Drive.co
BMW’s high-performance division is refusing to rush into an all-electric future, instead choosing to let
customers decide how the iconic M badge evolves.
Speaking to Australian media, BMW M CEO Frank van Meel confirmed the brand will continue developing both electric and internal combustion M cars, allowing market demand – rather than ideology – to shape the future.
“As long as there is demand from the markets, which currently there is a lot, we will keep building petrol cars,” Mr van Meel said.
“If customers fall in love with the electric one, or the other way around, that’s the direction we’ll follow.”
The announcement comes as BMW prepares its first all-electric BMW M3, ending more than four decades of petrol-only M3 production.
While full specifications remain under wraps, BMW has confirmed the electric M3 will use four individual electric motors – one at each wheel – enabling advanced torque-vectoring capability.
Output is expected to approach 1000kW, positioning it among the most powerful performance sedans the brand has ever developed.
Development of the electric M3 has been documented through a series of behind-the-scenes videos, with BMW keen to reassure enthusiasts that the car is being engineered to meet traditional M performance standards.
Mr van Meel hinted the vehicle is nearing its public debut, suggesting discussions would become more concrete “in one and a half years, once you’ve driven the all-electric ones”.
Crucially, BMW is not abandoning internal combustion performance.
A new petrol-powered M3 is understood to be in development, although it may not arrive until around 2028, aligning with the next-generation BMW 3 Series.
BMW believes offering both powertrains side by side is the most realistic strategy as global markets transition at different speeds.
“We don’t have the need to decide right now,” Mr van Meel said.
“Having a broad portfolio gives us the right offer for everyone. You always have to listen to your customers.”
According to Mr van Meel, the brand believes battery technology, thermal management and software control have finally reached the point where an electric car can meet M’s demanding standards.
“What makes me so positive about the electric one is timing,” he said.
“It’s about having the right technology to do a proper performance car.”
