BMW's stunning M1 Homage concept may have life in it yet as 'insider' reports suggest the company is working on a new version of the car with 'sustainability and the environment' at the heart of the project.
According to stories in the German media, the new version of the M1 Homage will be revealed as a concept at the Frankfurt motor show in September. It is not reported as having a hybrid or other 'alternative' powertrain (yet!), but instead will showcase sustainable design and material usage. This could mean the car will appear with a version of BMW's latest twin-turbo V12 as a formidable rival for the V10 Audi R8 and new Merc SLS gullwing - a sporting flagship for BMW in the same vein as the original M1 produced between 1978 and 1981.
However, although BMW has just revealed a new V12 in its latest 7-series, previous rumours about a follow-up to the M1 Homage have focused more on the possibility of a turbocharged six or even a version of the V8 from the M3. We wouldn't rule out a hybrid option either, but in the absence of any official guidance we can only speculate.
Whichever route is followed, the reports do tell us to expect 'green' elements like stop-start, cylinder deactivation, regenerative braking and the like on the new concept at Frankfurt.
According to the reports, the M1 Homage project has been progressing slowly since the concept (pictured here) was first revealed on the 30th anniversary of the M1 last year. It is now thought that a limited production run could start in 2012.
BMW's withdrawal from F1 could add new impetus to the project, as it frees up capital and perhaps also increases the brand's desire for a new sporting flagship.
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