Security Automobiles was once light-weight coupes or sedans, however occasions have actually modified. In stark distinction, the BMW XM now fulfills that position on the 2024 Repco Bathurst 12 Hour because the Security Automobile this weekend. The M division has entered right into a multi-year association with the race organizers to supply M fashions, which can function the official on-track vehicles.

It’s a far cry from the low-slung sports activities vehicles we’re all accustomed to seeing dressed up as Security Automobiles. This two-tone XM represents the midrange model, positioned above the inline-six mannequin and under the XM Label. The plug-in hybrid SUV is sharing the monitor in Australia this weekend with a few vehicles that embody the M ethos extra carefully, together with the M2 and the M5 Competitors.

Initially of this month, the electrified luxobarge obtained the Security Automobile therapy with an M livery on the Dubai Autodrome within the United Arab Emirates. To not be forgotten, the primary hybrid M mannequin carried out an analogous position final month on the Daytona 24 Hours in the US. Moreover, a warmer XM Label is ready to tackle the position of the official 2024 MotoGP Security Automobile.

The XM marks the primary devoted M automotive because the M1, though it’s not a religious successor by any stretch of the creativeness. BMW did contemplate the thought of growing an I16 supercar as a follow-up to the mid-engine mannequin from the late Seventies and early Nineteen Eighties. Nonetheless, the model finally opted for the safer SUV route. Why? The German premium automaker believes it may obtain greater gross sales with the XM than with a devoted sports activities automotive, which might’ve been costlier to develop.

Turning the XM (codenamed G09) right into a Security Automobile is a superb advertising instrument, because it enhances the car’s publicity with minimal investments on BMW’s half.

Supply: BMW Australia