BMW M CEO Frank van Meel wants to take advantage of the four-motor design not only for dynamics, but also for handling.
While some automakers are changing their plans for electric cars, BMW is pushing ahead. In a few years, the company will release models on the Neue Klasse platform, including high-performance M cars.
Those worried about the transition to electrification should feel some relief after words from BMW M CEO Frank van Meel, who said the electric M3 will “beat it all”.
He told Motor Trendthat it aims to take advantage of the car's four-motor configuration by being able to control the drivetrain and chassis “with a single central logic”, creating a “neutral, linear and predictable” performance car that should have the power to “beat them all”.
Frank Weber, BMW's head of engineering and research and development, has already hinted that the car has one megawatt of power, or 1,341 horsepower. The M car will have a unique battery chemistry and cooling system, custom-designed electric motors, 800-volt architecture, and custom software to make it all work.
The automaker is also considering a lightweight rear-wheel drive variant that offers a different driving experience. Half the engines most likely mean half the power, and 670 hp. – it's still a lot. We may also get an electric M3 Touring on the new architecture, but that's still a few years away from anything exciting. The Neue Klasse-based 3 Series will arrive in 2026, followed by the M3 in 2027. A station wagon is likely to appear later, closer to the end of the decade.
How much will this supercar cost? We don't know yet, but we hope the price won't exceed anything we've ever seen. Bold cars backed by bold claims often come with equally bold price tags.