Next month, BMW’s M Hybrid V8 LMDh will launch, and we’ll know its final specs when the new race car debuts in September. BMW Motorsport is still putting LMDh prototypes through their paces at tracks worldwide in preparation for the big reveal. Images obtained at Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya show the LMDh’s night optics for the first time.
BMW’s kidney grille is lighted over the car’s width. Headlights are centred over the front wheels. The outlined lighting reaches from the centre air intakes into the fenders. Their function is mainly complementary to that of the primary headlights. And, to maintain continuity with the most up-to-date BMW aesthetic, they are enormous in proportion.
Each prototype will have an Xtrac transmission, Williams Advanced Engineering battery pack, and Bosch electric motor. The next step was to complete the development of the P66/3 race engine. Changes were made to work with the Dallara chassis used in the prototype. The BMW motorsport division was also responsible for installing the LMDh-spec exhaust system and oil tank.
The BMW M Hybrid V8 will debut in racing in the IMSA WeatherTech SportsCar Championship in 2020. In 2024, it will also compete in the FIA World Endurance Championship and the 24 Hours of Le Mans. In 1999, a V12 LM finished sixth, and a V12 LMR won LMP. To name a few, BMW’s LMDh rivals will include Audi, Porsche, Toyota, and perhaps Cadillac. These other manufacturers will give BMW tough competition on the track and road, which should be entertaining.