In an era in which the automotive industry seems to have sworn allegiance solely to batteries, BMW is taking a turn that will make any purist smile. Joachim Post, the visionary behind the brand's development work, has confirmed something that many thought was impossible: the legendary V8 and even the majestic V12 engines are still in the game.
Euro 7? No problem!
Many predicted that the new Euro 7 environmental standards would be the death knell for large units. But Munich is responding with “Not today“. Thanks to clever optimization of exhaust systems and catalytic converters, BMW has managed to “put on the road“ powerful eight- and twelve-cylinder engines, without requiring colossal investments.
This means that Rolls-Royce will continue to whisper with its 6.75-liter V12, and fans of the M-division will be able to enjoy the brutal roar of gasoline for a long time. But that's not all
The New 4 Series: One breath, two hearts
While Audi has discontinued the A5 Coupe and Mercedes has merged two models into one (CLE), BMW is doubling down on the 4 Series. The third generation of the coupe is on the way and it won't be just a "facelift".
Synergy strategy: Thanks to joint development with the new 3 Series, the production costs of the "four" remain low.
Double game: Expect a real technological separation. The internal combustion versions will ride on the advanced CLAR platform, while the all-electric variants will shine on the innovative Neue Klasse architecture.
The future M4: Rumors suggest that the next M4 could offer the best of both worlds – a mild hybrid with a six-cylinder in-line engine for traditionalists and a fully electric monster with a 108 kWh battery and a range of over 800 km.
“The 4 Series is the brand's DNA. We are a sports brand and coupes will always have a place in our showroom,“ Joachim Post is categorical.
The market as a battlefield
BMW's move is strategically brilliant. When everyone else withdraws from niche segments such as two-door coupes, the Bavarians are left almost alone at the top. With fewer competitors but still a loyal fan base, the new 4 Series has the potential to become an absolute hegemon.