During the preparations for the 24 Hours of Le Mans, BMW presented the M Neue Klasse Concept, a car that heralds the first fully electric M3. The production version should succeed the current G80 M3 after its production ends, and the concept shows how BMW intends to combine electric drive with the recognizable character of the M division.
The design is still radical, but it seems more harmonious than the controversial G80 model with large vertical openings. The front end relies on the appearance of the new electric i3 sedan, but gets significantly more aggressive bumpers, extended fenders and aerodynamic elements inspired by multihull racing sailboats.
The front lights and the mask form a unique whole, while the yellow daytime running lights become the new trademark of the BMW M model. The solution is inspired by GT racing and the M Hybrid V8 prototype that competes in Le Mans. The concept also has additional Track Lights, which could become another distinguishing element of M cars in the future.
The BMW M Neue Klasse Concept announces the electric M3
The large front splitter, hood cooling vent, roof and rear diffuser are made of natural fiber composite instead of classic carbon fiber. BMW thereby shows a new approach to weight reduction, while at the same time retaining the look and solidity characteristic of sports models.
The very wide fenders, the integrated rear spoiler and the darkened rear lights stand out in particular. However, photos of test prototypes indicate that the production electric M3 will use more standard rear doors from the i3 model, so the final car will likely look less extreme.
The concept cabin has four separate sports seats, a protective frame between the B-pillars and five-point seat belts. The seats use composite materials with natural fibers, Merino leather in blue and red, while nubuck natural leather appears for the first time in an M model on the steering wheel, doors and protective frame.
The instrument panel takes over the basic layout from the i3 model, but gains M graphics for the Panoramic Vision iDrive system, a red gear selector and a specially shaped steering wheel with M buttons and large gearshift paddles.
BMW did not reveal detailed power and performance data. The concept is confirmed to use an 800-volt architecture and a battery with a capacity of more than 100 kWh, structurally integrated between the axles. It contains cylindrical cells of the sixth generation, specially adapted to the requirements of the M model.
The production electric M3 should retain the basic platform, grille with integrated lights, blacked-out rear light clusters and possibly Track Lights. Certain more extreme details will be softened, but BMW obviously wants the first electric M3 to look not like an ordinary i3 sedan with more powerful engines, but as a true successor to one of the brand’s most famous sports cars, reports BMWBlog.