The 2016 BMW M2 MotoGP Safety Car debuted at the opening round of the motorcycle world championship in Qatar last weekend. The race at the Losail circuit saw the modified BMW M2 Coupe joined by some of the other vehicles BMW is providing to the series for the 18th year in a row. And if definitely looked good under the floodlights of the circuit, which hosts world championship racing in the dark evenings.
The car is based on a BMW M2 Coupe which then gets a host of BMW M Performance Parts and some special modifications for both safety and to handle the role of safety car. We previously listed some of the changes including adjustable coilover suspension, carbon ceramic brakes, extra carbon aerodynamic parts and plenty more.
Power comes from the 270hp inline six cylinder three-litre engine and M TwinPower Turbo.
But that’s not the only BMW being supplied. Also at various races throughout the year will be a BMW M4 Coupe and BMW M3 as alternative Safety Cars. Plus Medical teams get a BMW X5M and a BMW M550d xDrive Touring to transport them around circuits quickly to assist any fallen racers. The Safety Officer gets a BMW M5, while there are also two BMW S 1000 RR Safety Bikes.
BMW also provide the prize of a BMW M car for the best overall qualifier in MotoGP as the BMW M Award, and will offer a BMW M MotoGP Experience at each round with former motorcycle racers Loris Capirossi and Alex Hofmann.
But most importantly – it looks great. The gold wheels, livery and emergency lights definitely suit the M2. A road-going replica could definitely have potential, although road laws in most countries will probably prevent the lighting from being added away from the track…
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