In a revealing conversation, Domagoj Dokic, the lead designer at BMW, shed light on some previously undisclosed aspects concerning the brand’s ambition to craft a successor to the iconic i8 sports model—a vision that unfortunately never transitioned into reality due to a series of financial hurdles. This ambitious project was centered around what was to be known as the BMW i16, a vehicle that promised to redefine the boundaries of automotive design and performance.
Approximately ten years back, BMW embarked on an adventurous journey to develop the i16, positioning it as a direct descendant of the “Vision M Next” concept. This concept, unveiled in 2019, captivated BMW enthusiasts worldwide, drawing inspiration from the legendary M1 of the late 1970s and igniting a fervent plea among fans for its commercial production. The design of the concept car skillfully married the classic charm of BMW’s heritage with a forward-looking, futuristic aesthetic, marked by features such as tinted rear windows and the BMW emblem ingeniously integrated into the taillights.
Dokic highlighted that the i16 was conceived as a modern classic, aiming to transcend the design ethos of the M1. Remarkably, the development team brought the i16 from concept to prototype in under a year—a testament to their dedication and innovation. This car was poised to complement the i3 in BMW’s electric lineup, signaling a bold step towards a future of zero-emission mobility by planning an electric counterpart for each of its combustion engine models. Despite its advanced unibody structure and the use of carbon fiber reinforced plastic—a nod to the i8’s construction—the i16’s journey was abruptly halted.
The advent of the global pandemic in 2020, followed by a financial crisis, forced BMW to retract funding for the i16 project, ceasing its development and relegating the aspirations and innovations it represented to the realm of “what could have been.” This decision underscored the often unpredictable path from concept to commercial viability within the auto industry.
However, the tale of the i16 doesn’t end as a mere footnote in BMW’s storied history. The insights gained and the technological advancements fostered through its development are being repurposed to fuel the creation of new models. These endeavors align with BMW’s enduring commitment to sustainability and innovation, reflecting a broader industry trend towards electrification amid growing consumer demand for electric vehicles.
As BMW navigates the shifting landscape of automotive mobility, the spirit of the i16 lives on, influencing the design and engineering of future vehicles. This evolution represents not only a tribute to the unrealized potential of the i16 but also BMW’s adaptability in the face of change, ensuring that the legacy of innovation and the drive towards a sustainable future remain integral to its identity. This transition embodies the company’s resilience and foresight, promising that the essence of the i16 will permeate the next generation of BMW’s electric vehicles, marking a new chapter in the pursuit of excellence and environmental stewardship.
