Walter Haupt works as an engineer at BMW M GmbH, where he has the primary responsibility for the development of the BMW X5 M (Fuel consumption in l/100 km (combined): 11.1. CO2 emissions in g/km (combined): 258) and the BMW X6 M (Fuel consumption in l/100 km (combined): 11.1. CO2 emissions in g/km (combined): 258). We met him in Austin, Texas on the Circuit of the Americas racetrack.
Mr. Haupt how do you manage to make a car like the X6 fit for the racetrack? SAV and SAC are actually more at home on other terrains
When building a high-performance sports activity vehicle or sports activity coupé, it’s not enough to simply boost the performance specifications of the series vehicle. Our challenge – to bring about a motorsport feeling – is not only achieved by the engine performance, but by integrating our motorsport know-how.
How do the two BMW M models differ from their series counterparts?
The body of the BMW X5 M and BMW X6 M only has a few components from the series. Whether engine, cooling system, transmission or suspension – every component relevant to performance and driving dynamics has been scrutinised and modified. We even had to develop something new in order to be able to achieve the highest performance when used in the extreme driving limits areas. We have two vehicles with extreme performance potential. Compared to their predecessors, there is a clear advantage in terms of performance and torque, which is available to the cars right up to the limits of extreme driving. Naturally, that also delivers even more driving pleasure.