In an interview with Britain’s Autocar, BMW Design Director, Adrian van Hooydonk,let slip that the brand “won’t stop” the introduction of all-new models after the 8-series, but added that a rival for the Maybach would only arrive after 2021 if given the green light.

“Obviously our job is to have more ideas than the company can build, because the other way round would be very bad. My team and I are now looking at 2021 and beyond – as far out as 2030. We have a lot of plans,” he said.

Referring to the revived 8-series as a “new chapter” for the BMW, van Hooydonk alluded that the replacement for the discontinued 6-series would serve as a platform for BMW’s future styling direction, stating that, “the coupé will always kickstart the next level in design. The same is true for this car (9-series)”.

Aside from the coupe, the 8-series will take over from the 6-series completely next year by expanding to include a cabriolet and four-door GranCoupe, followed by the high-awaited M5 powered M8.