BMW‘s M Division, renowned for its high-performance cars, has made it clear: there will be no ‘iM3’. Despite filing a trademark for the name ‘iM3’, which hinted at a fusion of BMW’s electric ‘i’ series and the performance-focused ‘M’ line, M boss Frank van Meel has firmly dismissed these speculations.
It seems that BMW wants to preserve the legacy of the M Badge
In an interview with Top Gear, van Meel emphasized the division’s philosophy, stating that the iconic ‘M’ badge will never blend with the ‘i’ of their electric series. “It’s a definite no,” he said. “For us, the ‘M’ represents a legacy of motorsports and emotion, not merely the type of drivetrain.” This stance points towards BMW’s commitment to preserving the distinct identity of its M Division, where performance and heritage take center stage.
But this doesn’t mean BMW is stepping back from the electric vehicle (EV) race. The company already boasts four M-branded EVs, including the iX M60 and i4 M50. Furthermore, in 2022, BMW showcased a quad-motor performance prototype, resembling the classic 3 Series, on its Neue Klasse electric platform. This move signals BMW’s readiness to dive deeper into the high-performance EV market.
While the idea of an ‘iM3’ might be off the table, it’s clear BMW is steering towards a future where electric power and M-badge performance coexist, albeit under different names. The company’s commitment to developing performance EVs on the Neue Klasse platform remains unwavering, ensuring that the thrill of M Division cars will evolve with the times.
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