BMW ‘M’ Electric cars to feature “Fake Gear Shifts”

by Harikrishnan D · Published January 18, 2026 · Updated January 18, 2026

The upcoming electric lineup of BMW’s flagship M-badged cars to feature fake gear shifts to mimic the feel of its petrol counterpart.

BMW M3 Electric test car — *The 2027 BMW M3 Electric in its prototype camo livery.*

The upcoming Motorsport lineup of BMW EVs will feature ‘simulated gearshifts’ as a means of combating the linear acceleration produced by electric motors. Sporting four electric motors (one for each wheel), the entry-level BMW M3 Electric is expected to be the first to ship with this new simulated gearshift mechanism.

Replicating the familiar feel of an internal combustion engine, the EV reportedly delivers a whopping 700 bhp almost instantly. BMW states that this technology will be available in certain drive modes, pairing the ‘shifts’ to M-specific sounds. The car is expected for commercial launch in 2027.

This idea is not exactly new. Hyundai’s Ioniq 5 N was the first EV to ever feature this technology. Simulating an 8-speed DCT gearbox, the Ioniq 5 N purposefully interrupts torque delivery. It pairs each interruption with a suitable ‘rev’ sound to complete the illusion. If the person wants to experience the seamless acceleration of a regular EV, they can deactivate the fake shifts.

BMW’s simulated gearshift technology is not just a gimmick to please Bimmer-heads. It is a patented technology that is used in its high-performance ‘M’ lineup. Especially on racetracks, where drivers need to judge entry speeds without glancing at the speedometer now and then. It also solves the numb feeling of driving an electric vehicle. Although critics argue that the technology is artificial and unnecessary, petrol heads appreciate the thought that has been put into making EVs feel more like home.

Rumours speculate that Porsche is also exploring similar technologies for their upcoming EVs. This shows that simulated gearshifts are becoming a broader trend in the performance EV industry. In an age where passionate and professional drivers prefer the tactile and auditory stimuli while driving a high-performance petrol car, this kind of technology is exactly what is needed in ‘boring’ EVs. The technology plays a significant role in simulating speed sensations and improving driving experiences.

After all, the argument boils down to driver experience against efficiency. Does making an EV feel like a traditional petrol car make driving it more fun? Or is it just a marketing gimmick? The answer to this question will come only from driving experience.