Here is heartbreaking news. We assure you, a final decision has not yet been made, but the world boss of the M division, Frank van Meel, has indicated that the next M will be either petrol or fully electric, but not both at the same time.
An uncertain future
The next M3 and M4 models are planned for 2027 or 2028 and could remain petrol-powered or become all-electric. As early as 2022, Frank Weber, Head of Development at BMW, indicated that the next M3 could be electric. However, in a recent interview with Drive, global head of the M division, Frank van Meel, clarified the manufacturer’s position. He said all-electric versions of the M3 and M4 are a possibility, but only if they prove significantly better than the previous generation. If BMW can meet its performance targets for new M vehicles by using an electric powertrain, the next M3 and M4 will be electric.
No hybridization
Asked about the multiple powertrain options, Mr van Meel was quick to dismiss any suggestion that BMW would offer both petrol and electric versions, with the possibility of a hybrid electric vehicle. He considered these three options unrealistic and pointed out that BMW would prefer to use only one powertrain. We were lucky enough to drive an M3 CS version with its 503bhp six-cylinder last week and to be honest we can’t imagine how an M-EV can match that feeling behind the wheel in the short or medium term. An electric vehicle is currently too heavy and the sound of the six-cylinder is a symphony that no electric vehicle can replace.
With insights from Inside EVs
The text BMW M boss that the next M3 and M4 should be purely electric comes from L’annuel de l’automobile