BMW has unveiled probably the coolest Safety Car in the world, especially as it’s the first that can be used with an open cockpit. The convertible BMW i8 is the new Formula E Safety Car, with the Roadster model unveiled on the eve of the Monaco E-Prix.
It joins the BMW iFE.18 and i8 Coupe Safety Cars, and isn’t changed too much from standard. The main differences are due to the lack of a roof.
First to be changed is the front windscreen, which is shorter than the i8 Roadster production model. And the centre of gravity has been reduced by 15 mm. Probably not noticeable for many of us, but it’ll help keep it ahead of the Formula E cars during the yellow flags which regularly crop up.
Other additionals include the M Carbon Ceramic Brakes, a front splitter and rear wing to help aerodynamics, and the all-important FIA-approved roll bar to let it out on the track.
As a BMW i8 Roadster Safety Car, it also needs a light bar, which is mounted above the rear wing. And drivers or passengers can stay informed of race developments with the communication system, and a rear-view camera.
It also gets updated graphics, including the matt black anti-reflective cockpit extension for passengers.
“BMW i and Formula E are synonymous with innovation, making them excellently suited to each other. This project is another very good example of the pioneering spirit at BMW i and in Formula E,” said Head of BMW i, Dr Robert Irlinger. “In implementing the BMW i8 Roadster Safety Car, the BMW i engineers, designers and communications crew have dared to explore new horizons and create an absolutely unique car. The development team behind the Safety Car is akin to a start-up. Our engineers got creative within their own ranks and assembled it on top of their regular jobs. In doing so, they have achieved something completely new. I am very grateful to the FIA and Formula E for showing such enthusiasm towards our innovation and for making it possible to use the BMW i8 Roadster as an official Safety Car.”
While the cool convertible BMW i8 is the new Formula E Safety Car, it was actually relatively quiet during the Monaco E-Prix which had surprisingly few incidents for a tight historic street circuit. But we’re sure to see more of it as the season continues.
You can argue over the future of electric and petrol cars, and the relative benefits, until the end of time. But it’s hard to argue that the BMW i8 Roadster Safety Car doesn’t look cool, and wouldn’t be fun to drive around a circuit in front of 20 or so full-on Formula E race cars.
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