BMW is set to launch a fully electric version of the iconic high-performance sedan M3 by the end of this year. Leading up to the launch, BMW has been teasing the public with short videos documenting the development of the car, alongside interviews with engineers. The latest company teaser video revealed something intriguing: fake exhaust sounds for the electric M3.
The most recent teaser video released on Wednesday showcased the engineering team’s progress with the dynamics of the electric M3 chassis. We are taken on a journey to Sweden, where BMW has set up a private testing center in the town of Arjeplog, in the Arctic Circle. Towards the end of the video, we are placed inside the M3 cabin while watching some engineers conduct acceleration tests.
Here, for the first time, we hear the synthesized exhaust sound of the electric M3 pumped through speakers. From what we hear, the sound resembles a high-revving straight-six engine. Not entirely surprising given BMW’s long history with its engine layout.
The video cuts off before we hear more, so there is a possibility that the sound may change as the speed increases. There is also a possibility of fake gears, as found in the Hyundai Ioniq 5 N. BMW’s M Division stated last year that they would create electric cars with fake gears. And if you look closely, the driver is reaching for paddles on the steering wheel before the video cuts off.
While an electric M3 may sound like blasphemy to its fans, adding fake gears might convince some people. The simulated eight-speed transmission operated with paddle shifters in the Ioniq 5 N is the main reason why the media fell in love with this car. Meanwhile, other high-performance electric cars like the new Dodge Charger, which has a V-8 engine but does not use fake gears, fall short. Personally, I wouldn’t buy a high-performance electric car without fake gears. That’s the only thing that makes the driving experience worthwhile.
We don’t have to wait long to find out more. BMW has released three of these videos since December, so there’s likely to be more before the car makes its official debut. Will you buy a BMW M electric car if it has fake gears? Let us know in the comment section.
