Saturday 25th March 2017

BMW registered as Formula E manufacturer

You've had your fill of retro BMW racers at Goodwood; here comes the electric future...

---

Let's be honest: not so long ago many didn't take Formula E all that seriously, the prediction being that is would struggle as either funding, manufacturer involvement or support dwindled. Perhaps a combination of the three.

There's still the M6 GT3 at least...

Now look. Audi has left WEC and will concentrate its racing efforts on the series, Jaguar is already involved and Renault has been able to harness the tech for cool concepts like the Zoe e-sport. Today the position of Formula E arguably strengthens further, with confirmation that BMW has been registered as a manufacturer for season five (2018-19) of the championship.

The news comes ahead of the Mexico round of this year's Formula E; currently BMW provides support for the MS Amlin Andretti team (and yes, that is Michael Andretti), with the relationship set to continue into a full works BMW programme.

"Everyone involved is delighted to be taking steps to get involved on the sporting and technological side of Formula E" said Jens Marquardt, BMW's Motorsport Director. He also mentioned the need to be "perfectly prepared" for a "potential" works entry, with engineers already developing a powertrain in Munich.

BMW has been involved with Formula E as a manufacturer from the start, albeit by providing an i8 safety car and i3 medical car, so perhaps the confirmation of a full racing entry shouldn't come as a surprise. It's a clear sign of intent from BMW, the attitude now that a works entry into an electric series is the most valuable investment for both product development and brand image. For those fans who grew up in awe of motorsport M3s, M635 CSis and that incredible V12 LMR car though, it may well feel like a sad announcement. Let's see what happens come 2018. More news as it's available!

BMW M6/Formula e images: LAT

[RossP]

Great news!