BMW M continues its legacy as the “Official Car of MotoGP™” with the debut of the latest addition to its high-performance fleet: the BMW M5 MotoGP™ Safety Car. Unveiled on Thursday at a special customer event at the House of BMW in Milan, Italy, this cutting-edge safety car showcases BMW’s commitment to innovation and hybrid technology. The debut event was hosted by Sylvia Neubauer, Vice President of Customer, Brand, and Sales at BMW M GmbH, alongside Massimiliano Di Silvestre, CEO of BMW Italia.
Set to make its track debut at the Gran Premio Red Bull di San Marino e della Riviera di Rimini in Misano on September 7th, the BMW M5 MotoGP™ Safety Car follows in the footsteps of the BMW XM Label Red Safety Car, continuing the brand’s reliance on hybrid technology.
Electrified Power and Performance
Based on the new BMW M5, the MotoGP™ Safety Car is powered by the M HYBRID system, which combines a high-revving V8 engine with M TwinPower Turbo technology and an electric motor, delivering an impressive 535 kW (727 hp). This power is managed through an 8-speed M Steptronic transmission and M xDrive all-wheel drive, ensuring optimal performance on the racetrack. The M5’s electrified drive allows it to balance efficiency and performance, with combined fuel consumption rated at 1.7-1.6 l/100 km (166.2 – 176.6 mpg) and CO2 emissions of 39-37 g/km.
Distinctive Design and Race-Ready Modifications
The BMW M5 MotoGP™ Safety Car stands out with its unique graffiti-inspired livery, derived from the design of BMW M’s Hybrid V8 race cars. This connection highlights BMW’s motorsport philosophy—technology developed on the track, made for the road.
In addition to its striking appearance, the safety car is equipped with specific features for racetrack use, including carbon front attachments, an aramid rear diffuser, carbon side skirts, and Recaro racing seats with 6-point harnesses. Other safety modifications include a roof bar, fire extinguisher, and carbon-titanium tailpipe trims.
A Legacy of Innovation
BMW M’s involvement in MotoGP™ dates back to 1999, marking 26 years of providing safety cars for the world’s premier motorcycle racing series. “We’re proud of our long-standing partnership with Dorna Sports and our commitment to ensuring safety with the most innovative high-performance vehicles,” said Sylvia Neubauer at the unveiling. “The BMW M5 MotoGP™ Safety Car continues this tradition, showcasing our dedication to cutting-edge technology.”
Among the attendees in Milan was nine-time motorcycle world champion Valentino Rossi, who is now a BMW M works driver in the BMW M4 GT3. Rossi’s presence underscored BMW M’s deep connection with both two and four-wheeled motorsports.
The BMW M5 MotoGP™ Safety Car is set to impress as it takes to the track for the first time, reinforcing BMW M’s role in keeping the world’s best motorcycle racers safe while pushing the boundaries of hybrid power and performance.
Source: BMW
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