BMW presents the updated M Hybrid V8 in testing at Daytona

BMW M Team WRT will bring its updated M Hybrid V8 to the official Daytona tests this weekend. The German hypercar will publicly showcase the aerodynamic modifications developed over months to try and improve its competitiveness.

The new headlights with yellow accents debut in these nighttime tests. BMW incorporated them with endurance races like Daytona and Le Mans in mind, where the night factor is crucial.

The modifications include the redesigned front splitter and the more compact kidney grille developed with Dallara. These changes target specific airflow issues that were compromising the performance and cooling of the hybrid system.

Photo By BMW Group

The numbers justify the urgency: BMW has accumulated only 87 points in the 2025 WEC, placing fifth and 158 points behind Ferrari. In IMSA, although the #24 BMW from M Team RLL holds fourth place with 2,679 points, it remains 228 points behind the #6 Porsche.

Philipp Eng, Robin Frijns, Kevin Magnussen, René Rast, Dries Vanthoor, and Marco Wittmann will drive the #24 and #25 BMWs during the two days. BMW M Team WRT will receive support from BMW M Team RLL to facilitate its adaptation to the IMSA regulations.

The updated M Hybrid V8 will compete for the first time in the 24 Hours of Daytona in January 2026. This weekend's tests will provide the first data on whether BMW has managed to close the gap with its competitors.