BMW M is working on some interesting new prototypes which will essentially become a fully electric alternative for the next-generation M3 sports sedan. An episode trailer thing-o has just been release to preview the direction.
The company is working with a current-gen i4 M50 body which has been filled with all kinds of electronics and technology. According to BMW M CEO, Franciscus van Meel, the current focus is to centralise all of the electronics and control units.
So far engineers have worked in four separate electric motors – one driving each wheel – which will provide full control of power distribution for the demands and conditions. It’s understood the motors will combine to produce around 1000PS (736kW).
In the last week BMW M released some teaser images on social media of what looks to be an M3 sedan, although covered with a technical-patterned wrap. This is basically the beginnings of the next-gen model, which will be based on BMW’s Neue Klasse platform that will also underpin the next-gen G50 3 Series.
The next-gen 3 Series is set to be offered with full electric power, called the i3, and is scheduled to debut late in 2026. An M version, dubbed the iM3, is set to follow some time in 2028. However, BMW M is reportedly going to offer a petrol-powered M3 alongside the iM3.
It’s understood the next-gen M3 will feature an evolution of the current S58 3.0-litre twin-turbo inline-six engine, with increased efficiency and probably more power. The current M4 CS produces 405kW, so that’s likely a good indication or benchmark to follow.
More details are set to surface in the coming months. You can check out the first episode of the new model’s journey by clicking play on the video below. The video is centred around that first i4-based prototype, although featuring technology that will build and form the iM3.
