BMW’s M3 will are available in two separate versions in the longer term, one with an electrical powertrain and the opposite with a gas engine.
The knowledge was revealed by BMW M boss Frank van Meel in an interview with BMW enthusiast website Bimmer Today published on Thursday.
The M boss already confirmed in June that an electrical M3 is coming. Its powertrain will feature a quad-motor setup, and modified i4 hatchbacks running the brand new powertrain have been testing on public roads since at the very least 2022. Peak power is predicted to reach as high as 1,341 hp.
As for the gas version, van Meel in his interview with Bimmer Today said the present twin-turbocharged 3.0-liter inline-6 will stick around for years to return, as engineers are working to make sure it meets future emissions rules, particularly within the European Union. The gas version of the longer term M3 might not be as powerful as its electric counterpart, but a probable lighter curb weight should ensure it delivers just as much fun. Van Meel didn’t say whether hybrid technology shall be used, however it is feasible, as seen in the most recent M5.
Frank van Meel
The 2 M3 versions are prone to differ well beyond their powertrains. That is because the electrical M3 shall be based on BMW’s Neue Klasse dedicated EV platform, while the longer term gas M3 will likely use an updated version of the CLAR platform underpinning the present M3.
An electrical X3, likely badged an iX3, debuts next 12 months because the first Neue Klasse-based vehicle. It should be followed in 2026 by an electrical 3-Series, likely badged an i3. This implies the electrical M3, which could also be badged i3 M, or something similar, will likely surface around 2027. That is about when the subsequent gas 3-Series is due. The M3 version should trail the regular sedan by about six months to a 12 months.
Within the case of the electrical M3, van Meel has also hinted that it could include something much like Hyundai’s simulated gear shifts. He said in June that such a system provides a way of how briskly the automotive is accelerating and the speeds it’s reaching without the motive force actually having to look, which is able to aid the motive force in extreme situations, like on a racetrack.
This Article First Appeared At www.motorauthority.com
