BMW M is further developing its first fully electric system which is set to debut in 2027, likely in the form of a fully electric M3, based on the Neue Klasse architecture.
This will be the first ground-up electric M car, with the company promising everyday usability paired with genuine racetrack capability. According to BMW M, the Neue Klasse generation is designed to set new benchmarks for performance-focused electric vehicles, rather than simply replicate existing M models with batteries.
At the heart of the new package is the BMW ‘M eDrive’ system, which is a bespoke electric powertrain that uses four individual electric motors – one at each wheel. This layout enables precise, real-time control of torque distribution and forms the basis of what BMW calls M Dynamic Performance Control.
Despite the all-wheel-drive hardware, BMW says the system can fully disengage the front axle when conditions allow, delivering rear-wheel drive characteristics to improve efficiency, extend driving range and maintain the handling balance traditionally associated with M cars.
Supporting the powertrain is a new central electronics architecture built around four high-performance control units, referred to internally as ‘Superbrains’. One of these – dubbed the ‘Heart of Joy’ – manages driving dynamics, integrating propulsion, braking, steering and recuperation systems to optimise performance on the road and track. The setup also allows quicker software updates and upgrades over the vehicle’s lifecycle.
Energy comes from a high-performance battery offering “more than 100kWh” of usable capacity. Using an 800-volt electrical system and next-generation cylindrical cells, the battery has been engineered to sustain repeated high-output driving while also enabling faster charging. BMW says cooling, power management and structural integration have all been enhanced to suit high-performance use, with the battery housing contributing to overall chassis stiffness.
To maintain its focus on lightweight engineering, BMW M will also introduce natural fibre materials into its electric models for the first time. Developed through the brand’s motorsport programmes, the material offers similar strength characteristics to carbon fibre while significantly reducing production-related emissions.
BMW M is yet to confirm specific model names or performance figures, but BMW mentions the first model will debut from 2027. As far as we know, BMW M is planning to launch both combustion and electric options for the next M3, with the EV likely to arrive first. Franciscus van Meel, managing director at BMW M GmbH, said:
“The next generation of models are set to 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.”
