BMW’s 2020 contender gets first test at Vallelunga

BMW Motorsport completed three days of testing at Vallelunga with the new-for-2020 revised version of the M4 DTM, with Philipp Eng and Timo Glock on driving duties.

The pair were joined by newcomers to BMW’s works squad Jonathan Aberdein and Lucas Auer, both with previous experience in the series albeit with different manufacturers.

The Bavarian manufacturer completed 460 laps around the Roman track, evaluating technical solutions for the new season over both long and short runs.

“We confirmed that we have been able to implement everything we resolved to do,” said Eng after completing the test. “The car is really very easy to drive. We have taken a further step forward and I am now looking forward to the next test in Monza.

“It was great to feel how much positive energy there is in the team, and to see how much hard work has been put in over the winter. Everyone is fully motivated.”

“The car felt good and we were able to work through some of the points on our list,” commented Timo Glock. “It was a positive test and we must now make sure we sort everything else out in Monza and continue to prepare well for the season.”

Lucas Auer was able to be involved with BMW at work for the first time, with the returning Austrian looking forward to driving at Monza.

“It was a very interesting test for me,” he said. “I have seen all the processes at BMW, got to know everyone in the team I am now very excited about Monza, where I will be at the wheel of the BMW M4 DTM myself.”

South African Aberdein, who snatched the last works seat available at BMW, was also on a learning curve at Vallelunga.

“My role at this test was to spectate, to get to know the team and to learn how everything is operating and running,” he said. “It has been valuable for me to gather this information.”

Next on track action for BMW Motorsport are the ITR tests at Monza, from the 16th to the 18th of March.