Get to Know Why LMDh Has Higher Priority Over F1 Return

Following Volkswagen Group’s announcement that Audi and Porsche will enter Formula One in 2026, Autocar wanted to know if BMW will to return to the world’s most extensive racing series. The British magazine spoke to M boss Frank van Meel, who said a return was not currently on the list of priorities: “We’re happy with what we’re doing with the [LMDh] sports car prototype. F1 is thinking about electrification in 2026, which is quite late. Also, there is not much spinoff into road cars. There are many lessons on the prototype, from aerodynamics to cooling, and the V8 hybrid drivetrain linked to the one in the BMW XM.”

Even if BMW decides to return to Formula 1, it is unlikely that it will do so until 2026. New regulations, including the use of entirely synthetic fuel, came into effect then. Traditional car manufacturers are promised lower operating costs to make the competition more attractive. This would also encourage more traditional carmakers to join in on the fun. While the cars will retain their 1.6-litre turbocharged V6 engines, the combustion engine will function in conjunction with a more powerful electric motor.

Rumours were circulating that BMW and McLaren manufacturers would create a collaborative sports vehicle platform and a high degree of shared hardware. A BMW engine would be excellent for Woking’s F1 squad, but this is just speculative thinking on our end.

Right now, the LMDh programme is of critical importance. In August, there will be the first track test on the new layout. The turbocharged V8 prototype will make its racing debut at Daytona in January 2023. Le Mans Daytona hybrid will be above the M4 GT3 and the recently introduced M4 GT4.