Hybrid BMW ‘Art Car’ Set to Race at Le Mans

The highly anticipated 20th BMW Art Car has been revealed to the public ahead of its participation in the prestigious Le Mans 24 hour race. This unique creation, the BMW M Hybrid V8 race car, is not only a high-performance vehicle but also a stunning work of art that pushes the boundaries of innovation and creativity.

Commissioned in 2018, the BMW M Hybrid V8 continues the tradition of BMW Art Cars, which have featured renowned artists such as Roy Lichtenstein, Andy Warhol, and Jeff Koons. However, this particular car stands out as the first BMW hybrid to tackle the grueling Le Mans 24hr race. With a hybrid electric drivetrain system delivering 640 hp, the car boasts a 4.0-litre V8 engine complemented by an electric motor, capable of reaching speeds of up to 345 km/h or 215 mph, depending on the track layout.

Renowned New York artist Julie Mehretu, the creative mind behind this exceptional Art Car, emphasized the performative nature of the project. "The BMW Art Car project is about invention, imagination, and pushing the limits of what is possible. This car is not meant to be merely exhibited; it is designed to race at Le Mans. It's a performative painting that comes to life on the track," Mehretu explained. The collaboration between Mehretu, motorsport, and engineering teams highlights the fusion of art and technology in this dynamic project.

To bring Mehretu's intricate 2D artwork to life on the 3D surface of the vehicle, cutting-edge 3D mapping technology was employed. This meticulous process ensured that every detail of the artist's vision was faithfully translated onto the racing car, creating a visually striking and technically advanced masterpiece.

Looking beyond the unveiling of the BMW M Hybrid V8, the collaboration between BMW and Julie Mehretu extends to a broader cultural initiative. The partnership includes a commitment to hosting PanAfrican Translocal Media Workshops for filmmakers across various African cities in 2025 and 2026. The workshops will culminate in a major exhibition at the Zeitz Museum of Contemporary Art Africa in Cape Town, showcasing the intersection of art, technology, and mobility.