BMW M CEO Declares Introduction of 30 New Models Across 30 Months, As Manual Transmission Experiences Decrease: TDS

Good morning and welcome to The Downshift, or TDS for short.

Concise, precise, and to the point, TDS collects the latest automotive headlines from across the globe and consolidates them in one place. Stories are condensed into a single sentence with a link for those wanting to dive deeper.

🚨 Episode 4 of The Drivecast, The Drive‘s podcast, was launched yesterday. You can stream it on your preferred podcast platform including Spotify and Apple Podcasts, and of course, episodes are also available right here on The Drive via the podcast tab on the homepage menu.

It snowed and winter has returned to Minnesota, the first cup of coffee is brewing, and the weekend is approaching. Let’s dive in.

🚘 My current ride: I’m testing the 2026 Mazda CX-90 Plug-In Hybrid and am pleased to report that multiple recalibrations and TSBs for this electrified powertrain have indeed improved the transitions between electric-only and hybrid modes. However, it remains a work in progress.

🆕 BMW M division CEO Frank Van Meel stated that the automaker’s high-performance division is “developing 30 new models that will debut in the next two and a half years, so we’re quite active right now.” These models will encompass gasoline, plug-in hybrid, and fully electric powertrains, but the manual transmission is under significant pressure as Van Meel remarked, “from an engineering perspective, the manual doesn’t really make sense because it restricts torque and fuel efficiency.”

📸 The electric Ferrari Luce has been seen undergoing cold-weather tests on public roads.

🚨 Nissan issued a recall for 642,698 Rogue SUVs in two separate recalls due to problems that could lead to a loss of driving power.

🤺 California and President Trump are heading towards a legal battle with a lawsuit in which the state claims Trump unlawfully removed its authority to control car pollution; should California prevail, automakers might face conflicting federal and state regulations.

📺 Apple CarPlay will soon enable support for Apple TV and other video sources for playback on the built-in screens of vehicles.

🧑‍🎨 Volkswagen Group has appointed a new design chief, with Andreas Mindt set to take over on March 1, 2026, as Michael Mauer steps down as part of a planned generational transition.

🏕️ BMW’s M division leader Frank Van Meel suggested the team “wouldn’t turn down” a high-performance off-roader; BMW plans to create a competitor to the Mercedes-Benz G-Class.

📱 Reports indicate that Tesla has delayed adopting Apple CarPlay due to required changes in iOS 26’s Maps application.

Have a news tip or feedback? Let us know at [email protected]

**BMW M CEO Unveils Plan for 30 New Models in 30 Months, While Manual Transmission Loses Ground**

In a striking announcement reflecting the future trajectory of the BMW M division, CEO Frank van Meel has revealed an ambitious initiative to debut 30 new models over the next 30 months. This plan highlights BMW’s dedication to innovation and performance, aiming to expand its lineup with a diverse array of vehicles that align with the changing preferences of car enthusiasts.

The announcement comes during a period of considerable change in the automotive sector, with increasing focus on electrification and cutting-edge technology. BMW M, recognized for its high-performance offerings, is set to adjust to these transformations while upholding its foundational principles of driving enjoyment and dynamic capabilities.

Van Meel emphasized that the new models will comprise a blend of fully electric, hybrid, and conventional combustion engine vehicles. This approach mirrors BMW’s broader mission for sustainability, striving to lower emissions without compromising the thrilling performance M models are known for. The incorporation of electric powertrains is anticipated to boost performance metrics, providing immediate torque and enhanced efficiency.

However, within this shift towards electrification, the manual transmission is experiencing a downturn. As consumer preferences favor automatic transmissions for their convenience and simplicity, the interest in manual options has notably decreased. Van Meel recognized this shift, stating that while BMW M will continue to provide manual transmissions in select models for enthusiasts, the concentration will progressively pivot towards automatics and sophisticated transmission systems.

The decision to roll out a substantial number of new models corresponds with BMW’s strategy to secure a greater share of the performance segment, especially as competition escalates from other luxury brands. The launch of new models is anticipated to include variations of existing popular models and completely new entries in the lineup, addressing a wide spectrum of customer tastes.

In summary, BMW M’s announcement of 30 new models over the next 30 months signifies a pivotal moment for the brand as it navigates the challenges and opportunities intrinsic to a swiftly evolving automotive environment. While the decline of manual transmissions may indicate a shift in consumer choice, BMW M remains devoted to producing high-performance vehicles that capture the essence of driving pleasure, even as it welcomes the future of electrification and advanced automotive innovations.