BMW Teams Gear Up at Daytona Testing

BMW teams Paul Miller Racing and BMW M Team RLL took to the track at Daytona International Speedway over the weekend for an official IMSA test session. The event, featuring 31 cars, gave teams the chance to test updates, integrate new drivers, and adapt to the upcoming requirement of torque sensors in GTD Pro and GTD classes by 2025.

BMW M Team RLL showcased both M Hybrid V8 prototypes, with drivers Philipp Eng, Marco Wittmann, Robin Frijns, and Max Hesse behind the wheel. While Eng has been a staple in IMSA for RLL, Wittmann and Frijns transitioned from BMW M Team WRT’s FIA World Endurance Championship efforts. This test marked Hesse’s debut in the M Hybrid V8 with RLL, building on his earlier experience with WRT.

Paul Miller Racing debuted the M4 GT3 Evo, testing alongside drivers Madison Snow and Neil Verhagen. A long-time team member, Snow continued his journey with the M4 platform, while Verhagen brought his endurance expertise from previous races. The team also adjusted to the torque sensors being integrated into their vehicles, a feature aimed at enhancing performance regulation for the 2025 season.

During the test, BMW M Team RLL focused heavily on refining the drivability and braking systems of the M Hybrid V8s. Though their lap times placed them among the top in the GTP class, team leader Andreas Roos emphasized that testing was about long-term performance rather than outright speed, with a rigorous program targeting consistent long-run efficiency.

Both teams are yet to finalise their 2025 driver lineups, but Paul Miller Racing’s expansion to two cars in the GTD Pro class hints at exciting developments. Meanwhile, Turner Motorsport is set to return to the GTD class with the M4 GT3 Evo next year. The teams will continue preparations at the “Roar Before the 24” in January, setting the stage for another thrilling season.