Q:
What challenges had to be overcome between the initial sketches and roll-out?
MT:
With the motor sport version we built on the production model, so the basis for the car was already in place. In the case of the BMW 320si, however, we not only had to develop a completely new car but an all-new racing engine as well. Though this has a very good basis in the powerful sports engine of the 320si production model, even so a new engine development was necessary. There were numerous points of contact here between the production and the race version, which allowed for technology transfer in both directions.
All this had to be coordinated in a detailed project plan to ensure that the car would be ready for delivery to the teams in time for winter testing.
Q:
What impact has setting up the BMW Sauber
F1 Team had on BMW’s involvement in the WTCC?
MT:
BMW’s motor sport involvement rests on three pillars, as before.
Formula One naturally plays the primary role. It’s the first time we are entering a team run by
BMW. But that doesn’t mean we’re taking a backward step when it comes to touring car racing or the Formula BMW junior talent promotion scheme.
On the contrary, in the field of touring cars BMW has a tradition unmatched by any other manufacturer. That’s why this discipline remains an essential constituent of our motor sport agenda.
