Since 2015, Shell and BMW M Motorsport have forged a strong alliance, celebrating numerous victories on racetracks. As their collaboration moves into a new decade, both companies have renewed their partnership by significantly expanding its scope. With Shell now taking on the role of Premium Technology, Innovation, and Energy Partner of BMW M Motorsport, this collaboration is set to influence motorsport and automotive technology globally. The partnership extends beyond racing, focusing on sustainable innovation, performance enhancements, and future mobility solutions.
A Legacy of Success on the Track
Over the years, Shell and BMW M Motorsport have been synonymous with success in some of the world’s most prestigious racing series, including the FIA World Endurance Championship (FIA WEC) and the IMSA WeatherTech SportsCar Championship (IWSC). Their collaboration has brought cutting-edge technology and premium lubrication solutions to the racetrack, delivering superior performance in high-intensity racing environments.
This partnership was recently highlighted at the FIA WEC season opener in Qatar, where the 20 Shell BMW M Hybrid V8 debuted with a striking Shell-inspired livery. This LMDh race car will be a key contender in the 2025 World Championship season, including the legendary 24 Hours of Le Mans. BMW M works driver Sheldon van der Linde, who won the 2022 DTM championship with Shell BMW M Motorsport, will continue to be a key figure in this partnership, competing in both FIA WEC and IWSC.
Expanding Beyond the Racetrack
From the 2025 season onward, Shell will expand its role beyond racing to become the Premium Technology, Innovation, and Energy Partner of BMW M Motorsport. This evolution means that Shell will exclusively provide and promote products such as Shell Helix and Shell EV Plus for BMW M Motorsport’s operations. This shift underscores the commitment of both companies to technological advancements that extend beyond motorsport and into series production for consumer vehicles.
Key areas of focus in this expanded partnership include:
- Development of Advanced Lubricants and E-Fluids: Both companies are collaborating on new, more sustainable lubricants and e-fluids specifically designed for electric vehicles. These products aim to enhance efficiency, reduce emissions, and improve overall performance.
- Sustainable Fuel and Energy Solutions: With motorsport evolving towards greener energy alternatives, Shell and BMW M Motorsport are working on innovative fuel and energy solutions that will shape the future of racing and road car technology.
- BMW M Trackdays Partnership: Shell will continue to be an official partner of BMW M Trackdays, where BMW M customers can experience high-performance driving with premium Shell products.
Leadership Perspectives
The renewal and expansion of the partnership were met with enthusiasm from both companies’ leadership teams.
Franciscus van Meel, CEO of BMW M GmbH, emphasized the importance of strong partnerships in both series production and motorsport:
Having dedicated partners like Shell is essential for BMW M’s success in our production and motorsport endeavors. The ability to look back on a decade of collaboration is truly remarkable, and I’m thrilled that we are now elevating our partnership to the next level. Beyond our continued cooperation in current racing programs, our shared commitment to developing forward-looking technologies is crucial. As the automotive landscape evolves rapidly, it is imperative to work with partners who match our drive for innovation and excellence. Shell is exactly such a partner.
Aysun Akik, Vice President of New Business Development and Global Key Accounts at Shell Lubricants, highlighted the impact of the partnership:
Strong collaborations are essential for BMW M’s success in both production and motorsport, and Shell has been an invaluable partner over the past decade. Reflecting on ten years of joint achievements is remarkable, and I’m excited about taking this partnership to new heights. Beyond our existing racing programs, our joint focus on developing cutting-edge future technologies is vital. As the automotive industry undergoes rapid transformation, we need partners who share our drive for perfection and innovation. Shell exemplifies this commitment, and together, we will continue delivering top-tier performance and innovation to customers worldwide.
The Road Ahead: A Future-Driven Collaboration
With the automotive industry rapidly transitioning toward electrification and sustainable mobility, the partnership between Shell and BMW M Motorsport is more critical than ever. Their joint efforts will not only enhance racing performance but also contribute to the broader automotive industry by developing energy-efficient technologies for everyday drivers.
The focus on sustainability, advanced lubricant technology, and innovative energy solutions makes this partnership a model for how automotive and energy companies can collaborate to drive future mobility solutions. Whether through high-performance motorsport applications or cutting-edge products for everyday driving, Shell and BMW M Motorsport are setting new standards for efficiency, innovation, and environmental responsibility.
As the 2025 season approaches, motorsport fans can look forward to seeing the Shell BMW M Hybrid V8 compete on the world’s biggest racing stages, while the broader automotive industry benefits from the technological advancements emerging from this decade-long partnership. With their shared vision and commitment to excellence, Shell and BMW M Motorsport are poised to redefine what’s possible in high-performance racing and beyond.