BMW M8 GTE Has Strong Debut At Daytona

BMW Team RLL as they pose for the pre-event photo before the Rolex 24 hours of Daytona. Image Credit: BMW Group USA (2018) 

BMW M8 GTE Has Strong Debut At Daytona

Words By:  BMW Group USA
Image Credits By: BMW Group USA (unless otherwise specified)
Curated By: Brandon O'Brien

The new BMW M8 GTE kicked off at the season opener of the IMSA WeatherTech SportsCar Championship in Daytona (USA) this weekend. At the Daytona International Speedway, Jesse Krohn (FIN), John Edwards (USA), Nick Catsburg (NED) and Augusto Farfus (BRA) finished seventh in GTLM class after 773 laps, sharing driving duties at the wheel of the number 24 car. Their team-mates, Alexander Sims (GBR), Connor De Phillippi (USA), Bill Auberlen (USA) and Philipp Eng (AUT) came ninth with the second car entered by BMW Team RLL. The number 67 Ford GT claimed victory in the 24-hour race.

The seventh place finishing BMW M8 GTE during a nighttime stint in it's inaugural race at daytona.  Image Credit: 2018 BMW Group USA

Both cars showed great reliability and managed to complete the tough endurance classic without major technical issues in the maiden race appearance for BMW Motorsport’s new GT flagship car. No other new BMW GT race car has ever been more reliable on its debut. This was the good news for all involved at BMW Motorsport and in BMW Team RLL. Considering the given Balance of Performance (BoP), it was obvious, even before the start of the race, that the two BMW M8 GTE cars would be out of contention for top positions. More important was the fact that the new car was able to master the challenge of a 24-hour race from the word go.

 “Our BMW M8 GTE successfully completed its baptism of fire here at Daytona,” said BMW Motorsport Director Jens Marquardt. “To finish such a tough debut race with both cars after 24 hours without major technical problems is something we can be more than proud of. Everything has been said with regards to the reasons for the gap in performance compared to the competition. The car couldn’t show its true potential yet. That’s why BMW and IMSA will continue their productive and open talks and have agreed to find an appropriate BoP assessment for the upcoming events starting with Sebring, allowing the BMW M8 GTE to show its true performance for the benefit of the series, BMW and all of our fans.”

  

BMW and IMSA have been working together for years in a very positive and constructive manner. The BoP system is an integral part of global sports car racing including the IMSA WeatherTech SportsCar Championship. BMW and IMSA will continue productive, open talks and have agreed to find an appropriate BoP assessment for the upcoming events starting with Sebring (USA), allowing the BMW M8 GTE to show its performance for the benefit of the series, BMW and the fans.

The spectators were treated to a kind of unusual season opener. The anticipated rain didn’t come on Sunday. Only a heavy shower at the start of the sixth hour brought extra action in the pit lane. In addition, many teams suffered punctures over the course of the 24 hours of racing. Apart from that, relatively few incidents occurred, with only four full-course cautions. Never before were more laps completed at Daytona than in this year’s edition of the race.

The ninth place finishing BMW M8 GTE at Daytona.  Image Credit: 2018 BMW Group USA

In the sixth hour, the four drivers of car number 25 suffered a blow, when the BMW M8 GTE’s right front tyre burst after Auberlen hit debris on the track. Following 30 minutes of repair works, the BMW NA Brand Ambassador was able to rejoin, 17 laps behind the leaders. A strong result was impossible after that early setback. More repair pit stops followed as a result of that incident. Ultimately the number 25 BMW M8 GTE took the chequered flag in ninth after 731 laps.

The drivers of car number 24 delivered a consistent and flawless performance, trying to get the maximum out of the race under the given circumstances. Final-stint driver Edwards crossed the line in seventh.

TAGS: BMW, BMW Motorsport, BMW Group, BMW Group USA, Daytona, IMSA, M8, M8 GTE, WeatherTech Sports Car Championship, Brandon O'Brien

BMW Unveils New Models At LA Auto Show 2017

BMW Electrifies The LA AutoShow 2017

By: Brandon J. O'Brien

Images by: Brandon O'Brien / Motor Driven Images unless otherwise specified

Unlike most of the manufacturers displaying their wares at the 2017 Los Angeles Auto Show, which opened to the public on Friday December 1st, BMW's stage was devoid of any cars when the media arrived Wednesday morning.  What an odd feeling to be there with only doors marked with the words;  M PERFORMANCE,  LUXURY,  ELECTRIFIED.

Also, unlike all of the other manufacturers, BMW was not going to display any of their current production models.  This was to be strictly a show of the new models BMW will be producing for 2018 through 2019 and beyond.  With that let's get started.

When the M PERFORMANCE door was opened, driven out were the all new 6th-generation BMW M5 and the limited-edition BMW M3 CS.  The 2018 BMW M5 debuts as the first M-specific model to offer an all-wheel drive system, M xDrive.  It is still powered by the 4.4-liter V8 engine featuring TwinPower Turbo which produces 600 hp and 553 lb-ft of peak torque.  0 to 60 can be reached in just 3.2 seconds making this the quickest and most agile M5 to date.  The new M5 will be in showrooms starting in May 2018.

Introduction of the 6th Generation BMW M5 (left) and the Limited Production M3 CS (right) at the LA AutoShow.  Image Credit: 2017 Brandon O'Brien / Motor Driven Images

Making it's world debut the 2018 BMW M3 CS is a limited special-edition model.  It utilizes much carbon fiber-reinforced plastic which reduces the weight around 110 pounds less than a standard M3.  The M TwinPower Turbo 6-cylinder inline engine yields 453 hp generating a peak torque of 443 lb-ft. with a 0 to 60 time of 3.7 seconds.  This model will be available to order in the U.S. starting May 2018.

The World Premiere of the 2018 BMW M3 CS at the LA AutoShow.  Image Credit: 2017 Brandon O'Brien / Motor Driven Images

Following these debuts the LUXURY door was opened.  Although having been briefly seen at Pebble Beach this past August this was the first time the BMW 8 Series Concept could be seen close-up.  Although only the Concept was shown this is a model that will arrive in the showrooms for 2018.  BMW is already testing the M8 GTE IMSA racing version which will take to the track for the first time at the Rolex 24 at Daytona on January 28, 2018.  Which means, unlike most BMW series where an M-version follows, this model may make it's sales debut with the M8 already in production.  This seems to be fitting as the first 8-series never had an official M8 version.

The beautiful BMW 8 Series Concept was shown at the LA AutoShow.  A production version will be on sale in early 2018.
Image Credit:  2017 Brandon O'Brien / Motor Driven Images

Elevated view of BMW's 8 Series Concept.  Image Credit:  2017 Brandon O'Brien / Motor Driven Images

Making it's North American premiere was the long awaited BMW X7 iPerformance Concept.  This SAV will utilize the BMW eDrive technology with a BMW TwinPower Turbo gasoline engine creating an efficient and dynamic plug-in hybrid power train.  BMW was quick to point out that this is not the X5's big brother. It is the pinnacle of a luxury BMW Sport Activity Vehicle.  As BMW puts it, ". . . offers an interior with a state-of-the-art infotainment system brimming with connectivity that provide an unmatched experience by any other BMW past or present.  As a result of the interplay between precise, pared-down forms and an open sense of space, the driver and passengers are immersed in a unique, modern setting".

The BMW X7 iPerformance Concept during it's North American Debut at the LA AutoShow.  Image Credit: 2017 Brandon O'Brien / Motor Driven Images

The massive Kidney Grills dominate the front of the BMW X7 iPerformance Concept shown at the LA AutoShow.  Image Credit: 2017 Brandon O'Brien / Motor Driven Images

An interesting view of the panoramic roof and interior of the X7 iPerformance COncept on display at the LA AutoShow.  Image Credit: 2017 Brandon O'Brien / Motor Driven Images

Reinforcing its commitment to offer 25 electrified models throughout all of it's brands, 12 being purely electric by 2025,  BMW showcased five electric vehicles. The first driven out was the MINI Electric Concept which is designed for use in urban areas.  This concept continues to utilize the MINI heritage of unique design, city-dwelling ease of use, and go-cart handling.  MINI will start production of a fully electric version for sale in 2019.

The MINI Electric Concept gives an idea what the 2019 fully-electric production model might look like.  Image Credit: 2017 Brandon O'Brien / Motor Driven Images

This was followed by the BMW C-Evolution Scooter.  "The electrically powered maxi-scooter efficiently combines sustainability, dynamics, control and agility."  The powerful electric motor allows for a range of 99 miles yielding a top speed of 80 mph.  The C-Evolution Scooter will be available in California this coming spring.

The BMW C-Evolution Scooter will be on sale early 2018.  Image Credit: 2017 Brandon O'Brien / Motor Driven Images

The final group of three automobiles were the ones that appeared to generate a lot of interest among the media throughout the remainder of the day.  The first to be seen was the new for 2018 BMW i3s.  A sportier and more powerful version of the i3.  Powered by a 184 hp electric motor it can accelerate to 60 mph in 6.8 seconds using a lithium-ion high voltage battery developed by BMW Group with a cell capacity of 94-ampere hours (Ah).

The BMW i3s is a sportier version of the i3.  This model when on sale in November.  Image Credit: 2017 Brandon O'Brien / Motor Driven Images

The next vehicle to roll out onto the stage was the BMW i Vision Dynamics which premiered at the IAA Cars 2017 show in Frankfurt.  The BMW i Vision Dynamics is a four-door Gran Coupe with a range of 373 miles, a top speed of over 120 mph, and acceleration of 0 to 60 mph in 4.0 seconds.  Klaus Frolich, Member of the Board of Management at BMW AG Development stated, "BMW i is the innovation driver for BMW Group. Here, visionary solutions and future-ready concepts become reality for the first time.  But BMW i also acts as a spearhead of innovation for our other brands.  The BMW i Vision Dynamics allows us to show right now what another electric BMW might look like.  And BMW has demonstrated its talent for turning visions into real life throughout its history."

The North American Premier of the BMW i Vision Dynamics shows what a typical BMW of the future may look like.  Image Credit: 2017 Brandon O'Brien / Motor Driven Images

Another view of the BMW i Vision Dynamics as unveiled at the LA AutoShow.  Image Credit: 2017 Brandon O'Brien / Motor Driven Images

The event was capped-off with the world premiere of the 2019 BMW i8 Roadster which goes on sale this spring.  Owners of the BMW i8 Roadster will either enjoy the open sky or a high-quality, all season fabric soft-top with additional soundproofing.  The electrically operated convertible top opens and closes in less than 16 seconds and can be operated at speeds under 31 mph.

The anticipated world premiere of the 2019 i8 Roadster at the LA AutoShow.  This model will go on sale in 2018.  Image Credit: 2017 Brandon O'Brien / Motor Driven Images

Performance figures for either the 2019 i8 Coupe or Roadster will increase over that of the previous i8 Coupe models.  This is primarily due to a boost in the lithium-ion battery cell capacity from 20 to 34 Ah.  BMW also found that the cell configuration can allow a 12 hp increase in peak output to 141 hp yielding quick sprints on pure-electric power with an even sharper streak of dynamism.  When used in conjunction with the 1.5 liter 3-cylinder gasoline engine you can accelerate to 60 mph in 4.4 seconds (preliminary) for the Roadster and 4.2 seconds (preliminary) Coupe.

3/4 rear view of the 2019 BMW i8 Roadster at the LA AutoShow.  Image Credit: 2017 Brandon O'Brien / Motor Driven Images

As a postscript, on display over the general BMW area, was the BMW M6 GTLM that Bill Auberlen drove to victory at the Petit Le Mans during his 400th race for BMW.

The BMW M6 GTLM driven to victory at Petit Le Mans by Bill Auberlen during his 400th race for BMW.
Image Credit:  2017 Brandon O'Brien / Motor Driven Images

It is with mixed feelings that this writer learned that Bill will transition to a new role in support of BMW of North America's customer racing program as a BMW NA Brand Ambassador.  Bill will continue to support BMW Team RLL as a driver for the four endurance races; Rolex 24 at Daytona, 12 Hours of Sebring, Sahlen's Six Hours of the Glen, and Petit Le Mans. I wish Bill all the best in this new chapter of his life.




TAGS: BMW,  Bill Auberlen,  Brandon O'Brien,  C-Evolution Scooter,  Electrified,  i3s,  i8,  i8 Coupe,  i8 Roadster,  i Vision Dynamics,  LA AutoShow,  LA AutoShow 2017,  Los Angeles Auto Show,  Luxury,  M3 CS,  M5,  M8 GTE,  M Performance,  X7,  8-series,  8 series

BMW To Campaign M8 GTE In 2018 IMSA WeatherTech Series

2018 BMW Team RLL M8 GTE undergoing testing at Homestead, Fla.  Image Credit: 2017 BMW Group

BMW To Campaign M8 GTE In 2018 IMSA WeatherTech SportsCar Championship

By:  Brandon J. O'Brien
Images By:  BMW Group

With the BMW 8 Series only being shown at various venues as a concept it is interesting to note that the M-version is already here.  BMW of North America announced that BMW Team RLL successfully completed the first US test of the all new BMW M8 GTE at Homestead, Fla.  They will be campaigning the new car during the 2018 IMSA WeatherTech SportsCar Championship after having just completed a successful season with the BMW M6 GTLM which they have used the past two seasons.  The Team will stay in Florida in preparation for the first IMSA-sactioned test at Daytona International Speedway on December 5th and 6th.

The team’s 10th season representing BMW will see a major change to the driver lineup as Bill Auberlen transitions to a new role in support of BMW of North America’s customer racing program as a BMW NA Brand Ambassador. BMW Team RLL has added 24-year old Connor De Phillippi who will share driving duties with John Edwards, and Martin Tomczyk.

Conner De Phillippi listening intently as he receives instructions prior to testing the 2018 BMW M8 GTE at Homestead, Fla.  Image Credit 2017 BMW Group

“While I don’t believe it could ever be said that Bill Auberlen was underutilized in his first two decades with BMW NA, we have made a mutual decision to take better advantage of his expertise and now to primarily support our growing customer racing programs in addition to competing with BMW Team RLL in the four IMSA endurance races this season.”, commented BMW NA Motorsport Manager Victor Leleu. “We are delighted that Bill has agreed to become a BMW NA brand ambassador and we fully expect his unbounded enthusiasm for the brand to continue to excite BMW fans with “Bill Power”. We welcome John’s return and are pleased Connor has joined us for 2018. 2017 ended on a very strong note and we believe our success will continue with the M8 GTE.”

Bill Auberlen standing by the 2017 BMW M6 GTLM he drove to victory at Petit Le Mans during his 400th start for BMW of North America.  Image Credit: 2017 Cobb / BMW Group

Auberlen said, “I am honored to have been asked to become a BMW NA Brand Ambassador and look forward to additional opportunities with BMW of North America. First and foremost I am a racing driver and am looking forward to four races with BMW Team RLL in 2018. My goal remains to get to the top of the list in all-time North American sports car victories and I want that achievement to be shared with BMW. We are only three wins away. We have not yet determined what else I may be driving but every opportunity in a BMW racing car is a good one.”

The four races that Bill will join BMW Team RLL are; Rolex 24 at Daytona, 12 Hours of Sebring, Sahlen’s Six Hours of the Glen and Petit Le Mans. 

TAGS: Bill Auberlen, BMW, BMW Motorsport, BMW M6 GTLM, BMW M8 GTE, Brandon O'Brien, Daytona International Speedway, IMSA, M6 GTLM, M8 GTE, WeatherTech SportsCar Championship