[Video] BMW 8 Series Mule Spotted at the Nürburgring

A new “mystery” test mule from BMW was spotted at the Nürburgring, which made the automotive world go wild last week. Car enthusiasts have been trying to figure out exactly what car is this. But after seeing a few captivating details of this mule, they instantly recognized it. BMW acknowledged that it’s just a prototype to test ‘various parts’, but some car enthusiasts would not just take it.

They could riddle out that much, but is left with a nagging question: what precisely are those parts? The video shows how the test mule does several laps on the Nürburgring. A mid-engine model features itself on the thoughts of some. However, lacking clues have led to a lesser possibility of it. For such a setup, just seeing air inlets on its rear side windows would not be enough to prove this. Meanwhile, others have speculated it to be a hybrid powertrain prototype. But it needs to wear “Electric Test Vehicle” badges as per some regulations observed in Germany. This test mule doesn’t have it, however.

Stickers are necessary as it discloses the ‘hybrid’ nature of the car. Carrying this sticker allows a carmaker to test a hybrid configuration on public roads. It is necessary in case emergency services have to interfere, or if something goes wrong while testing the mule. As for this BMW test mule, driving it started from the test center all the way to the track on public roads. Thus, recognizing it as a non-hybrid prototype. As you can see the test mule doing its laps on the Nürburgring, you can also hear it. Thus, providing its largest piece of the puzzle.

It appears to be a next-gen P58 engine, as it sounds like a straight-six was used underneath the hood. If you’re not familiar with it, the P58 engine is the racing form of the B58 straight-six. Nevertheless, this is just an assumption. The good thing is we know how its engine gives some intense power.

It’s justified by the quad-exhaust layout, the massive brakes, and the huge cooling spotted behind the front fascia. According to some, BMW is in the middle of an exclusive project to celebrate the 5th decade of the BMW Motorsport division. We should be in for something quite fascinating if this is true. This also highlights past rumors regarding a ‘one off’ M model that will become the crown for the German car brand. Nevertheless, this test mule for the BMW 8 Series is already causing some wild happenings for both its drivers and enthusiasts.