BMW’s unwavering commitment to electric mobility has extended its reach to the prestigious BMW M performance division, signaling a paradigm shift in the automotive landscape.
The marque’s high-performance arm, BMW M, has already unveiled an impressive lineup of electric offerings, including the i4 M50, i5 M60, iX M60, and i7 M70 M Performance models. However, the spotlight now shifts to a dedicated M car, marking a significant leap in performance and innovation.
As early as 2022, BMW M announced the commencement of testing for a quad-motor electric powertrain alongside a sophisticated chassis control system engineered to channel power with precision. Initial glimpses came through a powertrain test mule, cloaked in the body of the i4 M50 but infused with elements borrowed from the M3 and M4 series to enhance cooling and torsional rigidity.
Now, a more advanced iteration of the test mule has emerged during cold-weather trials, boasting distinctive features such as a bespoke grille, rear diffuser, and notably, expanded fenders necessitated by the installation of electric motors. With two motors at each axle, the system enables individual control over each wheel, offering unparalleled agility and traction.
This meticulous control facilitates precise torque distribution, tailored to varying driving conditions through input from sensors and driver commands. Whether enhancing grip on slippery surfaces or optimizing stability during cornering, the torque distribution adapts seamlessly to the environment, enhancing performance and safety.
Furthermore, BMW M engineers are fine-tuning the powertrain to deliver a characteristic hallmark of the brand: linear power delivery. Unlike the abrupt acceleration of many high-power EVs, BMW M’s electric vehicles promise a smoother, more controlled driving experience—an ethos exemplified by the Rolls-Royce Spectre.
While specifics regarding the battery remain undisclosed, BMW is poised to introduce a sixth-generation battery design for its forthcoming Neue Klasse EVs. Featuring cylindrical cells and other enhancements, these batteries are anticipated to deliver a 30% improvement in range over current offerings, laying the groundwork for BMW M’s electrified future.
As anticipation builds, BMW M has remained tight-lipped regarding the debut of its inaugural electric M car. Speculation abounds, with some suggesting the test mule could pave the way for a future i4 M, while others hint at the possibility of an electrified M version within the Neue Klasse lineup. Additionally, rumors swirl regarding the next iteration of the M5, with whispers of an electric powertrain as a compelling alternative to the traditional V-8 hybrid setup.
In the dynamic landscape of automotive innovation, BMW M’s foray into electric performance heralds a new era of exhilarating driving experiences, where sustainability meets uncompromising performance.
