As BMW strides in expanding its range of electrified vehicles, the fate of the BMW M3 and M4 seems uncertain. Set to debut in 2027 or 2028; these high-performance cars could go either gasoline-powered or fully electric.
In 2022, BMW’s development manager, Frank Weber, suggested the possibility of the next-gen M3 going electric. However, in a recent interview with Drive magazine, Frank van Meel, the global head of the M division, clarified the company’s stance. He acknowledged the potential for all-electric versions of the M3 and M4 but under specific conditions.
BMW’s tradition demands that each generation of M models outperform its predecessors. If the new M models can achieve the performance targets using an all-electric system, they will be electric. Otherwise, they will stick to internal combustion engines. BMW is striving to make a successful transition to electric power.
Frank van Meel ruled out the idea of BMW offering petrol-powered and electric versions, including hybrids. The preference is for a single powertrain to be utilized.
The Competition xDrive versions of the BMW M3 and M4 currently utilize a 3.0-liter twin-turbocharged inline-six engine, generating 503 horsepower. Impressive figures include a 0-60 mph time of 2.8 seconds and a top speed of 180 mph. The existing BMW i4 takes 3.7 seconds to reach 0 to 60 mph and has a top speed limited to 127 mph. While the i4 M50 has received favorable reviews, adapting electric systems for the M3 and M4 models will require upgrades and optimizations from BMW’s M division.
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BMW’s lineup comprises electric and gasoline-powered models, such as the 4 Series, 5 Series, and 7 Series. To differentiate these models, BMW has reportedly dropped the “i” from the names of gasoline-powered vehicles and registered 48 new names as part of its revised naming conventions.