The 2016 MotoGP season kicks off on March 30 at the Losail International Circuit in Doha, Qatar, and BMW fans are in for a real treat--the Bavarian automaker’s new M2 is serving as the official safety car for the popular motorcycle road racing event.

Naturally, modifications for the M2 safety car were handled by BMW’s M (Motorsport) division, and feature a host of upgrades that propel the M2 into a higher performance category than your “average” M model. Considering BMW M models are already renowned for their power and performance makes that statement a truly exciting prospect.

In addition to the custom paint job, upgrades to the MotoGP M2 include reinforcements to the vehicle’s body as well as new aerodynamic aids crafted from carbon fiber. There’s also extra communications gear, such as radio communication system and a roof-mounted light bar. Last but not least, the special edition MotoGP M2 sports a massive, custom rear wing that helps generate additional downforce.

One area where the BMW M team felt no need to tinker with was under the hood. The M2’s standard engine twin-turbocharged 3.0-liter straight-six engine was deemed more than sufficient, which comes as no surprise considering the engine generates 365 horsepower, 343 pound-feet of torque, and can launch from 0 to 60 mph – on its way to a top speed of 155 mph – in just 4.2 seconds.

Getting your hands on the MotoGP M2 is likely to be near impossible, but the good news is the standard M2 model is scheduled to reach showrooms in April.

For more information on the new M2 or any of our other BMW models, don’t hesitate to contact or visit us at 3Birds Template.

Image: BMW of North America, LLC.