- BMW has revealed the first proper look at a Neue Klasse-based M3.
- The M Concept Neueu Klasse was revealed at the 24 Hours of Le Mans this weekend.
- The concept uses BMW's 800-volt architecture, a 100kWh battery and four electric motors.
BMW has given us the best glimpse yet into what future M cars will look like with the reveal of the M Concept Neue Klasse at the 24 Hours of Le Mans.
The company says the concept serves as a showcase for a new design language that it intends to apply to its upcoming M product portfolio and sets "a clear signal for the brand’s all-electric future."
The M Concept Neue Klasse's exterior design incorporates several features intended to optimise aerodynamic performance and cooling; the front bonnet includes a V-shaped air outlet to assist in cooling the electric drivetrain, while the side mirrors have been redesigned for improved airflow.
The front of the vehicle features a "shark nose" profile with the headlights and kidney grille are combined into a single functional unit. The headlights also feature new "M Yellow Lights", a feature intended to become a standard signature for future M models.
The three-part front bumper design provides support for a front splitter, while at the rear, the vehicle is equipped with a ducktail spoiler to increase downforce on the rear axle. A floating diffuser is framed by "Track Lights," which are three-dimensional lighting elements also found on the front apron.
The interior of the M Concept Neue Klasse is configured with four bucket seats that use structural elements made from natural fibre materials and are upholstered in a two-tone Merino leather finish. Black nubuck leather is applied to the steering wheel and door panels, while the dashboard features a black knit material and incorporates M-specific hexagonal backlighting.
The concept vehicle's powertrain consists of the BMW M eDrive system, which uses four electric motors and is managed by a high-performance computer that runs specialised control software to provide wheel-specific management of the drivetrain and braking systems.
The technology is based on the company's sixth-generation system and uses 800-volt architecture. The high-voltage battery has an energy capacity exceeding 100kWh and uses optimised cylindrical cells. For increased structural rigidity, the battery housing is integrated directly into the front and rear axles.
"The new BMW M design language forms the expressive spearhead of the Neue Klasse - determined and purposeful," said Oliver Heilmer, Head of Design BMW Compact Class, Neue Klasse and BMW M.
"At BMW M, form consistently follows function. Every detail serves performance. This project is truly special to me because it carries the BMW M character into a new era."
