2028 BMW M3 EV: What We Know About BMW's First Ground-Up Electric M Car

As reported by Car and Driver, the upcoming BMW M3 EV sports sedan represents the Bavarian automaker's most significant push yet to win over electric vehicle buyers. Designed from the start as a dedicated performance model, it marks BMW's first inception-to-showroom production electric M car. Notably, traditionalists do not need to worry about the immediate end of internal combustion, as BMW says the M3 EV will coexist alongside a gasoline-powered M3, which is expected to arrive in showrooms ahead of the electric model.

Exterior Styling and Neue Klasse Architecture

The exterior design of the M3 EV derives from the standard i3, but it distinguishes itself through M-specific fender bulges, functional aerodynamic enhancements, and racier-looking exterior lighting elements. Underneath its sculpted bodywork, the M3 EV rides atop BMW's new EV platform, sharing foundational technology with the brand's upcoming Neue Klasse vehicle lineup.

Production for the electric performance sedan is anticipated to begin sometime in 2027. Like the standard i3 and other Neue Klasse models, the M3 EV incorporates an advanced 800-volt electrical architecture. Additionally, Car and Driver reports that the vehicle's battery pack offers 20 percent higher energy density than BMW's past electric vehicles.

Quad Motors, "Heart of Joy" Control, and Horsepower Expectations

While full technical specifications remain undisclosed, it is confirmed that the M3 EV will be powered by a setup utilizing four electric motors. BMW is actively developing its next-generation electric motors, and the M division has been experimenting with various methods to ensure the electric M3 retains a strong performance advantage over its competitors.

To manage these systems, the M3 EV utilizes BMW's centralized "Heart of Joy" control unit and software. This sophisticated system oversees multiple critical vehicle operations, including drivetrain output, braking performance, charging, energy regeneration, and steering responses.

Regarding total output, Car and Driver projects that the base version of the M3 EV will pack over 600 horsepower. A range-topping CS trim could potentially crest the 1,000-horsepower mark.

Interior Layout, Cargo, and Panoramic Vision Tech

Inside the cabin, the M3 EV features BMW's latest digital dashboard layout, centered around a distinctive trapezoidal infotainment display. The concept version of the vehicle displayed deeply bucketed performance seats fitted with five-point safety harnesses, a cloth dashboard trim piece featuring multi-colored ambient backlighting, and a pair of individual rear bucket seats. However, production models are expected to feature standard chairs, traditional seatbelts, and at least an optional three-across rear bench seat. For practical storage, space is expected in both the rear trunk and the front trunk.

The driver interface relies on a touchscreen with a matrix backlight, ensuring optimal visibility in all lighting conditions. Drivers can drag and drop up to six individual widgets directly from the main infotainment screen onto BMW's new Panoramic Vision system. This display projects vital driving information across the lower section of the windshield, stretching continuously from A-pillar to A-pillar.

Essential driver data is displayed on the left side for the driver, while the central and right-hand regions of the display can be personalized and remain visible to all vehicle occupants. Steering wheel controls allow further customization of both the touchscreen and Panoramic Vision system, while a traditional head-up display remains available. Furthermore, smartwatches and smartphones from leading manufacturers can be programmed for use as digital vehicle keys.

Current Alternatives

For performance enthusiasts who cannot wait for the M3 EV to officially launch, Car and Driver highlights the outgoing BMW i4 as a current alternative. The i4 remains a standout option in the brand's lineup and can be ordered with a dual-motor powertrain producing up to 592 horsepower.