One of the standout automotive concepts of the year is on its way to becoming a reality.
BMW has officially announced that it will produce the Concept Skytop, which was showcased at this year’s Villa d’Este Concorso d’Eleganza. The German automaker plans to manufacture only 50 units of this two-seater, but the decision to move forward with production is a significant triumph for enthusiasts who appreciate exquisite automotive craftsmanship.
The announcement took place during a special event organized by the House of BMW in Milan last week. At this gathering, Adrian van Hooydonk, the head of BMW’s design team, revealed that the production of the vehicle had been greenlit due to the overwhelmingly positive feedback it garnered after its debut at the prestigious Concours event. In recent years, BMW has increasingly focused on catering to collectors through ultra-limited special editions, including the BMW 3.0 CSL, which pays homage to the company’s inaugural M car, affectionately known as the “Batmobile.”
“To finally announce that this car will be built is like a dream come true,” van Hooydonk expressed to the audience. “Thank you for the very positive response around the globe and to the passionate team that worked on the project.”
The excitement surrounding the Skytop is palpable, and it’s easy to understand why it captured so much attention after its unveiling. This handbuilt two-seater serves as a tribute to BMW’s rich legacy of sporting convertibles. Its sculptural design draws inspiration from the iconic Z8, while it is based on the existing 8 Series convertible. The Skytop features a refreshed front fascia with an illuminated kidney grille, more aggressive lines highlighted by a striking central spine, and removable roof panels that can be conveniently stored in the trunk when the weather is pleasant. Complementing this stunning design are alloy wheels with a distinctive gill-like covering.
While performance specifications were not disclosed at the time of its initial reveal in the spring, it was confirmed that the Skytop will be powered by BMW’s most potent engine. This strongly suggests that it will feature the twin-turbocharged 4.4-liter V-8 engine from the M8 Competition. This powerful engine produces 617 horsepower and 553 lb-ft of torque, indicating that the Skytop will be exceptionally fast and performance-oriented.
However, acquiring one of these limited-edition vehicles is going to be quite challenging. BMW has announced that all 50 units slated for production have already been pre-sold, leaving many potential buyers disappointed. While the exact pricing has not yet been revealed, it’s reasonable to expect that the Skytop will come with a price tag significantly higher than the starting cost of the M8 Competition Convertible, which begins at $148,800.
This limited production run underscores BMW’s commitment to blending luxury, performance, and exclusive design. The Skytop isn’t just a vehicle; it represents a melding of artistry and engineering, capturing the essence of what makes BMW a leader in the luxury automotive market. With its unique features and design cues paying homage to BMW’s illustrious history, the Skytop stands as a beacon for the brand’s dedication to creating vehicles that resonate with collectors and enthusiasts alike.
The decision to put the Skytop into production speaks to a broader trend within the automotive industry, where brands are increasingly focusing on bespoke, limited-edition models that cater to a niche market of collectors. By investing time and resources into creating such exclusive offerings, BMW not only strengthens its brand identity but also solidifies its position in the competitive luxury car segment.
As the production of the Skytop gets underway, fans and collectors will be eagerly anticipating the vehicle’s official launch and the chance to see it in action. The limited nature of its availability adds to its allure, making it a highly coveted item among automotive enthusiasts.
In conclusion, the production of the BMW Concept Skytop marks an exciting chapter for the brand, combining a tribute to its racing and convertible heritage with cutting-edge design and engineering. While securing one of the 50 units may be out of reach for most, the Skytop will undoubtedly leave a lasting impact on the automotive landscape, reaffirming BMW’s commitment to excellence and innovation in the luxury car market. With its elegant lines, impressive performance capabilities, and exclusivity, the Skytop is poised to become an iconic addition to BMW’s legacy, capturing the hearts of those who appreciate the finer things in life.
