BMW Working Towards Electric M5

Like his immediate predecessor, Frank van Meel, told us a year ago,BMW M division's new boss, Marcus Flasch, iskeenly aware that electrification has arrived. Hybrids, plug-in hybrids, and full-on EVs are now realities, evidenced by the sheer number of battery-powered passenger cars, supercars, and hypercars on display here at Geneva. But there has yet to be an electrified M model. Will this change? Yes, but it's not going to happen immediately.

One of Flasch's most vital tasks will be to decide when the technology is ready for M cars, not the other way around. In short, electrified propulsion and all related areas still need improvement.

"We will put the train on the rails during my term (as M division chief)," Flasch told us. "If we're going to see something in the next 3 to 6 years it's not something I can discuss today, but we are working on all types of electrification, all types of concepts."

Flash earned the job following his work as development chief for the new 8 Series because he understands the vital role emotion plays in M cars. It's not possible to just swap out a twin-turbo V8 for a powerful battery pack and electric motors at all four wheels.

"Electrification needs to deserve the M badge," he said. "We are in the lucky position that with our current engine lineup we are fulfilling all (emissions) regulations worldwide. We are happy. Our customers are happy. I don't have the urge to put something to market as a test to see if it performs as well as thecurrent M5. I will only put an electrified M5 to the market as soon as it outperforms the current one. But this is what we're working towards."