BMW confirmed that the next generation M3 will be available in two versions – with an inline six-cylinder gasoline engine and a fully electric powertrain on the Neue Klasse platform. Both cars are already undergoing tests, including on the Nürburgring track.

BMW M division head Frank van Meel said in an interview with Autocar that the main advantage of the electric version will not be record power, but handling. The new product will receive four electric motors, each of which will be able to independently control traction on its wheel. This will allow for more precise torque distribution, more efficient use of individual wheel braking, and increased vehicle stability in corners.

A key element will be the new Heart of Joy control system. It will combine the operation of the powertrain, braking system, and all-wheel drive to react as quickly as possible to changing road conditions. According to van Meel, it is this technology that will allow the electric M3 to surpass the gasoline version in terms of dynamics and track behavior.

At the same time, BMW recognizes that the traditional M3 will remain in demand. Some buyers still prefer an internal combustion engine due to its characteristic sound or the lack of convenient charging infrastructure.

The electric M3 will retain simulated gear changes. The company believes that virtual gears help the driver better feel acceleration and more accurately choose the braking moment, especially during sporty driving. However, engineers did not artificially reproduce the sound of previous M3 or M5 models. Instead, BMW is developing a completely new sound accompaniment based on the operation of the electric powertrain.