The BMW M3 has always evolved, but the next-generation model is set to deliver the most radical evolution yet. While its petrol-powered predecessors have come to define the performance saloon and two-door coupe, the future of the M3 lies in electrification, marking a pivotal moment for the brand – and, given the M3's significance, the potential adoption of EV performance cars as a whole.

BMW has confirmed that the M3 will also continue as a straight-six internal combustion engine, with the all-electric M3 positioned as a parallel model rather than a direct replacement. The electric version will be based on BMW’s Neue Klasse platform, which is set to underpin the next wave of the brand’s EV models, including the upcoming i4 replacement in 2026.

The M division knows electrification is a sensitive topic among its fanbase, and this is likely why the G90 M5 is a plug-in hybrid rather than a full EV. BMW is eager to reassure enthusiasts that, whatever powers the M3, its character will remain intact. To underline this, Munich has shared a behind-the-scenes YouTube video, offering a glimpse into the electric M3’s development and the new possibilities this technology unlocks.

The big talking point is the quad-motor setup, able to deliver precise torque control to each individual wheel, unlocking new levels of agility. By selectively directing power to the rear wheels – or modulating torque across the axles during cornering – BMW M can ensure the electric M3 delivers the playful, adjustable handling that has defined the nameplate for decades. This architecture allows engineers to fine-tune the car’s dynamics with a level of precision internal combustion drivetrains simply can’t match, eclipsing the responses of the already excellent xDrive system in current-generation M cars.

Next generation BMW M3 prototype test mule
Neue Klasse-based electric M3 prototype

Moreover, the placement of the battery pack within the floor lowers the car’s centre of gravity, enhancing stability. The M3 will also benefit from custom-designed subframes and axles, along with significant structural reinforcements – with carbon fibre expected to feature prominently, helping to offset the typical weight penalty of an EV compared to its piston-powered counterpart.

Dirk Häcker, BMW M’s Head of Development, offers insights into the electric M3's progress in an interview on BMW M’s official website. Häcker revealed the prototypes are already in their second generation, building on an earlier iteration that was never publicly shown. In the behind-the-scenes video, a BEV mule based on the F87 M2 can be seen alongside the current prototype, which uses the i4 M50 as its platform donor.

According to Häcker, creating the eM3 required a completely fresh approach: “The development of the second prototype has taken just under three years. The biggest challenge is clearly the new drive technology. The entire design of the vehicle architecture has to do justice to the complex overall system. Compared to conventional powertrains and control systems with an internal combustion engine, or all-wheel drive systems with limited-slip differentials and other scopes where you can take an evolutionary approach, the prototype with its four independently operating e-machines is indeed a big step. We had to decide early on what was to be included and implemented.”

Next generation BMW M3 prototype test mule
Test mules have also been disguised as BMW i4 M50's

One thing the electric M3 will not lack is performance. According to BMWblog, the base model of the all-electric M3 is expected to deliver approximately 670bhp – a substantial increase over today’s 530bhp Competition-spec M3. But with AMG’s upcoming electric saloon rumoured to offer as much as 1,000bhp, the eM3 line-up is anticipated to include a range of power outputs. BMW has been developing motors capable of delivering up to 1,300bhp, though this level of performance is more likely reserved for a potential flagship hypercar, or to future-proof the technology.

M owners, however, will have concerns beyond raw performance figures – namely, the durability of that performance. With M cars proving a popular choice at track days, according to EVO magazine, BMW has invested heavily in developing energy-dense battery cells and advanced heat management systems. Häcker reassures fans: “Without racetrack capability, the model wouldn't be an authentic BMW M.”

Interestingly, BMW trademarked the iM3 name in 2023, but M boss Frank van Meel has recently dismissed the idea of merging the two streams: “We would never use an i on an M, even though it would be electric... Because an M3 had a four-cylinder, six-cylinder, eight-cylinder engine; naturally aspirated, turbocharged ones. Now it’s even got an xDrive, but it always remained an M3.”

The electric M3 is set to make its debut in 2027, and one thing is for certain – it will be an M car like no other in the marque's history.