BMW has announced a comeback to the Le Mans event, joining a number of other automakers in doing so. In 1999, Joachim Winkelhock, Pierluigi Martini, and Yannick Dalmas triumphed in their V12 LMR to mark BMW's final race.
This is significant news because it will be BMW's first prototype run in 25 years. In 2024, the BMW M Hybrid V8 will compete in the FIA World Endurance Championship and the 24 Hours of Le Mans after making its debut in the North American IMSA WeatherTech SportsCar Championship.
As the model successfully completed its roll-out at Dallara in Varano de Melegari, the BMW M Hybrid V8 will compete in the Hypercar class, and testing has already begun.
Manager of BMW M Motorsport Andreas Roos stated that the team is strongly aiming for a return to Le Mans. The decision to enter the BMW M Hybrid V8 in the IMSA series starting in 2023 and the WEC starting in 2024 is a significant step for the project, according to BMW M CEO Frank van Meel.
“The IMSA series in North America and the WEC, which takes place all over the world, are the perfect platforms, on which to use our prototype to show how exciting electrified BMW M cars will be in the future.” He added.
The twin-turbo 4.0-liter V8 engine in the LMDh prototype, which was unveiled last month, has a controlled output of about 631 horsepower and 650 Nm of torque. A hybrid drive system connecting them is made up of a high-voltage battery, an electric motor, and an inverter. In situations like going to and from the pits, the racer can now be moved solely by electricity.
Stay updated with us for more information and news about returning BMW to the epic race car series.