According to the latest reports, BMW has unveiled a new-generation all-electric M concept car, which appears to be an enhanced version of the BMW i3, featuring a body kit and a four-seat cabin. It is powered by four electric motors and a 100 kWh battery.
BMW is implementing a multi-powertrain strategy for the M3 lineup. More importantly, a gasoline-powered M3 will still be released, but ahead of that, BMW has unveiled the M Concept Neue Klasse. This concept car is essentially an electric version of the M3, just with a different name. It can be viewed as a near-production preview of the upcoming i3M.
This concept car made its debut at the 24 Hours of Le Mans. BMW officially described it as “a preview of BMW M GmbH’s new design language for high-performance vehicles” and stated that it “sends a clear signal about the brand’s all-electric future.”
This concept car bears a striking resemblance to an i3 sedan that has been modified for extreme performance. BMW deliberately photographed it alongside the legendary E30 M3—the intention is clear. Its design builds on that of last year’s Vision Driving Experience concept car, but has been simplified to bring it closer to a production model.
The window lines and LED light clusters are reminiscent of the i3 sedan, but everything else is different. The M Package adds custom front and rear bumpers featuring large air intakes inspired by high-speed multihull sailboats, square “track lights” LEDs, wider front and rear fenders, and a prominent ducktail spoiler. This reminds me a bit of the rear design of “Lightning McQueen” from the Cars movies.
The body is finished in Monza Red Metallic, while the dark-finished front lip, side skirts, diffuser, hood air intakes, and roof are all made of natural fiber. The M-yellow lighting is inspired directly by motorsports, and the side mirrors have been aerodynamically optimized. The concept car is equipped with centrally locked wheels featuring negative camber, and the M-exclusive chassis provides a wider track and a lower ride height.
The cabin retains the hardware from the Neue Klasse and the i3’s design, including the infotainment system and the BMW Panoramic iDrive screen at the base of the windshield. Notably, the screen isn’t the typical rectangular design but rather resembles a parallelogram, giving it a highly distinctive look. All other features indicate that this is a performance sedan.
The interior features four individual Merino leather bucket seats with five-point seat belts, and structural components made from natural fibers. The roll cage, wrapped in Nubuck leather, matches the steering wheel and door panels. The dashboard is finished in black knit material with backlighting, and unlike the i3, the steering wheel and center console are equipped with custom controls and red accents.
Under the surface lies the BMW M eDrive four-motor system. It is based on the sixth generation of the Neue Klasse but was developed specifically for electric M models. BMW has not yet announced the combined output, but reports suggest the electric M3’s horsepower ranges between 700 and 1,000. According to reports, the 2025 concept car delivers a staggering 17,990 N·m of torque.
Power is managed by the BMW M Dynamic Performance Control system, which is part of the “Heart of Joy” supercomputer. The company promises that independent control of power and braking at each wheel will deliver “a new interpretation of dynamics, agility, and precision.”
The 800V architecture is paired with a battery pack with a capacity exceeding 100 kWh. It utilizes M-exclusive sixth-generation cylindrical cells, designed for higher power output while supporting fast charging and extended range. The battery housing is integrated with the axle structure to increase rigidity.
Franciscus van Meel, CEO of BMW M GmbH, stated: “Even in this new era of all-electric vehicles, we are continuing the M tradition by bringing technological innovations from motorsports and iconic design features directly into production.”
So there’s the question: Does this design catch your eye?