- The front half of the tester resembles a traditional sports car, while the rear looks a bit like an X6.
- Our spy sources suggest this model could be a smaller series production model like the i8.
- The dramatic coupe lacks traditional door handles and likely uses an 800-volt electrical architecture.
BMW is in the midst of transforming its battery-electric lineup with its Neue Klasse series of models, set to spawn six models by 2027, and the latest addition to this family has just been spotted. It is quite unlike any other model from BMW to come before it.
This eye-catching sports coupe was snapped testing in Europe by our spy photographers and represents the most radical Neue Klasse model we’ve seen to date. Indeed, it could be the most dramatic BMW we’ve seen in decades, though it does share a front fascia similar to other Neue Klasse models, featuring slim headlights and narrow kidney grilles.
Read: BMW’s Neue Klasse EVs Will All Share Similar Designs
The front end sits relatively low and appears somewhat typical for a coupe. However, the side profile of this radical BMW is anything but conventional. The roof extends slightly further than that of a traditional coupe, while also sitting higher, and it merges with a tailgate positioned well above the norm for a coupe.
While the vehicle’s front half sits low, akin to an 8-Series, the rear half bears a closer resemblance in profile to an X6. The juxtaposition of these elements creates a striking effect.
Another intriguing aspect of the car’s design is the absence of door handles; instead, it features small touch-sensitive panels on the B-pillars. The concept also sports an LED light bar and a pronounced diffuser at the rear.
It’s not just the design that distinguishes this BMW from its current production siblings. According to our spy sources, this prototype features four electric hub motors, as evidenced by the lack of traditional brake calipers.
BMW made a strategic investment in the German firm DeepDrive last year to advance hub motor technology, signaling the automaker’s commitment to this innovation. It’s unclear how much power these motors have and if they’ll be able to match the more traditional quad-motor powertrain BMW is already testing with upwards of 1,341 hp.
Details about this prototype’s batteries aren’t known, and it’s uncertain if they are mounted in the floor like most EVs or positioned somewhere in the bulbous rear end.
BMW’s plans for this model also remain shrouded in mystery, but there is speculation that this car could potentially spawn a limited-series vehicle, akin to the i8. Whatever the case, anticipate more details to emerge in the coming months.
