Great news for fans of the German touring car series – another big German player is in town as the heavyweights from Munich announce their return to the party for 2012.

The precise details of the form of BMW’s return to the series since it last raced in 1992 are still unclear, particularly given their return is provided “certain basic requirements” it proposes are agreed to by the DTM.  However, if the car looks anything like Jon Sibal’s fantastic 3D impression of how a DTM BMW may appear based on their ALMS GT2, then we’re all for their return.

Speaking of this news, BMW motorsport boss Dr. Mario Theissen said:

The planned return to the DTM is an exciting challenge for our team.  Over the coming months we will be making all the necessary technical preparations that should allow us to be competitive right from the start should we join the series in 2012.

The decision to join the series has also been welcomed by soon their rivals Audi and Mercedes.  Audi Sport boss Wolfgang Ullrich said:

On behalf of Audi I want to say right now: ‘Welcome to DTM.’  We look forward to the new competitors from Munich who most definitely will prove to be extremely competitive.  I’m convinced that the squad will learn quickly to demonstrate its competitiveness within a short period of time.

It would be a big boost to the DTM if another manufacturer joined, both from a fans point of view to have more cars on circuit and as an extra reason to stir up further competition between the teams.  We’re sure BMW will be hoping to a return of the halcyon days of the early 1990s with its successful E30 M3.

Having departed F1 last year, it appears BMW is now freer to pursue other racing activities, as shown by its M3 GT2 it campaigns in ALMS and also its successful WTCC programme.  BMW are developing a new 1.6L four-cylinder turbo for 2011, so one would imagine they have no plans to leave this series 12 months after an intensive and expensive R&D period.  Busy times ahead at BMW.

As we learn more about BMW’s DTM plans we’ll bring it to you here on SkiddMark.

Photo credit – Jon SibalCar is a 3D render based on the BMW E92 M3 GT2 ALMS.


Written By

Avatar
Rick Osborn

Rick has met and interviewed many well known names in the world of film, music and sport. He brings his enthusiasm for cars, technology and social media to SkiddMark.

More from this author

Privacy Preference Center

%d bloggers like this: