BMW completes turbo roll-out

BMW has completed the first run of an M4 DTM modified to comply with the Class 1 regulations that come into force in the DTM next season.

Bruno Spengler put the first miles on the car during a run at BMW Group Plant Dingolfing, which marked the maiden outing for the newly-developed two-litre turbo engine that will power the car from 2019 onwards.

“BMW Turbo Power has enjoyed success in motor racing for almost 50 years,” BMW Motorsport Director Jens Marquardt said. “In the first year with a BMW turbo engine, back in 1969, Dieter Quester was immediately crowned European touring car champion with the BMW 2002 TI. In 1973, the BMW 2002 turbo became the first German production automobile to feature a turbocharger. We are now adding a new chapter to this story in the DTM.

“Our first few kilometres of the Class 1 era went very positively. We are happy with all the functional tests. The new turbo sounds awesome. However, its most impressive attribute is its efficiency – despite being considerably more powerful than its predecessor.”

Spengler added the initial impressions of the engine were positive, with the first proper runs for the car set to come in testing at Estoril next month.

“After my first kilometres with the new DTM engine, I can hardly wait for next season,” he Spengler. “I can just imagine how much fun it will be to take to the track with so much BMW Turbo Power. You can feel the extra horsepower. We will put on even more of a show for the fans in 2019.

“The amount of time at full-throttle is reduced – but the top speed is higher than before. We will have to work even harder at the wheel.”