BMW is likely to cancel Vision M Next-inspired supercar

KUALA LUMPUR: The passionately designed BMW Vision M Next was rumored to be a look of the automaker’s next hybrid supercar, but now the reports suggest that it will remain a concept. According to the sources, the BMW M Next project has been canceled because of coronavirus as well as cost. However, no official statement by BMW has come yet.

The COVID-19 outbreak has stopped all the automakers in their tracks, with many are losing millions of dollars because of the lockdown situation. And this time, when the cost-cutting has become a new norm in the industry, the chances of developing a hybrid car seems improbable.

Moreover, the fact that BMW is currently focusing on producing 25 electrified models by 2023, makes the speculations more substantial. Till date, BMW has revealed the i4 concept and the iX3. But the plug-in hybrid Vision M Next sports car, which has a lower production volume as compared to the two, will undoubtedly have higher production costs than the electric ones.

The rumors of the upcoming hybrid vehicle started buzzing early this year when the company was lifting out BMW M1 and BMW i8 from its lineup. Like the ongoing i8, the Vision M Next features a hybrid powertrain, though the concept uses a four-cylinder turbo instead of a triple-cylinder mill in the current model. It produces a total power of 592 PS as compared to 369 PS in the current i8 and covers 0-100 kmph in just three seconds. BMW described it as "quick as an M8," yet can drive 60 miles only by using EV power. 

“The BMW Vision M provides a glimpse into the future of electric driving,” said Adrian van Hooydonk, BMW’s senior vice president of design. “The BMW Vision M Next demonstrates how state-of-the-art can also make the experience of driving yourself purer and more emotionally engaging.”

In the context of cancelation rumors, a BMW spokesperson said, "we are not able to comment on any products that have not been officially announced." So, the arrival of a new BMW supercar remains hazy, until anything substantial comes from the house. 

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