Ferrari may be planning a greener model to replace its F430, but that new model won’t likely hold the title of greenest supercar for long. BMW is in the midst of developing its own eco-friendly supercar, which could hit the market as soon as 2012.
According to the UK’s Autocar, the new BMW model will be a two-seat model intended to take on the Audi R8 and upcoming Mercedes-Benz SLC. Although that task will require some real high-performance, BMW will stuff the new model with plenty of green tech, including direct-injection, brake energy regeneration and stop/start technology usually reserved for hybrids. BMW’s F1 hybrid technology is also rumored to be on the table.
As far as styling goes, inside sources have indicated that the new super car be a modern-day M1, with overall styling likely previewed by the recently unveiled M1 Homage concept.
True to its M1 roots, the new supercar will have a mid-engine configuration, but will be down a few cylinders compared to the competition. Autocar says the modern-day M1 will feature the same 3.0L turbo six used throughout BMW ’s model lineup, albeit tuned for greater horsepower.
