Nowadays, it’s all about efficiency, whether we’re talking about saving fuel or going fast.

But what about saving fuel while going fast? Well, BMW is one of the few constructors pioneering and perfecting the hybrid powertrain just so it can implement a performance advantage in its line-up. Case in point, the i8 – sure the car has efficiency written all over and its hybrid powertrain tries its best to conserve fossil fuel and make the world a better place, but it goes like stink when needed thanks to the same configuration.

The hybrid powertrain has evolved into something that aids performance-aimed car manufacturers to develop mind-boggling fast cars and, apparently, BMW wants more hybrid technology in their road-munching machines. According to a report made by The Detroit Bureau, BMW will allegedly migrate to a plug-in hybrid powertrain when the next version of the M3 will be launched. Moreover, the magazine believes that versions of the drivetrain are expected to be used on a wide range of BMW models.

Well, there’s rarely smoke without fire, but we’re wondering if BMW is really cooking something electrifying for the future. That said, according to the magazine, a senior executive that has worked on both the “I” brand and BMW M-powered beasts stated: “We have a lot to learn from BMW i.”

Moreover, although the i program was recently believed to be the counterpoint of the M division,according to the same man, the car maker is looking for ways both brands can be brought closer together.

Does it sound too good to be true? Satisfying both power-hungry petrolheads and increasingly stringent emissions and fuel standards seem to be the main concern of the future.

Still, the report states that another BMW exec involved in the development of the next M3 said the maker expects to boost torque by at least 100 Newton-meters (73 lb-ft). Furthermore, the system under development of the future car is similar to the Kinetic Energy Recovery System.

The engine’s power will allegedly go to the rear wheels, thus respecting the classic BMW layout, although the basic drivetrain being developed for the M3 will have significant flexibility and could be used to offer all-wheel-drive, with the front wheels being electrically driven by one or two electric motors.

Current BMW M3 Pictured

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