MUNICH: BMW is stepping up to a fully electric future for its high-performance M division.
But fret not. The combustion engine cars that made them famous will still be around for years to come. In fact, the next M3 with an in-line 6 cylinder is likely to roll off the assembly line in 2028.
Now back to the topic of electric M cars. A recent 10-minute plus video from M shows i4 M50-based prototypes being tested and is telling for what we can expect in electric M cars that will come.
The video offers a behind-the-scenes look at the development process, highlighting the brand's goal to deliver the same thrilling driving experience in its electric offerings.
The video reveals that future electric M cars will feature a four-motor setup, promising "unprecedented performance, quality, and features". That's according to the BMW M head of overall vehicle development Carsten Wolf.
This approach goes beyond simply replacing combustion engines with electric motors; it involves re-engineering the entire vehicle architecture to optimise performance and handling .
BMW M engineers emphasise the importance of vehicle stiffness for precise handling, drawing on their experience with previous generations of the M3 and M5.
The prototypes feature reinforced bodies, specially designed axle carriers, and carbon-ceramic brakes to achieve the desired levels of performance [2, 3].
The testing process involves extensive simulations and real-world driving on a dedicated track, with engineers meticulously fine-tuning aspects like accelerator pedal feel to ensure the electric M cars deliver the signature "M" driving experience.
The quad-motor setup promises a new era of exhilarating electric performance.
