MUNICH: A race car taking part in 24-hour races has to have lasting headlights that provide great visibility. This is exemplified in the BMW M8 GTE, which has signed on for the 2018 motorsport season.
The light system on the new GT flagship not only set benchmarks in terms of technology, but the headlight design also looked impressive. The design is based on the iconic twin circular headlamps, with two LED rings. The rear lights underline the proximity to the 8 Series Coupé and take their inspiration from the design of the production lights.
The engineers at BMW Motorsport created the light system for the M8 GTE from scratch, consistently designing it for use in motor racing. The latest technology was used in the production process, including Metal Additive Manufacturing. The cooling elements in the light system on the M8 GTE were made using this special 3D printing procedure.
The engineers also used Additive Manufacturing to immediately check the results of simulations at track tests, with the help of parts produced with the 3D printer. The endurance test in Le Castellet (France) played a particularly important role. “You can run through various light scenarios at Paul Ricard, ranging from the circuit being partially lit to fully lit,” said Martin Tomczyk (Germany).
“We were all impressed by the lights on the M8 GTE. Good visibility is incredibly important for us drivers at night. We had precisely that.”
Fans will be able to check out the design and performance of the light technology on the M8 GTE at the Daytona International Speedway at the end of January.
