BMW’s M division confirmed its first electric M3 will arrive in 2027 with the most powerful e-motors in the brand’s history. The performance sedan will debut synthesized engine sounds and artificial gearshifts as part of the automaker’s new Neue Klasse platform.
The electric M3 will be based on the upcoming i3 sedan, which BMW plans to unveil this year. The company says this marks a turning point for M cars – combining traditional driving passion with new levels of power and efficiency.
Four-Motor Powerplant Targets 1,000 Horsepower
Franciscus van Meel, managing director of BMW M division, said the next generation will “establish a new benchmark in the high-performance vehicle segment.”
“With the latest generation of Neue Klasse technology, we are taking the BMW M driving experience to a new level and will inspire our customers with outstanding, racetrack-ready driving dynamics for everyday use.”
The electric M3 uses a four-motor setup with individual motors and single-speed transmissions at each wheel. BMW hasn’t revealed specific power figures but confirmed it’s using the most potent versions of its Gen6 motor technology.
Current iX3 motors produce around 230 horsepower each. That suggests the M3 could break the 1,000-horsepower barrier.
Drivers will switch between all-wheel-drive mode or decouple the front motors for traditional M3 rear-drive handling. BMW’s new “M Dynamic Performance Control” system manages torque individually at each wheel – creating what the company calls a “new dimension of driving dynamics.”
Synthetic Sounds and Shifts
The M3 EV will feature artificial engine sounds and synthesized gear changes, following the approach used in models like the Hyundai Ioniq 5 N and Kia EV6 GT. BMW designed this “soundscape” to maintain driver engagement in an electric performance car.
The Neue Klasse platform runs on 800-volt architecture with a battery of at least 100kWh. BMW optimized the pack for sustained high performance without sacrificing range capability.
The M3 will also feature the strongest energy recuperation yet achieved with Gen6 motors. The battery pack integrates into the car’s structure, connecting front and rear axles for additional rigidity.
Lightweight Materials and Natural Fibers
BMW plans to use new materials that reduce both weight and the carbon footprint of manufacturing. Natural fibers will appear in an M car for the first time – technology the brand has tested in motorsport since 2019.
The current gasoline M3 starts at £91,000. BMW hasn’t announced pricing for the electric version, but industry observers expect it to approach £100,000 when sales begin in late 2027.
The electric M3 represents BMW’s commitment to electrifying its performance lineup while maintaining the driving characteristics M cars are known for.
