BMW M models enter a new era of fully electric performance

Performance is changing, and it wouldn’t be too far-fetched to suggest that we’re about to witness a significant moment in automotive history. A decision has been made that could mark the moment when the scale began to swing inexorably from petrol to electricity. Let’s be honest about it, the announcement that BMW’s next high-performance M model will deliver the ‘Ultimate Driving Machine’ in electric form is quite a big deal.

You’re going to have to wait until next year for the full story, but when the BMW M Neue Klasse launches in 2027 it will mark the beginning of a new era in high-performance, combining the DNA and heritage of the legendary M badge with the latest fully electric drivetrains, lightweight construction, and cutting-edge battery technology.

The next generation is set to establish a new benchmark in the performance vehicle segment, taking the BMW M driving experience to a new level with outstanding, track-focused driving dynamics for everyday use.

A fully electric drivetrain obviously marks a significant departure from the snarling M cars of the past, but experience tells us that BMW tends to get this kind of stuff right. It might signal the beginning of the end of the hugely powerful, fire-breathing internal combustion era, but electricity is just another means of achieving propulsion. The essence of driving – the handling and agility and seemingly limitless power – is still the defining factor, and you’d be brave to bet against BMW’s M division in that regard.

The BMW M Neue Klasse has been developed from the ground up to ensure perfect harmony between the past and the future.

At its core is the newly developed BMW M eDrive and the four “Superbrain” high-performance computers responsible for the integrated M Dynamic Performance Control. The newly developed architecture creates a centrally controlled system of individual driven wheels, potentially offering driving dynamics, stability, and control on levels we haven’t seen before.

Each wheel is driven by an electric motor that is constantly monitored by the M-specific control software for maximum energy recuperation and optimum traction, as well as a more direct throttle response.

Two electric drive units - one on each axle - contain a pair of electric motors, each delivering power to one gearbox per wheel. This enables precise control of torque and power at each individual wheel, allowing for optimal traction, continuous torque distribution, as well as brake energy recuperation right up to the limit. That means each wheel is independently driven by its own motor, and each of those four motors only has one wheel to worry about.

This combines all the advantages of rear-wheel and all-wheel drive into one gloriously enhanced package of driving dynamics for both the road and the racetrack. The front axle can be completely decoupled if you want the traditional rear-wheel drive experience, or to maximise efficiency and range on longer motorway journeys. Turn it back on again to experience the phenomenal grip and control of all-wheel drive performance when the road offers a more thrilling drive.

The result, according to BMW, is a driving experience that has never been achieved before.

Added to that mix is the 100kWh high-voltage battery that powers the BMW M eDrive system. This has also been specifically adapted to meet the demands of a high-performance car.

The battery pack, cooling system, and Energy Master — the ‘brain’ of the battery pack — have been optimised for the higher power outputs required in a performance model, delivering even greater power and charging capability, alongside enhanced energy recovery. BMW has even incorporated the battery housing into the structure of the vehicle, connecting it to both axles to increase overall stiffness and squeeze out as much handling as it possibly can.

While it may represent a change to our expectations when it comes to BMW’s performance models, change can often lead to entirely new opportunities.

Many people will mourn the loss of the powerful engine and howling exhaust note of a high-performance BMW. There’s nothing wrong with that, and those people certainly won’t be alone. But while the next generation BMW M Neue Klasse may be different, it will still be the most important thing it can be - a BMW M car.