Speaking with
Autoexpress at the Detroit Auto Show, BMW M head Frank Van Meel spoke more on the future of hybridization and electrification of BMW M models. A pure electric M car is 'unavoidable' according to Van Meel.
But first, hybrid powertrains will be introduced to the M lineup. The powertrain will prioritize enhancing performance rather than boosting efficiency. "We already see the stop/start feature coming to M vehicles and the next step is electrification. At the end it will also be pure electric, but it's going to take some time," "Of course we are in close contact with the Project i group looking into next generation of cell technologies, electric motors, weight and cooling systems to figure when is the right time to make the next step" said Van Meel.
Van Meel continued to rule out the possibility of a M-developed BMW i8. "That wouldn't make sense," Meel told Auto Express. "It's two different directions. M is about uncompromised motorsport, whereas Project i looks into the future and is uncompromised efficiency."