BMW M Confirms the Arrival of a New Flagship Supercar | Carscoops

      Information about the model is limited, but it could embody the essence of the original BMW M1 from the 1970s.

      The BMW Skytop will pave the way for more limited-production vehicles from the brand.

      One of these will be a custom BMW M, intended as a flagship model for car enthusiasts.

      This announcement comes in the wake of news regarding the cancellation of various sports car and supercar development initiatives.

      BMW appears to be intent on taking advantage of the increasing demand for extraordinarily priced, limited-edition vehicles with a new flagship model focused on its performance division. Furthermore, BMW M seems to be responding to the desires of fans who have been advocating for a modern interpretation of the M1, merging the exotic charm of yesteryear with a modern flair.

      Recent updates indicate that the BMW Skytop concept from last year's Concorso d’Eleganza Villa d’Este is set to go into production, with only 50 units anticipated and a speculated price of $500,000. The success of this project has motivated BMW to introduce more similarly tailored models, this time under the M brand.

      A Future of Ultra-Limited Editions

      Sylvia Neubauer, BMW M’s Vice President of customers, brand, and sales, provided some insight into the company’s upcoming direction in an interview with AutoExpress: “BMW’s strategy involves offering a range of small-series models to the market. There will be something new at Villa d’Este this year, and likely additional future small-series editions bearing the ‘M’ name.”

      When asked if this could include a customized BMW M model inspired by the original M1, Neubauer responded:

      “Absolutely, such flagship cars significantly enhance the brand's position. They create a high desirability factor and positively influence the brand and product lineup. These dream cars make a specific group of customers exceptionally happy. Even those who cannot afford the car admire the brand. This will definitely be part of our future roadmap too.”

      A New M1, Perhaps?

      Months ago, reports emerged about BMW working on a spiritual successor to the M1, possibly featuring a plug-in hybrid powertrain. The I16 project was reportedly 95% completed when it was canceled in favor of the controversial XM SUV. Additional reports suggest that plans for a fully electric supercar were also scrapped after reaching the clay model stage.

      While it remains unclear whether the forthcoming bespoke BMW M car will connect to these canceled projects, the testing of the Neue Klasse EV Coupe hints at something unique on the horizon. If the dramatic design of the disguised prototype is combined with the performance potential of BMW’s next-gen electric powertrain, we might be witnessing the evolution of a true M1 successor, albeit with a very different engine under the hood.

      Competing with Porsche?

      Neubauer was inquired about whether the new model could rival the Porsche 911, to which she replied: “That market is undoubtedly intriguing. However, we also recognize that Porsche customers are extremely loyal to their brand. If we proceed, we must ensure it is executed perfectly—100 percent.”

      This does not provide a clear answer regarding the car's design or nature, but Neubauer did confirm that BMW M is “internally” developing a “dream car.” When asked about its launch timing, Neubauer added, “Let's wait for the right moment.”

      With all these developments aligning, it's evident that BMW M has something significant in the works. Whether it turns out to be an M1 revival, a fully electric supercar, or something entirely different, one thing is certain: The anticipation will likely prove worthwhile.