A new prototype of the fully electric BMW M3, or possibly called the iM3, has been spotted testing near the Nürburgring. And yes, that is just as good as it sounds. BMW is taking the iconic M3 into the electric era. Early details suggest the electric BMW M3 could pack over 700 horsepower from four electric motors. If that’s true, those specs make this the most powerful M3 ever made. Besides the power, it comes with an aggressive styling to match. It features wide fenders and awesome hardware under the skin. We’ve been saying it when reviewing the new 650HP BMW i7, and we’ll repeat it: BMW is setting the stage for a bold shift in the performance segment.
Design And Exterior Styling
The electric M3 prototype has an aggressive look that features wide fenders and an unmistakably muscular stance. At the time, it was spotted by Carscoops wearing camouflaged bodywork. From the appeal, it looks like the electric BMW M3 is near production.
At the front, the nose features BMW’s Neue Klasse design language, which features slim headlights integrated with blacked-out kidney grilles and a secondary grille positioned lower for added cooling.
The rear arches are especially pronounced, giving it a wide, planted look similar to the current BMW M5. Its fancy and sporty look is completed by temporary taillights.
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Performance & Powertrain
While exact specs are still under wraps, BMW is expecting to equip the electric M3 with four electric motors to produce at least 700 horsepower. This setup would place it well above the current gas-powered M3 in performance. And here’s even more interesting something: 700 HP output would not only make the electric BMW M3 the most powerful M3, but it would also be the fastest M3 ever built.
BMW recently hinted that the system could be pushed beyond 1,300 horsepower, though it’s unclear if such figures will make it into the production model. Even at 700 horsepower, the iM3 will outpace the Hyundai Ioniq 6 N (641 hp) and rival the upcoming next-gen M5 in raw power.
Weight & Braking System
The electric BMW M3 will weigh over 1,000 pounds (465 kg) more than the gas-powered version. This added weight comes from the battery and four-motor setup. To handle the extra mass, the prototype rides on Michelin Pilot Sport tires and features cross-drilled steel brakes. Given the performance demand, we think BMW will offer carbon ceramic brakes as an option, just like on the current M3 and M4.
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What Does This Mean for the M Brand?
The electric BMW M3 or the iM3 will launch alongside the gas-powered M3. BMW is hedging its bets here. If successful, this could set the tone for future high-performance EVs across the M lineup.
What do you think? Post your thoughts in the comments section below.
