In the heart of motorsport’s most iconic event, a new star has emerged on the race track – the BMW M Hybrid V8, adorned with the captivating artwork of renowned New York artist Julie Mehretu. Unveiled as BMW’s 20th Art Car, this masterpiece combines cutting-edge technology with artistic brilliance, destined to make its mark at the 24 Hours of Le Mans.
Mehretu’s design, inspired by her acclaimed artwork “Everywhen (2021-2023)”, transforms the BMW M Hybrid V8 endurance race car into a moving canvas of dynamic energy. Employing 3D mapping techniques, Mehretu’s motif seamlessly integrates with the contours of the vehicle, resulting in a visually stunning fusion of image and machine.
The abstract visual form of the Art Car is a testament to Mehretu’s creative vision, featuring digitally altered photographs, neon veils, and distinctive black markings. Beyond its aesthetic appeal, the Art Car symbolises the convergence of technology, design, and motorsport, embodying the essence of BMW’s commitment to innovation.
Powered by a hybrid electric drivetrain system boasting approximately 640 horsepower, the BMW M Hybrid V8 is a marvel of engineering prowess. With a top speed of up to 345 km/h, this prototype racing car exemplifies the pinnacle of M performance, delivering electrifying speed and agility on the race track.
Set to compete in the Hypercars category of the FIA World Endurance Championship, the BMW M Hybrid V8 will also make its debut at the 24 Hours of Le Mans, marking BMW’s return to the iconic race since its victory in 1999 with the BMW V12 LMR.
Mehretu’s creative process was guided by a desire to merge art and automotive design seamlessly. “What would happen if this car seemed to go through that painting and becomes affected by it,” Mehretu pondered in her studio. The resulting design is a mesmerising remix, a mash-up of painting and performance, where even the car’s iconic kidneys “inhaled the painting”.
Born in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, and now based in New York City and Berlin, Julie Mehretu’s artistic practice spans painting, drawing, and printmaking. Her work delves into the complexities of contemporary experience, exploring themes of social behaviour and the psychogeography of space.
As the BMW M Hybrid V8 roars onto the race track, it carries with it not only the legacy of BMW’s Art Car program but also the creative vision of Julie Mehretu. In this dynamic collaboration between art and technology, speed becomes a canvas, and the race track transforms into a gallery, inviting spectators to witness the intersection of artistic expression and automotive innovation.