Leaked BMW Electric M3 Could Have Around 800 HP

Coming Soon: The First Neue Klasse M

The i3 is now out in the open, but we all know that the M version is all but inevitable. Besides, we’ve seen spy shots of the car, and BMW isn’t denying that it’ll happen. It will be interesting times over at the M division as it prepares to roll out its first-ever EV performance car.

With that, we could expect the M3 EV, or iM3, should BMW choose that name, to make its world premiere within the year. Alleged leaked photos from Bimmer Post show that the car is pretty much complete, and the only thing to do now is hold the launch event.

Like the Look?

These alleged leaked images began circulating on Instagram shortly after the i3’s debut. If true, some design elements might not look too surprising, as we already know what the non-M version looks like. Of course, there are the chunkier fenders, a unique front bumper, and a generally more aggressive stance. That said, we’re genuinely curious if there will be a Touring model for it.

So far, there are no photos of the rear, but we’re imagining it with a wider stance, too. The car could feature some unique design elements on the sides, and we’re also expecting entirely different wheel designs. One thing that did catch our attention was the opening in the hood. It’s possibly an aero enhancement, like an air outlet.

Specs to Expect

The first electric M is confirmed to get a quad-motor arrangement, one powering each wheel. The drive system will essentially be the iX3’s all-wheel drive system on steroids. Whereas the i3 and iX3 have dual motors, the four motors in the M3 EV/iM3 constantly shift power to each wheel for sharper turns, at least in theory. A rear-wheel drive mode will also be included.

Official horsepower figures have yet to be released, but reports suggest around 800 hp. What we do know is its battery size, as BMW said it will be installing a 100 kWh pack in the electric M3. It won’t be for the sake of efficiency, though, as it’s there to give it some meaningful range even with that much power.

And for those who aren’t sold on the idea of a battery-powered M3, fear not. There will still be a fuel-fed model packing a turbocharged inline-six with a plug-in hybrid system. BMW is yet to reveal the ICE version of the all-new 3 Series, so that’s something to look forward to down the line.