BMW M Names Alexander Karajlovic Head of Development as Dirk Häcker Retires

Overview

• BMW M confirmed Alexander Karajlovic as its new development chief, succeeding Dirk Häcker, who retires after 37 years with BMW Group and 11 years leading M engineering.
• Karajlovic previously managed the XM project, oversaw X derivatives from 2017 to 2020, and served as vice president of the M product line from 2021 to 2023 before returning from a broader BMW development role.
• Reporting points to a next-generation M3 being developed in both all-electric and twin‑turbo six‑cylinder forms, with the EV widely expected around 2027.
• Coverage indicates BMW M plans to keep its inline‑six and V8 engines in service with Euro 7 updates to the S58 and S68 and to retain at least one plug‑in hybrid, including a facelifted M760e reportedly due in 2026.
• The handover occurs during broader BMW Group leadership changes, with Milan Nedeljković set to replace Oliver Zipse as CEO in May 2026.