BMW has not released a fully electric M3, but the i4 M50 is its closest electric performance sedan

BMW's M division has not built an all-electric version of the M3 as of now. The company has instead positioned the BMW i4 M50 as its electric high-performance sedan, launching it in 2021 as a competitor to the Tesla Model S Plaid and Porsche Taycan. The i4 M50 uses BMW's fifth-generation electric platform and delivers dual-motor all-wheel drive, 536 horsepower, and 0–60 mph in roughly 3.9 seconds.

BMW has publicly stated that a fully electric M3 remains under consideration for future model years, but no official release date or specifications have been announced. The company is currently focused on expanding its i4 lineup and developing the next generation of M performance vehicles. If and when an electric M3 arrives, it would likely share the platform and powertrain architecture of the i4 rather than being a direct conversion of the gas-powered M3.

Key Takeaways

  • The BMW i4 M50 is the brand's current electric performance sedan, not a true M3 replacement, with 536 horsepower and a 0–60 time around 3.9 seconds.
  • The i4 M50 uses dual motors and all-wheel drive, with an EPA-estimated range of 260 to 270 miles depending on driving conditions and wheel choice.
  • A fully electric M3 has not been released and no official timeline exists, though BMW has indicated it may develop one in the future.
  • The i4 M50 starts around $65,000 to $70,000 before incentives, while the standard i4 eDrive40 is priced lower and offers rear-wheel drive only.

How the i4 M50 compares to the gas-powered M3

The i4 M50 and the traditional M3 serve different purposes within BMW's lineup. The gas M3 is a compact sports sedan with a turbocharged inline-six engine, available in rear-wheel-drive or all-wheel-drive configurations, and tuned for track performance and driver engagement. The i4 M50, by contrast, is a midsize electric sedan with when ready torque delivery, one-pedal regenerative braking, and a lower center of gravity due to its floor-mounted battery pack.

In raw acceleration, the i4 M50 is faster than most M3 variants. The electric motor's when ready power delivery gives it a 0–60 advantage, but the M3 offers a more traditional driving experience with engine sound and a manual transmission option (on some markets). The i4 M50 is also heavier—around 4,400 pounds versus the M3's 3,600 to 3,800 pounds—which affects handling and braking feel. BMW engineered the i4 M50 with a sport-tuned suspension and adaptive dampers to compensate for the added weight.

Range, charging, and real-world driving

The i4 M50 carries a 81.5 kWh net battery capacity and achieves an EPA-estimated range of 260 to 270 miles on a full charge, depending on wheel size and driving conditions. Real-world range typically falls between 220 and 250 miles in mixed driving, with highway driving reducing range more significantly than city driving due to higher speeds and wind resistance.

Charging speed depends on the equipment used. On a Level 2 home charger (240 volts), a full charge takes roughly 10 to 12 hours. On a DC fast charger rated at 150 kW or higher, the i4 M50 can add 200 miles in approximately 30 to 35 minutes under ideal conditions. BMW includes a portable Level 1 charger with the vehicle, though this method (120 volts) is slow and impractical for regular use. Most owners install a Level 2 charger at home for overnight charging.

Interior technology and driver experience

The i4 M50 comes standard with BMW's iDrive 8 infotainment system, a 14.9-inch central touchscreen, and a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster. The system integrates real-time traffic data, navigation optimized for electric driving (including charger locations), and wireless smartphone integration via Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Voice control and gesture recognition are available on higher trims.

The cabin is quieter than a gas M3 due to the absence of engine noise, which some drivers appreciate and others find less engaging. BMW added artificial engine sound through the speakers on the M50 variant to enhance the driving experience, though this can be toggled off. The one-pedal regenerative braking system allows drivers to slow the car by lifting off the accelerator, which some find intuitive and others find unusual compared to traditional brake pedal operation.

Pricing and available incentives

The BMW i4 M50 starts around $65,000 to $70,000 before any incentives, depending on the model year and market. The base i4 eDrive40 (rear-wheel drive only) is priced lower, typically in the $56,000 to $62,000 range. Both models may have access to for the federal tax credit of up to $7,500 in the United States, though the actual credit depends on income limits, battery component sourcing, and final assembly location—rules that change annually.

Some states offer additional incentives for electric vehicle purchases. California, for example, has state rebates and HOV lane access for electric vehicles. Check your state's energy office or environmental agency website for current programs. Lease options are also available and may offer lower monthly payments than purchase, though they come with mileage restrictions and wear-and-tear charges.

What BMW has said about a future electric M3

BMW's leadership has confirmed that an electric M3 is under consideration but has not committed to a specific launch date. In public statements, BMW executives have indicated that the company wants to establish the i4 M50 as the flagship electric performance sedan before introducing additional M-badged electric models. The company is also developing the next generation of M vehicles across its entire lineup, with electrification as a core strategy.

If an electric M3 does arrive, it would likely be positioned as a smaller, lighter alternative to the i4 M50, similar to how the gas M3 differs from the M440i. It would probably use a variant of BMW's electric platform and could feature a smaller battery pack and lower starting price than the i4 M50. However, without an official announcement, any specifications or timelines remain speculation.

Maintenance and ownership costs

Electric vehicles typically have lower maintenance costs than gas-powered cars because they lack oil changes, spark plugs, transmission fluid, and many other wear items. The i4 M50 requires brake fluid checks, cabin air filter replacements, and tire rotations, but regenerative braking means brake pads last significantly longer than in traditional cars. BMW covers the battery under an 8-year or 100,000-mile warranty, whichever comes first.

Electricity costs for charging are generally lower than gasoline, though this varies by region and local utility rates. In most U.S. markets, charging an i4 M50 costs roughly $0.03 to $0.05 per mile, compared to $0.10 to $0.15 per mile for a gas M3. Insurance rates for the i4 M50 are comparable to the gas M3, though some insurers offer discounts for electric vehicles. Tire wear may be higher due to the vehicle's weight, so budget for replacement every 30,000 to 40,000 miles.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the i4 M50 a real M3?

No. The i4 M50 carries the M performance badge and was tuned by BMW's M division, but it is not an M3. BMW uses the M50 designation to indicate it is a high-performance variant of the i4 sedan. The traditional M3 remains a separate gas-powered model with its own engineering and heritage.

When will BMW release an electric M3?

BMW has not announced an official release date. The company has stated that an electric M3 is under consideration, but no timeline has been confirmed. The i4 M50 is currently BMW's flagship electric performance sedan.

Can the i4 M50 tow a trailer?

No. The i4 M50 is not rated for towing. BMW designed it as a performance sedan for individual drivers, not as a utility vehicle. If towing is a requirement, you would need to consider a different vehicle or stick with a gas-powered M3 or M440i xDrive.

How does the i4 M50 perform in winter?

Cold weather reduces electric range by 20 to 40 percent because batteries are less efficient in low temperatures and cabin heating draws significant power. The i4 M50's all-wheel drive and stability control help with traction on snow and ice, but you should expect shorter driving distances and plan charging stops accordingly during winter months.

What is the difference between the i4 M50 and the i4 eDrive40?

The i4 M50 has dual motors (all-wheel drive), 536 horsepower, and a 0–60 time around 3.9 seconds. The i4 eDrive40 has a single rear motor, 335 horsepower, and a 0–60 time around 5.5 seconds. The M50 also includes sport suspension tuning, upgraded brakes, and M-specific interior styling. The eDrive40 is less expensive and still offers strong performance for daily driving.