BMW’s latest art car, the M Hybrid V8 LMDh race car, is not just a static display piece—it’s set to race at the 2024 24 Hours of Le Mans, starting on June 15. Unveiled in Paris, the car is a collaboration with New York-based artist Julie Mehretu, whose painting “Everywhen” served as inspiration for the design.
Mehretu’s vision for the car was to blend it seamlessly with her artwork, creating a dynamic fusion of racing and art. She described the process as a “remix” or “mash-up” of her painting, envisioning the car as if it were passing through and being influenced by the artwork itself. Her experience at the Rolex 24 at Daytona further fueled her excitement, emphasizing that the art car’s journey won’t be complete until it races at Le Mans.
Born in Ethiopia and based in New York City, Mehretu was chosen by a jury of art experts in 2018 to design BMW’s next art car, continuing the tradition that started in 1975 with artist Alexander Calder.
The M Hybrid V8 is BMW’s entry into the premier GTP and Hypercar classes of the IMSA SportsCar Championship and FIA World Endurance Championship. With a 4.0-liter V-8 engine and a spec hybrid system, the car boasts a total output of around 640 hp, capable of reaching speeds of up to 215 mph depending on the track layout.
At Le Mans, the car, adorned with the number 20, will be driven by Sheldon van der Linde, Robin Frijns, and René Rast, marking BMW’s return to the premier class since 1999 when it secured its only overall victory with the V12 LMR.
BMW’s collaboration with Mehretu not only brings art to the racetrack but also celebrates the intersection of creativity, technology, and performance on a global stage.