BMW Guarantees that a New Halo Car Will Debut at the ‘Appropriate Time’

      BMW

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      Car enthusiasts often express nostalgia for past vehicles and dream about those that have yet to be realized. In the latter category, it seems that BMW fans are willing to back up their enthusiasm with their wallets, as a recent report indicates that BMW is not only considering producing more limited-edition cars but is also keen on creating a genuine series production "dream car." The Skytop Concept marks just the beginning of this initiative.

      As a brief reminder, at last year's Concorso d’Eleganza Villa d’Este, BMW introduced the Skytop Concept, an impressive targa-top convertible. This concept was so polished and ready for production that BMW Design chief Adrian van Hooydonk hinted at the time, “We’re not sure whether we’re going to make it. But we could…”

      However, they were quite certain they would move forward with it. The strong demand for the Skytop Concept was so evident that just five months later, BMW announced that the car would enter production. This announcement also revealed that all 50 units, each priced at approximately $500,000, had already been spoken for.

      This situation suggests that perhaps BMW should pursue this approach more frequently—and think about introducing a future flagship model for the BMW M brand.

      “[Halo models] have a positive spillover effect on the brand and product lineup,” Sylvia Neubauer stated to Auto Express. As Vice President of Customer, Brand, and Sales for BMW M, Neubauer pointed out that these halo vehicles are designed not just for buyers but also for admirers of the brand. “You’re making a certain customer group very, very happy with these dream cars. Even those who can’t afford the car admire the brand. This will also play a part in our future plans.”

      The BMW Skytop Concept, which eventually went into limited production, is based broadly on the BMW M8, with only 50 units produced, each reportedly costing around half a million dollars.

      Neubauer mentioned to the publication that the segment competing with the Porsche 911 is “interesting,” but acknowledged the challenge of attracting Porsche loyalists. However, it appears that the team at M has aspirations for a future flagship.

      “You can trust us; we are working on it internally to make that happen one day,” Neubauer affirmed. “Are we dreaming of dream cars, and is BMW M a very entrepreneurial company where innovation can flourish? Yes, let’s wait for the right moment.”

      Fortunately, we won’t have to wait long for a glimpse into the future; BMW Group will return to northern Italy next month with new offerings. In fact, Neubauer clarified, “[BMW’s] strategy is to have a series of small-series additions available in the markets.” She added that something new would be presented at Villa d’Este this year, along with potential future small-series editions with the ‘M’ label.

      Will this year’s concept(s) be as aspirational as the BMW Skytop? Is there a chance for a preview of an upcoming halo M vehicle, reminiscent of the legendary M1? After all, BMW had been developing a supercar inspired by the M1, which was only a year away from production before being shelved.

      Neubauer confirmed that creating limited-run, exclusive cars will “definitely” pave the way for a custom BMW M vehicle in the future. There is little doubt that halo cars significantly enhance a brand’s allure.

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