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]