High-speed 8 Series testing. A close-to-series prototype of the new 8 Series Coupé was recently put through its high-speed paces in Aprilia, Italy. The tests served to optimise the vehicle’s driving dynamics on surfaces with a high friction coefficient, and marks a further decisive stage on the way to the launch of this exciting new model, that’s scheduled for later this year.
The test drives were carried out with a heavily-camouflaged prototype, which, nevertheless, gave a strong indication of the new model’s sports car proportions. Dynamically stretched lines, a flat silhouette and powerful front and rear ends were all on show.
The 4km track near Rome provided the ideal combination of high-speed oval and sharp bends for assessing the 8 Series Coupé’s acceleration, braking and steering behaviour, as well as its performance through slalom courses and on different road surfaces.
“The test drives under the most severe conditions show that we are right on target with our concept for the new BMW 8 Series Coupé. The vehicle dynamic values already achieved are absolutely impressive. Our customers and fans can look forward to a genuine sports car,” commented Klaus Fröhlich, member of the board of the BMW AG, Development and Research, who oversaw the test programme.
The 8 Series Coupé is being developed parallel to – and in close coordination with – the BMW M8 and the BMW M8 GTE racing car. In June, the BMW M8 GTE will participate in the 24-hour race at Le Mans. The knowledge gained there, and at numerous other racing events in the FIA WEC and the IMSA Weather Tech Sports Car Championship (IWSC) in North America, will directly benefit the development of the 8 Series Coupé.
