Now that BMW’s M division has won its first DTM race, the brand may be one step close to building a successor to the M1 mid-engine sports car, a BMW insider told Automobile. The supercar could use technology originally developed for the i8 extended-range hybrid sports car.
“If the i8 is the world´s sportiest green car, then our new mid-engine two-seater needs to be the greenest sports car,” says Automobile’s insider.
Don’t expect a hybrid powertrain for the new M1, which could debut for the 2016 model year, due to concerns regarding weight, complexity, and reliability. Rather, the M1 will likely follow the i8’s approach to lightweight materials, using carbon fiber and aluminum – plus magnesium, titanium, and high-strength steel – to keep weight near an unofficial target of 2750 pounds. If achieved, that would undercut the
Porsche 911 Carrera S,
McLaren MP4-12C, and
Lexus LFA by 400-500 pounds. The M1 is expected to use a carbon-fiber monocoque with firewalls that have integrated rollover-protection extensions.
The new M1 may be powered by a 600-650 hp twin-turbo 4.0-liter V-8 engine mated to an eight- or nine-speed dual-clutch transmission with start-stop technology. Though an inline-six cylinder was apparently considered, it may not meet the performance targets as well as a V-8 engine could. Expect the M1 to use control-arm suspension all the way around, carbon-ceramic brakes, and electric power steering.
The new M1 may be powered by a 600-650 hp twin-turbo 4.0-liter V-8 engine mated to an eight- or nine-speed dual-clutch transmission with start-stop technology. Though an inline-six cylinder was apparently considered, it may not meet the performance targets as well as a V-8 engine could. Expect the M1 to use control-arm suspension all the way around, carbon-ceramic brakes, and electric power steering.
Thanks to:
Motor Trend &
E90 Post
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