BMW M has attended the 24 Hours of Le Mans this weekend to unveil an all-electric concept car destined to succeed the current M3. Known as the BMW M Concept Neue Klasse, it is expected to spawn a production version next year.
In the meantime, we already know quite a few details worth sharing. For one, the automaker says the powertrain comprises four electric motors, apparently installed one per wheel. It receives power from a high-end 800-volt architecture and comes with a large battery pack rated above 100 kilowatt-hours.
The output remains unknown, but BMW promises us highly accurate per-wheel torque control, brakes that can be applied variably on a per-wheel basis, and some of the sharpest and driver-focused steering experiences from the Manufaktur division so far.
There is no denying that the precursor to the electric M3 cuts a striking figure with its polished Neue Klasse aesthetic. It is finished in a shade of red known as Monza Red and somewhat resembles the current i3, but with better-defined wheel arches and a novel, motorboat-inspired front end. A spoiler at the rear and centerlock wheels in the arches lend it a sporty vibe.
In turn, the interior makes use of generous amounts of leather, carbon fiber and nubuck. Found inside are four bucket seats with five-point harnesses, a minimalistic dash and what looks like more traditional buttons on the steering wheel.