Toyota & BMW Sportscar Partnership
Generally speaking, when two superpowers come together we get some pretty spectacular things. All signs are pointing in that direction in terms of the Toyota & BMW sporstcar partnership. Based on the FT-1 concept, we should be looking at the release of a new Toyota Supra and BMW Z4 replacement in the next couple years, and we are all getting pretty antsy.
It has recently been announced that Toyota’s legendary sportscar, the Supra, is making a heroic return to the road in a partnership between Toyota and BMW. Not unlike the Toyota-Subaru-Scion vehicles (GT86, BRZ, FR-S respectively), the low-slung sportscar is expected to be released under both makes with slight differences throughout. Sources have claimed the new BMW / Supra looks to be sized around the same as the current model BMW Z4. So we are looking at seeing a genuine two-seated sporting coupe, which is definitely exciting. Given that the BMW version is currently being modeled as a convertible, the Supra is more likely to come soon after as a coupe.
Although engine and performance information has been kept behind tight lips, drivers can most likely expect to see a turbocharged four-cylinder hybrid engine, maximizing both output and fuel efficiency. Talks are of BMW providing the engine and transmission for the Toyota as well as their own model, but Toyota plans on implementing their superconductor hybrid technology. If the latter goes through, we could be seeing a plug-in hybrid sportscar with an estimated 350 horsepower. Potentially creating an all-wheel drive platform on the Supra, Toyota are planning a similar hybrid setup as on the TS040 LMP1 racing car by using two electric motors to power the front wheels and the gasoline engine and a third electric motor to power the rear wheels.
More information on the upcoming Supra project will release as it develops, so stay up to date on the Magnussen’s Toyota of Palo Alto blog. Don’t forget to check out our new vehicle inventory to see all of the latest and greatest models available on our dealership. We have the vehicles you want and the customer service you deserve, but you’ll have to come on by to see that for yourself.
