Peter Lyons from Motoring Australia has just unleashed a wild rumor concerning a potential supercar from a Lexus/BMW joint project:
Our source lets on that both companies have jointly built a prototype in a mid-engined layout with full-time AWD.
Toyota is rumoured to be testing a detuned version of its Le Mans TS040 race car’s 520hp (388kW) 3.7-litre V8 for the Lexus version of the supercar. And with the 480hp (358kW) produced by the front and rear [electric] motors, the total power output would reach the magic number of 1000hp (745kW).
Our insider says however that “while 1000hp is possible, fuel consumption, emissions concerns and engine tolerance figures will see a more realistic figure of 800hp (596kW) targeted.”
The idea of Lexus and BMW collaborating on a supercar has been going on since the Toyota/BMW technology sharing agreement was signed in 2011. Normally, this would be written off as pure crazy, but Peter Lyons has been accurate with Lexus rumors in the past.
Even if there’s a shred of truth to this news, there are too many moving parts to say if this is a car that will be released — let’s not ignore the BMW side of the equation:
And here’s the highlight. From what our insider reveals, there are two power units currently under development. The power source for BMW’s supercar will be a bespoke M-developed straight-six twin turbo with plug-in hybrid technology courtesy of Toyota.
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