BMW has been spotted testing a prototype for its redesigned M5, which is set to be the first in the nameplate's history to feature electrification.

The redesigned BMW 5-Series makes its debut in May, ahead of the start of sales in October. The M5 should arrive sometime in 2024, meaning it will likely reach showrooms as a 2025 model.

The prototype may look like one of the testers for the redesigned 5-Series, but telltale clues point to it as the M5 variant. These include the quad-exhaust tips, widened wheel arches, pizza tray-size brake rotors, and multiple intakes in the front fascia.

There appears to be a dip in the hood leading back from the center of the grille, a design first seen on the M3 and M4, and more recently on the 2023 XM. The spider web-like wheel pattern is also similar to the one on the M3 and M4.

A shot of the interior reveals a thick-rimmed steering wheel and floating screens for the instrument cluster and infotainment system, the latter was first seen in the iX and is slowly making its way into more BMWs.

There's also no missing the “Electrified Vehicle” stickers that confirm an electrified powertrain. A likely bet is the electrified V-8 powertrain that debuted in the XM SUV. A video of a prototype reveals the signature growl of a V-8.

The XM uses a plug-in hybrid powertrain that combines BMW's latest twin-turbo 4.4-liter V-8 with an electric motor integrated with the transmission, in this case an 8-speed automatic. The combo is good for 644 hp in standard guise and 738 hp in the 2024 XM Label Red model, and either figure would mark an increase for the M5. The current M5 tops out at 627 hp in the CS model. With the plug-in hybrid setup, a modest electric driving range should also be possible.

The redesigned M5 could also be the first in the nameplate's history with the choice of a second powertrain, specifically a battery-electric setup. This powertrain is reportedly coming with more than 1,000 hp, which should help the M5 keep up with electric super sedans such as the Tesla Model S Plaid and Lucid Air Sapphire. The M division announced last year that it was testing a four-motor electric powertrain.

The redesigned 5-Series will have an electric i5 variant. BMW has confirmed a tamer M Performance version of the i5 wearing an M60 badge is coming, likely with around 600 hp. Perhaps there will be an i5 M variant at some point with four motors and the aforementioned 1,000-plus-hp output.

Stay tuned for updates as development continues.