BMW Electric M3 Development Wins Over Nürburgring Test Driver
Jörg Weidinger praises the four-motor prototype's confidence and precision during track testing at the Sachsenring.
BMW’s upcoming electric M3 has impressed Jörg Weidinger, a racing driver and BMW M development engineer responsible for Nürburgring record runs, during track testing. The internal validation comes as the automaker prepares to launch a high-performance electric sedan alongside its traditional combustion counterparts.
What Happened
In a recently released development documentary, BMW highlighted the reaction of Jörg Weidinger after he drove the near-production M3 EV at the Sachsenring circuit. Colleagues had described winning over the engineer, whose job is to find the limits of M cars, as a significant challenge. However, after his test drive, Weidinger stated, "That’s impressive. A real leap forward. The experience is incredible," focusing on the confidence the vehicle inspires. The development team has been prioritizing steering feedback, precise accelerator modulation, and predictable braking to ensure drivers can place the car accurately near its limits. Testing also took place at BMW’s Miramas proving ground in France, where elevation changes were used to challenge the chassis during fast cornering.
Why It Matters
The M3 EV will position itself above the i3 M60 xDrive, which is scheduled for 2027. While the M60 is a sportier variant of the standard i3, the M3 distinguishes itself with four motors, a high-performance battery, and a chassis specifically tuned for track driving. This architecture allows for precise, individual torque control at each wheel, coordinated by M-specific software. BMW aims to provide a driving experience that offers more grip and better handling under hard conditions than the M60. Crucially, BMW confirmed it will continue to offer both electric and gas-powered M3 models, with prices expected to fall in the same range. This dual approach gives buyers a choice, though the electric variant must still convince enthusiasts spending their own money, a hurdle noted as more difficult than internal approval.
The Bottom Line
BMW’s electric M3 is set to feature four motors and a track-focused chassis, sitting above the upcoming i3 M60. The company will sell both electric and combustion versions at similar price points, relying on internal validation from key test drivers to build credibility for the electric performance model.
