Is the car ready for a lap on the racetrack – like current high-performance vehicles from M GmbH?
Yes, the model will perform just as confidently on racetracks and withstand higher loads like our previous M automobiles do. That's also our very personal aspiration in the team, and let's be honest: Without a racetrack capability, the model wouldn't be an authentic BMW M either.
So, is the car's racetrack performance comparable to that of conventionally powered M models?
Yes, absolutely! That's the goal.
Will we also see this kind of drive concept in motorsport?
It's a question of time, but yes, I think so. Some areas of motorsport are already going down the path of electrification, albeit not fully electric, if you disregard Formula E with its comparatively simple drive train with just one motor. If it proves possible in the future to present more fully electric high-performance vehicles and corresponding racing counterparts are conceivable. It should not be forgotten that large parts of international motorsports are based on road vehicles and corresponding derivatives of these. It is therefore likely to take some time yet.
My personal aspiration would also be for such race cars to be suitable for long-distance racing, if only because of the more flexible areas of application at popular events such as the 24-hour race at the Nürburgring or Le Mans. On the other hand, if you look at races with shorter distances, such as hill climbs, you're already at the point where conventional drives don't stand a chance at all. That's where the all-electric powertrain can take the lead already.
When can we expect the first fully electric high-performance model from BMW M? Are orders already being taken?
Although a large team is working on this outstanding concept with a great deal of passion and heart and soul, I'm afraid I have to say, orders are not yet being taken. We will need a little more time before the vehicle is ready for series production. But I promise: What we make will be special. It will be worth the wait.
Mr. Häcker, thank you very much for the interview.