BMW hasn’t released a timeline for its development of the quad-motor powertrain, but has revealed that it is actively testing it in a mule based on the existing i4 M50. Modified with BMW M’s aggressive M3/4 kidney grilles, a new radiator configuration, increased torsional rigidity and wide arches to allow for the new axle designs – each of these elements should ensure a future electric M drives as well as its combustion-powered cousins.
The powertrain’s layout places a motor at each wheel, with torque able to be distributed to each corner instantaneously. BMW M says that in this system, inputs are transmitted to the motors via differentials and a multi-plate clutch, allowing for a significant improvement in traction and overall driving dynamics. A quad-motor setup can also allow for unique features such as ‘tank turn’, previewed in a teaser video for the model.
A byproduct of a quad-motor setup is a drastic increase in regenerative braking strength. This should allow for longer stints of hard driving without brake fade, by reducing the load on the car’s friction brakes. But, creating consistent pedal feel with a blend of strong regen and friction brakes is a notoriously difficult task..
Dirk Häcker, Head of Development at BMW M GmbH, said: ‘Electrification opens up completely new degrees of freedom for us to create M-typical dynamics. We can already see that we can exploit this potential to the maximum, so that our high-performance sports cars will continue to offer the M-typical and incomparable combination of dynamics, agility and precision in the locally emission-free future.
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