BMW M Builds One-Millionth Car and Teases M3 EV as Munich Plant Prepares for Electric Future
BMW M GmbH has produced its one-millionth car, a Fire Orange M3 Competition, and previewed the upcoming M3 EV as the Munich plant moves to all-electric production by 2027.
BMW M GmbH has reached the milestone of building its one-millionth vehicle, marking the occasion with a Fire Orange M3 Competition produced at the Munich plant. The milestone comes as BMW M teases the forthcoming M3 EV and BMW confirms the Munich facility will build only fully electric vehicles from 2027, backed by an investment of around €650 million.
The one-millionth BMW M car, finished in BMW Individual Fire Orange III, was presented to Peter Weber, head of BMW Group Plant Munich, by BMW M CEO Franciscus van Meel. The event highlights both the performance heritage of BMW’s M division and its shift towards electrification. BMW M GmbH, established in 1972, has become synonymous with high-performance models, and the M3 remains a core product in its line-up.
M3 Competition: Performance and Heritage
The current M3 Competition is powered by a twin-turbocharged 3.0-litre six-cylinder engine, with available outputs of 503 hp (375 kW / 510 PS) and 523 hp (390 kW / 530 PS). The all-wheel-drive version accelerates from 0-60 mph (0-96 km/h) in 3.4 seconds and has a limited top speed of 155 mph (250 km/h). This combination of performance and practicality has helped the M3 maintain its reputation as a benchmark sports saloon.
For a look at how the current M3 compares to its predecessors, seePhoto Comparison, the New BMW 3 Series Vs Old 3 Series.
Munich Plant’s Transition to Electric Vehicles
BMW’s Munich plant, where the milestone M3 was built, is set for a major transformation. From 2027, the facility will produce only fully electric vehicles, supported by an investment of approximately €650 million. This move reflects BMW’s broader strategy to electrify its line-up and modernise its manufacturing footprint. The investment is expected to cover both upgrades to production lines and new tooling for electric vehicle assembly.
The shift will affect all models built at Munich, including future M cars. BMW has not detailed the impact on workforce or suppliers, but the transition to electric-only production will require new skills and supply chains, particularly in battery assembly and high-voltage systems.
BMW M3 EV Prototype: Design Details Revealed
Alongside the production milestone, BMW M has previewed the upcoming M3 EV with a prototype that differs from the earlier concept. The prototype features a less aggressive front bumper and a smaller splitter, giving it a more restrained look compared to the show car. It also adopts more conventional elements such as standard mirrors and flush-mounted door handles, likely in preparation for series production.
- Yellow headlight graphics and squared-off lower lighting units remain from the concept.
- The prototype includes a ventilated hood and a small rear spoiler.
BMW has not confirmed technical specifications or a launch date for the M3 EV. The company has also not commented on reports that the car could use a quad-motor powertrain. As of October 2026, only design and exterior features of the prototype have been shown publicly.
What the Milestone Means for BMW M and Its Customers
Reaching one million vehicles is a milestone for BMW’s M division, reinforcing its position as a leading manufacturer of performance cars. The move towards electric vehicles, both in production and product planning, signals a new chapter for the brand. The M3 EV will be the first fully electric M3, marking a clear shift from the traditional six-cylinder petrol engine that defined previous generations.
For buyers and enthusiasts, the M3 EV’s design evolution suggests BMW is aiming to balance performance with everyday usability, while retaining visual cues from the M3 heritage. The Munich plant’s transition to electric-only production will also shape the availability and character of future M models.
Specifications, pricing and launch timing for the M3 EV remain unconfirmed. BMW is expected to release further details as the Munich plant approaches its 2027 all-electric target.
