Next-gen BMW M3 apparently going electric

One of BMW’s highest-ranking executives has seemingly confirmed the next-generation BMW M3 will be available with pure-electric power when it materialises as part of the German car-maker’s ‘new class’ generation of models due from 2025.

“What we are bringing to the new class with the modular electric drive system is fundamentally different from what we know today,” he said.

“But that also applies to all other modular systems – such as the digital one with on-board power supply, operating concept and automated driving functions or the chassis and interior modular systems. Here we will take a big step forward everywhere.

“And all of these modules are cross-architecture and can be adapted for all future vehicle concepts, regardless of the drive.

“And by the way: what the e-machines will be able to do may mean that you have to imagine the next M3 in a completely different way.”

But before purists everywhere start panicking, it should also be noted that Weber stopped short of confirming the next BMW 3 Series as electric-only, thereby leaving the door open for another hot six-cylinder or even the return of a V8 version.

“It’s still too early for that,” he said in regard to the BMW 3 Series going all-electric.

“In 2025 there will still be many people who cannot drive an electric car because they do not have the necessary infrastructure – this will develop at very different speeds in the individual markets.

“But – and this is very important to me – we will not force our customers to choose between the new and the supposedly old.”

With inevitable parallels being drawn between the electric BMW i4 and next-gen BMW 3 Series, Weber said there was “a lot of potential” for higher performance, more attractive looks and a 30 per cent drop in battery cell production costs.