The German automaker had set its sights on claiming the production SUV record with the XM Label Red, the first M-specific vehicle to emerge from Munich since the iconic M1 back in 1981. Fortunately, the driver, Matt Mullins, emerged uninjured but the same cannot be said for the Bimmer, as the Pikes Peak livestream video revealed the crash (Time mark 4:50:40).
While the exact cause of the crash is still unknown, there is no footage of the incident captured in the livestream, and other video clips have yet to surface. the automaker has chosen not to comment on the incident or reveal whether there were onboard cameras recording the event. In an email, a BMW spokesperson provided the following statement:
"Unfortunately, our hopes for a record run with the BMW XM today ended with a race incident. Driver Matt Mullins is disappointed but unhurt. The focus now is on re-preparing the vehicle and planning for another record attempt later this summer."
For now, the Lamborghini Urus Performante still holds the title for the fastest SUV at Pikes Peak. In 2022, the Urus, boasting 666 horsepower, completed the 12.4-mile stage in an impressive 10 minutes and 32.06 seconds. With its reliance on Pirelli P Zero Trofeo R tires and turbocharged power, the Lamborghini's performance remained consistent throughout the challenging ascent, culminating at the 14,115-foot finish line.
In comparison, the BMW XM Label Red, unlike the Urus, utilizes an electrified powertrain. This could have been a significant advantage for BMW had the crash not occurred. The XM's electric motor generated a consistent 194 horsepower during the climb, contributing to the vehicle's total output of 738 horsepower. Despite the setback, BMW still achieved a notable accomplishment at Pikes Peak. Rhys Millen, a Pikes Peak veteran, set a new personal best for production cars by driving a BMW M8 to the top in an impressive time of 10 minutes and 12 seconds.
Source: Motor1
