BMW could race DTM car in VLN next year

BMW could race their Deutsche Tourenwagen Masters 2012 car in the German endurance series VLN next year.
“I would’t rule that [a 2011 race debut in the VLN] out,” said BMW Motorsport boss Mario Theissen to Autosport.

“We are looking at cost-efficient parts, which mean long engine life and long-life components, so why wouldn’t you go to a long-distance race with these cars? It would be an additional opportunity.”

The DTM organisers are going to allow manufacturers to race the 2012 cars already next year in the DTM, racing alongside the current specification cars, but without being eligible to score points.

Though Theissen says that BMW are not likely to field a car in DTM next year.

“The main issue is that there will be new regulations in 2012 and it doesen’t make sense for us to start with an old[-spec] car for the final year, and compete against two manufacturers who have been there for 10 years. So it’s just a logical decision,” said Theissen.

One of the conditions from BMW on the new rules is that they are going to be able to use their cars to race in both the USA and Asia.

“[The tie-up] is probably in the interest of the Japanese and the Americans too, because they also have cars that they can only race in one series at the moment. So I think there is a very good chance to get together. We will try to sort it out in the coming months and if it works out we will be on board [in the DTM],” said Theissen.