BMW has a history of providing safety cars for the MotoGP circus. Several models have led the field of two-wheel racers, including the 1 Series M Coupe, M6, M4 and now there is a new leader of the pack, the M2.
This little BMW has already been making headlines all over the Internet as fans of the brand await its imminent arrival. The world ride and drive event takes place next week and we will be bring you a driving impression from the event in the US.
Arresting looks
As with most of the Safety Cars that have done duty in this class before the M2, it will be white with accents in BMW Motorsport colours. The requisite lighting rig will be set atop the roof.
Other M Performance parts, which will be available for customer cars, will also be in place, such as deeper side skirts, a front splitter and carbon-fibre mirror caps.
Performance upgrades
To deal with the rigours of track driving there are a few choice performance upgrades. An adjustable rear wing ensure plenty of downforce in the high speed corners, while carbon ceramic brakes should stand up to repeated punishment. Sticky Michelin rubber provides the final link in the grip equation. An M Performance exhaust system should turn up the volume.
Stock power
BMW hasn’t done much to the powerplant, leaving the twin-turbocharged 3,0-litre inline six well along. Power is still rated at 270 kW with a maximum of 500 N.m of torque on tap.
Race-inspired safety
For the most part the interior of the M2 Safety Car remains unchanged, save for some carbon-fibre trim.
The lucky chaps that get to drive this very special car will be kept in place by two Recaro race bucket seats and six-point harnesses. Protection is provided by a roll-cage that takes up the bulk of the rear cabin space.
To catch the BMW M2 Safety Car in action you’ll have to tune into the MotoGP series. Click here for a full calendar of the 2016 events.