So, one throttle for each cylinder. What does that acheive?

 

More direct throttle response.

Just out of interest, another car that had a throttle per cylinder was the Honda S500-800.

 

So will the new M3, with 6 of course and throttle-by-wire. Combined with the SMG you will have the option of 11 different driving modes depending on how aggressive you want the car to react. Similar to the "Sport" mode button on the 6spd manuals.

The upcoming steering-by-wire might be kinda wierd tho...