The successor to the BMW i8 could become the BMW i12 and retain a plug-in hybrid powertrain

Earlier this August, several sources published a report stating that the Bavarian brand may be working on new models for its electrified lineup; BMW i. These new cars are reportedly already being prepared for launch in the coming years. One of them may be the most eye-catching. It is the successor to the BMW i8 hybrid sports car.

BMW surprised many observers in June with the unveiling of the BMW Vision M Next concept, and all signs point to its production version serving as the replacement for the BMW i8.

Sources claim this model could be called BMW i12 and, although it will keep a hybrid powertrain like the outgoing model, it will offer significantly higher performance and move the car into a completely new segment of the market.

Most of the vehicle’s power comes from a 2.0-litre turbocharged four-cylinder engine producing 344 CV, combined with a 203 CV electric motor. This will be the base version, while in its definitive form, this combination of a powerful ICE and an electric motor could generate more than 680 CV.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=81wHqxnWeHQ

The successor to the BMW i8 could reach more than 680 CV

The new model that will replace the BMW i8 will feature a large battery with a capacity of 135 kWh, which would supply energy to the electric motor and help the car cover a considerable distance on fully electric range.

Last June, the Bavarian brand stated it had no plans to develop a “direct successor” to the BMW i8, but that does not mean it isn’t working on a new hybrid sports car that will replace the BMW i8, and that is precisely what we could see becoming reality.

It is worth noting that the BMW Vision M Next concept was unveiled with a sharp and striking look. It is drastically different from the BMW i8 or any previous BMW hybrid. The new BMW M concept has a maximum power output of around 600 CV, which translates into a top speed of 300 km/h. In a straight line, it can accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in just three seconds. As for its fully electric range, it is 100 kilometres, which makes this car suitable for city centres with zero-emission zones.

The BMW Vision M Next features a Power PHEV transmission system offering the choice between all-electric all-wheel drive and pure rear-wheel drive, with fully electric or petrol propulsion, courtesy of a turbocharged four-cylinder petrol unit.

The interior is equipped with facial recognition technology, which allows the car to unlock automatically as the driver approaches. Pressing the touch sensor on the gull-wing doors reveals a minimalist interior. Domagoj Dukec, Vice President of BMW Design, has noted that “the entire interior is focused on Boost mode. The geometry has a deliberately understated feel so the driver can fully concentrate on the driving experience.”