The development of the electric BMW M3 (code ZA0) on the new Neue Klasse platform, scheduled for release in 2027, comes equipped with high-power electric motor technology (possibly up to 1,000 horsepower) and all-wheel drive. It is expected to deliver more power than the traditional internal combustion engine model, featuring a synthetic sound similar to the soundtrack of the combustion M3. The electric M3 will be sold alongside the combustion engine M3, with the electric version focusing on superior performance through a system utilizing four motors.
Expected Highlights
BMW's push into electric vehicles advances further with the launch of the new Neue Klasse platform, which will underpin future production cars. This new platform architecture focuses primarily on electric drivetrains, enabling BMW electric vehicles to be more efficient, reduce charging times, and increase battery driving range. BMW's EV development now extends into the M brand with the M3 Electric, currently in final development stages.
The high-performance electric sedan from BMW's iconic brand will take about three more years before hitting the market, but BMW has already begun full promotion of the M EV. Key details such as the four-motor system, 800-volt architecture, design, power output, and performance specs remain closely guarded secrets until closer to launch.
The BMW M3 Electric uses the Neue Klasse platform, BMW's latest automotive architecture specifically designed for electric vehicles with floor-mounted batteries. This platform integrates the battery into the vehicle structure for enhanced rigidity, features an 800-volt architecture supporting up to 270-kilowatt fast charging, and accommodates battery sizes ranging from 75.0 to 150.0 kilowatt-hours, increasing driving range by up to 55 kilometers per minute of DC fast charging at 270 kilowatts.
This new infrastructure brings BMW's sixth-generation electric drivetrain technology. The M3 Electric also showcases a new cylindrical battery design, boosting range by up to 30 percent compared to current BMW electric vehicles. Additionally, it is about 50 percent cheaper than the current fifth-generation batteries. Charging time from 10 to 80 percent is expected to reduce by approximately 30 percent, meaning it can charge from 10 to 80 percent in about 15 to 20 minutes.
The electric M3 has four electric motors with all-wheel drive, with one motor on each wheel. The Neue Klasse platform can generate up to one megawatt or 1,341 horsepower, though it is not yet clear if BMW M will utilize the full potential for the electric M model.
The gasoline-powered BMW M3 will continue selling alongside the electric version for several more years, offering 473 horsepower in the base model. Recent rumors suggest the electric M3 will have around 700 horsepower. BMW plans to produce both standard and Competition versions, including a rear-wheel-drive two-motor variant. Additionally, an electric M3 station wagon may also be produced.
BMW plans to launch the 3 Series Neue Klasse sedan following the iX3 electric SUV. Both electric models are slated for release in 2026, with the M3 Electric following later.Around 2027.The electric M3 is expected to exceed 1,000 horsepower, making its power comparable to supercars with combustion engines. Currently, BMW's most powerful electric vehicle is the 2024 i7 M70 with a maximum output of 650 horsepower. Compared to the i5 M60 at 593 horsepower, these figures show that 1,000 horsepower electric cars have become commonplace today.