BMW's Electric M3 Will Have Fake V10 Engine Sounds

BMW is using the sounds from some of its most iconic engines for its next performance EV.

BMW M3 EV Prototype

Photo by: BMW

Jeff Perez

By: Jeff Perez

Jan 23, at 9:00am ET

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Like it or not, an electric BMW M3 is coming. But it may not be all bad news. BMW understands that even performance EVs need sound, which is why the upcoming M3 will feature a "newly developed soundscape" using some of the brand’s most iconic engine notes.

As first reported by BMW Blog, a new video shows BMW recording audio from several legendary engines for use in the electric M3. These include the twin-turbo 3.0-liter inline-six from the F82 M4 GTS, the naturally aspirated 4.4-liter V8 from the E92 M3 GTS, and—most importantly—the 5.0-liter V10 from the E64 M6.

Using precision microphones, BMW captured the authentic sounds of its past performance models, which will undoubtedly be played through the EV’s speakers. However, those classic engine notes won’t be the only sounds drivers hear. BMW is expected to blend them with the natural whirring of the electric motors to create a unique hybrid sound experience.

We’re not sure exactly what the final product will sound like, but with BMW’s old-school engines—especially the V10—in the mix, there’s reason for optimism.

What do you think?

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BMW will continue teasing the electric M3 ahead of its expected launch next year. Exact performance details remain scarce, but the car will likely feature a 108.7-kilowatt-hour battery pack and up to four electric motors. Combustion-powered BMW M models are expected to follow in 2028.

BMW M3 EV teaser

Source: BMW

Motor1's Take: It’s good to see BMW having some fun with the “soundscape” of its upcoming M3 EV. Even if it doesn’t sound entirely authentic, we certainly would have no problem hearing the roar of the E64’s V10 pumped through the speakers.

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