BMW rules out V12-powered and plug-in hybrid version of new 8 Series

That's unfortunate. They should do both... and even an all electric one if that is viable off this platform.

Actually - with the exception of a few exotics - the V-12 is likely to be gone within the next 10 years anyway. THey can produce V-8 BiTurbo's that match the power if not the refinement - and the V-12 probably sells in very small numbers making its availability questionable from a pure profit standpoint. If Mercedes is ending the V-12 AMG production - I would expect the BMW to do pretty much the same. Certification for a very low production engine is now not worth it.

At the same time - plug-in Hybrids have pretty much lost out to Plain Hybrids. Unless the Plug has a reasonable range - most of these cars have 30 mile ranges - when they need 100 miles or more to be worthwhile. I think we will see the return of the Plug-in Hybrid when the next generation of Batteries makes this range possible.

THe realization that there are now SO many different vehicles coming out - along with complete EV lines as well - means that something had to give - and the loss here is actually probably small.

Not doing a V12 is a massive blunder.

yes, I am sure BMW and Benz will get very sternly worded letters from the half dozen or so people who wanted the slower and heavier V12 versions instead of the similarly powered, lighter, faster, and better handling V8-powered M and AMG models. Massive blunder, indeed.

@JRobUSC....But the V12 is oh so smooth and silky, nothing compares. You can make the same generalization arguments about a lot of things such as the stick vs automatic. Maybe the automatic is the better transmission but the stick could be more fun and satisfying for a significant portion of the potential buyers.

Not a big deal for me as long as it drives and accelerates well!