Modified BMW i8 Roadster unveiled as new Formula E safety car

BMW’s i Division has unveiled its new safety car for the FIA Formula E in the form of a modified BMW i8 Roadster.

Looking like it could be a racecar itself, the BMW i8 Roadster Safety Car sports a large rear wing and its windscreen has been significantly shortened, leaving rollbars, a flashing light mount, and the wing as the only points of the car taller than the haunches behind each seat.

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Speaking at the reveal during the recent Formula E round in Monaco, BMW’s i Division boss Robert Irlinger says the i8 is the obvious choice for BMW to supply as a Formula E safety car, having also supplied several other vehicles in different roles as the series’ official vehicle partner.

“BMW i and Formula E are synonymous with innovation, making them excellently suited to each other,” says Irlinger.

“This project is another very good example of the pioneering spirit at BMW i and in Formula E.

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“In implementing the BMW i8 Roadster Safety Car, the BMW i engineers, designers and communications crew have dared to explore new horizons and create an absolutely unique car.

“The development team behind the Safety Car is akin to a start-up.

“Our engineers got creative within their own ranks and assembled it on top of their regular jobs. In doing so, they have achieved something completely new.”

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Now in its fifth season, the FIA Formula E is no stranger to BMW’s electric cars. Not only does BMW compete as a factory backer for Andretti Motorsport (as BMW i Andretti Motorsport), but its previous safety car was a slightly tamer looking i8 Coupe.

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BMW also supplies an i3 as a race director’s car, and a BMW 530e as the medical car.