BMW Explores e-Power for Next-Gen M3 and M4
The M badge, among the most respected emblems in the motoring world, has given us some of the best driver's cars ever produced. With the introduction of the XM plug-in hybrid, concerns were raised about the introduction of electric propulsion in BMW's M cars.
However, At the time, BMW M reassured the motoring community that as long as it had a say, the M fleet would continue utilising internal combustion engines.
This is a concerning prospect, no doubt. Still, all hope is not lost since, in an interview with Drive, BMW M boss, Frank van Meel, suggested that BMW M would continue using petrol to power its performance duo, provided the ICE testers deliver better performance than the electric vehicle options.
We have seen that EVs provide considerably better acceleration than their ICE counterparts. Although batteries are heavy, improved packaging now enables them to sit lower in the vehicle, marginally enhancing the handling of EVs – a crucial factor in deciding the future of the M3 and M4.
The upcoming testing of the new M model will be closely watched. If the M team discovers that the electric versions outperform traditional internal combustion engines, they may shift entirely towards producing solely electric M vehicles.
Having spent time in the i4 M50i, we found the immediate shock of instant torque appealing; however, the i4 proved somewhat unwieldy when navigating turns. Then again, high-speed cornering was never the focus of the i4, and the M division's focus on electric cars may give us some silent monsters with gigantic teeth. The Rimac Nevera serves as proof that this is achievable.
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