BMW Reveals Aerodynamic Enhancements for M Hybrid V8 Ahead of 2024 Championships
Munich, Germany – BMW has introduced significant aerodynamic upgrades to its M Hybrid V8 LMDh ahead of its foray into both the 2024 World Endurance Championship (WEC) and IMSA SportsCar Championship. These revisions, which include a notably smaller kidney grille, aim to enhance performance consistency across diverse racing circuits and improve cooling efficiency.
“Since entering the IMSA series in 2023 and the FIA WEC in 2024, we have gained valuable insights into our BMW M Hybrid V8,” said Andreas Roos, Head of BMW M Motorsport. He emphasized that following successful brake optimizations earlier this season, the focus has now shifted to aerodynamics. "With these updates, we are responding to insights gained from prior races and are confident that the changes will allow us to compete consistently at the front on all types of tracks.”
The enhancements were developed in collaboration with Dallara Automobili, known for forming the chassis spine of the M Hybrid. Official images of the car, donning a camouflage livery, were captured during testing at the Paul Ricard circuit earlier this month.
The M Hybrid V8 will make a semi-public debut during a group test at Austin following the WEC round on September 7. While BMW has not confirmed whether these aero modifications utilized one of the limited evo joker upgrades permissible in the WEC and IMSA’s GTP class, it has been established that this year’s brake upgrades counted as one.
Pending final homologation, the updated M Hybrid is set to debut at the Daytona 24 Hours in January 2024. Subsequently, it will participate in the WEC, debuting at Qatar later in March. BMW has reaffirmed its commitment to IMSA’s GTP class, particularly in light of its recent split with long-time partner Rahal and discussions with WRT about expanding its program into North America.
As the countdown continues for the upcoming season, these technical advancements underscore BMW’s strategic approach to reclaiming competitive prominence in endurance racing.
