BMW has added to rumours of a planned resurrection for the 8 Series after the company reportedly registered a number of trademarks relating to the range-topping line-up.

According to British website Auto Express, the company applied to gain control of a number of 8 Series-related names in March - including 825, 830, 835, 845, 850, 860 and M850.

It has also been suggested that the 8 Series’ revival forms part of a plan to reposition the 6 Series as a lighter and more purposeful rival to the Porsche 911 and the Mercedes-AMG GT.

Auto Express reports that the launch of Mercedes-AMG's GT coupe has reignited BMW's interest in the category.

According to the report, the construction of a two-seater 6 Series sports car may call on the shared platform being developed alongside Toyota and will see only a coupe and convertible offered.