Every automaker is at least thinking about an autonomous driving future, even if they’re not doing anything about it. BMW’s Vision NEXT concepts have addressed that, but now they’ve made a driver’s concept car for the future with the Vision M NEXT, a hybrid that invokes the i8 but perhaps even more so, the original M1. The car can operate in electric all-wheel drive or divert power to only the rear wheels like a classic Bimmer, as well as add gas power in that equation. Total output is 600 horses for a 0-60 time of less than 3 seconds. BOOST+ mode squirts more power for short periods, as well. Rather than the complexity of the Vision NEXT cars from the previous couple of years, the M NEXT is rather simple in its design with big angles, intakes, and louvres, as well as a beautiful colorblock treatment and carbon fiber skirts.
BMW’s Laser Wire technology shows up in the head and taillights, giving the appearance of an ECG heart pattern for visual effect. The cabin is similarly minimalist like the exterior yet more futuristic than just about anything we’ve seen. Big swaths of blue microfiber span the cabin peppered by orange highlights. The BOOST Pod comprises two small displays on the F1-style steering wheel, and a curved glass display with five clusters wraps around as the instrumentation. The appearance changes by minimizing visible information when the driver wants to extract more performance, so as to reduce distractions. The Vision M NEXT is proof that BMW is aware the future is coming but doesn’t want to leave driving enthusiasts behind.
