BMW is developing an electric M3 with four independent motors and plans to sell it alongside a new petrol-powered generation, Autocar reports.
The electric model was previewed by the M Neue Klasse concept and will transform the forthcoming i3 saloon. BMW M chief Frank van Meel called it a “natural enemy” to the petrol M3 within the company’s own range.
The new petrol M3 will retain a turbocharged 3.0-litre straight-six. BMW will adapt the engine to Euro 7 requirements without reducing its current 503bhp output.
The electric car’s key feature will be four motors controlled by the central Heart of Joy computer. The system can brake the inner wheels and accelerate the outer wheels separately to alter the car’s stability and agility.
“It’s not about having even more power. At the end of the day, you can’t put that down to the road anyway. You need to have sufficient power at every corner of the car and we are using four electric motors, but you will never use it at the same time,” — Frank van Meel, head of BMW M.
Van Meel said a road car does not need 1,000 horsepower, arguing that controlling the power and engaging the driver matter more. Buyers will be able to choose between electric and petrol versions, including on the basis of home-charging access and their preference for engine sound.
The electric M3 will also simulate gear changes. BMW has dropped the idea of reproducing historic V8 and V10 sounds and instead plans to create a distinct note derived from the electric motors.
