BMW M is preparing to enter a new chapter from 2027, when its high-performance models will go fully electric for the first time. The move signals a major shift for the brand, as it brings its long-standing motorsport philosophy into the electric era, combining everyday usability with serious racetrack ability. The upcoming generation of BMW
The upcoming generation of BMW M cars will be built on the Neue Klasse platform and is designed to carry forward the brand’s core character rather than reinvent it. The focus remains firmly on sharp driving dynamics, strong emotional appeal and performance that lives up to the M badge. According to BMW M, the goal is to set a new benchmark in the high-performance segment, using advanced electric technology to elevate the driving experience rather than dilute it.
At the heart of these new models is a fully electric drivetrain that changes how performance is delivered. Long driving range, fast charging through 800-volt technology and highly efficient energy recuperation are intended to make these cars practical for daily use, while still capable of handling hard driving on track. A newly developed vehicle architecture allows each wheel to be driven independently, opening up new possibilities for handling, traction and overall safety.
Much of the leap in performance comes from the Neue Klasse’s new electronics and control systems. Four high-performance computers, referred to internally as “Superbrains”, handle everything from driving dynamics and automated driving to infotainment and comfort functions. One of these, known as the “Heart of Joy”, is dedicated entirely to managing driving dynamics. This setup allows faster data processing, more precise control and quicker software updates over the vehicle’s lifetime.
The electric M models have been engineered from the ground up around a new BMW M eDrive system, based on sixth-generation electric technology. Each wheel is powered by its own electric motor, working in combination with M-specific software to deliver extremely precise torque control. This system, called BMW M Dynamic Performance Control, allows optimal traction right up to the limit, sharper responses and maximum energy recuperation under braking.
Two electric drive units are fitted across the front and rear axles, with one motor per wheel. This layout blends the advantages of rear-wheel drive and all-wheel drive, improving performance both on the road and on track. The front axle can also be completely disengaged when needed, allowing the car to behave like a traditional rear-wheel-drive BMW M, which improves efficiency and range during steady motorway driving. To maintain the familiar M feel, the cars will feature selectable driving modes, simulated gear shifts and a newly developed sound profile designed to add emotion to the electric experience.
These electric drive units are the most powerful BMW M has ever used, featuring extremely high power density. Each motor operates in parallel and delivers power through its own gearbox, with the inverter and oil supply integrated into the unit. This setup allows millisecond-precise torque delivery to each wheel, seamless coordination between braking and motor regeneration, and stable performance even under extreme driving conditions.
Powering the system is a high-voltage battery with more than 100 kWh of usable energy, specially developed for high-performance use. BMW M has focused on ensuring the battery can cope with both daily driving and repeated high-load track sessions. This has been achieved through a performance-focused version of the Gen6 cylindrical cell, along with enhanced cooling and an advanced battery control unit known as the Energy Master. The battery also plays a structural role in the vehicle, connecting directly to the front and rear axles to increase overall stiffness and improve handling.
Beyond performance, BMW M is also introducing new materials as part of its lightweight strategy. For the first time, natural fibre elements will be used in fully electric BMW M models. Developed through years of motorsport experience, these materials offer similar strength and weight benefits to carbon fibre, while reducing CO2 emissions during production by around 40 per cent.
With this new generation, BMW M is making it clear that electrification is not about toning things down. Instead, the brand is betting that advanced technology, clever engineering and lessons learned on the racetrack can deliver an electric driving experience that still feels unmistakably M.