BMW‘s Secret Electric M2: A ”Beast” of a Prototype
BMW has been quietly developing a fully electric M2 prototype, a project so clandestine it’s been dubbed “The Beast“ internally. This groundbreaking project, based on the previous-generation M2, represents a significant step in BMW’s commitment to electrifying its high-performance M lineup.
Growth began in 2018, spearheaded by a select team within BMW’s M division. This isn’t your average electric vehicle; according to sources within the development team, it’s a “super raw vehicle,” built purely for testing and development purposes. There are currently no plans for production.
The prototype’s unique features include carbon ceramic brakes and a charging port cleverly integrated where the fuel filler cap once resided. A dual-vented hood and a modified front bumper further distinguish this experimental machine, with all auxiliary hardware neatly housed under the hood.One team member, michael Sailer of the functional development BMW M driving dynamics team, described the prototype as “super powerful,” adding that it presented a significant handling challenge.
While “the Beast” remains a development mule, it signifies BMW’s serious commitment to electric performance. The company’s first all-electric production M car will be the next-generation M3, a vehicle already teased with initial images. This upcoming electric M3, slated to be sold alongside its gasoline-powered counterpart, will leverage BMW’s Neue Klasse platform and boast a quad-motor setup generating over 1000 BHP.
The development of “The Beast” highlights the challenges and triumphs of creating a high-performance electric vehicle. The intense focus on handling and power delivery underscores BMW’s dedication to maintaining its reputation for exhilarating driving experiences, even in the electric era. As the automotive industry continues its rapid shift towards electrification, BMW’s commitment to pushing the boundaries of electric performance is a compelling development for american car enthusiasts.
BMW was secretly developing a fully electric M2 prototype based on the previous-generation M2, nicknamed “The Beast” internally.[[[[3]
This project ran from 2018 and was purely for testing and no plans were made for production, described by one team member as “super raw vehicle” and “super powerful”.It’s heavily focused on driving dynamics and power delivery, indicating BMW’s serious commitment to electric performance.[[[[3]