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There’s a glamorous side to the auto world that we often celebrate in world debuts, product launches, and concept car reveals. But as exciting as that side of the business is, the actual business of making money is about as ruthless and cutthroat as it gets. We don’t often see this aspect of the industry, but when it rears its ugly head, it can turn the fortunes of an automaker upside down without warning. Like most automakers, BMW’s bottom line is its number one priority. When that bottom line trends north, everyone goes home with a smile on their face. But what if that bottom line suddenly reverses course? Panic ensues and plans and projects, no matter how new, are scuttled and thrown directly into the trash bin. To be clear, BMW is still profitable; it’s just not as profitable as it would like to be, especially with heavy investments in hybridization and electrification draining most of its profits away. To keep its numbers from spiraling out of control, BMW is reportedly considering axing several models from its lineup, including a pair of models that have just been unveiled in the last couple of years. The cost-cutting measures come at a time when Bimmer is redirecting its attention and resources towards projects that will help it remain relevant in the next decade. It’s just that, by doing that, we’re likely going to have to say goodbye to some of the automaker’s current models, none more surprising, at least in my mind, than the new BMW Z4 and coupé and convertible versions of the BMW 8 Series.
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