The excitement surrounding BMW’s push into the realm of electric vehicles is palpable, especially with their new series known as the Neue Klasse. This ambitious initiative is set to redefine the standards of performance, efficiency, and experience in electric cars, and it’s particularly thrilling for M car enthusiasts. Among the most anticipated models is the fully electric M3, derived from the next-generation 3-Series. It’s slated for a 2027 release in the U.S. as a 2028 model, marking a significant shift in the world of performance sedans.
For those who have been eagerly following this journey, BMW has been sharing the inside scoop through an engaging YouTube series that chronicles the electric M3’s development. The latest episode offers a sneak peek into the electric M3’s sound profile at the 7:40 mark. Here, Carsten Wolf, the engineer in charge of crafting this thrilling vehicle, can be seen pushing the limits of an i4-based test vehicle. As he accelerates, the sound that emits is not just the whirring hum of an electric motor; it’s a captivating fusion of the powerful notes akin to those of a traditional M3’s twin-turbo inline-6 and the exhilarating roar of a jet engine. This attention to auditory experience might seem like just a gimmick, but it actually fulfills a deeper emotional connection between the driver and the vehicle.
Stefan Erler, who oversees user experience and drivability powertrain at BMW M, highlights the significance of sound in driving. In gas-powered vehicles, the auditory cues provide a natural sense of speed and control, making it easier for drivers to gauge their performance without taking their eyes off the road. This integral auditory feedback is especially crucial during spirited driving on a racetrack, where every second counts.
As BMW dives deeper into electric vehicle technology, the sound experience is something they are determined to incorporate into their upcoming electric fleet, including the electric M cars. During a conversation with Top Gear, Frank van Meel, the head of BMW M, hinted at the exciting possibilities of simulated gear shifts—an innovation that would enhance the driver’s feedback and create a more immersive experience, particularly on the track.
The electric M3 is not just about sound; it sets the stage for groundbreaking performance capabilities. BMW’s M division has been diligently working on electric powertrains since 2018, and the latest developments suggest that the electric M3 could feature a cutting-edge quad-motor setup capable of delivering a staggering 700 horsepower. Imagine this: each motor, independently powering each wheel, means that torque can be distributed with unmatched precision. By using a range of sensors and inputs from the driver—like steering angle and accelerator position—the system optimizes torque, ensuring a driving experience that is stable, linear, and predictable, even when pushed to the limits.
While specifics about the battery that will power the electric M3 remain under wraps, we know that BMW is innovating its battery technology to craft the sixth-generation battery for the Neue Klasse. This new design will utilize cylindrical cells instead of the traditional prismatic batteries, likely leading to a remarkable 30% increase in range over current BMW electric models. This is not just about expanding driving range but elevating the entire driving experience to a new level.
Of course, for those who still appreciate the roar of a gasoline engine, there’s good news on the horizon. BMW is developing a gasoline version of the 3-Series in tandem with its electric counterpart, and van Meel has firmly confirmed that a gasoline-powered M3 will also be coming soon. This will include an updated version of the current turbocharged engine, marrying tradition with innovation.
As we look toward the future, BMW seems to be steering the conversation toward a thrilling new age of electrified performance cars. For enthusiasts and everyday drivers alike, the impending launch of the electric M3 is not just about going green; it’s about enhancing the thrill of driving in a manner that stays true to the brand’s storied heritage of performance and innovation.
