BMW’s next-generation M3, expected in 2027, will mark a significant milestone for the German automaker as it will be the first M3 offered as a fully battery-electric vehicle (BEV). Frank Weber, BMW’s Head of Product Development, confirmed this news during an interview at the launch of the BMW i5.
The electric M3 will not replace the traditional combustion-engine model but will coexist with it. BMW plans to modify the current 3.0-liter six-cylinder turbo gasoline engine for the combustion-engine variant to meet emissions standards like Euro 7.
While specific power figures for the electric M3 were not disclosed, Weber mentioned that the new platform was designed to accommodate four electric motors with a power output of up to one megawatt. This would enable fine-tuning of power delivery between the front and rear axles, offering the potential for rear-wheel-drive or all-wheel-drive performance, similar to the options available in current BMW M models.
BMW is actively transitioning towards electric mobility, with plans to sell more battery-electric vehicles (BEVs) and plug-in hybrids (PHEVs) than traditional combustion vehicles by 2028. The move to develop an electric M3 aligns with this strategic shift.
While this is a significant move for BMW’s M3 lineup, it reflects the broader trend within the automotive industry, where many automakers are prioritizing electric and electrified models to meet emissions targets and changing consumer preferences.