BMW is working on an X8 M, to push the limits of how un-green a plug-in hybrid can be. By Georg Kacher and Tim Pollard.
Project ‘Rockstar’: the punchiest M car yet
Future scoop
1 ROCKING AND ROLLING
At this point, BMW’s M division is still a completely electric-free environment. But, in the short- to mid-term, ‘power PHEVs’ are the answer. The X8 M, known as Project Rockstar, is the exciting cream-of-the- crop neo-SUV. It’s a cross between the X6 M and M5 Competition; expect on-demand rear-wheel drive.
2 POWER APLENTY
The M team are putting together a dedicated high-performance crossover that will, in its most extreme hybrid form, unleash 750bhp. What makes all the difference here is, of course, a 200bhp e-motor supporting the V8. Together they make 737lb ft of torque; enough for random burn-outs and wild slides.
3 THE iNEXT GENERATION
Fifth-gen electric motor technology derived from the iNext SUV, which will go on sale in 2021, is expected to be utilised in the X8 M, as part of its PHEV powertrain. But, while the X8 M will utilise electrification, it will shun many of the iNext’s innovations, prioritising high performance over clean running.
4 THE FINAL FLAGSHIP?
Like Mercedes, BMW is tightening its belt with platform sharing, so few other halo cars are planned. As the i8 parks itself in BMW’s museum, we had hoped its replacement would appear in 2022, with a 335bhp petrol four-cylinder engine e-boosted to around 650bhp, but word is the proposal’s been shelved… Boo.
Markus Flasch CEO, BMW M GmbH
‘The ultimate driving experience is all about precision, agility and dynamics. None of these have to change just because there’s a battery. We know we need to be careful, as it’s not just longitudinal performance, it’s more than that; it’s about how the car makes you feel.’
Factfile
POWERTRAIN
4395cc V8 plus e-motors,
750bhp, all-wheel drive
CHASSIS Aluminium/steel monocoque
DUE 2022
