical cells as a substitute of the present prismatic design and, together with different enhancements, are anticipated to ship a 30% vary improve 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 rules.
Earlier than the electrical 3-Collection 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 will probably be a devoted M model of the automobile.
