Tag: BMW-Toyota

The next BMW Z4 will actually see a return of the Z3 badge, an odd move given BMW’s recent nomenclature, and will be inspired by the look of the very sexy Vision ConnectedDrive concept car.

It will also be the first model developed under the BMW-Toyota partnership. Toyota’s first model under the co-development will be a hardtop coupé, although roadster and hardtop models will feature for both brands in time.

The Z3 will employ a folding soft-top with a view to saving weight. Increased use of aluminium and carbon fibre, including a carbon fibre tub, will be used to help keep weight down as well.

BMW will fit a range of four and six cylinder engines to the Z3 and there is a chance of M-badged models too.

The use of a carbon fibre tub is significant because BMW expects the Z3 to undercut the price of the Alfa Romeo 4C, which is currently one of the cheapest ways to get yourself into such an exotic chassis construction.

If you like the sound of all this don’t get too excited because the all-new Z3 is still a couple of years away yet.

[Source: Bimmerpost]

Noted BMW insider and well traveled forum user Scott26 has come to light with some info on Munich’s plans for two-seater sportscars. Scott’s info came in response to feedback from a Z4 owner lamenting the fact there’s been no V8 powered Z4 M on the cards; an E92 M3 in sportscar clothing:

Many within the company wishes for an M Z4 but unfortunately the market is small.

We will shortly be presenting our collaboration with Toyota for a new interpretation of a new highly focused sports car first as a concept. The production car will be called the Z5 which allows us to align a new UKL (FWD) based Z1 with equivalent MINI sports car along with a mid sized Z3 (the name is coming back) which again could be aligned with Toyota. Although for some markets Toyota might use Lexus branding.

The Z5 Roadster will feature exterior and interior design from BMW, as well as BMW engines. Toyota will supply optional hybrid technology and BMW will supply CFRP in its construction. A coupe will follow.

Sounds good to us. Of course, Scott was referring to the formal collaboration signed between BMW and Toyota in January, which stated in part:

The companies agreed to set-up a feasibility study to define a joint platform concept for a mid-size sports vehicle that is to be completed by the end of 2013. The two companies aim to combine each other’s technology and knowledge at a high level to maximise customer satisfaction. Both companies are to share the vision to further collaborate in the field of sports vehicle development.

[Source: F30post]