BMW M3 EV Will Arrive with Quad-Motors and Hyundai-Inspired Fake Gear Shifts

Key Points

• BMW's upcoming electric M3 will feature simulated gearshifts inspired by Hyundai Ioniq 5 N.
• Quad-motor system, M-specific control software, and 2WD mode enhance performance and driving dynamics.
• The EV M3 is expected for the 2027 model year.

The Tables Have Turned

If we told you that BMW M would draw parallels with Hyundai N five years ago, you’d probably laugh at the idea. But here we are now with the upcoming electric M3 that will apparently come with simulated gearshifts…like the Ioniq 5 N.

Not to worry, a gas-fed M3 will also be made, but a feature first seen on a Hyundai making its way to a BMW shows how far the Koreans have come in a relatively short time. Of course, it’s no secret that Hyundai poached Albert Biermann from BMW M. He’s been retired for quite some time now, but it appears his influence is making an impact over there.

Simulated Gearshifts Alone Do Not Make an M Car
While the simulated gearshifts are a welcome bit of news, that alone doesn’t turn any EV into a performance car. Thankfully, BMW does say its electric M3 will have a couple more tricks up its sleeve. For instance, each wheel has a compact electric motor, so it’s packing a quad-motor system.

BMW adds that electric M cars will benefit from this kind of arrangement, along with an M-specific control software of the Heart of Joy system. Heart of Joy was first applied to the all-new iX3, and it could be a potential game changer when it comes to EV driving dynamics.

Of Course, You Can Make it Slide
While it does come with a clever all-wheel drive system (and that’s oversimplifying it), the M3 EV can be put in 2WD mode for some sideways action. Okay, it’s not the first BMW M product to get that, but it’s nice to know that it’ll be applied here too. Switching to 2WD mode also increases range, the company says.

Other highlights? Well, BMW isn’t mentioning any power figures yet, but at least 500 horsepower and truckloads of torque. While we don’t know that yet, what is confirmed is a large battery pack with over 100 kWh. It’ll also have the same tech applied in the Neue Klasse iX3 to give it a decent amount of range. Granted, we’re not expecting the M3 EV to have the same range as the practical family crossover, but hopefully it’s more than enough to enjoy a track day and make it home without plugging in.