Rumors of a BMW M5 hybrid have finally been confirmed thanks to the latest M5 prototype that has been spotted doing some public road testing. We know this isn’t a basic 5 Series due to the extra-large brakes, but the “Hybrid Test Vehicle” sticker on the driver’s door exposes BMW’s desire to take the M5 electric. There’s also a new flap on the front fender, which is likely for a charging port indicating that this is a plug-in hybrid M5 and will likely offer some kind of usable electric-only range. It should be noted that this charging door is in the same place and is the same shape and size as that on the 545e xDrive.

With all of this in mind, will BMW manage to keep the V-8 under the hood? We’re going to say that it’s quite likely. Part of the reason the M5 is going the hybrid route is to help it not only cut fuel consumption but meet the stricter emissions regulations. As of now, there’s not much more to say about this prototype, but this is its first outing, so if it will be revealed anytime in 2022, it’ll come much later in the year, with 2023 being more likely. It should go on sale as a 2024 model.