BMW Caught Rigorously Testing the Electric M3 on the Race Track: Video Footage
BMW has teased an electrified version of the iconic M3, set to deliver 1,341 horsepower in its quad-motor setup, although the production model is expected to have less power. The electric M3, known as "ZA0" within Munich, is scheduled for release in 2027.
The electrified M3 will retain the traditional M3 monogram, signalling BMW's confidence that the car will be an M3 first and an electric vehicle second. This decision reflects the M division's belief that the electric M3 can live up to the legend of its gas-powered counterpart.
While the gas-powered G84 M3 is expected to feature an inline-six engine, details about the powertrain of the electric M3 are still emerging. Some reports suggest that the electric M3 could produce around 670 horsepower in its initial RWD variant. However, it remains unclear whether the test vehicle for the electric M3 is rear-wheel drive or all-wheel drive.
The prototype of the electric M3 has been spotted undergoing testing at the Nürburgring, with a new spy video showing the fully camouflaged vehicle being pushed hard around the track. The low stance of the prototype suggests that it benefits from M trickery, while the wide lower air intakes on the front end offer a hint at its potential performance capabilities.
Despite the weight penalty associated with electric vehicles, the electric M3 is expected to weigh more than 2,000 kilograms due to the Gen6 round cells battery pack. It remains to be seen whether the electric M3 can match the agility of the G80 in the corners, given this weight difference.
The electric M3 is not the first electric vehicle from BMW M to enter the market. The BMW i4 M50, released earlier, paved the way for the electric M3. The fenders of the electric M3 prototype remain hidden, but its pronounced arches indicate that it is not a regular i3 sedan.
The M3 made its debut at the 1985 Frankfurt Motor Show and is celebrating its 40th anniversary this year. The seventh-generation M3 is likely to be the last with a gas engine, making the electric M3 a significant milestone in the evolution of this iconic high-performance sports sedan.
The electric M3 is currently undergoing years of testing, and it remains to be seen how it will compare to its gas-powered counterpart. However, with BMW's commitment to delivering a powerful and traditional M3 experience, fans of the brand can look forward to an exciting electric future.
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