Double DTM champion Timo Scheider in BMW World Rallycross talks

Having retired from the DTM at the end of 2016, Scheider raced full-time in World RX this year with the MJP Racing Team Austria squad following selected appearances over the previous two seasons.

He also drove for BMW in the Nurburgring 24 Hours and VLN.

Asked about rumours he was now in RX talks with BMW, Scheider told Autosport: "Sure there are dreams and hopes, and there is for sure something positive behind that.

"I can't say anything more but I can tell you that we're in deep discussions."

Scheider's DTM retirement ended a 10-year relationship with Audi.

He finished on the podium at the opening RX round at Barcelona this season and expects to combine rallycross and a wider BMW programme again in 2018.

The 2008 and '09 DTM title winner said the potential for an electric rallycross category being introduced at world level as soon as 2020 was alluring for manufacturers.

"I think it's no secret that we're talking about that for the future," said Scheider.

"The future looks bright with electric rallycross.

"So far it sounds quite interesting what the manufacturers are talking about.

"Sure, as an old-school racing driver you like the petrol engines no question, but this is the future and we have to deal with it.

"When you look at how much manufacturers are involved in Formula E for example, then for sure the future of rallycross with electric cars can be a good future."

To date, the only BMW machinery raced in top-level World RX were the JRM Racing-run Mini RX Supercars, used in 2015 and '16 by Guy Wilks, Liam Doran and Guerlain Chicherit among others.