BMW M to skip fake engine sounds in upcoming electric models

BMW M head Frank van Meel has stated that the division will not use synthesized internal combustion engine sounds, such as V8 or V10 notes, in its upcoming electric vehicles. Describing the practice of mimicking engine noises as “copycat behavior,” van Meel emphasized that electric M models should be presented as authentic electric cars rather than imitations of gasoline-powered vehicles.

However, the division does plan to implement simulated gear shifts. Unlike the continuous torque delivery typical of most EVs, BMW M intends to provide a stepped sensation of gear changes without the actual interruption in power that occurs during mechanical shifts in combustion engines.

The first model to implement this strategy is expected to be the ZA0, the internal code for the first fully electric BMW M3. Production for this model is anticipated to begin in Munich in March 2027.