The Conclusion of BMW's Z4 Could Be the Beginning of Something New | Carscoops

      The production of the roadster is coming to an end, but suggestions of a future revival raise significant questions regarding engines, electrification, and BMW's sports car heritage.

      BMW’s Z4 will conclude its production next year, marking the end of an important chapter in the brand's sports car narrative.

      Executives have hinted that a new generation roadster could be on the horizon, although it's not yet confirmed.

      Porsche's challenges with the upcoming 718 indicate a sluggish demand for electric sports cars.

      With the BMW Z4's impending end next year, we are witnessing the exit of one of the brand's most unique sports cars. Although it has never achieved high sales numbers, it has secured a dedicated fan base among those desiring a stylish two-seater that offers both weekend enjoyment and practical daily use.

      What's next remains uncertain. BMW has not confirmed whether a new version of the Z4 will be manufactured, but a high-ranking official in a recent interview suggested that the Neue Klasse era could potentially accommodate a sports model.

      Is there room for a sports car within the Neue Klasse?

      Joachim Post, a board member for development at BMW, recently addressed this question in an interview with Australia's Drive, stating that it is “feasible” for the Neue Klasse platform to support a sports car.

      The current Z4 was developed in partnership with Toyota, which also resulted in the Supra, but the Neue Klasse platform allows BMW the opportunity to innovate independently. When asked about this, Post refrained from giving specifics, focusing instead on the company's modular development strategy.

      “The philosophy of BMW in the past has always been to… we use the term baukasten, which means we have shared components for various types of vehicles and segments,” he clarified. “For instance, electronic control units and battery cells are identical but are configured differently. Our core approach at BMW is always to think about how we can create a component that can be adapted across all our vehicles.”

      This approach is why BMW can efficiently implement new technology across their range within two years and 40 models, facilitating scalable combinations that make it viable from a business standpoint. “We will see what emerges in the future,” Post added.

      Electric or internal combustion engine?

      This brings us to the crucial question: if BMW decides to revive the Z4, which powertrain would make more sense? Utilizing an existing battery and motors would be the simple path; however, as Porsche has learned in developing the new 718, the market for electric sports cars is limited.

      This situation suggests that starting with an internal combustion engine may be the safer choice, with the potential for an electric variant in the future. The challenge is apparent: investing heavily in a low-volume roadster is not the kind of financial strategy that excites accountants and shareholders.