BMW Skytop Concept: A Limited Production Luxury Sports Car

Bosses Hint at Possible Production

BMW’s Skytop Concept car, possibly named Z8, is on track for homologation and could see limited production with deliveries starting as early as next year, according to company executives.

Inspired by the Z8

The Skytop Concept, based on the 8 Series platform, made its official debut at Villa d’Este on 24 May. It boasts a 4.4-litre twin-turbocharged V8 engine from the M8, tuned to deliver 626bhp. The design of the car draws inspiration from the iconic Z8, featuring several design elements reminiscent of the 2000s classic.

Potential Limited Production

Speaking at the event, BMW design director Adrian van Hooydonk expressed the possibility of a very limited production run for the Skytop Concept, similar to the approach taken with the 3.0 CSL, where only 50 units were produced.

Van Hooydonk stated, “If we do it, I think we should do it in a very limited production. Very limited. Like we did with 3.0 CSL. We made 50 pieces of that. Then I think that would make some sense. Then it becomes a dream car. Maybe an instant classic.”

High Demand Expected

BMW M CEO Frank van Meel echoed this sentiment, describing the Skytop Concept as a test balloon to gauge interest. He mentioned that the demand for such a vehicle is high, indicating a strong probability of production if interest translates into purchasing orders.

Design and Features

The Skytop Concept features a removable Targa-style roof with an integral roll-over hoop, paying homage to classic BMW grand tourer proportions. The design combines traditional elements with modern touches, including advanced lighting, brushed aluminum accents, and sleek lines.

The front end is characterized by a tapered kidney grille and slim LED headlights, while the rear showcases thin horizontal brake lights and oval-shaped tailpipes integrated into the bumper.

Powerful V8 Engine

The concept is powered by BMW’s most potent V8 engine, a 4.4-litre twin-turbocharged unit producing up to 626bhp. This engine choice reflects the heritage of the Z8, which featured a powerful V8 powerplant.

Possible Production Timeline

If approved for production, the road-ready version of the Skytop could hit the market as early as 2026, potentially replacing the current 8 Series. The concept envisions a luxury convertible option, but it remains unclear if BMW will continue offering coupé and fastback variants.

This marks BMW’s first combustion engine-powered show car since the Concept 4 in 2019, signaling the brand’s commitment to large-capacity motors alongside its upcoming EV lineup.