BMW fans, i have good, bad, and exciting news for you.
The bad news is that BMW has reached an important stage in the development of the electric BMW M3, as it was tested for the first time on the famous Nürburgring. It was spotted in spy photos during the test. The bad news here is that the beloved M3 will become electric. But these photos don't reveal much about the new car's design, nor any details about any of the sensors, radars, or air vents that are usually visible.
The good news is:
Remember the BMW Vision Neue Klasse concept? Some sources report that the electric M3 is based on it, and that it draws power from four electric motors generating 1,341 horsepower. However, the electric BMW M3 will certainly generate less power than this maximum output, but it will certainly be mind-blowing, and the torque will make your back glued to the seat when the car accelerates.
The suspenseful news is that while we have high hopes for BMW's electric super sedan, it may struggle to achieve the Nürburgring lap record for a four-door electric sedan. The excitement and competition intensified when this category recently experienced the Green Hell Circuit, with Chinese electronics giant Xiaomi setting a lap record of 6:48.87 with its SUV 7 Ultra concept, beating the record set by the Porsche Taycan Turbo.
Design-wise, the electric M3 bears clear traces of the upcoming 2026 Neue Klasse 3 Series, though there are some differences, such as larger wheel arches that allow for a wider track, as well as more prominent side skirts.
Sketches around each wheel indicate that this prototype is powered by four electric motors. BMW has been working on this powertrain for some time, to make the electric BMW M3 stand out from the electric 3 Series, which will feature one or two electric motors. In a statement, BMW Development Chief Frank Weber explained that the electric BMW iM3 will be based on the all-new Neue Klasse platform. He added that it is expected to go on sale in 2027, close to the launch of the first series of the Neue Klasse lineup. However, it has not yet been determined whether these plans also include the launch of a Touring station wagon version of the electric M3.
Oh, right, I forgot to give you more good news. The regular gasoline-powered M3 will not be discontinued. Some sources also report that it will be offered in its new generation alongside the fully electric model. Weber explained that BMW has modified its current 3.0-liter turbocharged six-cylinder engine to comply with Euro 7 emissions standards.
Unfortunately, this is the state of the market now. All cars are going electric. Of course, I don't hate them; I absolutely love electric cars, because they're quiet, modern, and sophisticated, and they offer a comfortable driving experience with high power output. However, for some sports cars powered by legendary engines, I'd prefer them to remain as they are so they don't lose their essence, or even to have two versions: one electric and one that retains the essence of the car. That would be a fair solution, but maybe av really expensive one for manufacturers.
