Wiesmann’s Project Gecko gets caught on camera

German niche carmaker announced the Project Gecko several months ago, and the first prototype of the BMW-engined sports car has just been spotted towed somewhere on a public road.

The Gecko will become the marque’s first model after its insolvency and subsequent resurrection. Wiesmann reports that the financial problems that forced it to shut down have now been resolved.

The car was spotted next to one of known BMW testing facilities, so perhaps the company is running the initial pre-production tests there.

Despite the heavy camo wrap disguising its features, you can safely expect the Gecko to be styled like all previous Wiesmann projects. This implies a distinct retro vibe, an elongated hood, short rear overhang, and characteristic ‘blown-up’ fenders. Some parts will be made from carbon fiber, and there will be a fixed rear wing.

Despite the likely similar design, the Project Gecko comes based on a brand-new platform and will likely have nothing in common with its predecessors in terms of tech. Highlights will include six-piston brakes and independent height-adjustable suspension based on dual-wishbone design.

The series will hit the showrooms powered by the 4.4-liter V8 TT made by BMW, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. The mill produces up to 625 PS (616 hp, 459 kW) on BMW cars; Wiesmann does not provide any kind of power rating, but says that the coupe will zap from 0 to 100 km/h (62 mph) in 3.5 seconds or close to that.

Sales of the Wiesmann MF6 (the final production name of the Gecko) will launch in 2020.