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Driving Machine

EPISODE 21: BMW M3 AND M4 EXPLAINED.

EPISODE 21: BMW M3 AND M4 EXPLAINED.

4 min reading time

Launch control manual transmission.

In episode 21, BMW M developer Sebastian explains the Launch Control in combination with the manual 6-speed gearbox for the BMW M3 and M4.

5 July 2021

The epitome of racing feeling in everyday traffic starts a new round. 35 years after the debut of the first BMW M3, BMW M GmbH presents the latest generation of its high-performance automobiles in the premium mid-size segment. Time to introduce the two new vehicles. In the #M3M4explained series, the developers have the floor.  

Sebastian has a passion for maximum acceleration: At BMW M, he is responsible for the customer experience drive train of the M3 and M4 models. The development of a Launch Control - especially for the models with manual 6-speed transmission - was one of his central projects. In the video, he explains to us how the new system works. In our Q&A he also answers questions from the community.  

BMW M3 Sedan [1] :
Fuel consumption combined in l/100 km   10.1
CO2 emissions combined in g/km   230
CO2 class   G
LAUNCH CONTROL MANUAL TRANSMISSION.

LAUNCH CONTROL MANUAL TRANSMISSION.

START VIDEO

BMW M ENTHUSIASTS ASK, BMW M EXPERTS ANSWER.

What is the set RPM while launching?

Launch rpm is 3400rpm in the manual transmission. 

 

Acceleration from 0 to 200?

The M3 with 6-speed manual does 0-200km/h in 13.7sec. 

 

Does the manual have flat foot shifting?

Yes, that is possible - the engine will hit the rev limiter then. However, during launch control the boost will be held when you lift the throttle during shifting.

 

What was the biggest challenge making the manual launch control?

Finding the optimum balance of rpm / grip / tire temperature for the best possible launch. 

 

What led you to the need of doing a launch control in manual?

Just curious.Basically, it is more of a fun thing than a needed thing … #savethemanuals. 

 

Why doesn’t the manual transmission start in the second gear like the Steptronic?

That is not recommended due to increased wear on the clutch.

BMW M3 Competition Coupé

How do you release the clutch when doing LC on a manual car?

Fast, yet sensitive - no simple side step.  

 

Why is launch control only available for 5 seconds?

The limiting factor is the exhaust temperature.  

 

How many launches does the clutch in the manual last?

That strongly depends on your very individual clutch pedal handling - not only using the launch control but also in general.

 

How many launches can you make in the life of the gearbox?

here is no limitation of the launch control's availability over its lifetime. Availabilty of launch control is temporarily unavailable when - mainly - temperature conditions of the engine, transmission, differential do not allow its use.

BMW M3 Competition Coupé

Must the engine and transmission be up to proper temperature for launch control to be available?

Launch control cannot be activated when the vehicle's / engine's / transmission's condition are not ready or warmed up properly. There also needs to be some cool down time in between two launch control starts.  

 

Launch control in DSC off or traction mode?

What's the difference in the end?MDM is being used for optimal slip control while DSC OFF allows some smokey burnouts.  

 

Was the inclusion of an electronic line lock for rear tire warming considered?

Yes, it was considered. But it was not pursued due to safety concerns. 

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The models illustrated include optional equipment.
Due to regular software updates, screen designs in the communication may differ from the actual screen design in your car.
Official data on power consumption and electric range were determined in accordance with the mandatory measurement procedure and comply with Regulation (EU) 715/2007 valid at the time of type approval. In case of a range, figures in the NEDC take into account differences in the selected wheel and tire size; figures in the WLTP take into account any optional equipment. WLTP values are used for assessing taxes and other vehicle-related charges that are (also) based on CO2 emissions, as well as for the purposes of vehicle-specific subsidies, if applicable. Where applicable, the NEDC values listed were calculated based on the new WLTP measurement procedure and then converted back to the NEDC measurement procedure for comparability reasons. For newly type-tested vehicles since 01.01.2021, the official data no longer exist according to NEDC, but only according to WLTP. For more information on the WLTP and NEDC measurement procedures, see https://www.bmw.com/wltp.
For further information about the official fuel consumption and the specific CO2 emission of new passenger cars can be taken out of the "handbook of fuel consumption, the CO2 emission and power consumption of new passenger cars", which is available at all selling points and at https://www.dat.de/co2/.
All vehicles, equipment, combination possibilities and varieties shown here are examples and can differ in your country. In no way do they constitute a binding offer by the BMW M GmbH. Visit your local BMW website or see your authorised BMW M Retailer for accurate details on the offers in your country.

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