BMW M is known for its powerful gas-powered sports cars, but its upcoming all-electric model could pack an even bigger punch. The team has been testing a secret EV prototype, dubbed “Beast,” since 2018. A new video gives us a sneak peek at the BMW M Beast.
BMW has been working on a secret Beast EV since 2018
BMW’s high-performance unit is plowing ahead with its first M-badged electric car. We caught a glimpse of the upcoming EV earlier this month under camouflage during Episode 1 of its new series, “BMW M Electrified.”
The series gives a behind-the-scenes look as BMW M develops its first electric model. In the latest episode, BMW picks up where it left off, revealing early prototypes.
BMW M CEO Frank van Meel said, “We had no idea where this technology would lead us.”In 2018, a small team developed a “super raw vehicle” internally called “The Beast.”
According to Michael Sailer, part of BMW M’s functional development driving dynamics team, The Beast EV is “super powerful” and “doesn’t have the calmness” of other M vehicles, making it really hard to control. That’s what BMW M is working to nail.
Meel said the massive change opens even more opportunities as the industry rapidly shifts to electric. He explained that the final M5 “missed a lot of traction.”
As BMW M prepares to launch the next generation, its chief said, “We need to do something to control the power better.”
BMW M’s boss said, “It feels a little bit like January 2015 where I said: Trust me, I’m an engineer, and M xDrive is going to be great.” Now, he’s saying, “Trust me that what we’re working on right now for the future will be at least as great.”
Based on BMW’s upcoming Neue Klasse EV platform, the first electric M car is expected to boast 1,340 hp or one megawatt, with four independent motors. At that, it would top the new Porsche Taycan Turbo GT with up to 1,092 hp.
Source: BMW M
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