BMW has taken the covers off its new Vision M Next concept, providing a “foretaste” of the M division’s electrified future.
The Munich-based firm says the Vision M Next concept draws its inspiration from the BMW Turbo as well as the i8 plug-in hybrid sportscar, boasting a low-slung, “wedge-shaped” silhouette, gullwing doors and a striking colour scheme. The design of the rear window, meanwhile, takes its cue from the M1. The rear wheels measure 22 inches in diameter, making them one inch larger than the front items.
The front and rear are finished in a matte-neon shade dubbed “Thrilling Orange”, contrasting with the exterior’s silk-matte “Cast Silver” metallic paintwork and the dark side skirts (the latter fashioned from recycled carbon-fibre). The headlamps incorporate new Laser Wire lighting technology (repeated at the rear), using glass fibres coated with phosphorous to produce headlight elements.
So, what’s happening under the futuristic skin? Well, the concept features a plug-in hybrid electric powertrain offering the choice between electric all-wheel drive and rear-wheel drive, using either all-electric propulsion or power from a turbocharged four-cylinder petrol engine.
Peak power output stands at 441 kW, which BMW says is enough for a top speed of 300 km/h and a sprint from standstill to 100 km/h in 3,0 seconds. Maximum range in all-electric mode, meanwhile, comes in at 100 km.
Inside, BMW has added something it calls the “Boost Pod”, which forms the interface between driver and vehicle, and brings together all control options and information across three visual tiers in the driver’s direct field of view.
