On the 24 Hours of Le Mans, velocity isn’t only a metaphor—it’s a reality. Within the top-tier LMDh class, automobiles spend greater than 50% of the race at over 250 km/h. That’s greater than 12 hours at speeds most highway automobiles by no means attain, on one of the crucial punishing circuits in motorsport. For BMW M Motorsport, it’s the last word proving floor. And the BMW M Hybrid V8, the model’s first Le Mans prototype in over twenty years, was constructed for precisely this sort of torture check.
“Greater than 50 % of the time, the automotive is pushed at over 250 km/h, with a prime velocity of round 340 km/h,” Andreas Roos, Head of BMW M Motorsport, instructed the viewers throughout a panel. The M Hybrid V8 is a purpose-built machine developed for LMDh competitors. Mounted simply behind the motive force is the center of the machine: the flat-plane crank P66/3—a twin-turbocharged evolution of the engine that powered BMW’s DTM racers in 2017 and 2018.
671 Horsepower
Paired with a hybrid drive unit built-in into the bell housing—very similar to BMW’s manufacturing hybrid setups—the system delivers the LMDh-class most output of 671 horsepower (500 kW) with ease. The battery pack is positioned low within the chassis, roughly beneath the place the passenger seat can be in a highway automotive, serving to optimize weight distribution and heart of gravity. It’s quick—340 km/h flat-out—however extra importantly, it’s designed to be quick for hours on finish.
The cockpit is comfortable and purpose-built, designed for a single driver and outfitted with a state-of-the-art Cosworth steering wheel that places practically each essential operate at their fingertips. A digital rear-view mirror provides visibility behind, whereas adjustable pedals make for seamless driver swaps throughout endurance stints.
The BMW M Hybrid V8 is constructed on a chassis provided by Dallara, one in every of simply 4 accepted producers for the present era of LMDh automobiles. In consequence, sure parts—just like the standardized aerodynamic underfloor—are shared throughout all opponents utilizing a Dallara base. Nevertheless, the whole lot else is left to the automaker’s discretion. BMW designs its personal engine, suspension, bodywork aerodynamics, and cockpit format, tailoring the automotive to its actual efficiency and ergonomic requirements.
BMW’s Return to the Huge Stage
After an extended absence from top-class endurance racing, BMW’s comeback to Le Mans got here with excessive expectations in 2024. However sadly, it got here quick in two consecutive years. The general efficiency was significantly better this year, however sadly the tempo of the Ferraris was unmatched.
Whereas BMW’s M Hybrid V8 was battling Ferraris, Porsches, and Toyotas within the 2025 Le Mans, it was additionally paving the best way for one thing greater: the following era of high-performance M automobiles. Classes realized right here—from vitality administration to light-weight supplies—will affect the whole lot from upcoming M electrified fashions to future racing. [Photos: BMW Motorsport]
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