BMW i16: The Unmade Successor to the Iconic i8
New Delhi: BMW envisioned a groundbreaking mid-engine hybrid supercar, the i16, as a successor to the iconic i8. However, this eye-catching creation never went into production, remaining a mystery for four years until BMW’s chief designer, Domagoj Dukek, revealed it on social media. The i16, loosely inspired by the famous M1, could have been BMW’s second special model following the 1978 M1 supercar.
Based on the Vision M Next concept showcased in 2019, the i16 featured subtle modifications to ensure road legality. Dukeck emphasized its potential as a “future classic”, highlighting design elements reminiscent of the M1, such as its angular silhouette, ventilated rear arches and louvred engine lid. The i16 aimed to take advantage of the overall architecture of the i8 to reduce development costs, but it is unclear whether it would have retained the same plug-in hybrid powertrain.
The i8, BMW’s initial plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV), is powered by a 1.5-litre turbo-petrol engine with an electric motor, producing 374 hp and 0-100 km/h acceleration of 4.3 seconds. Despite its strengths, production was discontinued in 2020 to pave the way for BMW’s new line of custom electric models such as the iX3 and iX.
Unfortunately, the COVID-19 pandemic halted work on the i16 project in 2020, ultimately shelving it due to concerns over high R&D costs and uncertain sales potential. However, M division head Frank van Meel hinted at the possibility of a new hybrid supercar in the future, emphasizing BMW’s continued exploration of such ideas.
Although the i16 will never grace the roads, BMW’s dedication to innovation and performance continues, keeping enthusiasts curious about what the future holds for the brand’s super-sports car aspirations.
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