Munich. The most beautiful, exclusive and fastest vehicles of their respective eras are traditionally assembled at the Amelia Island Concours d’Elegance. This year, the renowned classic car show in the north-east of the US state of Florida provided the perfect setting for the world premiere of particularly fascinating sports cars from the BMW model range. The new edition of the BMW 8 Series and the new BMW M8 models were presented to the public there for the first time. Visitors to the Amelia Island Concours d’Elegance 2022 also witnessed the launch of BMW M GmbH’s activities to mark its 50th anniversary.

For the new BMW 8 Series, the tradition-steeped event on the grounds of the Ritz-Carlton Hotel and the neighbouring Golf Club of Amelia Island provided the perfect setting in which to showcase its precisely enhanced design and advanced features. The M sports package is now standard in all model variants of the BMW 8 Series Coupé, the BMW 8 Series Convertible and the BMW 8 Series Gran Coupé. At the centre of the redesigned vehicle front section is the illuminated “Iconic Glow” BMW kidney grille. The 8-cylinder models also feature aerodynamically optimised exterior mirrors in the style of the BMW M8 as standard.

In the interior of all models in the new BMW 8 Series, their equally dynamic and exclusive character is underscored with an extended range of standard equipment including multifunction seats, an M leather steering wheel and other M-specific design features. Optimised ease of use is ensured by the standard BMW Live Cockpit Professional with a Control Display that has now increased in size to 12.3 inches. “The luxury sports cars of the new BMW 8 Series occupy a prominent position in BMW’s model range. We are delighted to be able to debut these exceptional models at one of the most prestigious automotive events in America,” said Sebastian Mackensen, Head of BMW Group Region Americas and President & CEO BMW North America.

History and the future came together in the BMW M brand’s appearance at the Amelia Island Concours d’Elegance 2022. BMW M GmbH showed pioneering models from its past along with the versions of its high-performance sports cars for the luxury segment that will be available from spring 2022. The models BMW M8 Competition Coupé (combined fuel consumption: 11.4 – 11.0 l/100 km according to WLTP, combined CO2 emissions: 260 – 251 g/km), the BMW M8 Competition Cabriolet (combined fuel consumption: 11.6 – 11.2 l/100 km according to WLTP, combined CO2 emissions: 264 – 255 g/km according to WLTP,) and the BMW M8 Competition Gran Coupé (combined fuel consumption: 11.6 – 11.2 l/100 km according to WLTP, combined CO2 emissions: 264 - 256 g/km) are now even more impressive with new exterior paint finishes and M light-alloy wheels, the M Shadow Line lights available for the first time and an additional interior trim variant. The operating system of the new BMW M8 models now also includes a 12.3-inch Control Display with touch function.

And the top models of the BMW M GmbH range not only offer fascinatingly vigorous power delivery with their 460 kW/625 hp V8 engine featuring M TwinPower Turbo technology and high-revving characteristics, they also come with an exceptionally extensive range of standard equipment. This includes a flap-controlled M sports exhaust system, BMW laser light headlights, the BMW Head-Up Display with M-specific display elements and a full Merino/Alcantara leather interior.

With the debut of its latest high-performance models for the luxury segment, BMW M GmbH makes a particularly impressive start to its anniversary year. The BMW Group subsidiary, founded in 1972 as BMW Motorsport GmbH, also contributed to the programme of the Amelia Island Concours d’Elegance 2022 with a fascinating look back into its history. A special exhibition showcased 50 milestones from BMW M GmbH’s 50-year model and racing history. This also included an early precursor of the current BMW M8. The prototype of a high-performance sports car with a V12 engine developed by BMW M GmbH in the early 1990s based on the then BMW 8 Series Coupé remained a one-off – and this was only the second time it has been put on show in the USA.

The selection of vehicles that were particularly influential in the development of BMW M GmbH also included a freshly restored example of the BMW M1 dating from 1980, which was the company’s first independently developed model, the BMW V12 LMR that won the 24 Hours of Le Mans in 1999, and the all-electric BMW iX M60 that is about to be launched on the market (combined power consumption: 24.5 – 21.9 kWh/100 km according to WLTP; combined CO2 emissions: 0 g/km).

This unique exhibition of outstanding BMW M models from five decades also included numerous vehicles owned by members of the BMW Car Club of America and from BMW North America’s classic car collection. “The United States is the world’s largest market for BMW M vehicles and we are always amazed and delighted by the passion and dedication that many enthusiasts here invest in their cars, both old and new,” said Franciscus van Meel, CEO of BMW M GmbH. “We feel privileged to be able to celebrate our anniversary in this wonderful place, surrounded by special people and exceptional cars.”

Richmond Hill, ON. Outstanding performance, fascinating luxury and a confident appearance characterize the BMW M8 Competition Coupé, the BMW M8 Competition Cabriolet and the BMW M8 Competition Gran Coupé. Design modifications and optimized operation.

The new edition of the BMW M8, which is available in three body versions, is particularly popular with additions to the range of exterior colours and the M alloy wheels. Additional possibilities for individualising the appearance are provided by the Shadowline Headlights, which are available for the first time for the luxurious high-performance sports cars. Full leather Merino/Alcantara in the new Black/Sakhir Orange colour variant provides fresh impulses in the interior. In addition, the operating comfort is increased by the 12.3-inch touch display of the BMW iDrive operating system.

Fresh impetus for the presence of BMW M GmbH in the luxury segment.

The BMW M8 Competition Coupé, the BMW M8 Competition Cabriolet and the BMW M8 Competition Gran Coupé together mark the top position in the model range of BMW M GmbH, which has a strong presence in the luxury segment with this model series. With their independent body concepts, the three top models each embody an individual expression of M of typical performance in the prestigious competitive environment of luxury sports cars.

Their central common feature is the drive and chassis technology designed for an extremely emotional driving experience. Power for outstanding performance is provided by a V8 engine with M TwinPower Turbo technology, which mobilizes a maximum output of 617 hp and a maximum torque of 553 lb-ft. Due to its typical M high-speed character, the engine develops high drive torque over wide load ranges, which is optimally placed on the road via an 8-speed M Steptronic transmission with Drivelogic and the M xDrive all-wheel drive system. Their precise coordination enables exciting sporty driving manoeuvres, such as accelerating from a standstill to 100 km/h in just 3.2 seconds (BMW M8 Competition Coupé and BMW M8 Competition Gran Coupé) or 3.3 seconds (BMW M8 Competition Cabriolet).

A chassis technology developed with racing know-how and tailored to each model guarantees the characteristic harmony of dynamics, agility and precision in driving behaviour of BMW M Automobile in every situation. The experience gained during the development of the BMW M8 GTE racing car was also used.

Eight new exterior colours, premiere for M luminaires Shadow Line.

Powerful shapes, generous, elegant surfaces, aerodynamically optimised lines and M-specific design features that are geared to the functional requirements of a high-performance sports car characterise the unmistakable appearance of the BMW M8 Competition Coupé, the BMW M8 Competition Cabriolet and the BMW M8 Competition Gran Coupé. The clear surface design of the exterior is now particularly intensively underlined by new exterior colours. The update in the body painting program includes eight variants available for the first time for the three models.

The new range includes the exterior colours Skyscraper Grey Metallic, Brooklyn Grey Metallic and Isle of Man Green Metallic as well as the BMW Individual lacquer Tanzanite Blue Metallic. In addition, four new variants of the particularly high-quality Frozen finishes are available, which impressively highlight the modern design language of the BMW M8 models with their silk-matte finishes. The BMW Individual special finishes Frozen Pure Grey Metallic, Frozen Deep Grey Metallic, Frozen Deep Green Metallic and Frozen Tanzanite Blue Metallic are also available.

The BMW Laserlight Headlights with adaptive cornering light and glare-free main beam assistant BMW Selective Beam provides optimized visibility in different weather conditions and driving situations as standard. As an option, they are now also available with Shadowline Headlights for the new edition of high-performance sports cars. The dark design of the inserts and chrome elements inside the headlamps, in combination with the high-gloss black frame of the BMW kidney as standard, contributes to a particularly striking and sporty look on the front of the vehicle.

New 20-inch M light alloy wheels in star-spoke design.

The chassis technology of the new BMW M8 models includes electronically controlled shock absorbers and an electromechanical M Servotronic steering system, as well as an integrated brake system that enables the display of two pedal characteristics. This allows the rider to choose between a comfort-oriented and a sporty-direct pedal feeling. As an alternative to the standard M Compound brake system, an optional M Carbon ceramic brake is available.

The DSC (Dynamic Stability Control) driving stability system allows the driver to activate the M Dynamic Mode, which allows greater wheel slip. In combination with the rear-wheel-driven design of the M xDrive, particularly sporty driving maneuvers including controlled drifts can be experienced. The standard equipment also includes 20-inch M light alloy wheels equipped with high-performance tyres in the sizes 275/35 R 20 front and 285/35 R 20 rear. Other M light alloy wheels in the same format are available as optional equipment, including a new variant in star-spoke design and in bicolor black/grey version.

M sports seats and M Carbon bucket seats in new leather/Alcantara variant.

The interior of the new BMW M8 models combines a typical M cockpit design with modern luxury. The standard BMW Head-Up Display offers M-specific displays. The Setup button on the center console allows direct access to the settings for the engine, damper, steering, M xDrive and brake system. Two variants of the individually created M Setup can be permanently stored together with the preferred settings for the drive sound, the gearshift characteristic, the driving stability control and the Auto Start Stop function. They can then be accessed by pressing one of the two M buttons on the steering wheel. In addition, the M Mode button on the centre console can be used to control the driver assistance systems as well as the displays in the instrument cluster and the head-up display. You can select the settings ROAD, SPORT and TRACK.

The standard M sports seats also support the intensive driving experience in the high-performance sports car. The optionally available M Carbon bucket seats create an unadulterated racing feeling for the driver and passenger. With their structure-based design, visible carbon fiber reinforced plastic (CFRP) surfaces, integrated headrests, openings in the backrests and side cheeks and guides for multi-point seat belts, they combine racing functionality with long-distance comfort and luxurious workmanship. They are heated and also offer electrical adjustment options, an illuminated “M8” lettering on the headrests and a memory function on the driver’s side.

In combination with the M Sports seats and the M Carbon bucket seats, a full-leather Merino/Alcantara trim is standard on board the new BMW M8 models. It is now also available for the first time in the colour combination Black/Sakhir Orange. In addition, the black Alcantara dimensions in all versions of this equipment are now being extended to the instrument panel and the upper areas of the door sills.

Optimized operating comfort thanks to 12.3-inch control display.

The BMW Live Cockpit Professional is also part of standard equipment in the BMW M8 Competition Coupé, BMW M8 Competition Cabriolet and BMW M8 Competition Gran Coupé. It includes a control display whose screen size has now grown from 10.25 to 12.3 inches. The touch function of the large on-board monitor allows a particularly fast, comfortable and intuitive operation of numerous vehicle functions.

The BMW Live Cockpit Professional includes the online navigation system BMW Maps and the BMW Intelligent Personal Assistant. In addition, the standard equipment with the Driving Assistant, the Parking Assistant including reversing assistant, the telephony with wireless charging and the Harman Kardon Surround Sound System underlines the exclusive character of the new BMW M8 models.

Please find attached on location pictures and footage of the International Media Launch of the new BMW M8 Competition Coupe and the new BMW M8 Competition Convertible in Faro, Portugal.

Richmond Hill, ON. BMW M GmbH is pleased to introduce the new 2020 M8 Coupé and Cabriolet, the new top performance models in the M brand’s lineup.  Available in standard and Competition variants, the new M cars take the proven M5 and M5 Competition supercar capabilities to an even higher level while offering all of the luxury and styling that the 8 Series has to offer.

The launch of the new M8 is unique in that the race car made its appearance almost two years before the production street vehicles will be available in showrooms.  In those past two years of testing and racing in the IMSA WeatherTech Sports Car Championship, the BMW M8 GTE collected three victories, including the prestigious 24 Hours of Daytona, four additional podium finishes and three pole positions. The data collected from the on-going racing program helped develop settings for the new BMW M8 road going car.     

S63 V8 Power and Performance

The high-revving (7,200 rpm redline) 4.4 liter S63 M TwinPower Turbo V8 produces 600 hp @ 6,000 rpm and 553 lb-ft of torque @ 1,800 – 5,600 rpm in the M8 Coupé and Cabriolet while the M8 Competition models feature an uprated power unit producing 617 hp @ 6,000 rpm and 553 lb-ft @ 1,800 – 5,800 rpm.

The engine features two-turbochargers, cross-bank exhaust manifolds, direct injection and upgraded cooling and oil supply. The turbochargers are positioned within the V of the engine to help improve thermal efficiency and response. The cross-bank exhaust manifolds improve turbocharger and throttle response by reducing the distance the exhaust gases need to flow to reach the turbochargers. The direct fuel injection now operates at 350 bar (5,076 psi) ensuring ultra-fine fuel atomization for improved power and efficiency. Water-to-air intercooling helps reduce the temperature of the incoming air charge for improved power.

The advanced cooling system features to separate water circuits, one for the intercoolers and one for the engine and turbochargers. An electric cooling pump ensures that the turbochargers receive sufficient coolant flow, even after the engine has been turned off. An additional engine oil cooler and transmission oil cooler ensure the new M8 is capable of standing up to the higher thermal requirements of track driving. The oil supply system has been upgraded with a secondary front chamber in the oil pan which is accessed by a map-controlled oil suction pump to insure effective oil supply during extreme lateral and longitudinal forces such as cornering and acceleration.

The Competition models feature unique tuning which not only produces more horsepower but also allows increases the band at which maximum torque is produced by 200 rpm. The engine mounts on these models are more rigid for improved power transmission throughout the driveline and for more immediate turn-in during cornering. The Competition models are also equipped with the M Sport exhaust which enhances the sound emanating from the two twin 100 mm exhaust tips even further beyond the selectable sound of the M8. An M Sound Control button in the center console allows the driver to select the exhaust note which suits their desires.

The power and torque of the most powerful production engines ever produced by BMW M GmbH allow the M8 Coupé to accelerate from 0 to 100 km in just 3.3 seconds and the M8 Competition Coupé to accomplish the spring in 3.2 seconds. The M8 Cabriolet reaches 100 km/h from a standstill in 3.4 seconds and the M8 Competition Cabriolet equals the Coupé’s time of 3.3 seconds.

All four models have an electronically limited top speed of 250 km/h which can be increased to 300 km/h with the optional M Driver’s Package.  Besides the increased top speed, the M Driver’s Package also includes a voucher for M School driver training at one of the two BMW Performance Center driving schools, either in Spartanburg, South Caroline or Thermal, California in the U.S.A

Eight-speed M Steptronic transmission with Drivelogic

The eight-speed M Steptronic transmission transfers the M8’s power to the M xDrive all-wheel drive system. The transmission is operated via the new gear selector lever or with the M gearshift paddles on the steering wheel. Both automatic and manual modes are available. The Drivelogic button allows the driver to select the comfort and speed of gear shifts from comfort-oriented to sport and track focused shifting.

The eight-speed M Steptronic transmission’s controller is able to adapt the shift parameters to the current driving situation by means of intelligent networking with the standard Navigation system, enabling it to take the planned route into account. Navigation data is used to downshift early, for example, when approaching an intersection in order to use engine braking to slow the car down. Likewise, the intelligent controller is able to avoid unnecessary gear shifts between two corners that follow in quick succession, making it possible to drive through at a quicker pace.

M xDrive all-wheel drive and Active M differential

The M xDrive intelligent rear-biased all-wheel drive system makes the most use of the new BMW M8’s power and torque to increase performance to supercar levels.

The engine’s torque is distributed between the front and rear wheels via the transfer case’s electronically-controlled multi-plate clutch before the Active M differential splits the power between the two rear wheels as needed.

The rear biased system only sends torque to the front wheels when the rear wheels reach the limit of their traction. This provides the BMW M8 driver with both a traditional rear-wheel drive driving experience and with the added traction of all four wheels when the engine’s full power output is required. The M xDrive system’s added traction also reduces the need for the DSC (Dynamic Stability Control) system to intrude reducing power losses.

The M xDrive system allows the driver to tailor their driving experience via several available modes. The default 4WD mode focuses on providing maximum traction and

controlled handling. 4WD Sport sharpens the M8’s response and agility further while sending more power to the rear wheels during more dynamic driving. Deactivating DSC allows for 2WD mode which allows for a unique rear-wheel drive only mode for experienced drivers.

Chassis, suspension and steering

The chassis and suspension of the new 2020 BMW M8 models have been carefully designed and rigorously tested to blend the demands of track driving with the comfortable and luxurious street capabilities that customers have come to expect.

The perfect coordination between engine, transmission, all-wheel drive system and aerodynamics were developed and tested at locations such as the BMW Group test track in Miramas in southern France, at the winter testing center in Arjeplog, Sweden and at the famous Nürburgring Nordschleife circuit. The experience and data collected from almost two years of BMW M8 GTE racing and testing in the IMSA WeatherTech Sports Car Championship also provided important vehicle setup information.

The BMW M8 is equipped with double-wishbone front and five-link rear suspensions with unique bushings, swivel bearings and strut tie bars to ensure accurate wheel location and reduced torque steer. Acting forces are directed through the control arms and wishbones into the suspension sub-frames and from there into the rigid body of the vehicle providing handling and agility without compromising comfort.

The standard Adaptive M Suspension uses data from body movement, road surface conditions and steering input to adjust each damper individually within milliseconds using electromagnetic valves. This ensures that the new BMW M8 is both track capable and comfortable on the road.

Three settings allow the suspension responses of the BMW M8 to be fine-tuned to the driver’s needs. Comfort mode smooths out road imperfections while still providing very high levels of handling. Sport mode sharpens the vehicle’s responses and is suitable for fast road conditions such as those found on the Nordschleife. Sport Plus is designed for maximum capabilities on race track circuits.

The Competition models feature firmer suspension settings to further improve steering and lateral responses, stiffer engine mounts, increased front negative camber for increased cornering ability and rear toe-link ball-joints instead of rubber bushings for more precise rear wheel tracking.

The electromechanical M Servotronic steering provides speed-sensitive power assistance with a variable steering ratio to provide more straight line stability, sharp turn-in response and excellent accuracy in corners. When the wheels are sharply turned, the variable steering rack teeth are positioned more closely together, so smaller steering inputs are required allowing the BMW M8 to feel nimble on winding roads and also to be easily maneuverable in tight parking spaces. Steering response can be varied between Comfort and Sport modes which allow for varying degrees of steering feedback and effort.

New Setup button and M mode.

The BMW M8 features a new single setup button, found in the center console, which enables control over the engine, suspension, steering and xDrive settings, all of which featured individual control buttons in past M cars. The new setup button now also includes control over the integrated braking system with its Comfort and Sport modes.

Pressing the setup button brings up the setup screen on the center display and allows various settings to be chosen and saved to the steering wheel-mounted M1 and M2 buttons.

Available Settings include:

·         Engine characteristics – Efficient, Sport and Sport Plus.

·         Suspension characteristics – Comfort, Sport and Sport Plus

·         Steering characteristics – Comfort and Sport

·         Braking characteristics – Comfort and Sport

·         4WD settings – 4WD, 4WD Sport and 2WD

A new M Mode button on the center console allows for individual configuration of driver assists settings, instrument cluster and Heap-Up display settings. The BMW M8 offers Road and Sport settings while the Competition models add a Track setting.  Changing the mode allows for different information to be presented to the driver on the digital display screen and in the Head-Up display. The intervention levels of the driver assist systems can also be reduced or turned off completely.

Default Road mode – all standard and optional driver assist systems are fully operational. Full information displays in the digital instrument display and Head-Up display.

Sport mode – activated by pressing M mode button. Allows the driver to adjust or turn off various assist systems. The M View is activated for both the instrument cluster and Head-Up display. A tachometer, digital speed, selected gear and shift lights are displayed in the center with coolant temperature, tire pressure and longitudinal and lateral forces available to the left and right. The Head-Up display is focused on a tachometer, shift lights, selected gear, vehicle speed and navigation instructions.

Track mode – available on Competition models and accessed by pressing and holding down the M mode button and is designed for use on closed tracks. Confirmation of this mode is required via the iDrive controller. Driver assist system intervention is turned off. Additionally the audio system and center control display are turned off so the driver may concntrate on the road ahead.

Exterior design and features   

The functional details of the new BMW M8 Coupé and Cabriolet support the performance capabilities of the new cars as much as they lend themselves to design. Large openings in the front bumper support increased engine, transmission and brake cooling requirements while also imparting an aggressive visual to the newest M vehicles.

The kidney grill and side gills are finished in Black Chrome while the mirror caps, rear spoiler and rear diffuser are finished in High-Gloss black.  Flanking the BMW kidney grill are standard Icon Adaptive LED headlights with Laserlight.

The M8 Coupés and Competition Coupés are equipped with a standard Carbon Fiber roof to further reduce weight from the highest point of the car and lower the M8’s center of gravity. The M8 Cabriolets and M8 Competition Cabriolets are equipped with a multi-layer insulated fabric soft top which is able to retract in 15 seconds at up to 50 km/h while also reducing weight and lowering the center of gravity f the open top M models for improved handling.

Exterior paint finishes for all M8 models include non-metallic Alpine White and a choice of seven metallic and four Individual colors. Metallic paints include: Black Sapphire metallic, Brands Hatch Grey metallic, Sonic Blue metallic, Marina Bay Blue metallic, Donnington Grey metallic, Barcelona Blue metallic and Motegi Red metallic. Individual colors include Dravit Grey metallic, Almandin Brown II metallic, Aventurin Red metallic and Frozen Bluestone metallic.

An optional M Carbon package replaces kidney grill surrounds, mirror caps, side gills, rear spoiler and rear diffuser sections with carbon fiber components for a more motorsports oriented appearance.

Interior

The new M8 features exclusive interior appointments to set the cars apart as vehicles that occupy the very top of BMW’s model lineup. The M leather steering wheel includes M shift paddles and red M1 and M2 buttons which can be programmed with various engine, suspension, steering, xDrive and braking system modes. A new design gear shift lever with red accent sits next to the red start/stop button in the center console. Exclusive M Sport seats with Illuminated M badging below the headrest area are standard. The M8 Competition models additionally feature M seatbelts with highlight stitching in BMW Motorsport colors.

Interior leather appointments include standard Extended Merino Lather in either Silverstone or Black, optional Full Merino Leather in Silverstone, Sakhir Orange/Black, Midrand Beige, Taruma Brown and Black. Optional Individual Full Merino Leather interiors in Ivory White/Night Blue or Ivory White/Tartufo can also be ordered.

Carbon Fiber interior trim is standard while Ash Grain Grey-Metallic Wood trim and Individual Ash Black Silver Wood trim and Individual Piano Black Finish trim are available as options.

The BMW M8 Coupé and M8 Competition Coupé can be ordered with an Individual Alcantara headliner in matching upholstery color as an option.

Brakes, wheels and tires

The BMW M8 models are equipped with standard M compound brakes featuring drilled, vented brake disks measuring 395 mm in front and 380 mm in the rear and front, fixed, six-piston calipers and rear, floating, single-piston calipers. This system provides exceptional braking stability under the heaviest loads.

The optional M carbon ceramic brakes increase front brake disk diameter to 400 mm and with the rear 380 mm disks offer even greater stopping power combined with exceptional resistance to both heat and wear.

The M8 features the latest version of BMW M’s integrated brake-by-wire system. This system combines braking activation, brake booster and brake control functions into one compact module which saves almost 2.0 kg over a conventional braking system while eliminating the vacuum-based components. The electric actuator means a faster and more precise brake response and pedal feel in all road and temperature conditions. The M integrated braking system also offers two settings; Comfort and Sport which can vary brake pedal feedback and response based on the wishes of the driver.

The new BMW M8 models are equipped with standard M light-allow wheels; 9.5 x 20 inches in front and 10.5 x 20 inches in rear. Non-run-flat, high-performance tires in 275/35R20 front and 285/35R20 rear provide the grip needed to cope with the very high levels of torque produced by the BMW M8’s engine.

Driver Assist systems

The 2020 BMW M8 is available with a wide variety of standard and optional driver assistance systems. The systems really come into their own when driving longer distances by relieving the strain on the driver in monotonous situations, such as traffic jams or slow-moving traffic. They enhance comfort and safety both in urban traffic and on longer trips by providing targeted assistance in complex traffic situations. The driver assistance systems process camera images as well as the data gathered by ultrasonic and radar sensors to monitor the vehicle’s surroundings, to warn of potential hazards and to minimise the risk of an accident with corrective braking or steering inputs.

Standard equipment includes Collision and Pedestrian Warning with City Braking function, the latest version of which alerts the driver when a cyclist is detected. Depending on the situation, the system can bring the vehicle to a halt to either avoid a collision or minimize its consequences.

The optional Driving Assistant Professional offers comprehensive assistance for comfortable and safe driving. This package includes Active Cruise Control with Stop & Go function. It can be used at speeds up to 210 km/h and maintains the desired speed while taking not only the traffic situation into account, but also the selected distance to vehicles in front. If required, the system is able to brake the car to a stop then pull away again automatically after being stationary for up to 30 seconds, meaning greater comfort in stop-start traffic. Camera images and data from a front radar system are used for distance control.

Another component of the Driving Assistant Professional is the Lane Keeping Assistant with Active Side Collision Protection. This is made up of the Lane Departure Warning and Active Blind Spot Detection systems, which are active from 70 – 210   km/h and 20 km/h up to top speed respectively and help the driver guide the vehicle back onto the correct path with an active turn of the steering. Besides emitting visual warning signals and causing the steering wheel to vibrate, active side collision protection also uses active steering intervention to help avoid a collision. The Driving Assistant Professional also includes the evasion aid, which now also reacts to pedestrians. The Crossing Traffic Warning – which reduces the danger of a collision when maneuvering forwards towards roads that are obstructed from the driver’s view – now also includes brake intervention.

The latest-generation Head-Up Display.

The latest generation of the BMW Head-Up display system features a larger projection area, optimized graphics and additional content. The BMW Head-Up Display projects information directly into the driver’s field of vision where it can be assimilated without any need for them to divert their eyes from the road. This includes details of vehicle speed, speed limits and overtaking restrictions, Check Control messages, status indicators and warnings from the assistance systems, detailed route guidance and turn instructions, as well as telephone and entertainment lists. The displayed information can be adjusted via the new M mode button on the center console.

Live Cockpit Professional with iDrive 7

The BMW Live Cockpit Professional in the 2020 BMW M8 combines the latest-generation of the iDrive, featuring a high-resolution digital 31.2 cm (12.3”) instrument cluster display behind the steering wheel and a 26 cm (10.25”) center display diagonally across.

The system offers many hardware upgrades including new haptic controls on the iDrive controller, an advanced tablet-like touch interface, and stunning visualizations. The multi-modal approach of the iDrive touch controller, large touchscreen center display, cloud based voice control, and gesture control allow users to interact in the way of their choosing. 

Elements of the BMW Live Cockpit Professional are the Navigation Professional system, a hard-drive-based multimedia system with 30 GB of memory and two USB ports, plus Bluetooth interfaces. The driver can be automatically detected and personal settings activated either using the traditional vehicle key or by downloading the driver’s personal settings the BMW Cloud.

BMW Connected: digital services for individual mobility.

BMW Connected is the companion app for BMW drivers. Intelligent connectivity helps users to reach their destination easily and with minimal stress – and not only from within their car; BMW Connected is an all-embracing concept designed to seamlessly connect the driver and their smartphone with their vehicle.

At the heart of it all is the Open Mobility Cloud, which allows the app to connect the car with the customer’s iPhone and Apple Watch. For instance, the BMW Connected app can import appointments and addresses from the customer’s calendar entries straight into the navigation system to begin route guidance. The system calculates the optimum departure time based on real-time traffic information and notifies the driver with a message on their smartphone when it is time to leave. As the vehicle is linked up via the Open Mobility Cloud, it is able to access the calculated route directly when the navigation system starts up.

Standard Equipment

The M8 Coupé and Cabriolet come with an extensive list of standard equipment including:

·         Active Guard and Active Protection – Automatic seat belt tensioning, automatic closing of windows, fatigue and focus alert, post-crash braking, Lane Departure Warning, Pedestrian Warning with braking, Front Collision Warning, Speed Limit Information, Blind Spot Detection, Automatic High Beams, Rear Cross-Traffic Alert, Rear Collision Preparation.

·         Active M Differential

·         M Steptronic Sport Automatic Transmission

·         M Carbon Roof (M8 Coupés only)

·         M Sport seats with heating.

·         Live Cockpit Professional with iDrive 7 with Apple CarPlay compatability

·         Remote Engine Start

·         20 inch M Double-Spoke bi-color Style 810M wheels

·         Comfort Access Keyless entry and Soft-close automatic doors

·         Icon Adaptive LED headlights with Laserlight

·         Harman-Kardon surround sound audio system

·         SiriusXM satellite radio with 6 month All Access subscription

·         Wireless Charging and WiFi Hotspot

·         Drive Recorder

·         Parking Assistant Plus with 360° Surround View Camera

M8 Competition Coupé and Cabriolet add:

·         20 inch M Star-spoke bi-color Style 813M wheels

·         M Competition Package -

·         M Sport exhaust system

·         M Seat belts

·         Track setting for M mode

Munich. The feeling of an M car is unmistakable – and now it can be tailored even more closely to the individual. BMW M GmbH is unveiling a new display and control system for the configuration of the powertrain, chassis and driver assistance systems on its high-performance sports cars. As well as additional scope for adapting the vehicle settings both to the situation at hand and to personal preferences using the Setup button, drivers will also enjoy the services of the new M Mode (activated at the touch of a button). The Setup button can be used to adjust the vehicle settings, while M Mode allows the displays and driver assistance systems to be tuned to the driver’s requirements. This extra individualisation and even more intuitive operation will be included for the first time in the new BMW M8 Coupe and BMW M8 Competition Coupe (fuel consumption combined: 10.6 – 10.5 l/100 km [26.7 – 26.9 mpg imp]; CO2 emissions combined: 242 – 238 g/km; provisional figures), and the new BMW M8 Convertible and BMW M8 Competition Convertible (fuel consumption combined: 10.8 – 10.6 l/100 km [26.2 – 26.7 mpg imp]; CO2 emissions combined: 246 – 241 g/km; provisional figures). With the help of these new features, drivers of BMW’s high-performance models for the luxury segment can enjoy their exceptional range of abilities – from supreme long-distance comfort to alluring track dynamics – in even greater depth.

The control system developed for BMW M models traditionally enables their powertrain and chassis technology to be configured in a wide variety of ways according to personal tastes and needs. Indeed, the driver can activate various settings for the engine, suspension and steering independently of one another. In models specified with the M xDrive all-wheel-drive system, the distribution of power between the front and rear wheels can also be tweaked. And now the new BMW M8 Coupe and new BMW M8 Convertible offer the ability to configure the braking system as required, too.

New Setup button enables intuitive operation with direct access to all powertrain and chassis systems.

The new Setup button on the centre console of the new BMW M8 Coupe and new BMW M8 Convertible enables direct access to all available setup options for five vehicle parameters. Pressing the button brings up a Setup menu in the Control Display, which offers an overview of the vehicle settings currently engaged. The driver can then activate their desired mode for the engine, suspension, steering, brakes and M xDrive – in a single step in each case – via the touchscreen or the iDrive Controller.

The engine characteristics can be adjusted by means of the EFFICIENT, SPORT and SPORT PLUS settings, while the COMFORT, SPORT and SPORT PLUS chassis options give access to the three profiles for the electronically controlled dampers. The driver can also choose between COMFORT and SPORT for both the M-specific electromechanical steering and the new braking system. When DSC (Dynamic Stability Control) is deactivated, the 4WD, 4WD SPORT and 2WD (for pure rear-wheel drive) settings for the M xDrive all-wheel-drive system also come into play. Two individually composed variants of this setup can be stored permanently with the driver’s preferred settings for the engine sound, gearshift characteristics, driving stability control and Auto Start Stop function. The overall vehicle configuration can then be called up instantly at any time by pressing one of the two M buttons on the steering wheel.

Premiere in the BMW M8: integrated braking system with precise pedal feel and M-specific configurability.

The M-specific version of a new braking technology paves the way for the configuration of braking characteristics, a feature available for the first time in the new BMW M8. The new system brings together the brake activation, brake booster and braking control functions within a compact module. The integrated braking system reduces weight by around two kilograms and employs a vacuum-free brake booster to enhance the car’s overall efficiency. The brake pressure required is triggered by an electric actuator, which allows it to be generated more dynamically and also ensures significantly faster and more precise interventions from the driving stability control system.

The integrated braking system also does an excellent job of allowing vehicle deceleration to be geared precisely to the driver’s requirements and of generating sublime pedal feel in any situation. Braking feedback to the driver is unimpaired by wet road surfaces, significant lateral acceleration or high brake temperatures, and this ensures precise metering of braking power at all times. The version of the new braking system developed for BMW M models also presents the driver with two pedal feel settings.

COMFORT and SPORT modes alter the amount of pressure on the brake pedal required to slow the car. This allows the driver to choose between a comfort-oriented perception of the braking process and a particularly direct, instantaneous response to applications of the pedal. The new BMW M8 teams this innovative system with both the standard M compound brakes and optional M carbon-ceramic brakes.

Pure driving pleasure through innovation: the M Mode button.

In addition to the new configuration options opened up by the Setup button, the new BMW M8 also allows the gearshift characteristics of the eight-speed Steptronic transmission to be adjusted using the Drivelogic button on the selector lever and the engine sound to be varied via a separate button on the centre console. M Dynamic Mode – which raises the intervention thresholds for the driving stability control and allows controlled drifts – and DSC Off mode can also be initiated at the touch of a button.

A fresh addition to the new flagship models from BMW M GmbH is the M Mode button on the centre console. This can be used to alter the responses of the driver assistance systems and the screens in the all-digital instrument cluster and Head-Up Display. M Mode allows the driver to activate ROAD and SPORT modes, while the new BMW M8 Competition Coupe and BMW M8 Competition Convertible also come with a TRACK setting. These options enhance the hallmark M driving experience according to the situation at hand. Changing the settings alters the information presented to the driver on the screens, while the safety-enhancing interventions by the driver assistance systems – such as active braking or steering inputs – are reduced to a bare minimum or deactivated altogether.

In the default ROAD setting, all the standard and optional driver assistance systems are fully activated. A simple press of the M Mode button engages the SPORT setting, in which the active driver assistance systems (in the configuration set by the driver) now only transmit alerts on speed limits and overtaking restrictions. This mode disables all interventions in the braking and steering systems, aside from those made by the Collision Warning with braking function and the Evasion Assistant.

In SPORT mode, the driver benefits from M View in both the instrument cluster and the Head-Up Display. Here, only relevant information for sporty driving – i.e. an M-specific engine speed dial and the shift lights (which indicate the ideal time to change gear), a digital speed display and the gear currently engaged – is displayed in the cockpit. Information on coolant temperature, charge pressure, tyre condition, and longitudinal and lateral acceleration can be viewed in the right- and left-hand areas of the instrument cluster. The Head-Up Display read-out is concentrated around the engine revs and shift lights, navigation instructions and distance warnings, the gear selected and the vehicle speed, plus the speed limits and overtaking restrictions detected by the Speed Limit Info system. Pressing the M Mode button again returns the driver to the default ROAD mode.

An extended press of the M Mode button engages TRACK mode, which is available in the Competition models and designed exclusively for use on race circuits. The decision to activate this mode must be confirmed using the iDrive Controller. In this setting, all the comfort and safety functions of the driver assistance systems are deactivated. In addition, the audio system and Control Display are both switched off in order to focus the driver’s attention even more intently on the road ahead. TRACK mode allows drivers of the new BMW M8 Competition Coupe and new BMW M8 Competition Convertible to experience an ultra-pure, racing-car-inspired distillation of M feeling. Added to which, the instrument cluster and Head-Up Display also include M View, although TRACK mode blanks out the road sign detection and distance information. Pressing the M Mode button again takes the car out of the TRACK setting and back into ROAD mode.