The BMW iM was conceived as a halo car.
Designed to showcase cutting-edge technology and sustainable engineering.
Positioned to compete with Ferrari and McLaren, it embodied BMW’s ‘i’ division ethos but with more aggression and performance than the i8.
The iM aimed to be a pure electric supercar or a plug-in hybrid with even greater power.
Four electric motors, one for each wheel, enabling all-wheel drive with torque vectoring.
With an output of over 700 horsepower, it is in hypercar territory.
BMW planned to utilise a carbon fibre monocoque chassis as the foundation of the iM.
The design incorporated recycled composites and sustainable materials, reinforcing BMW’s commitment to eco-friendly innovation.
Early designs showcased active aerodynamics, with deployable spoilers and vents to optimise performance.
The styling aimed to balance futurism and elegance, stepping beyond the divisive design of the i8 with sharp lines and flowing surfaces.
Sub-3-second 0–60 mph acceleration with 300+ miles of range.
Disappointingly, development costs became prohibitive as BMW shifted its focus toward mass-market EVs like the i4 and iX.
Internal discussions raised doubts about the profitability of a supercar amidst growing market demand for SUVs and crossovers.
Although the iM was shelved, its predecessor, the i8, left a lasting legacy:
It showcased BMW’s expertise in hybrid systems and lightweight engineering.
The iM’s ambitions echo in concepts like the Vision M Next, a high-performance hybrid-electric supercar hinting at what could have been.
Despite its cancellation, the iM remains a reminder of BMW’s bold vision for sustainable performance and technological innovation.
The iM remains an intriguing ‘what-if,’ blending BMW’s daring engineering with aspirations to redefine the supercar market.
‘All Talk, No Torque; a car with no roar, no rumble, and no release.’
