A petrol-powered M3 isn’t going to be struck from the list of new cars in the near future, but an electric BMW M3 is coming and plans on playing in the same segment. A prototype has been out and about, ahead of a 2027 arrival of a production model. 
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Not placing all of its eggs in one basket, BMW is preparing to endow its iconic M3 moniker with a zero-emission and silent option for buyers to choose from. It will be based on the Neue Klasse platform and should arrive in 2027. This will coexist alongside the next-generation inline-six-powered model, ensuring the M3 legacy continues to cater to parties. Shared on social media wearing a distinct camouflage, the electric alternative has been met with expected criticisms surrounding its existence and design.
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Opinions aside, the exterior seems in a place where it could soon be put into production but underneath remains what will be a high-performance i3 electric sedan. The Neue Klasse platform on which it is based, is designed exclusively for BMW’s EVs and gives the car compact proportions with short overhangs.
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Unlike the current generation of M3, it seems that the designers have opted for a more subtle kidney grille which integrates into the headlights which is reminiscent of the Vision Neue Klasse concept. While the lighting elements on the prototype are provisional, the overall shape and dimensions are expected to remain unchanged. Although unconfirmed, it is believed the model will benefit from pop-up door handles, a boot spoiler and an overall lower stance courtesy of sports suspension. Nothing on the interior has been revealed yet but if it shares its execution with the Vision Neue Klasse concept, it would likely boast some racey details in what is an extremely minimal cockpit.
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Aside from the photos, there is also no confirmation on performance outputs and powertrain choices but future high-performance BMW EVs could feature four motors and almost 1 000 kW of power. An early guess is that it would likely not be outfitted with such ludicrous capabilities but rather performance that can make it comparable to the conventionally powered model, while still able to carry the extra weight of the battery.
When the time eventually comes for the arrival of the electric BMW M3, buyers will be spoiled for choice since the seventh-generation M3 codenamed “G84” will come the following year in 2028. There is no certainty on how buyers will react to this multi pronged approach but considering the current BMW M clientele, it is expected that the EV will sell in far fewer numbers.
