BMW is celebrating its 25th year as the official car of MotoGP, and to celebrate the anniversary, it has modified a new M2 to act as the official safety car for the 2023 season.
“2023 is our 25th season as Official Car of MotoGP—a long-standing, close partnership like this is special in international racing,” said Franciscus van Meel, CEO of BMW M GmbH. “With it, we are continuing our tradition of putting the latest BMW M high-performance automobiles at the service of MotoGP safety.”
In order to serve as the new MotoGP safety car, the BMW M2 added emergency lights to its roof and is finished in a race livery. Inside, you’ll find a roll bar, Recaro seats, six-point safety harnesses, a fire extinguisher, and more safety gear.
Read: BMW M3 Touring Becomes 2022 MotoGP Safety Car
In addition, the M2 has been fitted with a selection of M Performance parts. These include an upgraded exhaust system, as well as carbon side mirror covers, diffuser, rear wing, and more.
BMW didn’t feel the need to make any modifications in the powertrain department. The coupe is powered by a turbocharged inline-six that makes an impressive 453 hp (343 kW/459 PS) at 6,250 rpm, and 406 lb-ft (550 Nm) of torque.
“We are delighted to be joining BMW M in celebrating the 25th anniversary season of our partnership,” said Carmelo Ezpeleta, CEO of Dorna Sports, MotoGP’s rights holder. “With the most innovative technologies, BMW M is taking care of safety in our sport for the 25th year now and is a firm fixture in the MotoGP paddock with a wide range of activities. Here’s to a fantastic anniversary season in 2023!”
In addition to the M2 Safety Car, BMW will also be providing MotoGP with a variety of safety, medical, and official cars. Finally, the automaker has provided the motorcycle racing series with its BMW M 1000 RR safety bikes for the 2023 season.
The M2 and the rest of the fleet will make their MotoGP debuts at the Grande Prémio de Portugal. The race is being held at Portimão from March 24 to 26.
