BMW presented the M Concept Neue Klasse ahead of the arrival of its first dedicated electric M model. While the manufacturer has marketed performance-oriented electric vehicles since the launch of the i4 M50 in 2021, a fully fledged M car without an internal combustion engine has yet to reach dealerships.
The concept is intended as a preview of the future electric M3. The vehicle follows the Vision Driving Experience concept shown earlier, although BMW says this latest version has been toned down and brought closer to production specification.
A More Aggressive Interpretation of the New i3
The M Concept Neue Klasse is based on the recently introduced 2027 i3 electric sedan, but several design changes set it apart from the standard model.
The body features widened wheel arches, V-shaped air vents integrated into the hood, a substantial front splitter and a large rear diffuser. BMW says these components are made from natural-fiber composites as part of a broader move away from carbon fiber.
The concept also incorporates references to earlier BMW designs. The company describes the front fascia as a “shark nose,” while the rear includes a ducktail spoiler inspired by models from the brand’s past.
New wing mirrors extend outward from the bodywork, reinforcing the vehicle’s racing-inspired appearance. The sedan rides on center-lock wheels, with Monza Red accents on the left side matching the body color. On the opposite side, blue rings on the center caps reference the M color scheme that also appears on the mirrors and at the rear edge of the roof.
The double-yellow front lights are destined for future production models and serve as a tribute to the BMW M Hybrid V8 endurance racer competing this weekend at the Circuit de La Sarthe. Square lighting elements protruding from both bumpers contrast with the smoother surfaces of the body.
The concept also abandons the pop-out door handles used on the i3. Instead, front occupants access the vehicle through winglets integrated into the beltline. BMW has not explained how rear passengers enter the car. The earlier Vision Driving Experience concept concealed the rear handles within the Hofmeister kink.
A Cabin Centered on Performance
Inside, the concept remains closely related to the new i3 while adopting a more focused atmosphere. The vehicle features four bucket seats, including two individual rear seats. A roll bar wrapped in black nubuck leather occupies part of the rear compartment and appears to limit available space.
BMW says this is the first time nubuck leather has been used in an M car. The material is also applied to the steering wheel and door panels.
The steering wheel itself comes from the new i3 but gains additional red buttons reserved for M-specific functions. The overall layout remains familiar, though the execution reflects the concept’s performance-oriented role.
Four Electric Motors and a Battery Developed for Repeated Performance
BMW has released only limited technical information about the M Concept Neue Klasse, but several details have been confirmed.
According to the automaker, the concept uses four electric motors. With one motor assigned to each wheel, the system provides all-wheel drive. BMW did not disclose power output figures or performance specifications.
The concept is equipped with a new-generation battery pack using cylindrical cells. BMW says the battery delivers a net capacity of more than 100 kWh and has been engineered specifically for M vehicles in order to sustain repeated power delivery.
The vehicle also adopts an 800-volt architecture. This setup supports ultra-fast charging and follows the approach already seen on the new i3, which can accept charging rates of up to 400 kilowatts.
BMW has not announced a production name for the future model. The final version is expected to be unveiled in 2027, and the publication reports that it is unlikely to carry the iM3 designation. Instead, it may simply retain the M3 badge.
