AUTONEWS

BMW M is working on a new super sports car

If we exclude the clumsy XM that many do not recognize as a real M, the famous department is only now working on the development of the first new model after the iconic M1.

Although it was created in the 1970s, the M1 set high standards that will still be difficult to meet today. It doesn't matter whether we are talking about design, performance or innovation, because this car has only one task, and that is to repeat the "wow" effect of the so-called "halo car". It is roughly what the GT was for Ford or the R8 for Audi.

It is already known that last year's Skytop concept shown at the Concorso d'Eleganza Villa d'Este will go into production. 50 copies are planned, and no one from the buyers even asks about the price. It is reportedly around half a million euros, writes Index.hr.

After such success, BMW wants to repeat the same thing with the M department. Sylvia Neubauer, Vice President of BMW M Customer, Brand and Sales, shared with AutoExpress some thoughts on the company's future direction:

"BMW's strategy is to have a series of small series. We will be introducing something new at Villa d'Este this year, and probably some future small series with the 'M' badge will follow."

Asked if that could include a special BMW M model inspired by the original M1, Neubauer replied:

"Definitely, such halo cars clearly position the brand. They make it very, very desirable. They have a positive spillover effect on the entire brand and the product portfolio. With such dream cars, you make a certain group of customers extremely happy. Even those who can't afford a car - they admire the brand. And that will be part of our future development plan."

Many hope that the new car has something of the I16, a project that was 95 percent ready when it was scrapped in favor of the XM. The Neue Klasse-based sports cars have already been spotted on the track, and many speculate that the successor to the M1 will have brutal performance, but with an electric drive.

BMW is aware that it will be difficult to take over a portion of the customers from established brands such as Porsche with the 911. Neubauer was also asked if the new model could compete with the legendary Porsche 911, and she replied:

"It is certainly a very interesting market. But we also know that Porsche customers are extremely loyal to their brand. So, if we decide to take that step, we have to do it perfectly - without a mistake."

Neubauer confirmed that BMW M is developing its "dream car." When asked when it could be presented, she simply said: "Let's wait for the right moment."

All these indications indicate that BMW M is preparing something truly special. Whether it will be the return of the legendary M1, a fully electric supercar or something completely new, remains to be seen.

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