Giom Mouton – the South African rendering artist – brings us another interesting BMW design study. The object of this new design exercise is the iconic BMW 8 Series, a model that has been often rumored to make a return in some sort of form and shape in the future. Mouton basis his design on the BMW DNA and the iconic design cues, and this is philosophy is clearly being followed here.
“It’s not difficult to come up with beautiful BMW designs since the inherent BMW DNA is already close to perfect,” Mouton says. “Especially when it comes to large coupés. The focus is on proportions. You get those right and the rest simply falls into place.”
This 8 Series Design Study is based on the BMW 6 Series Gran Coupé chassis dimensions. This enables the greenhouse to move backwards giving the coupé the iconic long hood. Overall, the car is 100mm lower than the 6 Series coupé. While the proportions are classic coupé, the surface treatment is anything but.
The flared out wheel arches is a nod to the original 850i – like the wedge shape. The frontal treatment is a blend of modern design and functional aerodynamics. The forward leaning kidney grill pays homage to the 70s ‘shark nose’ design while the rear is much rounder than before, and perhaps the greatest departure from the original. This allows the car to slip through the air without creating too much drag. Yet, the L-shaped taillights continue to dominate the rear and pay tribute to one of BMW’s most iconic design features.
It’s strictly a two seater designed for long distance travel – a true GT in that sense. A 6 liter V12 cylinder engine gives the top of the range model the ability to super cruise without breaking a sweat, but more importantly, it gives the car the credentials to compete in the upper echelons of exclusive motoring. The passengers are cocooned in the utmost luxury with their every need catered for.
Despite the focus on luxury, this potential BMW 860i is a capable athlete, inspiring confidence through fast bends and stable at Autobahn speeds. Using BMW i technology, the weight could remain well under two tons. Air flow dynamics see to it that drag is kept to a minimum.
If BMW ever decides to bring back the 8 Series, the car is likely to not only feature an edgy design, but also be adorned with the highest luxury possible.
