The BMW M Neue Klasse Previews a 4-Motor Electric M3

MALAGA, SPAIN—The first fully electric M model will touch down next year, and we can't wait to drive it.

Ever since BMW signalled its electric intentions via the new-generation Neue Klasse architecture, enthusiasts have been eager to know how the brand's most famous letter would factor in. BMW M on Tuesday revealed more information on its first fully electric model, building on the new platform in ways that promise big power and new handling opportunities previously impossible with gasoline-powered models. And perhaps best of all, the latest example isn't an SUV (or SAV in BMW-speak), but an actual car.

The basis for the M Neue Klasse is sixth-generation electric motor design found in the 2027 iX3. Instead of a two-motor setup however, the M Neue Klasse employs four; one for each wheel. BMW's in-house "Heart of Joy" ECU gains an M-specific "BMW M Dynamic Performance Control" software, which BMW says "enables maximum recuperation and optimum traction right up to the limit, as well as a more direct response." These will be the most powerful drive units M has fit to a model, suggesting a serious bump in power over the existing lineup. And that's just the start.

Like the existing M3, M4, and M5, the M Neue Klasse defaults to all-wheel drive, but the driver can fully disengage the front axle for pure rear-drive shenanigans. During normal driving the system can also switch to single-axle drive to improve efficiency. In both situations, the one-wheel one-motor setup will allow for more precise torque vectoring.

M hasn't simply fitted its own motor setup and called it a day. The engineers have also tweaked the battery pack for M duty. BMW is only saying that the capacity exceeds 100.0 kilowatt-hours; the iX3 already does that, so whether it's more or less is anyone's guess. BMW M has changed the cell chemistry with a focus on performance, with higher peak output, charging power, and even recuperation values than the regular Neue Klasse models. Like many other EVs, the battery housing is a structural component, keeping the weight low in the chassis and improving rigidity.

BMW is taking a page from other performance EVs by adopting a simulated shift program for the M Neue Klasse. Hey, we're okay with this; it's applying the same basic principle of manual transmissions to EVs after all, which is more interaction even if it isn't technically quicker.

The accompanying press release also mentions an "exclusive soundscape" which should hopefully match the experience. No word on if it'll be more Hans Zimmer or classic V8... maybe both?

EVs aren't exactly lightweights (and neither is the plug-in M5). BMW wants to trim pounds where it can, and will use the production M Neue Klasse to debut natural fiber elements on its road cars. The brand has been experimenting with natural fiber materials in motorsport since 2019. Benefits include strength nearly on-par with carbon fiber but with a 40-percent lower equivalent CO2 footprint.

We understand the electric car market is at something of a crossroads, especially in North America. While there are new roadblocks in place, many automakers still see the technology as the future for most use cases. BMW has never shied away from this, but crucially the basic building blocks are already there. The iX3 was one of the most impressive vehicles we drove in 2025, feeling leaps and bounds beyond existing EV SUVs. Even without an M badge, it proved itself on the challenging Circuito Ascari. With the added adjustability, power, and poise of the M Neue Klasse, the future looks bright for BMW M, even without a manual transmission.

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