Automotive
BMW M details simulated gear stages and design shift for upcoming EV
The high-performance brand's upcoming electric model, scheduled for 2027, will feature paddle-controlled performance stages and smaller kidney grilles.
The short version
- BMW M is developing its first electric vehicle based on the Neue Klasse architecture, scheduled for production in 2027.
- The vehicle will use four electric motors and paddle shifters to provide driver feedback through distinct performance stages without interrupting power delivery.
- Designers are moving away from large vertical kidney grilles toward slimmer, horizontal grilles inspired by historic models like the BMW 1500 and 507.
Key facts
- BMW M is developing its first electric M model based on the Neue Klasse architecture, scheduled for 2027 production.[MotorTrend]
- BMW M Head Frank van Meel confirmed the production EV will feature paddle shifters and performance stages designed to provide driver feedback similar to gear changes without power interruptions.[MotorTrend]
- The upcoming electric M car is expected to utilize four electric motors.[MotorTrend]
- BMW M Head of Design Oliver Heilmer stated the model's front features slimmer kidney grilles inspired by historical models like the BMW 1500 and 507.[MotorTrend]
What remains uncertain
- The exact mechanical or software mechanism governing how the paddle-controlled performance stages and synthetic soundtrack operate has not been fully detailed by BMW M.[MotorTrend]
- It remains unknown how many design elements from the M Concept Neue Klasse will carry over to the final 2027 production car.[MotorTrend]
Sources
- Next BMW M3 EV Will Have Gears, Sort OfMotorTrend