BMW M4 Competition Coupé

REAR AXLE TRANSMISSION.

Episode 16: BMW M3 and M4 Explained.

Rear axle transmission.Episode 16: BMW M3 and M4 Explained.
31. Mar 2021

The epitome of racing feeling in everyday traffic starts a new round. 35 years after the debut of the first BMW M3, BMW M GmbH presents the latest generation of its high-performance automobiles in the premium mid-size segment. Time to introduce the two new vehicles. In the #M3M4explained series, the developers have the floor.

Mastering curves! Dominik keeps an eye on aspects such as track, stability, or axle kinematics in his considerations. The BMW M developer is responsible for the engineering and integration of the rear axle. In the video, Dominik introduces the rear axle transmission and explains important details.

BMW M3 Sedan:
Fuel consumption in l/100 km (combined): 9.9-10.2 (WLTP)
CO2 emissions in g/km (combined): 226-231 (WLTP)

BMW M4 Competition Coupé:
Fuel consumption in l/100 km (combined): 9.6-9.8 (WLTP)
CO2 emissions in g/km (combined): 219-224 (WLTP)

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BMW M3 M4 Explained

BMW M ENTHUSIASTS ASK, BMW M EXPERTS ANSWER.

What is the weight of the differential?

 

Dominik: The differential weighs 43.5 kg.

 

Why does the differential need an electric motor?

 

The electric motor controls the pressure on the friction plates. In contrast to passive systems, we can actively influence the locking torque.

 

When there is permanent variation of the characteristic of the differential (road, driver, weather etc.): is the behaviour of the car still foreseeable for the driver?

 

Yes, the vehicle's behaviour is designed to be always foreseeable for the driver. With the same circumstances, the car will behave in exactly the same way again.

 

Is there wear? How long is the lifetime of the differential?

 

Careful break-in period, initial oil service and further oil changes depending on actual use ensure the differential will last the car's entire life span.
 

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BMW M4 Competition Coupé

How do you compute an efficiency of 98 %?

It was measured on a test rig by comparing the torque difference between input and output.

Where is the heat coming mainly from: from the differential or from the transmission itself?

The heat loss is mainly a result of the friction within the transmission itself. The diff lock only contributes a small amount.

Is there still a need of a 5.000 km run in like in the past?

The recommended break-in period lasts 2.000 km followed by a service where the rear differential oil is changed. Afterwards, it is recommended to increase speed levels continuously.

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BMW M4 Competition Coupé

How long does the oil in the rear axle transmission last?

At 2.000 km, after breaking in the car, a first oil change is required. Further oil changes depend on the actual use case. Please, refer to your dealer with regards to maintenance programs.

Why does it need an adapter plate?

The adapter plate provides NVH (noise, vibration, harshness) decoupling of the differential towards the rear axle subframe which is rigidly mounted to the car body.

Why are there output shafts with different diameters? I don’t understand the point – how does it work?

The two rear output shafts are designed with different stiffness resulting in an optimized harmonic behaviour of both rear wheels and thereby increasing traction.
 

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BMW M4 Competition Coupé

How old are you?

I am 33 years old.

What did you study?

I majored in mechanical engineering (TU Munich).

What is your favorite classic BMW?

This would be the legendary BMW M1 for me.

What is your favorite engine?

I always admired the S70 engine - the McLaren F1's V12 engine.

What car do you drive?

I currently own a BMW M140i F20 with manual transmission.

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MORE HIGHLIGHTS:

BMW M3 und M4 explained

M Drift Analyser.

08. Jul 2021
In episode 23, BMW M developer Thomas explains the M Drift Analyser for BMW M3 and M4.
Read article
BMW M3 and M4 explained

Launch Control M Steptronic.

05. Jul 2021
In episode 22, BMW M developer Stefan explains the launch control of the BMW M3 and M4 models with M Steptronic transmission.
Read article
BMW M3 and M4 explained

Launch Control Manual Transmission.

05. Jul 2021
In episode 21, BMW M developer Sebastian explains the Launch Control in combination with the manual 6-speed gearbox for the BMW M3 and M4.
Read article
BMW M3 und M4 explained

M xDrive.

15. Apr 2021
In episode 20, BMW M developer Peter explains the BMW M xDrive all-wheel drive system of the BMW M3 and M4 Competition.
Read article
BMW M3 and M4 explained

Steptronic Transmission

12. Apr 2021
In episode 19, BMW M developer Karsten explains the M Steptronic Sport transmission of the BMW M3 and M4 Competition.
Read article
BMW M3 and M4 explained

The Drive shaft.

08. Apr 2021
In episode 18, BMW M developer Torsten tells us about the drive shaft in the new BMW M3 and M4.
Read article
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  • The models illustrated include optional equipment.

    Due to regular software updates, screen designs in the communication may differ from the actual screen design in your car.

    Official data on power consumption and electric range were determined in accordance with the mandatory measurement procedure and comply with Regulation (EU) 715/2007 valid at the time of type approval. In case of a range, figures in the NEDC take into account differences in the selected wheel and tire size; figures in the WLTP take into account any optional equipment. WLTP values are used for assessing taxes and other vehicle-related charges that are (also) based on CO2 emissions, as well as for the purposes of vehicle-specific subsidies, if applicable. Where applicable, the NEDC values listed were calculated based on the new WLTP measurement procedure and then converted back to the NEDC measurement procedure for comparability reasons. For newly type-tested vehicles since 01.01.2021, the official data no longer exist according to NEDC, but only according to WLTP. For more information on the WLTP and NEDC measurement procedures, see https://www.bmw.com/wltp.

    For further information about the official fuel consumption and the specific CO2 emission of new passenger cars can be taken out of the „handbook of fuel consumption, the CO2 emission and power consumption of new passenger cars“, which is available at all selling points and at https://www.dat.de/co2/.

    All vehicles, equipment, combination possibilities and varieties shown here are examples and can differ in your country. In no way do they constitute a binding offer by the BMW M GmbH. Visit your local BMW website or see your authorised BMW M Retailer for accurate details on the offers in your country.