The latest spy shots of BMW's quad motor prototype reveal the automaker's push for innovative engineering in the development of an electric M3 and M4. The prototype was captured during winter testing, most likely to test the trick active differential system and the M car's torque vectoring system.
BMW's quad motor system has been around for some time and was initially believed to be a sign that BMW was finally thinking of making another supercar. However, the system is now being used to develop its first electric M3 and M4. The automaker plans to use the quad-motor setup to create an electric M3 that will be special enough to convert the petrol-power crowd.
The prototype is based on the dual-motor i4 M50's body, but with an M4 CSL grille and widened arches to cover a wider wheel track. While there were speculations that it might be a production-ready M division i4 that could slot in above the i4 M60, the goal is to preserve the evolution and ultimately the legacy of the M3.
BMW has figured out that having the option to drive the vehicle on a single motor will increase range, but driving it on a single wheel would be highly problematic. Therefore, the answer is to have the single motor drive an axle linking two wheels at one end, which means a differential is needed. BMW previously shared details on the slick system via a patent found in February.
According to rumors, the prototype's horsepower numbers are between 1,000 and 1,200. However, if those numbers are accurate, BMW may choose to hold back for a supercar as it would be too much for a street-based sedan - even an M3 or M4.
BMW is yet to make an official statement on the prototype's progress, but it is expected to make waves in the electric car market. If BMW succeeds in creating a high-performance electric sedan, it could pose stiff competition for Tesla's Model S Plaid.
Source: Carbuzz
