BMW plans to speed up its game toward an electrified future, new reports suggest that the long-awaited BMW sports M3 sedan will not be ditching its internal combustion engine (ICE) any time soon. This unexpected turn of events in the electrification saga suggests a calculated move on their part that may position them to serve an increasingly diverse group of enthusiasts at a crossroads where ICE and electric M3s coexist.
According to the most recent report from BMW Blog, the upcoming M3 will be an addition with both an internal combustion engine and an electric option, which is different from the initial expectations of an entirely electric M3.
This deviates from the practice of combining ICE and electric platforms for a single model, demonstrating once more the company's dedication to providing a solution for every type of driving preference. The report highlights that BMW intends to offer a distinct driving experience for individuals who prefer the contemporary electric powertrain or the traditional internal combustion engine, as the ICE and electric M3 variants will not share a common platform.
S58 Engine Powering the ICE M3
Among them is BMW's desire to maintain the 3.0-liter S58 engine in the ICE M3 to comply with the mandated emission regulations. It is believed that the powerhouse engine can still produce over 500 horses or even more, even with the industry's recent electric surge.
With BMW M fully embracing automatic transmissions, it is unlikely that the loved manual transmission will make a comeback.
Regulatory Changes and ICE Dedication
BMW's unexpected decision to maintain an ICE M3 in the lineup is practically in line with how regulatory environments are changing across the globe. Many of these have experienced postponements, and numerous revisions to emissions regulations over time have left gaps that allow internal combustion engine vehicles to persist. The European Union permitting internal combustion engines (ICE) to run on synthetic fuels and rumored reductions in future EPA regulations are just two of the key factors.
Performance Cars and its Impacts
ICE's Significance in the Next Decade Given how quickly the world is turning to electric vehicles, BMW's decision to offer an M3 with a combustion engine raises the question of how long the performance of the car industry will last. In an environment where regulations are less strict and more progressive than ever, ICE endurance—particularly in the performance segment—may be extended well into the 2030s. BMW, however, firmly maintains its top spot in the innovation of electric mobility, striking a difficult balance for the sector when balancing its legacy against consumer demand for greener options.
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