BMW Group PressClub Global

The new BMW 7 Series.

Wed, 22 Apr 2026 15:00:00 +0200

The BMW Group is making a powerful statement with the new BMW 7 Series Sedan. Embodying Sheer Driving Pleasure at its most exclusive, the 7 Series reinforces its leading position in the luxury segment to compelling effect.

The new BMW 7 Series – the first luxury sedan with technologies from the Neue Klasse.
Developed with passion and designed to perfection, the BMW 7 Series Sedan has established itself as an innovation leader and technological pioneer around the world since it first took to the stage in 1977. Each generation has brought fresh impetus to its era – from groundbreaking safety functions and revolutionary operating concepts to digital worlds that set new standards. This forward-looking approach has been a hallmark characteristic of the BMW 7 Series Sedan for 49 years now.

The new BMW 7 Series represents the most extensive model update ever carried out by the BMW Group. The new BMW 7 Series – now entering its seventh generation – marks a big leap forwards once again. As the flagship model series of the BMW product range and a brand figurehead, the new BMW 7 Series Sedan takes the lead when it comes to the introduction of technologies from the Neue Klasse into existing models. This step also marks the beginning of a technology rollout – spanning drive system variants and market segments – from which all future BMW cars will benefit.

Premiere for the new BMW luxury-class design.
The new BMW 7 Series embodies the specific interpretation of the new BMW design language for the luxury segment. A monolithic exterior, the new BMW kidney Iconic Glow and minimalist crystal headlights give the car a visually impactful presence and make it easily recognisable. The side view impresses with reduced surfaces, a character line and classy details, while the rear end is shaped by newly designed lights and clear forms. Three BMW M Performance models provide sporting differentiation to striking effect, with the M Sport package and M Sport package Pro bringing further emphasis. BMW Individual offers a broad spread of personalisation options, including BMW Individual Dual-Finish paintwork – a world first marked by technological sophistication and expert craftsmanship. Completing the picture are a carefully curated selection of ex-factory wheels, from 20-inch rims to the new addition of 22-inch items.

Exclusive interior experience: feel-good ambience with luxurious materials, modern design and innovative technologies.
The interior of the new BMW 7 Series Sedan captures the imagination with a successful combination of luxurious materials, modern design and advanced technology. The clean design language, high-quality surfaces in materials such as leather, cloth, wood, crystal glass and metal, and innovative details create an exclusive yet also cosy atmosphere. The highlights are the new BMW Panoramic iDrive with BMW Passenger Screen (making its debut), the upgraded BMW Theatre Screen enabling cinematic experiences or working-on-the-move for rear-seat passengers, an immersive light concept with ambient light strip and new light elements, plus a Bowers & Wilkins sound system and Dolby Atmos support for an exceptional audio experience. Ergonomically designed seats (including comfort seats and the optional Executive Lounge), new steering wheels, updated automatic doors, a digital interior mirror[1], and standard features such as a panoramic glass sunroof, four-zone automatic climate control and the Travel & Comfort System round off the luxurious, individual overall experience.

BMW Panoramic iDrive and new BMW Passenger Screen open up new dimensions in entertainment and information.
The new BMW 7 Series combines the virtues of a luxury-class sedan with innovative BMW Neue Klasse technology and offers a far-reaching, digital user experience that focuses on both the driver and passengers. Among the highlights are BMW Panoramic iDrive with BMW Operating System X and optimum driver orientation, intelligent voice control with extended BMW Intelligent Personal Assistant including Amazon Alexa+ AI technology[2], and a powerful software and electronics architecture delivering future-proof functionality.

New features such as improved navigation with BMW Maps, user-friendly smartphone integration, digital M content from BMW Digital Premium, the BMW Digital Key Plus, plus numerous optional BMW ConnectedDrive Upgrades and regular over‑the‑air software updates endow the BMW 7 Series Sedan with exceptional flexibility and keep it up to date.

The standard-specification BMW Passenger Screen and optional BMW Theatre Screen for 8K streaming, gaming and video calls provide top‑class entertainment for passengers and are augmented by popular third-party apps. The extensive entertainment offering is also available on the Central Display when the vehicle is stationary.

Proven commitment to technology openness: efficient combustion engines, plug-in hybrids and fully electric variants now offering over 720 kilometres / 447 miles of electric range (WLTP) thanks to technology including cylindrical cells from sixth-generation BMW eDrive.
The new BMW 7 Series Sedan impresses once again with the wide variety of drive systems available to customers. As well as efficient combustion engines with 48V mild hybrid technology and powerful plug-in hybrids, this also includes advanced fully electric variants. The use of innovative cylindrical cells – part of sixth-generation BMW eDrive – gives the fully electric models a significantly longer electric range that now extends to over 720 kilometres / 447 miles (WLTP). In addition, drivers benefit from user-friendly and intelligent charging solutions, route planning optimised for charging, adaptive recuperation and integration into the energy market for cost-optimised charging. The exceptionally poised and assured BMW 740d xDrive is now joined by the BMW 740 xDrive. And completing the line-up are two plug-in hybrid variants. In addition, a total of three BMW M Performance models demonstrate the strong commitment of the new BMW 7 Series to Sheer Driving Pleasure.

Advanced assistance systems with BMW Symbiotic Drive and use of AI to maximise comfort and safety in partially automated driving and parking manoeuvres.
The new BMW 7 Series Sedan employs advanced technologies and increases the use of artificial intelligence (AI) to set new standards of comfort and safety in partially automated driving and parking manoeuvres. Innovative SAE Level 2 driver assistance systems and active safety functions provide noticeable added value, while BMW Symbiotic Drive optimises the interplay between the driver and their car. The Motorway Assistant enables hands-off driving up to 130 km/h (81 mph) in numerous European countries, and the City Assistant now supports navigation-guided Address-2-Address journeys in urban areas. The new driver assistance visualisation function in BMW Maps gives the driver a better overview of the situation when using the navigation system. The range of active safety functions specified as standard has been broadened compared to that of the predecessor model, while the standard-fit Park Assist, and AI-supported parking space detection and manoeuvre planning make parking extremely intuitive and comfortable.

Driving pleasure meets the pleasure of being driven: unique combination of driving dynamics and comfort.
As before, the new BMW 7 Series Sedan blends compelling driving dynamics with the comfort levels of a luxury chauffeur-driven sedan and so meets the diverse needs of different customer groups around the world – from drivers looking for sporting responses from their car to passengers prioritising comfort. Innovative chassis technology, including standard adaptive 2‑axle air suspension featuring four electronically controlled shock absorbers, allows the BMW 7 Series to offer standout driving characteristics and safety. 22-inch wheels are now available from the factory for the first time as an alternative to the 20-inch items fitted as standard. The optional Adaptive Chassis Control with Integral Active Steering and Adaptive Chassis Control Professional with Integral Active Steering and roll stabilisation raise the bar once again in terms of comfort and agility. Specific chassis upgrades brought by the M Sport package turn the dynamic dial up another notch, as do a trio of M Performance models. And cutting-edge functions such as digital tyre conditioning monitoring with AI, the integrated braking system and near-actuator wheel slip limitation ensure top-drawer handling and safety.

When maximum security meets luxury: the BMW 7 Series Protection.
The BMW 7 Series Protection brings together exceptionally high levels of safety, security and luxury. It provides occupants with protection from attacks with firearms or explosives and has VR9 certification – with VPAM 10 classification, representing the highest level of protection, available as an option. Underpinning this capability is the innovative BMW Protection Core with multi-layer armouring consisting of steel, special alloys, composite materials and bulletproof glass. The suspension and brakes are set up specially to ensure BMW’s signature dynamic ability is preserved. A new BMW 7 Series Protection special protection vehicle based on the new BMW 7 Series is in the final stages of development.

Focus on sustainability: resource-efficient development and production, innovative CO₂ reduction measures and TÜV-certified transparency throughout the car’s life cycle.
With the new BMW 7 Series, the BMW Group is extending its sustainability strategy across all drive-system variants. The focus here is on resource-efficient product development, innovative technologies and measures applied throughout the car’s life cycle – from the supply chain to production and the use phase. In the case of the BMW i7, in particular, CO₂e emissions have been significantly reduced with the help of secondary materials, renewable energies and optimised manufacturing processes, e.g. through the use of Gen6 battery cells and aluminium wheel rims with a high recycled material content. The company’s ambitious climate goals, including reducing CO₂e emissions by 60 million tons by 2035, are part of a 360° sustainability approach. Transparency is guaranteed by TÜV-certified carbon footprint verification. Production uses electricity and heat generated from renewable sources, supported by photovoltaic systems and a biomass heating plant.

Production at BMW Group Plant Dingolfing.
All model and drive-system variants of the new BMW 7 Series Sedan will be built on a single production line at BMW Group Plant Dingolfing. The tradition-rich location in Lower Bavaria combines the customary BMW passion for flawless engineering with skilled craftsmanship like no other. By beginning the rollout of Neue Klasse technologies, BMW Group Plant Dingolfing is once again assuming the role of lead plant for the new BMW luxury-class models.

The new BMW 7 Series Sedan celebrates its world premiere on 22 April 2026. The start of production and worldwide market launch will follow just a few months later, from July 2026.

[1] To be introduced when production begins in November 2026.

[2] Will become available in stages for all BMW models with BMW Operating System 9 and X from the second half of 2026 at the latest. Availability will be gradually expanded, starting with the German and US markets.

BMW Motorrad celebrates 50 years of BMW RS production and competition motorcycles.

Tue, 21 Apr 2026 17:00:00 +0200

Munich. For decades, the abbreviation “RS” on BMW Motorrad competition motorcycles stood for “Rennsport” (racing), while since the appearance of the BMW R 100 RS in 1976, it has identified BMW production motorcycles as machines designed for the dual purpose of “Reise und Sport” (travel and sport).

BMW Motorrad and the legendary RS series models – this model designation has represented both touring capability and sporty riding pleasure to this day. As the world’s first large‑series motorcycle, the BMW R 100 RS in 1976 featured a frame‑mounted full fairing developed in the wind tunnel, defining the segment of the sport‑tourer as we know it today.

With the BMW R 1300 RS presented last year, BMW Motorrad continues this 50‑year tradition, offering a sport‑tourer with a two‑cylinder boxer engine whose genes carry forward the all‑round qualities of the established BMW RS concept into the future. Whether for sporty backroad riding, dynamic two‑up enjoyment, or long‑distance touring – the BMW R 1300 RS opens up new, thrilling dimensions in sport‑touring like never before.

To achieve this, the BMW R 1300 RS has been technically elevated to an entirely new level. Consistently focused on riding dynamics, it offers a significantly sportier experience than its predecessor, thanks to a completely new engine, chassis, and aerodynamics, without abandoning traditional BMW RS virtues such as touring comfort and long‑distance capability. In short: the BMW R 1300 RS continues the success story of BMW RS series motorcycles with boxer engines in its seventh generation.

How versatile BMW Motorrad implemented the motto “travel and sport” in its production motorcycles is shown not only by the models with the legendary two‑cylinder boxer engine, built in its basic form for 103 years. Powered also by four‑cylinder technology, the RS concept proved to be an excellent solution within the BMW Motorrad K series when it came to perfectly combining touring capability, travel comfort, and sporty performance.

To mark the anniversary “50 years of BMW RS production motorcycles,” BMW Motorrad looks back on the key milestones of RS history:

The BMW RS Two‑Valve Boxer Models

BMW R 100 RS

The BMW R 100 RS was the third BMW equipped with the 1000 cc boxer engine, presented as a highlight at the IFMA trade fair in 1976. As the world’s first production motorcycle, it came with a standard full fairing aerodynamically optimized by Pininfarina and painted in a slightly bluish shimmering metallic silver. It offered unprecedented wind and weather protection and enabled surprisingly high average speeds on the highway with a relaxed seating position. BMW Motorrad therefore reinterpreted the abbreviation RS (formerly “Rennsport”) to mean “Reisesport” (“travel sport”). In its final production year, 1984, BMW celebrated the successful RS with the BMW R 100 RS Classic 500, a special edition limited to 500 units with a two‑tone finish in Madison Grey / Alaska Blue and white pinstriping.

Production period:	1976–1984
Engine capacity:	980 cc
Power:	70 hp (51 kW) at 7,250 rpm
Engine type:	2‑cylinder boxer
Top speed:	200 km/h

BMW R 100 RS Nardò Record Bike

On October 29 and 30, 1977, BMW Motorrad attempted to break several motorcycle world records in Nardò, Italy, using a modified BMW R 100 RS. Record runs were completed over 10, 100, and 1,000 kilometers, as well as 1, 6, 12, and 24 hours. Helmut Dähne, together with engine expert Helmut Bucher, increased the power output of the
BMW R 100 RS boxer engine to 84 hp. With a 19‑inch rear wheel and the fairing’s lower section removed, the motorcycle achieved more than 220 km/h. In total, the
BMW Motorrad team set five new world records: over 10 km, 100 km, 6 hours, 12 hours, and 24 hours.

Production period:	1977
Engine capacity:	980 cc
Power:	84 hp (62 kW)
Engine type:	2‑cylinder boxer
Top speed:	>220 km/h

BMW R 100 RS (Monolever)

For fans of the large 1000 cc two‑cylinder boxers, the BMW K 75 and K 100 models with three‑ and four‑cylinder engines, as well as the 800 cc boxers, were not considered alternatives. Particularly in the USA and Japan, calls for a return of the large boxer grew louder. Thus, it was a small sensation when BMW Motorrad presented the BMW R 100 RS again at the 1986 IFMA. Originally planned as a limited‑edition special model of 1,000 units, BMW reintroduced the R 100 RS into its permanent lineup due to high demand and built it until 1992.

Production period:	1986–1992
Engine capacity:	980 cc
Power:	60 hp (44 kW) at 6,500 rpm
Engine type:	2‑cylinder boxer
Top speed:	185 km/h

The BMW RS Four‑Valve Boxer Models

BMW R 1100 RS

Introduced in 1993, the BMW R 1100 RS brought the concept of the air‑cooled two‑cylinder boxer into the future with four‑valve technology, air/oil cooling, and modern digital ignition/fuel injection. The newly developed 1100 cc boxer engine offered 50% more power than the previous two‑valve generation while consuming less fuel. BMW also introduced an innovative front‑suspension system: the Telelever, offering high comfort and excellent braking stability.

Production period:	1992–2001
Engine capacity:	1085 cc
Power:	66 kW (90 hp) at 7,250 rpm
Engine type:	2-cylinder boxer
Top speed:	215 km/h

BMW R 1150 RS

When the BMW R 1150 GS debuted in 1999, many riders wondered why the
BMW R 1100 RS did not receive the updated 1130 cc engine first. BMW initially expected the BMW R 1100 S—introduced in 1998—to serve as the sportier successor to the
R 1100 RS. However, many R 1100 RS riders did not view the R 1100 S as their desired upgrade. When the BMW R 1150 RT launched in 2001, demand grew for a more powerful RS. While there was not enough time for a complete redesign, BMW introduced the
BMW R 1150 RS in autumn 2001, pairing the RT’s engine and exhaust with the familiar
R 1100 RS fairing. It received new colors and was available exclusively with a full fairing.

Production period:	2000-2004
Engine capacity:	1130 cc
Power:	95 hp (70 kW) at 7,250 rpm
Engine type:	2-cylinder boxer
Top speed:	215 km/h

BMW R 1200 RS

Presented in September 2014 at Intermot, the BMW R 1200 RS represented the fifth generation of RS boxer motorcycles. One of its highlights was the liquid‑cooled boxer engine with vertical instead of horizontal flow. Delivering 92 kW (125 hp) and 125 Nm, it offered excellent performance and smoothness. It also introduced the semi‑active
BMW Dynamic ESA suspension.

Production period:	2015-2018
Engine capacity:	1170 cc
Power:	92 kW (125 hp) at 7,750 rpm
Engine type:	2-cylinder boxer
Top speed:	228 km/h

BMW R 1250 RS

Unveiled at EICMA 2018 in Milan, the BMW R 1250 RS featured a 1254 cc boxer engine with 100 kW (136 hp) and BMW ShiftCam variable valve timing. Benefits included improved cylinder filling and stronger torque at low and mid‑range rpm. The chassis featured a steel main frame, Upside‑Down fork, single‑sided swingarm, Dynamic Traction Control, and optional Dynamic ESA “Next Generation” with automatic load compensation.

Production period:	2018-2024
Engine capacity:	1254 cc
Power:	100 kW (136 hp)
Engine type:	2‑cylinder boxer
Top speed:	>200 km/h

BMW R 1300 RS

The BMW R 1300 RS is the latest sport‑tourer with a refined boxer engine and dynamic design. With 1300 cc and an output of 107 kW (145 hp), it is the most powerful production BMW boxer engine to date. Standard features include three riding modes and engine drag torque control (MSR). Optional features include the automated shift assistant (ASA) and the Dynamic Suspension Adjustment (DSA) system with adjustable damping, spring rate, and load compensation. It is also the world’s first production motorcycle with a telescopic fork featuring adjustable spring rate.

Production period:	since 2015
Engine capacity:	1300 cc
Power:	107 kW (145 hp)
Engine type:	2‑cylinder boxer
Top speed:	240 km/h

The BMW RS Four‑Cylinder Models

BMW K 100 RS (Two‑Valve)

Introduced at the 1983 Paris Motor Show, the BMW K 100 RS was the second member of the new K family. Technically identical to the K 100 base model, it featured a modern half fairing with aerodynamic qualities. The low center of gravity created by the horizontally mounted engine and the relatively low weight made it agile and enjoyable even off the highway. It remained a common sight on the road even 30 years after introduction.

Production period:	1983–1989
Engine capacity:	987 cc
Power:	66 kW (90 hp) at 8,000 rpm
Engine type:	4‑cylinder inline
Top speed:	220 km/h

BMW K 100 RS (Four‑Valve)

In 1989, the modernized BMW K 100 RS was introduced. Essentially a BMW K1 with the familiar RS fairing, the BMW K 100 RS 4V featured complete K1 technology beneath the bodywork. With a dual‑seat design and the ability to mount saddlebags again, it appealed to riders who wanted K1 technology without its polarizing looks and touring limitations.

Production period:	1989-1992
Engine capacity:	987 cc
Power:	74 kW (100 hp) at 8,000 rpm
Engine type:	4‑cylinder inline
Top speed:	232 km/h

BMW K 1100 RS

Following the debut of the BMW K 1100 LT, fans eagerly awaited the 1100 cc engine in an RS chassis. The BMW K 1100 RS arrived in 1992, featuring a facelift with the K 100 RS upper fairing and an all‑new lower section. With excellent riding qualities and strong all‑round performance, it won several comparison tests in motorcycle magazines.

Production period:	1992–1997
Engine capacity:	1092 cc
Power:	74 kW (100 hp) at 7,500 rpm
Engine type:	4‑cylinder inline
Top speed:	220 km/h

BMW K 1200 RS

For many years, BMW adhered to a voluntary commitment among manufacturers not to offer motorcycles with more than 100 hp on the German market. That changed in 1997 with the introduction of the BMW K 1200 RS, delivering 130 hp from 1,172 cc and a top speed of 245 km/h. As a big‑bike, it offered excellent long‑distance comfort and experienced a sales boost after a 2001 facelift.

Production period:	1996-2005
Engine capacity:	1171 cc
Power:	96 kW (130 hp) at 8,750 rpm (98 hp version also available)
Engine type:	4‑cylinder inline
Top speed:	245 km/h (225 km/h)

You will find press material on BMW motorcycles in the BMW Group PressClub at www.press.bmwgroup.com.

MINI at Auto China 2026 in Beijing.

Mon, 20 Apr 2026 10:40:00 +0200

Munich/Beijing. At Auto China 2026 in Beijing, MINI is making a bold statement for creativity and individuality with a large exhibition stand and 14 vehicles on display. From the world premiere of the MINI Countryman MINI x VAGABUND to the China premiere of the electric MINI × DEUS “The Skeg”, as well as a selection of special editions and exclusive paint finishes, the brand demonstrates just how many ways MINI can be interpreted and personalised. “Customisation” is positioned not merely as a technical add-on, but as an expression of personality, attitude and community.

Show highlight: MINI x Vagabund. MINI and the Austrian design studio Vagabund present a new creative project: two unique one-off vehicles based on the MINI Countryman make a bold statement for adventure spirit, community culture and festival lifestyle. Two vehicles that reinterpret the versatility and openness of the MINI Countryman in a new way. Distinctively redesigned wheel arches create a visually wider stance and give the vehicles a striking look. By replacing the rear side windows with a bespoke high-performance sound system, the two one-offs reimagine the car as a mobile soundscape. MINI provides the stage – Vagabund delivers its unmistakable signature. One of the two show cars will be presented at the motor show in Beijing. Press Release: MINI x Vagabund

The electric MINI JCW × DEUS “The Skeg” is celebrating its first appearance in China. Featuring a radically weight-reduced, semi-transparent fibreglass body and functional, surf-inspired accessories, the one-off captures a lifestyle defined by freedom, movement and personal expression.

The wider MINI presence centres on a broad portfolio of personalised vehicles, addressing different lifestyles, design approaches and use cases. With market-specific editions for China as well as special models born out of established design partnerships, MINI shows how series-production vehicles can be clearly differentiated through colours, materials and details. Shown at an exhibition in China for the first time, the MINI Paul Smith Edition builds on a long-standing collaboration that combines MINI’s signature design with Paul Smith’s distinctive style. Exclusive exterior colours, refined design elements and unexpected details bring the shared MINI Paul Smith story into the present.

The personalised vehicles are complemented by community-focused, positioning MINI as a platform for cultural exchange and creative co-creation.

Models from the current MINI family also illustrate the full breadth of the brand’s line-up at the stand – from the urban character of compact vehicles to adventure-oriented interpretations in the SUV segment.

The performance DNA of the John Cooper Works sub-brand is also part of the presentation, underscoring that customization at MINI has long included sporting forms of expression.

With its mix of editions, collaborations, one-offs and production models, MINI at Auto China Beijing 2026 makes one message clear: “customiation” is a core element of the brand’s identity. MINI views its vehicles as personal companions – open to individual design, creative ideas and the unique signature of their owners.

In case of queries, please contact:
Corporate Communications

Julian Kisch, Press Spokesperson, Product Communications MINI
Phone: +49-151-601-38072
E-mail: julian.kisch@mini.com

Micaela Sandstede, Head of Communications MINI
Phone: +49-176-601-61611
E-mail: micaela.sandstede@bmw.de

BMW Group and University of Zagreb: Advances in battery cell production using artificial intelligence

Mon, 20 Apr 2026 08:30:00 +0200

Munich/Zagreb. The BMW Group and the Croatian University of Zagreb’s Regional Centre of Excellence for Robotic Technology (CRTA) continue to advance joint research in battery cell production. The “Insight” research project will develop and implement practical AI models to optimise battery cell production at the BMW Group. The research project covers the entire battery cell value chain: from electrode production to end-of-line testing and in-house developed direct recycling.

How the research project saves raw materials, costs and time

At the Battery Cell Competence Centre (BCCC) in Munich, the BMW Group is developing battery cells for future generations of high-voltage batteries. As part of this process, numerous test series are conducted, which by their very nature require significant time and material investment. At the same time, these tests tie up manufacturing equipment and laboratory capacity. This is where the “Insight” research project comes in: Its artificial intelligence network uses existing test data, as well as real-time data from ongoing production, to accurately predict battery cell process parameters and performance data. As a result, the duration and number of test series can be significantly reduced, while maintaining or improving quality. In this way, the newly developed AI systems reduce the material and time required in individual process steps by more than 50 percent.

Other cell production use cases

The research project’s prediction models not only reduce the number of test series but also support final approval of battery cells. Following initial charging at the end of production, the cells must be stored for a defined period at precisely specified temperatures before they can be installed in a battery housing. This phase, also referred to as the “quarantine”, requires corresponding storage capacity. However, the research project’s AI systems are able to conduct a full analysis of the battery cells in advance, potentially eliminating this process step in the future.

Research collaboration combines theory and practice

Since the project was launched in 2024, the BMW Group and the University of Zagreb have been developing joint solutions using artificial intelligence to improve battery cell production. To this end, doctoral candidates and students at the University of Zagreb are collating and structuring available production data and using it to create AI models that can identify specific patterns. These AI models then make predictions that further optimise production performance, quality and costs. “We are working on scaling the newly developed AI models from the prototype environment,” explains Christian Siedelhofer, head of Technology Development Lithium-Ion Battery Cells at the BMW Group. One option would be to enable cell manufacturers. “We are also examining to what extent these models are suitable for additional use cases within our production network.”

Win-win through knowledge sharing

The University of Zagreb contributes expertise in mechanical engineering, electrical engineering and computer science to the project. Ongoing knowledge sharing benefits both partners: The University of Zagreb provides the BMW Group with access to the latest research findings, while its doctoral candidates and students have the opportunity to apply their theoretical knowledge in practice.

Development of young talent

Another aspect of the cooperation is the development of young talent. “Our joint project gets doctoral candidates and students interested in AI and battery cells and the exciting work we do at our Battery Cell Competence Centres,” says Stefan Kerscher, head of Technology Development Battery Cells at the BMW Group. “We are delighted when young talents decide to embark on a career with our company.” The cooperation offers students intensive mentoring and the opportunity to expand their professional network across the industry, enhancing their attractiveness on the job market and opening up outstanding career opportunities. The cooperation between the BMW Group and the University of Zagreb strengthens the innovation capability and competitiveness of both partners.

Battery cell expertise along the entire value chain

The BMW Group consolidates its battery cell know-how at its Competence Centres in Munich, Parsdorf and Salching. The Battery Cell Competence Centre (BCCC) in Munich houses research and development for the battery cells of the future. The best battery concept from the BCCC will be produced under near-series conditions at the Cell Manufacturing Competence Centre (CMCC) in Parsdorf. Close cross-divisional collaboration between Development, Purchasing and Production integrates product and process in a unique way. In addition to producing sample cells, the BMW Group is also focusing its efforts on the reuse of materials. As part of this process, the company has put into service a Cell Recycling Competence Centre (CRCC) in Salching, Lower Bavaria, together with Encory GmbH, which will implement the innovative direct recycling concept. The intellectual property for the recycling method is owned by the BMW Group.

FIA WEC: Opening victory for the BMW M4 GT3 EVO at Imola – Strong performance by the BMW M Hybrid V8.

Sun, 19 Apr 2026 22:21:47 +0200

Imola. BMW M Motorsport celebrated a fantastic start to the season in the FIA World Endurance Championship (FIA WEC). At the “6 Hours of Imola,” Dan Harper (GBR), Parker Thompson (CAN), and Anthony McIntosh (USA) claimed victory in the LMGT3 class with the #69 BMW M4 GT3 EVO of Team WRT – and did so in their debut race in the FIA WEC. It was the second LMGT3 triumph for Team WRT after their one-two finish in 2024, also at Imola. The two BMW M Hybrid V8s also gave strong performances in the Hypercar class in front of a record crowd of 92,175 spectators, finishing fifth and seventh.

The BMW M Hybrid V8s started the race from ninth and tenth positions, having both qualified for Hyperpole on Saturday. René Rast (GER) and Robin Frijns (NED) made a strong start in the #20 Shell BMW M Hybrid V8, but then dropped back due to a drive-through penalty. Over the course of the race, however, the duo fought their way forward again, and Rast crossed the finish line in fifth place after a nerve-wracking performance in the final stage. Kevin Magnussen (DEN) and Raffaele Marciello (SUI) finished seventh in the sister car #15.

The #69 BMW M4 GT3 EVO started from fourth place in the LMGT3 class and, thanks to a strong performance by McIntosh, quickly moved to the front and took the lead. Against strong competition, the car consistently stayed in the top three and claimed victory when the McLaren ahead suffered a technical failure. Harper brought home the first win. The #32 BMW M4 GT3 EVO with Augusto Farfus (BRA), Sean Gelael (INA), and Darren Leung (GBR) also performed strongly. The trio started from fifth place and, despite a five-second penalty for an unsafe release, finished in the same position.

Quotes after the 6 Hours of Imola:

Andreas Roos (Head of BMW M Motorsport): “A spectacular start to the FIA WEC season! Especially the battles for fourth place in the Hypercar class during the final phase were gigantic. Although we didn’t make it onto the podium, we had a car here that was competitive and able to fight for top positions. That’s positive. The victory in the LMGT3 class is, of course, incredible! Huge congratulations to the drivers Dan Harper, Parker Thompson, and Anthony McIntosh, and to Team WRT! Overall, it’s a great start to the season, one we can be proud of and build upon.”

Vincent Vosse (Team Principal BMW M Team WRT): “Fifth and seventh place with our two Hypercars are strong results. Of course, we would have preferred to be on the podium, but it is still a good start to the season that brings us important points. The drivers did an excellent and flawless job. Unfortunately, car #20 received a drive-through penalty due to a mistake during a yellow phase. We need to avoid such things in the future. First victory in the first race of the season – an excellent result for our #69 crew. I am absolutely delighted for our LMGT3 team about the win and also the top result for car #32. That is truly exceptional. I would like to take this opportunity to dedicate this victory to Juha Miettinen, who passed away at the Nürburgring while pursuing his passion.”

René Rast (BMW M Team WRT, #20 Shell BMW M Hybrid V8, 5th place): “With fifth place, we achieved a good result and important points for the championship in the end. Unfortunately, we had to serve a drive-through penalty during the race. At that point, we were ahead of the Toyota that ended up on the podium, so without that penalty more would certainly have been possible. But to do that, you have to do a perfect job, and unfortunately, we didn’t quite manage that today. We need to improve, eliminate mistakes, and add a bit more pace. But generally, it was the first race of the season, with a new crew. We still need to get used to each other, but we certainly learned a lot.”

Raffaele Marciello (BMW M Team WRT, #15 BMW M Hybrid V8, 7th place): “It was a long race with two drivers, but we got almost the maximum out of our races with both cars. I think we made a small mistake with tyre choice during my stint; otherwise, fourth place would have been possible. That’s a bit of a shame. With fifth and seventh place, we can still be satisfied, but of course, we want to move further forward. We need to keep working and improve.”

Dan Harper (Team WRT, #69 BMW M4 GT3 EVO, 1st place LMGT3): “After our joint test races, I already had a good feeling that with this crew we could achieve podium finishes and eventually a victory, but for it to happen in the very first race is incredible. Many thanks to Team WRT for the fantastic strategy! The BMW M4 GT3 has always been strong at Imola, so we were optimistic. Anthony put us on course for the podium with his opening stints. After that, it was a tough battle against extremely strong competition. I feel a bit for the McLaren crew, as they were really super fast. I had already settled for second place, but then the car in front of me suddenly slowed down.”

Parker Thompson (Team WRT, #69 BMW M4 GT3 EVO, 1st place LMGT3): “Victory on my debut with Team WRT and the BMW M4 GT3 EVO in the FIA WEC. This is an incredible day! I thought it would take us the whole season to achieve this goal, but now we’ve cleared this hurdle on our very first attempt. My stints were good, I did what I had to do: After Anthony put us in a fantastic position, I handed over to Dan so he could do what he does best – bring the race home. We had a bit of luck, and I feel for the McLaren crew. I know what it feels like to retire while leading, and it’s not nice. For us, this victory still feels fantastic.”

Anthony McIntosh (Team WRT, #69 BMW M4 GT3 EVO, 1st place LMGT3): “I can’t really say much. The team, my fellow drivers – everyone was simply legendary this weekend. For me, the car felt very calm, and so I was able to pull off some good overtaking manoeuvres.”

Augusto Farfus (Team WRT, #32 BMW M4 GT3 EVO, 5th place LMGT3): “This fifth place feels better to me than it looks. We had technical problems with the car before the race which set us back in preparation. The team did a great job getting us back on track, but we were still missing a bit of fine-tuning. We lost a lot of ground during a phase in the middle of the race. That was impossible to make up. We need to look into why that happened. Congratulations to the sister car on the victory. That shows the potential we have. Still, fifth place means important points, and in this championship, it’s all about consistently collecting points.”

Emotional rollercoaster at the 24h of Le Mans: BMW factory team denied victory, triumph in the Superstock class.

Sun, 19 Apr 2026 22:10:56 +0200

Le Mans. The season opener of the 2026 FIM Endurance World Championship (FIM EWC) turned into an emotional rollercoaster for BMW Motorrad Motorsport. At the legendary 24 Hours of Le Mans (FRA), the BMW Motorrad World Endurance Team led comfortably with the #37 BMW M 1000 RR until the morning hours. However, technical issues in the final third of the race set the factory team back. Despite that, they secured important points with the lead at the crucial eight- and 16-hour marks and by ultimately finishing 12th in the EWC class. The best-placed BMW team was ERC Endurance #6 with an impressive fourth place, followed by BMW Motorrad Motorsport Official Team Japan, AutoRace Ube Racing, in fifth. An outstanding sixth place overall – and a dominant victory in the Superstock class – went to the #38 BMW M 1000 RR of Champion-HERT powered by MRP.

The factory trio on the #37 BMW M 1000 RR, Michael van der Mark (NED), Markus Reiterberger (GER), and Steven Odendaal (RSA), impressed in the two-part qualifying session, missing pole position by just 0.032 seconds. Starting from second on the grid, they entered the 24-hour marathon and everything ran perfectly for hour after hour. After eight and 16 hours, the BMW Motorrad World Endurance Team collected bonus points for leading and headed into the new day comfortably at the front of the field. Then however, various technical problems arose, followed by a lengthy repair stop in the closing stages. The team was able to return to the track and take the chequered flag to secure more points. The BMW Motorrad World Endurance Team leaves Le Mans sixth in the world championship standings.

Starting from ninth place, ERC Endurance #6 steadily worked its way forward over the course of the 24 hours. In the end, Kenny Foray (FRA), David Checa (ESP), and new addition Marcel Schrötter (GER) celebrated an excellent fourth place overall. AutoRace Ube, with Sylvain Guintoli (FRA), Hannes Soomer (EST), and Naomichi Uramoto (JPN) aboard the #76 BMW M 1000 RR, was also in the mix among the top teams and secured fifth place.

In the Superstock class, the BMW M 1000 RR once again proved to be the bike to beat. In qualifying, the Japanese Team Étoile (#25) celebrated pole position, while Team Tecmas – Minerva Oil (#9) secured second on the grid. In the race, Champion-HERT Powered by MRP took control with the #38 BMW M 1000 RR. Balint Kovacs (HUN), Jan Bühn (GER), Loris Cresson (FRA), and Mate Szamado (HUN) not only celebrated a commanding Superstock victory but also caused a stir with sixth place overall.

The second round of the 2026 FIM EWC, the eight-hour race at Spa-Francorchamps in Belgium, will take place in early June.

Reactions after the Le Mans season opener:

Sven Blusch, Head of BMW Motorrad Motorsport: “Despite everything, we can be very proud of our performance at Le Mans. Of course, it wasn’t the ending we had hoped for. We had an extremely tough but very productive winter of preparation and were able to improve in every area – which I believe we demonstrated impressively up until hour 16. Our efficiency has increased. All three riders, Mickey, Markus and Steven, did a flawless job, and the pit stops worked very well. Unfortunately, it wasn’t enough in the end. Nevertheless, we are all the more proud that we managed to get the bike across the finish line and score important points. We are also very proud of what our customer teams achieved. We secured fourth, fifth, and sixth places. ERC as the best BMW team showed an extremely strong race pace, with riders Kenny, David and Marcel in his 24-hour debut. The AutoRace Ube Racing Team also went straight into the top five in their first appearance – an absolutely top performance. There, we saw the potential that the very strong rider trio Naomichi, Sylvain, and Hannes can extract from the bike. We would like to thank James Bungo and Uwe Reinhardt for these performances. It is absolutely brilliant that, with Champion-HERT, we won the Superstock class by more than ten laps. Now, starting tomorrow, it’s time for hard work to begin preparations for Spa. The fight for the world championship continues there.”

Werner Daemen, Team Manager BMW Motorrad World Endurance Team: “The weekend started very well. We were the fastest in all the practice sessions. We had a perfect qualifying, even though we were 0.03 seconds behind YART. The start of the race was good. I think we had the best strategy in terms of fuel consumption, and we took no risks. Then, in the morning, we had a small technical issue. Because of that issue, Michael hit another rider and we crashed. Later, after the crash, we had a small oil leak. Then we had another technical issue. I can’t say what it is because we still have to investigate it in detail. But in the end, we still had a very good result as a team. Now it’s on to Spa, where I hope we can fight for the victory.”

Michael van der Mark, BMW Motorrad World Endurance Team: “It was fantastic, but with a bittersweet end. I was having an awesome time here, and the whole team was doing great. We had a outstanding bike, and Steven and Markus were really strong and consistent. Honestly, the team did a great job this winter. We scored a lot of points in the first eight hours and after 16 hours. Unfortunately, this morning we started to have some issues, and I had a small crash. After that, things just kept getting worse and worse. It’s a shame, but we showed how fast and consistent we are. In the end, we scored some points. I think this is why endurance racing can be one of the nicest races in the world, but also one of the most cruel.”

Markus Reiterberger, BMW Motorrad World Endurance Team: “The race itself was actually good. We had a great rhythm. All three riders were fast, and the fuel strategy was flawless. We were able to do many, many more laps than the competition and thus secured the eight- and 16-hour points. All the riders were in great form, and the team worked together perfectly. Unfortunately, then the issues started: a minor problem with the bike, which was fixed quickly, Michael’s crash, which caused some minor consequential damage, and in the end we had another issue. But we managed to bring it home to the finish and at least take the points with us. Of course, we are very disappointed because we really wanted to win Le Mans, and I believe we had what it takes this year. But we’re not giving up – we’re still in the fight. Many thanks to the whole team: they gave it their all and did a really great job, and I hope and believe they will be rewarded for it at some point.”

Steven Odendaal, BMW Motorrad World Endurance Team: “Overall, I think the team did a really good job. My teammates put in a big effort, and they performed really well. Coming back from an injury that I knew would make this race difficult to even finish – without giving my teammates extra work – was an achievement in itself. Unfortunately, the way it ended is really sad, but there’s nothing we can do about that. I think there are things to learn for the future, and we move on. We salvaged as many points as we could this weekend, and we’ll see what the next one brings.”

Facts and figures.

Qualifying (combined).

Pos.	Team	Manufacturer	Pos. in class	Time
1.	YART Yamaha Official EWC Team	Yamaha	1. EWC	1:34.335
2.	BMW Motorrad World Endurance Team	BMW	2. EWC	1:34.367
3.	AutoRace Ube Racing Team	BMW	3. EWC	1:34.633
4.	F.C.C. TSR Honda France	Honda	4. EWC	1:35.006
5.	Elf Marc VDS Racing Team/KM99	Yamaha	5. EWC	1:35,030
9.	ERC Endurance #6	BMW	9. EWC	1:36.648
10.	Team Étoile	BMW	1. SST	1:36.053
12.	LRP Poland	BMW	11. EWC	1:36.771
13.	Team Tecmas – Minerva Oil	BMW	2. SST	1:36.824
16.	Champion-HERT Powered by MRP	BMW	4. SST	1:37.182
39.	T2C Racing	BMW	21. SST	1:40.615
60.	Flying Buffs M3 Racing	BMW	11. PRD	1:46.186

Race.

Pos.	Team	Manufacturer	Pos. in class	Gap
1.	YART Yamaha Official EWC Team	Yamaha	1. EWC	-
2.	Yoshimura SERT Motul	Suzuki	2. EWC	5 laps
3.	Kawasaki Webike Trickstar	Kawasaki	3. EWC	11 laps
4.	ERC Endurance #6	BMW	4. EWC	12 laps
5.	AutoRace Ube Racing Team	BMW	5. EWC	12 laps
6.	Champion-HERT Powered by MRP	BMW	1. SST	21 laps
17.	LRP Poland	BMW	10. EWC	54 laps
23.	BMW Motorrad World Endurance Team	BMW	12. EWC	72 laps
25.	Team Étoile	BMW	13. SST	78 laps
27.	Team Tecmas – Minerva Oil	BMW	14. SST	86 laps
35.	T2C Racing	BMW	16. SST	136 laps
36.	Flying Buffs M3 Racing	BMW	6. PRD	143 laps

Current World Championship standings (R01/04).

Pos.	Team	Manufacturer	Points
1.	YART Yamaha Official EWC Team	Yamaha	63
2.	Yoshimura SERT Motul	Suzuki	48
3.	Kawasaki Webike Trickstar	Kawasaki	42
4.	AutoRace Ube Racing Team	BMW	36
5.	ERC Endurance #6	BMW	35
6.	BMW Motorrad World Endurance Team	BMW	33
11.	LRP Poland	BMW	15

Points instead of podiums: A difficult Assen weekend for BMW Motorrad Motorsport.

Sun, 19 Apr 2026 21:26:29 +0200

Assen. The third round of the 2026 FIM Superbike World Championship (WorldSBK) took place at the historic TT Circuit in Assen (NED). For BMW Motorrad Motorsport and the ROKiT BMW Motorrad WorldSBK Team, it turned into a turbulent race weekend – highlighted by an outstanding Superpole performance from Danilo Petrucci (ITA) and a strong comeback ride from Miguel Oliveira (POR) on Saturday. Sunday, however, proved more challenging.

Fourth place in Superpole qualifying showed that Petrucci is becoming increasingly comfortable with his #9 BMW M 1000 RR. Accordingly, confidence was high heading into the main race on Saturday afternoon. However, race control ruled a jump start, and Petrucci had to serve a double long-lap penalty. As a result, he crossed the finish line in 18th place.

Oliveira started the first race from 13th on the grid and steadily worked his way forward aboard his #88 BMW M 1000 RR. After 21 laps, he finished in seventh place, collecting more valuable points. On Sunday, both riders faced greater difficulties. Petrucci finished the Superpole Race and race two in seventh and ninth positions. Oliveira recorded 11th and 12th places. The action continues in two weeks at the Balaton Park Circuit in Hungary.

Reactions after the Assen round.

Sven Blusch, Head of BMW Motorrad Motorsport: “Assen was a challenging race weekend for us, even though we arrived with strong momentum following the good results at Portimão. Various factors prevented us from achieving the result we had hoped for. This makes it all the more important that we now consistently analyse the insights we’ve gained and work on them in a targeted way. The team and the riders responded as a unit and are looking ahead. With Balaton, we have a circuit coming up where we aim to position ourselves better again. Our goal is to show clear improvement there and get back on the attack.”

Christian Gonschor, Technical Director BMW Motorrad Motorsport: “Assen was a difficult weekend for us. Our goal was clear: to collect a lot of points. We partially achieved that, but the results did not match what we had set out to do. The pace for the top five was there for both Miguel and Danilo, and the fact that, following Miguel’s podiums at Portimão, we now had the potential with both riders to fight for the podium is a step forward. However, in the races we lacked execution and a bit of race luck. We were unable to convert the potential over race distance into the corresponding results, for various reasons. That is why we leave Assen with mixed feelings. On the one hand, the performance confirmed the potential; on the other, we were unable to score possible points and suffered a setback after Portimão. Now we move on to Hungary, a stop-and-go circuit where our strengths should come more into play. There, we expect to see a different weekend on both sides of the garage.”

Miguel Oliveira, ROKiT BMW Motorrad WorldSBK Team: “It was a tough weekend for us. We know Assen is always a bit of a challenge, but we fought hard. The team gave absolutely everything to put the best possible bike out there on track, but it was still challenging. Without a good qualifying, we were left mid-pack and we didn’t optimise the result. Yesterday was kind of okay, but today it was even more difficult to move forward through the field. Still, we’re heading to a new track where we know the bike can work well, so we’re looking forward to that, and as always, we’ll be ready to fight.”

Danilo Petrucci, ROKiT BMW Motorrad WorldSBK Team: “This weekend was crazy. I immediately felt good on the bike, and I’m starting to really enjoy it. Superpole qualifying was really good: I enjoyed the bike and put in a good lap time. Then yesterday there was the penalty for the jump start. I’m not sure I actually did a jump start, but the rules are the rules. I think the penalty was too long and not really fair, especially since I didn’t gain any position. But anyway, today we were able to score some points. We fought, and we can look at the positive side. I think our bike will work really well in the next two rounds. I enjoy those tracks, so we have to focus on the positives. For sure, we’re still working on the bike, so there’s still potential. I can’t wait to ride the bike again as soon as possible.”

Facts and figures.

Superpole.

Air temperature: 16°, track temperature: 20°, humidity: 59%, conditions: dry.

Pos.	Rider	Team	Manufacturer	Time
1.	Nicolò Bulega (ITA)	Aruba.it Racing - Ducati	Ducati	1:32.144*
2.	Sam Lowes (GBR)	ELF Marc VDS Racing Team	Ducati	1:32.473
3.	Iker Lecuona (ESP)	Aruba.it Racing - Ducati	Ducati	1:32.567
4.	Danilo Petrucci ITA)	ROKiT BMW Motorrad WorldSBK Team	BMW	1:32.921
5.	Xavi Vierge (ESP)	Pata Maxus Yamaha	Yamaha	1:32.946
13.	Miguel Oliveira (POR)	ROKiT BMW Motorrad WorldSBK Team	BMW	1:33.304

* New all time lap record

Race 1.

Air temperature: 14°, track temperature: 21°, humidity: 75%, conditions: dry, laps: 21.

Pos.	Rider	Team	Manufacturer	Gap
1.	Nicolò Bulega (ITA)	Aruba.it Racing - Ducati	Ducati	-
2.	Iker Lecuona (ESP)	Aruba.it Racing - Ducati	Ducati	1.618
3.	Sam Lowes (GBR)	ELF Marc VDS Racing Team	Ducati	2.923
4.	Álvaro Bautista (ESP)	Barni Spark Racing Team	Ducati	6.376
5.	Alex Lowes (GBR)	bimota by Kawasaki Racing Team	bimota	11.775
7.	Miguel Oliveira (POR)	ROKiT BMW Motorrad WorldSBK Team	BMW	18.163
18.	Danilo Petrucci (ITA)	ROKiT BMW Motorrad WorldSBK Team	BMW	44.126

Fastest race lap: Nicolò Bulega, lap 6, 1:33.341 (new record)

Superpole Race.

Air temperature: 11°, track temperature: 15°, humidity: 72%, conditions: dry, laps: 10.

Pos.	Rider	Team	Manufacturer	Gap
1.	Nicolò Bulega (ITA)	Aruba.it Racing - Ducati	Ducati	-
2.	Iker Lecuona (ESP)	Aruba.it Racing - Ducati	Ducati	1.742
3.	Sam Lowes (GBR)	ELF Marc VDS Racing Team	Ducati	2.632
4.	Álvaro Bautista (ESP)	Barni Spark Racing Team	Ducati	6.219
5.	Alex Lowes (GBR)	bimota by Kawasaki Racing Team	bimota	6.373
7.	Danilo Petrucci (ITA)	ROKiT BMW Motorrad WorldSBK Team	BMW	9.432
11.	Miguel Oliveira (POR)	ROKiT BMW Motorrad WorldSBK Team	BMW	12.170

Fastest race lap: Nicolò Bulega, lap 2, 1:32.357 (new record)

Race 2.

Air temperature: 10°, track temperature: 15°, humidity: 69%, conditions: dry, laps: 21.

Pos.	Rider	Team	Manufacturer	Gap
1.	Nicolò Bulega (ITA)	Aruba.it Racing - Ducati	Ducati	-
2.	Iker Lecuona (ESP)	Aruba.it Racing - Ducati	Ducati	2.724
3.	Sam Lowes (GBR)	ELF Marc VDS Racing Team	Ducati	5.257
4.	Álvaro Bautista (ESP)	Barni Spark Racing Team	Ducati	8.941
5.	Yari Montella (ITA)	Barni Spark Racing Team	Ducati	9.845
9.	Danilo Petrucci (ITA)	ROKiT BMW Motorrad WorldSBK Team	BMW	19.054
12.	Miguel Oliveira (POR)	ROKiT BMW Motorrad WorldSBK Team	BMW	24.570

Fastest race lap: Nicolò Bulega, lap 4, 1:33.162

Current riders’ classification (R03/12, after 9 of 36 races).

Pos.	Rider	Team	Manufacturer	Points
1.	Nicolò Bulega (ITA)	Aruba.it Racing - Ducati	Ducati	186
2.	Iker Lecuona (ESP)	Aruba.it Racing - Ducati	Ducati	117 (-69)
3.	Sam Lowes (GBR)	ELF Marc VDS Racing Team	Ducati	82 (-104)
4.	Miguel Oliveira (POR)	ROKiT BMW Motorrad WorldSBK Team	BMW	69 (-117)
5.	Alex Lowes (GBR)	bimota by Kawasaki Racing Team	bimota	69 (-117)
11.	Danilo Petrucci (ITA)	ROKiT BMW Motorrad WorldSBK Team	BMW	41 (-145)

Current manufacturers’ classification (R03/12, after 9 of 36 races).

Pos.	Manufacturer	Points
1.	Ducati	186
2.	Bimota	95 (-91)
3.	BMW	76 (-110)
4.	Yamaha	57 (-129)
5.	Kawasaki	24 (-162)
6.	Honda	11 (-175)

24h Nürburgring Qualifiers overshadowed by tragic accident.

Sun, 19 Apr 2026 18:20:34 +0200

Nürburgring. The 24h Nürburgring Qualifiers were overshadowed by the tragic accident that claimed the life of Juha Miettinen. BMW M Motorsport mourns the loss of a member of the BMW racing family. Juha Miettinen was involved in a serious accident during Saturday’s race with a privately entered BMW 325i and succumbed to his injuries. The sporting events at the final preparatory event before the 24-hour race at the Nürburgring (GER) on 16th/17th May faded into the background.

The BMW M Motorsport teams ROWE Racing, Schubert Motorsport, and Gamota Racing competed in Sunday’s race with the BMW M4 GT3 EVO and the BMW M3 Touring 24H. The #99 BMW M4 GT3 EVO from ROWE Racing finished fifth overall, immediately followed by the #77 BMW M4 GT3 EVO from Schubert Motorsport and the #81 BMW M3 Touring 24H, which took first place in the SPX class. The #23 BMW M4 GT3 EVO from Gamota Racing finished in 13th position. All cars wore a mourning ribbon.

BMW M Motorsport Statement:
“We received the news of Juha Miettinen’s fatal accident during the first race of the 24h Nürburgring Qualifiers with great shock. We have lost a member of the BMW racing family under tragic circumstances. Our deepest sympathy goes to his loved ones.”

Ben Shelton wins BMW Open by Bitpanda 2026 – 300 aces and coaching lessons for FUTURE ACES.

Sun, 19 Apr 2026 17:04:00 +0200

+++ Ben Shelton (USA) prevails against Flavio Cobolli (ITA) in the Munich final 6:2; 7:5 +++ Champion of the ATP 500 tournament is rewarded with an all-electric BMW iX3 +++ FUTURE ACES: 300 coaching lessons for disadvantaged young people +++ Doubles title goes to local heroes Jakob Schnaitter and Mark Wallner (both GER) +++

Munich. Ben Shelton did it on the second attempt. After losing to Alexander Zverev (GER) in last year's final, the 23-year-old won the BMW Open by Bitpanda 2026. The number two seed Shelton defeated Flavio Cobolli 6:2 and 7:5 in the final in front of more than 6,000 spectators on the packed Centre Court. The Italian had knocked out the top seed Zverev in the semi-finals, but succumbed to his opponent's powerful game on Sunday. It was the fifth win on the ATP Tour and the second on clay for Shelton, who has been a crowd favourite since his first serve in Munich.

In addition to the prize money (467,485 euros) and 500 world ranking points, Shelton was also awarded the traditional leather trousers and the new BMW iX3 50 xDrive (WLTP energy consumption combined: 17,9 - 15,1 kWh/100 km; WLTP CO₂ emissions combined: 0 g/km; CO2-class: A; WLTP electric range: 679-805km) as the winner of the BMW Open by Bitpanda 2026. The all-electric winner’s vehicle is the first Neue Klasse model, which marks a huge leap forward in terms of electromobility, display and operating concept, digitalisation, connectivity, design, and sustainability. The new BMW iX3 and the BMW X5 with hydrogen technology were also part of the fully electrified shuttle fleet, which covered a distance of more than 65,000 kilometres during the BMW Open and brought players, visitors and customers safely and punctually to their destination.

Over the course of tournament week, which attracted a total of around 70,000 spectators, the professionals served 300 aces in the singles and doubles competitions, earning the same number of training hours that the BMW Group donates to the FUTURE ACES programme and young people in need. FUTURE ACES was launched last year together with MTTC Iphitos, organiser MMP EVENTS and other tournament partners. Six youngsters are now integrated into club life at MTTC Iphitos and train there regularly. A session even took place during the BMW Open by Bitpanda, which was also attended by tournament director Patrik Kühnen and top talent Justin Engel.

Quotes.

Tim Beltermann, Head of BMW Germany: “The electrifying final was the highlight of a great tournament week that once again thrilled Munich. Congratulations to Ben Shelton, who prevailed against the best field of players in 39 years of the BMW Open and can now enjoy a well-deserved new era of driving pleasure in the BMW iX3. Many thanks to all the players for the 300 aces with which they support our FUTURE ACES and thus our commitment to future prospects for all young people.”

Ben Shelton, winner BMW Open by Bitpanda 2026: “The BMW Open is an amazing tournament, it's an honour to be here. I hope I can come back to Munich for many years to come. I love the energy that comes from the stands during my matches, and the Kids Day in Munich is one of my favourite days out here on tour. Thank you to everyone who came here.“

Patrik Kühnen, Tournament Director: “We saw a very interesting field of players with big names and new faces. Many of the matches had character and were pairings that you usually only see in the third or fourth round of a Grand Slam tournament. The fans were able to experience passionate, offensive and top-class tennis. I am very happy about the BMW Open by Bitpanda 2026.”

Schnaitter and Wallner win doubles competition.

Victory in the "final at home": Jakob Schnaitter from Wasserburg am Inn and Mark Wallner from Munich have celebrated their first ATP doubles title. The local heroes had played their way into the main draw after qualifying and defeated the French duo Theo Arribage and Albano Olivetti 6:4; 6:7; 12:10 in a thrilling final.

FUTURE ACES: Programme giving children and young people access to tennis.

The long-term FUTURE ACES programme gives disadvantaged children and young people access to tennis and helps to broaden their future prospects. FUTURE ACES was initiated by the BMW Group and implemented together with partners of the BMW Open by Bitpanda – above all with MTTC Iphitos and the organiser MMP.

Every ace hit during the BMW Open corresponds to a coaching lesson at MTTC Iphitos. Children and young people are given the opportunity to learn tennis and develop their skills in a supportive environment. The programme promotes the development of the participants‘ potential and supports them on their path to a self-determined life as FUTURE ACES. The BMW Group is convinced that a strong society is created by empowering the individual. When young people are given the tools and gain the confidence to take their own path and shape it positively, a better future for everyone emerges.

At last year‘s BMW Open by Bitpanda 2025, 361 coaching hours were earned. This enabled 16 young people to try out tennis at a Whitsun camp lasting several days. Six youngsters decided to stick with the programme and were integrated into regular training and club life in the long term. The aim is to discover personal potential, strengthen personality, establish social contacts and broaden future prospects in addition to sporting activity. The programme will continue in 2026: The 300 aces from the BMW Open by Bitpanda 2026 and the associated donation will not only continue to support the six young people, but a new FUTURE ACES cohort will also start after the tournament.

Winner‘s Car 2026: BMW iX3 50 xDrive.

The BMW iX3 is the first Neue Klasse model with which BMW has launched a new era of driving pleasure. An instant success, it has established a new design language and set standards for driving dynamics and performance. A range of up to 805 kilometres, battery charging at up to 400 kW and an energy consumption of just 17.9–15.1 kWh/100 km (WLTP) demonstrate the outstanding abilities of the new BMW iX3. The new BMW Panoramic iDrive brings innovation to the interior. The high-performance control unit Heart of Joy and BMW Dynamic Performance Control take driving pleasure to an entirely new level.

Plenty of compelling reasons led the expert jury at the World Car Awards to declare the BMW iX3 the 2026 “World Car of the Year” – and thus the standout new vehicle on the international automotive markets – following extensive test drives. On top of that, the model won the 2026 “World Electric Vehicle” title. The BMW iX3 is therefore an absolute winner in its own right, making it the ideal special prize for the champion of the BMW Open by Bitpanda 2026.

Allianz Para Trophy.

For the fifth time, the Allianz Para Trophy has been played at MTTC Iphitos alongside the BMW Open by Bitpanda. The UNIQLO Wheelchair Tennis Tour tournament has long since established itself as a sporting highlight. The Allianz Para Trophy has been upgraded to a 500-category tournament and featured the premiere of the “Quad Division” this year, in which players with disabilities in at least three limbs compete.

The “Open Division” was won convincingly by top seed Gustavo Fernandez from Argentina in two sets (6:4; 6:3) against Frenchman Stephane Houdet, successfully repeating his tournament victory from the inaugural year (2022). In the Quad Division, world number two Sam Schroder from the Netherlands also prevailed clearly. He defeated world number three, Israeli Guy Sasson, 6:4; 6:0.

Top-five result for BMW M Team WRT at Long Beach – Turner Motorsport on the podium with the BMW M4 GT3 EVO.

Sun, 19 Apr 2026 09:41:55 +0200

Long Beach. Dries Vanthoor (BEL) and Sheldon van der Linde (RSA) finished the first sprint race of the season in the IMSA WeatherTech SportsCar Championship (IMSA Series) in the BMW M Team WRT #24 BMW M Hybrid V8 in fifth place. The #25 sister car started from second position after a strong qualifying by Marco Wittmann (GER), but Philipp Eng (AUT) dropped a long way back during his stint following a collision and subsequent repairs. Turner Motorsport celebrated a major success with second place for Robby Foley and Patrick Gallagher (both USA) in the #96 BMW M4 GT3 EVO.

Comments after the race:

Andreas Roos (Head of BMW M Motorsport): “Fifth place is not what we had hoped for. The starting position for car #25 was very good after Marco Wittmann’s strong qualifying, but unfortunately, due to the contact and subsequent repairs, we couldn’t convert it into a corresponding race result. Car #24 didn’t have an ideal qualifying, but at least managed to gain a position in the race. Fifth place means important points for the championship, but we wanted more. Turner Motorsport gave a strong performance in the GTD class and rightly gets to celebrate on the podium.”

Vincent Vosse (Team Principal BMW M Team WRT): “The points for fifth place with our car #24 are important, especially as we are competing in a long championship season, but of course, we had hoped for more. Unfortunately, the collision involving car #25 made our race much more difficult. In the end, fifth place is okay, but nothing more. We accept the result and focus on Laguna Seca.”

Dries Vanthoor (#24 BMW M Hybrid V8, BMW M Team WRT, 5^th place GTP): “Of course, it’s not the result we had envisioned. We weren't completely sorted at the start of the weekend, which also put us behind in qualifying. In the race, I tried to preserve the car and the tyres so that Sheldon could push hard towards the end. That worked well, but we struggle in direct fights with other cars. We collected important points, but now we need to take a step forward.”

Marco Wittmann (#25 BMW M Hybrid V8, BMW M Team WRT, 11^th place GTP): “We got off to a good start this weekend and, with a front-row starting position, had a great chance to fight for the podium. However, those opportunities vanished with the accident – luck just wasn’t on our side today. So now we have to look ahead. As a team, we’ve made progress in various areas. We can carry this positive trend into the next race at Laguna Seca, bounce back, and earn the reward we deserve."

Robby Foley (#96 BMW M4 GT3 EVO, Turner Motorsport, 2^nd place GTD): “It was a fantastic day for us at Long Beach. Patrick had an excellent first stint and stayed out of trouble. After that, we were able to take advantage of a few opportunities during the restarts to pass competitors and then defend second place. We achieved a great result and earned important points for our team. Now we need to carry this momentum to Laguna Seca and try to pick up right where we left off.”

BMW Art Car World Tour expands to new frontiers: Historic debut in Romania and return to Stockholm. BMW Art Car #1 by Alexander Calder at RAD Art Fair and BMW Art Car by Julie Mehretu #20 at Market Art Fair.

Fri, 17 Apr 2026 16:20:14 +0200

Munich/Bucharest/Stockholm. The BMW Art Car World Tour continues its global journey with two significant new chapters: a historic debut in Romania at RAD Art Fair (23–26 April), marking the first-ever presentation of Alexander Calder's pioneering BMW Art Car #1 (1975) in the country, and a fifth consecutive partnership with Market Art Fair in Stockholm (24–26 April), featuring the BMW Art Car #20 by Julie Mehretu. With more than 55 stops already completed since March 2025, these presentations represent pivotal moments in the largest exhibition project ever undertaken for the BMW Art Car Collection.

RAD Art Fair 2026: Building Romania's Contemporary Art Future.
In its fourth edition, RAD Art Fair (23–26 April) has evolved into a vital collaborative platform dedicated to strengthening Romania's contemporary art scene and amplifying the visibility of local artists and galleries on the international stage. In 2026, RAD continues to expand its international reach while refining its curatorial vision through a more focused, intentional approach to programming. Strengthened global partnerships and a growing international audience are positioning Bucharest as an active and influential node in the global contemporary art conversation.

Bucharest honours the BMW Art Car Collection's origins with Alexander Calder's BMW Art Car – the very first BMW Art Car – making its Romanian debut at the fair. Alexander Calder’s BMW 3.0 CSL (1975) laid the foundation for the iconic BMW Art Car Collection when French racing driver and art dealer Hervé Poulain, together with then BMW Head of Motorsport Jochen Neerpasch, asked his artist friend Calder to paint a car. The completely reimagined 3.0 CSL patterned in red, yellow, blue, and white went on to compete in the 24 Hours of Le Mans in 1975 and became a crowd favourite. The car will complement RAD Sculpture Park, open as a continuation of the Art Fair until 15 May, at the Hotel Caro Gardens in Bucharest.

“I remember our first talk about the fair with the BMW team 4 years ago, when the project was just a plan. I explained how important it is to have a partner like BMW, who is such a great supporter of cultural projects. Since then, we have been working together in an effort to bring Romanian culture scene into a global focus. After just three years, we are proud to be the venue for the first visit of a BMW Art Car in Romania. Considering the connection that Alexander Calder and Constantin Brancusi had through the years, it is very fitting that we have this BMW Art Car here, while promoting the Romanian culture”, Catinca Tabacaru, RAD Art Fair.

20 years of Market Art Fair.
For a fifth consecutive year, BMW partners with Market Art Fair (24–26 April) in Stockholm, the leading fair for contemporary art in the Nordic region. Through its involvement in the fair, BMW continues to connect mobility, innovation, and artistic expression, a tradition that has been a central part of BMW’s global cultural engagement for more than 50 years.

As part of the BMW Art Car World Tour, the latest addition to the BMW Art Car Collection by Julie Mehretu (BMW Ar Car #20) will be exhibited on the ground. She first presented her artistically designed BMW M Hybrid V8 to the public at the Centre Pompidou in Paris in May 2024. After its race deployment in Le Mans a month later, last year and this year mark the next chapter of the project in cooperation with the BMW Group: the African Film and Media Arts Collective (AFMAC). Cape Town hosts the project’s culmination: the exhibition “Scaling Intentions” at the Zeitz Museum of Contemporary Art Africa, from 11 December 2026 – 15 August 2027.

For the fourth year, a winning artwork has been selected to decorate the BMW models transporting visitors to and from the Market Art Fair in Stockholm, including the all-new BMW iX3, Neue Klasse, as well as the BMW i7 and BMW X5. This year’s winners, Inka & Niclas, an internationally renowned artist duo consisting of Inka Lindergård and Niclas Holmström from Sweden, will bring a new visual language to the streets of Stockholm, as they apply their distinctive sculptural-photographic practice to BMW’s shuttle fleet. The duo has been selected by an international jury.

"The selection of Inka & Niclas as the 2026 winners of the BMW Art Car Commission feels like a perfect fit. As Nordic artists with an international presence, they embody the essence of Market Art Fair. For the first time in our project’s four-year history, artists working with a photographic medium have been chosen, highlighting new possibilities at the intersection of technology and creativity", says Sara Berner Bengtsson, Director Market Art Fair.

BMW Art Talks and Highlights.
RAD Art Fair (23–26 April)
Art Talk: "Building Local Scenes Within Global Context"
24 April, 5:00pm RAD Pavilion

Panelists: Anca Poterasu (Anca Poterasu gallery), Ovidiu Șandor (founder of Art Encounters), and Thomas Girst (Global Head of BMW Group Cultural Engagement), moderated by Catinca Tabacaru

Romania's first-ever BMW Art Car presentation
BMW Lounge featuring curated miniature collection spanning five decades
BMW PhotoCamp book launch and photographer meet-and-greet

Market Art Fair (April 24–26)
Art Talk: "The Future of the Art World. Where Do We Go from Here?"
25 April, 1:30pm–2:30pm, Pavilion

Panelists: Sara Berner Bengtsson (Market Art Fair Director), Azu Nwagbogu (Founder, African Artists' Foundation & Lagos Photo Festival), and Thomas Girst (BMW Group Global Head of Cultural Engagement)

Artist duo Inka & Niclas's sculptural photographic practice applied to BMW shuttle fleet
Six podcast episodes recorded inside the art-designed BMW iX3 in collaboration with The Art Bystander
Julie Mehretu's BMW M Hybrid V8 Art Car on display

Denmark's Parallel Celebration.
Running concurrently through 21 June, Northern Europe's largest BMW Art Car exhibition at Classic Car House in Denmark showcases eleven iconic Art Cars and original artist models. This ongoing presentation complements the Stockholm and Bucharest stops, demonstrating the tour's unprecedented scale and its ability to create simultaneous cultural dialogues across multiple European venues.

BMW Art Car World Tour.
The BMW Art Car World Tour, which kicked off in March 2025 and continues through August 2026, celebrates the 50th anniversary of the renowned BMW Art Car Collection with an extraordinary journey across flagship art fairs, museums, motorsport events, and cultural institutions worldwide. Featuring more than 55 stops in over 30 countries, the tour has captivated more than two million visitors with its iconic collection of 20 BMW Art Cars, each a unique masterpiece created by some of the world’s most renowned artists.

Highlights of the tour include Art Basel Hong Kong, Art Dubai, Auto Shanghai, the Concorso d’Eleganza Villa d’Este, Ultrace in Poland, the 24 Hours of Le Mans and Le Mans Classic, the Louwman Museum in The Hague, Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance and The Bridge in the USA, the Goodwood Revival, Contemporary Istanbul, Zoute Grand Prix in Belgium, Frieze London, Market Art Fair and The Aurora in Sweden, as well as Retromobile in Paris.

The BMW Art Car World Tour will culminate in its largest exhibition to date at BMW Welt in Munich from 29 July–31 August 2026.

The BMW Group's Cultural Engagement, with exclusive updates and deeper insights into its global initiatives can be followed on Instagram at @BMWGroupCulture.

Fast, simple, transparent: BMW turns the car into a credit card for public charging

Thu, 16 Apr 2026 14:30:00 +0200

Munich. The BMW Group is further simplifying public charging of its electric vehicles and setting a new standard for convenience and user-friendliness.

Since March 16^th, customers in Germany have been able to charge their all-electric BMW or MINI directly at public DC charging points using Plug & Charge - without the need for a prior charging contract.

The credit card on file with BMW or MINI is used for this: After logging in with the corresponding customer ID in the vehicle, it automatically authenticates itself at the charging station when plugged in and the charging process starts immediately.

An additional app, charging card or manual steps at the charging station are therefore no longer necessary.

The new function can be set up in just a few steps via the Plug & Charge menu in the customer's my BMW or MINI app.

Billing is transparent and based on the provider's current ad hoc charging price - this price is also displayed in the vehicle and the app for supported charging stations.

The costs are paid directly via the stored credit card, so that drivers retain full cost control and transparency at all times.

The new offer is available to all Plug & Charge-capable BMW and MINI vehicles and, for the first time, also opens up Plug & Charge to customer groups without an existing charging contract - including tourists or fleet- and company-car drivers who only temporarily log into their vehicle with their BMW or MINI account.

The service launches with Mer Germany across over 1,400 charging points in Germany and Austria, enabled by Hubject's Plug&Charge ecosystem and payment facilitation. Further charging point operators and additional markets will gradually follow in the course of 2026.

With this offer, the BMW Group is emphasising its claim to make electric mobility not only sustainable, but also as simple and suitable for everyday use as possible.

FIA WEC: Intensive test day with the BMW M Hybrid V8 and the BMW M4 GT3 EVO ahead of the season opener.

Wed, 15 Apr 2026 09:01:09 +0200

Imola. The long-awaited season opener of the FIA World Endurance Championship (FIA WEC) can begin. BMW M Motorsport and Team WRT prepared intensively for the "6 Hours of Imola" (ITA) next weekend on the official test day. The aerodynamically revised BMW M Hybrid V8s completed 345 laps, while the two BMW M4 GT3 EVOs completed a total of 310 laps on Tuesday. All the car crews and drivers took the opportunity to optimise the cars and processes with a view to the first race of the season.

Kevin Magnussen (DEN) and Raffaele Marciello (SUI, both #15) as well as Robin Frijns (NED) and René Rast (GER, both #20) took turns in the two BMW M Hybrid V8s of BMW M Team WRT. While the #20 crew was able to complete its test programme without any problems, the engine of the #15 had to be changed in the morning due to a technical problem for safety reasons. In the afternoon, Magnussen and Marciello made up some of their test work despite the changeable weather. Dries Vanthoor (BEL) and Sheldon van der Linde (RSA) are competing in the third race of the IMSA WeatherTech SportsCar Championship season at Long Beach (USA) at the same time and will therefore not be on the Imola grid.

As in 2025, the #15 BMW M Hybrid V8 will sport the Inception design in the iconic BMW M colours. The sister car will race in the Inception design in the colours of Premium Technology Partner Shell. BMW M Motorsport is also delighted to have the support of numerous strong partners: Akrapovič, Champion, XPEL, H&R, OZ Racing, KYB and PUMA. Champion is expanding its involvement in the FIA WEC in the third year of the collaboration and is supplying BMW M Team WRT with high-performance racing spark plugs and ignition coils as a technology partner. KYB supports BMW M Team WRT both in the IMSA Series and in the FIA WEC.

XPEL, the world's leading manufacturer of protective films for vehicles, is a new member of the BMW M Motorsport family. The collaboration includes the FIA WEC and the spectacular BMW M3 Touring 24H community project at the Nürburgring 24 Hours. "We’re extremely proud to partner with BMW M Motorsport," said Michael Mejia, Senior Director of Global Marketing at XPEL. "Endurance racing is the ultimate proving ground for performance, durability and engineering excellence – values that are deeply aligned with the XPEL brand."

In the LMGT3 class, Team WRT will compete with two BMW M4 GT3 EVOs. In the #32 car, BMW M works driver Augusto Farfus (BRA), Sean Gelael (INA) and Darren Leung (GBR) celebrate their reunion in the FIA WEC after a one-year break. BMW M works driver Dan Harper (GBR), Parker Thompson (CAN) and Anthony McIntosh (USA) will take turns in the car #69, which will be given a new, unique design for each race.

Quotes ahead of the "6 Hours of Imola":

Andreas Roos (Head of BMW M Motorsport): "The season finally got underway with the test day. Despite the difficult weather conditions and the technical problem with the car #15, we were able to collect a lot of test kilometres and data, which we are now evaluating with a view to the race weekend. We are looking forward to the first season with the aerodynamically revised BMW M Hybrid V8 and again with our BMW M4 GT3 EVO. Our Hypercar showed its potential at Daytona with third place, as did the GT3 car with a class win. Our goal for the season is to be able to regularly fight for podium places and take victories."

Vincent Vosse (Team Principal BMW M Team WRT): "All in all, that was a good day. Our guys on the Hypercar side worked well and we have found a basis on which we can build. Unfortunately, we had to change the engine in car #15 for safety reasons. Nevertheless, we were still able to do a lot of driving in the afternoon and were up there with fourth place for the car #20. However, we still lack a bit of performance on the Ferraris. On the LMGT3 side, we focused on race pace and are also doing well. We've been strong here in recent years and want to finish on the podium again this time."

Kevin Magnussen (BMW M Team WRT, #15 BMW M Hybrid V8): "We drove a good number of laps – both in the wet and in the dry – and I have the impression that we have learnt a lot and gathered important information for the weekend. Nevertheless, it's difficult to make a prediction after this test. The Ferraris are very fast, but apart from that, we are right up there."

René Rast (BMW M Team WRT, #20 Shell BMW M Hybrid V8): "We can be satisfied. Of course, it was a bit difficult with the changeable weather, which affected our plan. But we completed our programme and can certainly take a few things away with us. And then we'll see where we stand at the weekend."

Augusto Farfus (Team WRT, #32 BMW M4 GT3 EVO): "Despite the track being wet in parts, we were able to cover all the test areas we had set out to and got what we wanted. We are in strong shape – as a team and as a driver trio. I'm really looking forward to driving with Darren and Sean again. It feels like coming home. Even though we didn't drive together last year, we spent a lot of time together. It's great to be able to pick up where we left off. The last time we raced here together we won, so we're hoping for a clean and good race with a good result. When you compete in a world championship with a team like WRT and these team-mates, the aim has to be to win races and become champions. We are up for that challenge."

Dan Harper (Team WRT, #69 BMW M4 GT3 EVO): "It was a good test in different conditions. The car feels very good and we are very pleased with the start to the week. It was nice to drive with Anthony, Parker and Team WRT in the Asian Le Mans Series over the winter. In a way it's been our pre-season and it helps that it's been a successful one. I'm really looking forward to my first race in the WEC, the track suits our car and we're ready to go. Anthony's idea of having a different livery for each race is really nice and something I've never experienced before. The designs look fantastic. I'm happy to be a part of it – also because they are always based on the past and thus bring back a piece of history. It's also nice for the fans."

The new BMW i7: Sustainability in the product and its production.

Wed, 15 Apr 2026 08:00:00 +0200

Munich. In line with its sustainability strategy, the BMW Group is once again systematically leveraging product sustainability innovations in the new BMW 7 Series. This is evident, for example, in the use of a new battery cell technology and a higher percentage of secondary material in the wheel rims. These measures represent a targeted further development, applying proven sustainability approaches to another BMW model.

Sixth-generation (Gen6) battery cells in the new BMW i7: Measures to reduce CO₂e in core component.
Essential levers for reducing supply chain CO₂e emissions include increased use of secondary materials and renewable energies, in combination with selected product and process innovations.
Gen6 battery cells for the BMW i7’s high-voltage battery are manufactured exclusively using energy from renewable sources. The same applies to production of the necessary anode and cathode active material. Cell production also relies in part on secondary raw materials for the lithium, cobalt and nickel required. This reduces the overall supply chain CO₂e footprint of the Gen6 battery cell in the new BMW i7 60 xDrive by approximately 33 percent compared to the previous Gen5 cell used in the BMW i7 to date.

Aluminium wheels with high percentage of secondary raw materials.
From 2026, selected rim designs for the BMW i7 will be available with 70 percent secondary aluminium. Electrolysis of the remaining primary aluminium, as well as wheel rim production, is carried out in part using renewable energy. All components with a high percentage of secondary raw materials meet the BMW Group’s same strict quality standards, while also contributing to resource efficiency.

Enhanced efficiency during use phase.
With its EfficientDynamics technology package, the BMW Group optimises vehicle efficiency across all relevant subsystems during the use phase. This includes aerodynamics, lightweight construction, rolling resistance and overall energy management. EfficientDynamics has been used by the BMW Group across all drive technologies since 2007.

Production at BMW Group Plant Dingolfing.
All model variants of the new BMW 7 Series Sedan are produced at BMW Group Plant Dingolfing. The facility in Lower Bavaria, the Group’s primary plant for BMW luxury cars, increasingly relies on renewable energy for electricity and heating. 100 percent of its external electricity comes from renewable sources, some of which is also generated directly on site. In late 2025, an approximately 100,000-square-metre rooftop photovoltaic system with an output of almost 11 MWp was commissioned at the facility. In addition, a biomass heating plant went on-stream late last year to ensure that locally-produced heat is partially supplied from renewable energy sources.

In line with BMW Group’s sustainable development goals.
The BMW Group’s commitment to the Paris Climate Agreement and to reaching “net zero” no later than 2050 is an integral part of its holistic 360° approach to sustainability, which is anchored in its corporate strategy. The BMW Group has set itself ambitious science-based CO₂e targets for the coming years and intends to reduce its CO₂e emissions by a total of at least 40 million tonnes from 2019 levels by 2030.

Transparency through BMW Vehicle Footprint.
The BMW Group has published its vehicles’ Product Carbon Footprint, as validated by the German Technical Inspection Association (TÜV), in the so-called Vehicle Footprint for several years. This report is publicly available here for all drive trains of the new BMW 7 Series from the start of production and can also be accessed in the My BMW app. In this way, the BMW Group creates transparency around the percentage of secondary materials and CO₂e emissions throughout the vehicle’s lifecycle.

MINI x Vagabund: Two One-Offs combining adventure attitude and sound culture.

Wed, 15 Apr 2026 00:01:00 +0200

Munich/Graz. MINI and Austrian design studio Vagabund present a new creative collaboration: two unique one-off vehicles based on the MINI Countryman, both of which set a powerful statement for adventure spirit, community culture and festival lifestyle.

“A long-standing tradition and core value of the MINI brand is individual vehicle customization. Together with Vagabund, MINI continues this approach and demonstrates how a creative reinterpretation of the MINI Countryman – inspired by festival culture and music – can be brought to life through an engaged community,” says Jean‑Philippe Parain, Head of MINI.

MINI x Vagabund: The Duo
Vagabund successfully adds a distinctive design layer to the MINI Countryman that authentically expresses individuality, design philosophy and community spirit. MINI deliberately provides the platform – Vagabund contributes their creative signature. The result: two charismatic vehicles that reinterpret the versatility and openness of the MINI Countryman in an entirely new way.

“For us, design does not begin with the object, but with the idea behind it – and it only ends when that idea becomes tangible. The MINI x Vagabund one-offs translate a clear concept into an experiential statement. Two distinctive characters, united by MINI Countryman DNA, create a composition full of tension – making design visible as an emotional experience,” explains Paul Brauchart, Co-Founder and Head of Creative Vagabund.

Holger Hampf, Head of MINI Design: “MINI Design stands for vehicles with strong character that people enjoy driving and living with—true to the motto: lifestyle meets function and fun. Through our collaboration with Vagabund on these two vehicles, we were able to once again showcase our attention to detail and technical craftsmanship in a striking way.”

With a sophisticated sound system, graphic accents and a bold colour concept, the two vehicles themselves become moving sound stages. The vehicle finished in Melting Silver features sand-coloured & white body exterior details: playful, graphic and light. The Midnight Black example stands in deliberate contrast – monochrome black, precise and technical. It is this contrast that enhances their perception and creates an overall impression that only becomes fully apparent when both vehicles are experienced together.

Bodywork & proportions
Distinctively reworked wheel arches create a visually wider stance and give the vehicles a further striking appearance. A front bumper attachment ensures a harmonious connection between the wings and the original front apron. Front and rear bumpers are colour-coordinated with the additional body modifications, with the radiator grille being revised accordingly. Along the side sills, sits prominently integrated VAGABUND lettering as a three-dimensional element.
The raised ride height further emphasizes the off-road character of the two MINI Countryman S ALL4 models. In addition, 20‑inch wheels are fitted, showcasing intentionally closed-off 3D‑printed wheel cover designs, which gives the wheels a muscular appearance and creates a clear visual association with loudspeakers.

The roof rack consists of three laser-cut and folded aluminium plates, complemented by an integrated stainless-steel mesh as an open surface. This construction visually references the design language of speaker covers, creating a connection between roof, side profile and overall vehicle design – turning the roof rack into an integral design element.

The vehicle as a sound system
The rear side windows have been removed and replaced by a specially-developed sound system designed specifically for outdoor sound projection, with community events in mind. At its heart is a newly developed loudspeaker housing made from cast polymer granite – a material that offers ideal conditions for precise and unadulterated sound reproduction.

Tweeters and mid-range speakers are integrated directly into the bodywork, while additional subwoofers in the rear deliver a powerful punch when the tailgate is opened. Each vehicle functions as an independent sound system – however together, both MINI Countryman show cars form a mobile stage, creating an immersive audio experience.

On the opposite side of the vehicle, a special detail can be found: an iconic Walkman integrated into a 3D‑printed housing. With a characteristic MINI sense of humour; this creates a deliberate counterpoint to the open external sound system – a personal, decelerated feeling. The combination of analogue nostalgia and contemporary construction underlines the experimental character of the entire concept.

MINI Individualization by Vagabund
Through Vagabund, the MINI Countryman becomes a moving platform for encounters and cultural exchange. The vehicles create community moments where people come together and enable experiences that go beyond the thrill of driving.

Vagabund is renowned for its expertise in rethinking existing products via visual transformations. The two one-off vehicles demonstrate how creative power lies in form, function and attention to detail. MINI and Vagabund share this approach: individuality instead of convention, craftsmanship instead of overbearing aesthetics, community instead of distance.

The MINI x Vagabund collaboration shows how MINI carries its historic commitment to individualization into the future: bold design interpretations, culture-driven themes (such as music), cultural leaders and community, combined with a high level of craftsmanship. The result is inspiring one-off examples that showcase the MINI Countryman in new and elevated ways. MINI will present one of the two one-off vehicles to the public for the first time at Auto China 2026 in Beijing. Following its premiere at the motor show, the models will be brought closer to people live and in action across a wide range of platforms – staying true to the community-driven approach.

C02 emissions:
The described vehicles are show cars that are not available for sale.

In case of queries, please contact:
Corporate Communications

Julian Kisch, Press Spokesperson, Product Communications MINI
Phone: +49-151-601-38072
E-mail: julian.kisch@mini.com

Micaela Sandstede, Head of Communications MINI
Phone: +49-176-601-61611
E-mail: micaela.sandstede@bmw.de

Michaela Martinus, Spokesperson MINI Design
Phone: +49-160-96313773
E-Mail: michaela.martinus@bmw.de

BMW M Motorsport News, 14th April 2026.

Tue, 14 Apr 2026 12:05:15 +0200

Björn Lellmann, Head of Customer Racing at BMW M Motorsport:

“In the still young season, we can already celebrate further successes from our BMW M Motorsport teams. At Le Castellet, there were not only podium finishes for our BMW M4 GT3 EVO customer racing projects at the first GT World Challenge Europe powered by AWS endurance race. The teams also collected trophies in the GT4 European Series with the BMW M4 GT4 EVO. In addition, our BMW M Racing Academy member Thomi Rackl gave an impressive performance in his first weekend in the series. In Asia, Team KRC secured a victory in the GT World Challenge Asia, and at the NLS race on the Nürburgring Nordschleife, various BMW M race cars once again achieved strong results. From a customer racing perspective, these included a class victory for Gamota Racing with the BMW M4 GT3 EVO, as well as a double success for AV Racing by Black Falcon with the BMW M4 GT4 EVO. Let’s keep it going!”

Top topic: Successful season opener in the GT4 European Series.

The strongest GT4 racing series in Europe, the GT4 European Series, kicked off its new season this past weekend at Le Castellet, southern France. For BMW M Motorsport teams, the opener with the BMW M4 GT4 EVO was a success – especially in the Pro-Am class, where BMW crews claimed victories in both races along with additional podium finishes.

In race one, the Swedish duo of Victor Bouveng and Joakim Walde prevailed in the #98 BMW M4 GT4 EVO run by Schubert Motorsport. Gustavo Xavier (SUI) and Önder Erdem (TUR) also made it onto the podium, finishing third in the #60 car entered by Razoon – more than racing. The Razoon – more than racing team then celebrated victory in the Pro-Am class in an exciting second race, with Daniel Drexel (AUT) and Christopher Salkeld (GBR) in the #70 BMW M4 GT4 EVO. Just behind them, Bouveng/Walde finished second for Schubert Motorsport.

A member of the BMW M Racing Academy, Thomi Rackl, caused a stir at the front of the overall field. The young German is making his debut in the GT4 European Series this season and is competing alongside Gabriele Piana (ITA) in the #12 BMW M4 GT4 for Borusan Otomotiv Motorsport in the top category, the Silver class. The duo set the fastest time in practice, secured pole position for race two, and even led the race at times. After a turbulent closing stage, during which the safety car bunched up the field again, they finished the second race in fifth place. In race one, they were forced to retire early.

Rackl’s summary after the opening weekend: “After the free practice sessions, where Gabriele set the fastest time and I did the same, we went into the weekend very confident. The car felt strong. I drove the first qualifying session, which is the more competitive one. Unfortunately, I didn’t quite nail the lap, and we ended up with a poor start position for race one. I felt very sorry for the team, as they had put in a lot of work. Starting from P25, I moved up to P17 in the first half of the race; the pace was very good, and I think a result between fourth and seventh place would have been possible. However, on the way to the pit stop, a competitor hit me from behind, and we had to retire. Race two initially went all the better. Gabriele secured pole position with a very strong qualifying performance, took the start, and handed the car over to me in P1. The pit stop went really well, and I was leading the race by several seconds. I was quite confident we would win, but shortly before the end, the safety car came out, and at the restart I couldn’t pull away. In turn one, competitors managed to get past me. We simply lacked straight-line speed, and the tyres were quite worn. It was a shame, as it would have been great to bring home the win for the team. But we keep working!”

The second round of the 2026 GT4 European Series will take place at the end of May at Monza (ITA).

All results at a glance

BMW Z4 GT3: Comeback of the fan favourite.

When fans are asked about their favorite historic race cars, the BMW Z4 GT3 is very often mentioned. Now the cult car – affectionately known as the “Zetti” – is back on track and even competed at two different events this past weekend.

At the Nürburgring Nordschleife (GER), Peter Posavac, Michael Funke, and Nikolaus Frank (all GER) brought the BMW Z4 GT3 back into action. It marks a comeback following Posavac’s last Nürburgring 24-hour race with the car in 2019. The team used NLS 3, part of the Nürburgring Endurance Series, on Saturday as a test session to prepare for the major highlight.

The project is a true labour of love, fuelled by the overwhelming response from the motorsport community. Posavac said about the support from fans and former companions: “It’s highly emotional and shows what motorsport can achieve. I’m incredibly happy to bring the old lady back to the grid.”

Fans could admire no fewer than three “Zettis” in action last weekend at Circuit Paul Ricard, Le Castellet (FRA). As part of the support programme for the GT World Challenge Europe powered by AWS, the first two races of the new GT3 Revival Series were held. This new SRO championship is specifically designed for first-generation GT3 race cars – fitting for the 20th anniversary of GT3 racing being celebrated this year.

In the opening two races of the GT3 Revival Series, Christoph von Oeynhausen secured second place in the Pro-Am class on both occasions with the #888 BMW Z4 GT3 run by Classic & Speed. Additional BMW Z4 GT3 entries in the Revival Series are fielded by Barwell Motorsport and Pierre Hirschi with CMR.

M News compact: More victories and podium finishes.

GT World Challenge Asia (3rd-5th April): At the season opener of the GT World Challenge Asia at Sepang (MAS), Team KRC, with Brian Lee (TPE) and Maxime Oosten (NED) in the #10 BMW M4 GT3 EVO, secured a class victory in the SIL-AM category.

All results at a glance

NLS (11th April): At the second round of the season at the Nürburgring Nordschleife, in addition to the overall victory for Schubert Motorsport, BMW teams celebrated no fewer than eight additional class wins. One of the standout results was the success of Gamota Racing with the #23 BMW M4 GT3 EVO: sixth place overall and victory in the SP9 PRO-AM class. Also exceptional was the double win for AV Racing by Black Falcon with the BMW M4 GT4 EVO in the SP10 category.

All results at a glance

GT Cup Series (11th-12th April): In the Endurance Race at the Red Bull Ring (AUT), Dennis Waszek (CZE) secured victory in the eD4-GT3 class in the BMW M4 GT3 entered by Racing Trevor.

All results at a glance:

Successful market launch for Neue Klasse: BMW Group posts significant first-quarter growth in European new orders

Tue, 14 Apr 2026 11:00:00 +0200

Munich. Driven by very strong customer interest in the first Neue Klasse model, the BMW iX3*, the BMW Group recorded a significant increase in incoming orders for fully-electric vehicles in Europe in the first quarter of 2026. From January to March, new BEV orders rose by around 40% year-on-year. The BMW Group also reported higher orders across all drivetrain technologies in the region compared to the previous year.

“We are seeing exceptionally strong demand for the new BMW iX3. With well over 50,000 new orders since ordering opened in Europe, customer interest in the BMW iX3 is exceeding our high expectations. More than half of the BMW X3s ordered are already fully electric,” said Jochen Goller, member of the Board of Management of BMW AG responsible for Customer, Brands, Sales. “The strong demand for the BMW iX3 underlines the quantum leap in technology we are making with the Neue Klasse. We are also receiving extremely positive feedback on the recently revealed second model of the Neue Klasse, the BMW i3,” Goller added.

Across all drivetrain technologies, the BMW Group delivered a total of 565,748 BMW, MINI and Rolls-Royce vehicles to customers in the first quarter of this year (-3.5%). Demand for models with internal combustion engines remained slightly above the high level of the previous year. The BMW Group achieved significant sales growth in its domestic market of Germany, with 68,022 units delivered (+10.7%). In China, BMW Group sales outperformed the overall strong market decline.

The first BMW iX3s were delivered to customers in Europe in March. Although the ramp-up of the first Neue Klasse model has only just begun, sales of fully-electric vehicles in Europe in the first quarter of 2026 already exceeded the high level recorded in the same period of last year. In the first quarter, the BMW Group delivered 87,458 fully-electric vehicles to customers worldwide (-20.1%). In the US, the discontinuation of BEV incentives impacted the entire market. At the same time, demand for BMW models with internal combustion engines increased. In an overall challenging market environment, the BMW Group was able to hold its ground well and is confident that the attractive, technology-neutral product portfolio as well as the worldwide availability of the Neue Klasse models will generate an increasingly positive momentum.

The BMW brand delivered a total of 496,050 vehicles to customers worldwide in the first quarter (-4.6%). Following last year’s all-time high, BMW M GmbH sales for the first three months of the year totalled 47,544 units (-5.9%). For the fifth consecutive quarter, MINI increased its global sales year-on-year. With 68,427 units delivered, the brand recorded growth of +5.9%. In the Europe sales region, MINI achieved a significant increase in BEV sales. The Rolls-Royce brand delivered 1,271 vehicles to customers in the first quarter (-8.0%). During the same period, BMW Motorrad sold 42,735 motorcycles and scooters (-4.2%).

BMW Group sales Q1 2026 at a glance

	1st Quarter 2026	Compared with previous year %
BMW Group Automotive	565,748	-3.5%
BMW	496,050	-4.6%
- BMW M GmbH	47,544	-5.9%
MINI	68,427	+5.9%
BMW Group electrified¹	132,518	-15.9%
BMW Group BEV	87,458	-20.1%
Rolls-Royce	1,271	-8.0%
BMW Motorrad	42,735	-4.2%

¹BEVs and PHEVs

BMW & MINI sales in the regions/markets

	1st Quarter 2026	Compared with previous year %
Europe sales region	236,422	+3.0%
Germany²	68,022	+10.7%
Americas sales region	109,639	-4.0%
USA	90,492	-4.3%
China sales region	143,958	-10.0%
Fourth Pillar³sales region	74,415	-8.3%

²Provisional registration figures

³Asia-Pacific, Eastern Europe, Middle East, Africa

The delivery figures reported in this press release are provisional and may change up until the BMW Group Report 2026 is published. Notes on how delivery figures are prepared can be found in the BMW Group Report 2025 on p. 429.

BMW Group Corporate Communications

Dr Sina Unger, Communications Sales

Telephone: +49 89 382-47564

Email: sina.unger@bmwgroup.com

Carolin Bachmann, Communications Sales

Telephone: +49 89 382-38801

Email: carolin.bachmann@bmwgroup.com

Max-Morten Borgmann, head of Communications BMW Group, Finance, Sales

Telephone: +49 89 382-24118

Email: max-morten.borgmann@bmwgroup.com

Media website: www.press.bmwgroup.com/

Email: presse@bmwgroup.com

The BMW Group

With its four brands, BMW, MINI, Rolls-Royce and BMW Motorrad, the BMW Group is the world’s leading premium manufacturer of automobiles and motorcycles and also provides premium financial services. The BMW Group production network comprises over 30 production sites worldwide; the company has a global sales network in more than 140 countries.

In 2025, the BMW Group sold 2.46 million passenger vehicles and more than 202,500 motorcycles worldwide. The profit before tax in the financial year 2025 was € 10.2 billion on revenues amounting to € 133,5 billion. As of 31 December 2025, the BMW Group had a workforce of 154,540 employees.

The economic success of the BMW Group has always been based on long-term thinking and responsible action. Sustainability is a key element of the BMW Group’s corporate strategy and covers all products – from the supply chain through production to the end of their useful life.

www.bmwgroup.com

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20th edition of “Staatsoper für alle” on 23–24 May 2026 on Bebelplatz. Live broadcast of “Nabucco” and an open air concert with Christian Thielemann and the Staatskapelle Berlin – free admission thanks to BMW.

Mon, 13 Apr 2026 11:01:57 +0200

Berlin. The Staatsoper Unter den Linden and BMW invite the public to a special Pentecost weekend on 23 and 24 May 2026. This year’s “Staatsoper für alle” marks its 20th edition – two decades of one of Berlin’s largest and most beloved open‑air classical music events. At one of the city's most beautiful and historically significant squares, Bebelplatz, Berliners and visitors from around the world are once again invited to experience opera and concerts outdoors, free of charge thanks to BMW.

The programme opens on Saturday, 23 May at 6.00pm with a live broadcast of Giuseppe Verdi’s “Nabucco” from the Staatsoper onto the adjacent Bebelplatz. Centering on the fate of two peoples and the actions of its title character, the opera features the famous chorus “Va, pensiero”. The production, created by the acclaimed opera, theatre and film director Emma Dante, premiered at the Staatsoper Unter den Linden in 2024. The cast includes Igor Golovatenko, Lidia Fridman, Tareq Nazmi, Elena Maximova, Andrés Moreno García, Clara Nadeshdin, Junho Hwang and Hanseong Yun; the Staatskapelle Berlin will perform under the baton of Francesco Lanzillotta, accompanied by the Staatsopernchor. Verdi’s “Nabucco” will be presented in a top‑flight cast and is free to attend.

On Sunday, 24 May at 1.00pm Bebelplatz will be transformed into a large open‑air concert stage: the Staatskapelle Berlin, led by General Music Director Christian Thielemann, and BMW invite audiences to the BMW Classicsconcert as part of “Staatsoper für alle”. The programme features works by Ludwig van Beethoven – the Overture to Coriolan, Op. 62; Symphony No. 6 in F major, Op. 68 (“Pastoral”); and the Overture to Egmont, Op. 84.

As a prelude, the Staatsoper’s children’s opera orchestra and youth choir will perform at 11.30am under the direction of Giuseppe Mentuccia. The performance will feature singers from the Staatsoper Unter den Linden’s international opera studio, including Sonja Herranen, Sandra Laagus, Serafina Starke, Junho Hwang and Irakli Pkhaladze, with music by Jacques Offenbach, Charles Gounod and Jules Massenet.

“Staatsoper für alle” takes place under the patronage of the Governing Mayor of Berlin, Kai Wegner, and will be moderated by journalist and presenter Petra Gute. As in previous years, the opera performance at the Staatsoper will be accompanied by a red‑carpet event, with numerous prominent guests expected.

The large‑scale event “Staatsoper für alle” is a cornerstone of the long‑standing partnership between the Staatsoper Unter den Linden and BMW. Over two decades it has become a fixed highlight of Berlin’s cultural calendar, giving tens of thousands of people each year easy access to high‑quality opera and concert experiences.

Staatsoper für alle 2026
Saturday, 23 May 2026, 6.00pm, Bebelplatz
Live broadcast of Verdi’s “Nabucco”
Conductor: Francesco Lanzillotta
Production: Emma Dante
Cast includes: Igor Golovatenko, Lidia Fridman, Tareq Nazmi, Elena Maximova, Andrés Moreno García, Clara Nadeshdin, Junho Hwang, Hanseong Yun
Staatskapelle Berlin; Staatsopernchor

Sunday, 24 May, 11.30am, Bebelplatz
Pre‑programme: Children’s Opera Orchestra of the Staatsoper Unter den Linden
Conductor: Giuseppe Mentuccia
Soloists: Sonja Herranen, Sandra Laagus, Serafina Starke, Junho Hwang, Irakli Pkhaladze
Youth Choir of the Staatsoper Unter den Linden; Children’s Opera Orchestra
Music by Jacques Offenbach, Charles Gounod and Jules Massenet

Sunday, 24 May, 1.00pm, Bebelplatz
BMW Classics concert with the Staatskapelle Berlin
Conductor: Christian Thielemann
Programme: Ludwig van Beethoven – Overture to Coriolan, Op. 62; Symphony No. 6 in F major, Op. 68 (“Pastoral”); Overture to Egmont, Op. 84
Staatskapelle Berlin

Admission to "Staatsoper für alle" is free.

The BMW Group's Cultural Engagement, with exclusive updates and deeper insights into its global initiatives can be followed on Instagram at @BMWGroupCulture.

GT World Challenge Europe: Podium finishes in all classes at the Endurance Cup season opener at Le Castellet.

Sun, 12 Apr 2026 09:50:35 +0200

Le Castellet. The BMW M Motorsport teams started the GT World Challenge Europe powered by AWS Endurance Cup season with strong results. In the 6-hour race at Le Castellet (FRA), a BMW M4 GT3 EVO crew reached the podium in all four classes. The reigning overall champions Kelvin van der Linde (RSA) and Charles Weerts (BEL), together with Jordan Pepper (RSA), finished fourth overall, which also meant third place in the Pro Cup. BMW M Motorsport newcomer Tim Tramnitz (GER) celebrated a strong debut, finishing third in the Gold Cup alongside Jens Klingmann (GER) and Ugo de Wilde (BEL). In the Silver and Bronze Cup, Team WRT and Paradine Competition celebrated podium finishes.

No win, but plenty of respectable results and many important points were recorded at the end of the race at Circuit Paul Ricard. The #32 BMW M4 GT3 EVO of Pepper, van der Linde and Weerts stayed in the top five for much of the race but lacked the final bit of pace to challenge for victory. The same applied to the #98 BMW M4 GT3 EVO of ROWE Racing. Starting from 22nd on the grid, Jake Dennis (GBR), Augusto Farfus (BRA) and Raffaele Marciello (SUI) had a great comeback drive to finish sixth overall. The #46 BMW M4 GT3 EVO, driven by Dan Harper (GBR), Max Hesse (GER) and Valentino Rossi (ITA), lost significant time due to a 30-second penalty for ignoring blue flags and finished in twelfth place.

In the Gold Cup, newcomer Tramnitz impressed in his first two stints in a GT race car with strong lap times and made a major contribution to the podium finish for the #998 BMW M4 GT3 EVO of ROWE Racing in the iconic GEN M design. In the Silver Cup, Amaury Cordeel, Matisse Lismont (both BEL) and Ignacio Montenegro (ARG) in the #30 BMW M4 GT3 EVO of Team WRT fought for victory until the final lap and crossed the line in second place. In the Bronze Cup, BMW M works driver Dries Vanthoor (BEL), together with James Kellett and Darren Leung (both GBR), finished third in the #991 BMW M4 GT3 EVO of Paradine Competition.

Reactions after the race.

Vincent Vosse (Team Principal, WRT): “I think we got the maximum out of this race. Fourth overall and third in the Pro Cup mean valuable points for car #32. Unfortunately, car #46 received a penalty. I’m very happy about the podium for our car #30. Now we will analyse everything, work hard, and come back stronger in the next races.”

Kelvin van der Linde (#32 BMW M4 GT3 EVO, Team WRT, 4th place): “We worked well as a driver crew and got the maximum out of our package. The guys at the front were just a bit too fast for us this time but we scored important points for both the Endurance Cup and the overall standings. The season is still long, and hopefully we’ll be stronger again at the next race event.”

Augusto Farfus (#98 BMW M4 GT3 EVO, ROWE Racing, 6th place): “This sixth place from starting position 22 feels like a podium. We didn’t have the package we needed here to fight for a podium finish but we fought hard and scored important championship points. Now we’ll aim to do better at the next race at Monza.”

Valentino Rossi (#46 BMW M4 GT3 EVO, Team WRT, 12th place): “A better result would have been possible for us, as our pace wasn’t bad for much of the race. However, in my second stint I had major issues with tyre grip and lost a lot of time. Then came the time penalty. That’s very unfortunate, because it put us a lap down and we had no chance to fight back into the top ten. Still, there are positives to take from this race. It was only the first weekend of a long season.”

Tim Tramnitz (#998 BMW M4 GT3 EVO, ROWE Racing, 3rd place Gold Cup): “I’m super happy with the podium! We didn’t necessarily expect that after how the weekend went. It went very well for me. I had a lot of fun and learned a lot, especially driving into the night was something completely new and special for me. Jens and Ugo also did a great job.”

NLS 3: Schubert Motorsport wins with the BMW M4 GT3 EVO in the “Green Hell”.

Sat, 11 Apr 2026 18:13:28 +0200

Nürburgring. Schubert Motorsport’s comeback on the Nürburgring Nordschleife (GER) led to victory. The Team Principal Torsten Schubert led team secured overall victory in the second race of the 2026 Nürburgring Langstrecken Serie (NLS), the 57th Adenauer ADAC Circuit Trophy. At the wheel of the #77 BMW M4 GT3 EVO were BMW M works drivers Philipp Eng (AUT), Marco Wittmann (GER), and Robin Frijns (NED), who shared driving duties.

The team used the race, listed as NLS 3 on the calendar (the first scheduled race was cancelled due to snowfall), as preparation for the 24-hour race in mid-May. Starting from second on the grid, car #77 was among the front-runners from the opening laps, delivered a flawless performance, and after four hours of racing through the “Green Hell,” claimed a well-deserved victory.

The privately entered #23 BMW M4 GT3 EVO from the BMW M Motorsport customer team Gamota Racing also turned heads. Antal Zsigo (SVK), Moritz Kranz and David Jahn (both GER) not only achieved an impressive sixth place overall, but also celebrated victory in the SP9 Pro-Am class.

The BMW M4 GT4 EVO celebrated a 1-2 finish in the SP10 category. The #177 car from AV Racing by BLACK FALCON triumphed ahead of the team's sister #180 car. In the BMW M2 class, Hofor Racing by Bonk Motorsport prevailed with the #888 BMW M2 Racing. In the BMW M240i class, Adrenalin Motorsport Team Mainhattan Wheels triumphed with the #650 BMW M240i Racing. In total, BMW teams celebrated an impressive nine class victories.

Reactions after NLS 3:

Torsten Schubert, Team Principal Schubert Motorsport: “After securing the SPX class win last time with the BMW M3 Touring 24H, this overall victory is further proof that together with Yokohama we are absolutely competitive under these conditions. Our timing during the first pit stop with the Code 60 period was perfect, which moved us to the front. It’s great to see that we were able to hold that position until the finish.”

Marco Wittmann (#77 BMW M4 GT3 EVO, Schubert Motorsport, overall winner): “This is a fantastic success – both for Team Schubert on its return to the GT3 class on the Nordschleife this season, and for our tyre partner Yokohama. This victory is the perfect motivation for further preparation for the 24-hour race. Together with Yokohama, our goal now is to find the perfect operating window for the tyre under all conditions.”

Philipp Eng (#77 BMW M4 GT3 EVO, Schubert Motorsport, overall winner):
“Every race on the Nordschleife is a pleasure – and winning makes it even more special. A victory is always great, but we know there is still a lot of work ahead of us with the 24-hour race in mind. We’ve now gathered a lot of data that we can analyse in the coming weeks.”

Robin Frijns (#77 BMW M4 GT3 EVO, Schubert Motorsport, overall winner): “After it didn’t work out in the previous attempts, it’s very nice to have now completed the first race with the BMW M4 GT3 EVO and it went very well. I think we won the race thanks to the best strategy. We didn’t have the fastest car, but overall it was enough for victory.”