BMW M will introduce its first “ground-up” electric high-performance models as part of the Neue Klasse series starting from 2027. This will mark a major milestone for BMW M as it will enter the electric era while still producing the traditional ICE performance models. The first details for this electric BMW M performance have just been released, although are not specific to any particular model.
“The next generation of models is set to establish a new benchmark in the high-performance vehicle segment,” said Franciscus van Meel, MD of BMW M GmbH. “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.”
New BMW M eDrive details
While BMW already sells electric M performance variants for its fully-electric models like the BMW iX, BMW i4 and BMW i5, these are not proper BMW M cars. The first true, fully electric BMW M car is planned to debut in 2027, based on its new Neue Klasse (New Class) Gen6 platform, which debuted with the highly anticipated all-new BMW iX3.
BMW M’s biggest change with the Neue Klass EV platform is the move to a quad-motor AWD layout, known as M eDrive. This powertrain has one electric motor powering each wheel, and one of the four “superbrains” software handles all power distribution.
Each axle has a single housing containing two motors placed in parallel, with one gearbox per wheel. As with the current crop of BMW M models, it will also offer the option to decouple the front axle entirely for a fully rear-wheel-drive (RWD) experience. Consequently, this setting is also better for increased energy efficiency on long cruises, making it a must-have feature for an EV.
Most powerful BMWs ever
BMW has not released final figures yet, but it confirms that the Neue Klasse platform can deliver an output of up to 1 megawatt (1,341 hp). The flagship versions are likely to exceed 1,000 hp.
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High-performance battery and fast charging
The battery for the BMW M EV is based on the same Gen6 cylindrical cells used in standard Neue Klasse vehicles, but it’s optimised for high power discharge rates with “Design to Power” battery technology.
The battery is expected to have a capacity exceeding 100 kWh, but its range will be lower than the standard electric i3. Unlike traditional battery packs, it’s more connected to the axles, which increases chassis stiffness, improving handling and stability.
The BMW M’s new battery system can also handle extreme power and heat. It has an 800-volt electrical architecture and supports DC fast charging, which the brand says is even faster than the upcoming electric 3 Series.
Tech-driven M performance
BMW M’s upcoming electric cars use a new “digital nervous system.” Instead of many small computers spread around the car, BMW has replaced them with 4 high-performance “Superbrains”. Together, they control almost everything the car does.
For instance, the “Heart of Joy” system (also in BMW iX3) controls the driving dynamics, such as motors, steering, braking and energy recovery (regenerative braking). Most of the everyday braking is handled by the electric motors, which improves energy efficiency.
BMW M EV will retain the M sound and driving feel with simulated “M Soundscapes.” It will replicate the “jolts” and interruptions of a multi-speed transmission and also real-time traditional engine noise.
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Design and build of the new BMW M EV
+1 Photos
According to the released prototype photos, the new high-performance BMW M EV keeps classic M styling while looking electric and modern. Expectedly, it’ll be an electric iteration of the iconic BMW M3 moniker, based on the upcoming new-gen i3 sedan. It has muscular flared fenders, wider wheel arches, pop-out door handles, and looks more aggressive compared to the standard i3 sedan.
BMW is using natural fibre composites instead of traditional carbon fibre in its new EV lineup. It has a similar strength but 40% lower CO₂ emissions.
What about the conventional BMW M cars?
The traditional M engine performance cars will continue to be sold alongside the new M electric models. The next-generation BMW M3 is expected to launch in late 2027, likely alongside its electric counterpart discussed here.
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