Thanks to cutting-edge 3D printing techniques used by BMW manufacturing, the expectation of M models has reached new heights with the BMW X3 M Competition and BMW X4 M Competition. These models not only feature one of BMW M’s most powerful engines but also use performance-enhancing 3D-printed parts.

This particular BMW M engine relies on evolved individual components such as a 3D-printed core, which is found within the cylinder head. The benefit of these new methods is primarily a cut in the engine weight, attributed to the new cylinder head core, plus enhanced overall performance thanks to greater temperature management. The new components allow for optimised coolant ducts that were previously unrealistic to achieve.

At BMW Group, 3D-printed components are becoming more common. Over the last decade, a million parts have been produced using 3D printing techniques. In 2019, the output from the BMW Group Additive Manufacturing Center is expected to increase year-on-year by 42%, totalling over 200,000 components. For BMW, using 3D technology has made it possible to manufacture geometric forms that are normally beyond the capability of conventional metal casting techniques.

Dr. Jens Ertel, Director of the BMW Group Additive Manufacturing Center, said “The use of components made by additive manufacturing in series production of vehicles is increasing particularly strongly at the moment. We are following the development and application of these manufacturing methods very closely indeed, partly through longstanding cooperations with leading manufacturers in the field.”

M AT ITS BEST.

The new high-performance engine found in the BMW X3 M Competition and BMW X4 M Competition is a straight-six petrol engine. It comes with an eight-speed M Steptronic transmission with Drivelogic, a new M xDrive all-wheel-drive system and M TwinPower Turbo technology with a newly developed bi-turbo unit. It’s not surprising then that it generates 510hp and achieves acceleration from 0 to 62mph in just 4.1 seconds.