Epic do-over!
It’s official! In a certified time of 10:48.60, Matt Mullins, behind the wheel of a BMW XM Label Red, set the Pikes Peak record! This represents most notably a class record for hybrid-electric SUVs at the famed hill climb course in Colorado Springs, but is also a comeback of sorts. That is because Matt crashed during the June hill climb event and returned in September to make that second run.
His new time surpasses that of 2018 Bentley Bentayga’s race-day record by nearly 1.5 seconds.
Behind the wheel of his XM Label Red, Matt made what was the 101st run up the hill as part of the widely-watched competition. In what is considered BMW’s most powerful production vehicle ever, this record was set. The Label Red, with its production of 738 hp and 738 lb-ft of torque, was more than enough power for the task at hand, most notably the 156 turns that comprise the hill-climb course.
Mullins’ second run, which earned him the new best time, did not count toward the race-day records because it was made after the official hill climb. Despite that, it still counts as an officially certified course run, notable to say the least!
What this new time means is that the Label is even more impressive if that’s possible, nearly 1.5 seconds faster than the 2018 Bentley Bentayga, which holds the current race-day production-SUV record with a time of 10:49.902.
Mullins’ feat was captured by BMW’s camera crew, who documented all of the attempts. What resulted was a two-part documentary that follows the initial unfortunate crash in June, followed by the crown achievement in September. Those wishing to enjoy this footage can visit the BMW USA YouTube channel. This documentary joins Matt, Rhys Miller and team as they embark on what was a nine-month journey to break the record in the Label Road. An emotional journey is to be realized for those who take the time to view it, filled with heart-wrenching lows of the first failed attempt to the outrageous highs of the climb’s success.
This celebration is a far cry from the June attempt, when he went off the track and struck a tree. While thankfully the driver remained uninjured, the first attempt was indeed a failure. Matt reflected on that upset within the documentary, as well as the excitement that mounted when he and his team got word they could make a second attempt.
The climb, which began in Colorado Springs at the foot of the famous Pikes Peak represents an extraordinary challenge, with the finish line at an altitude of 4,301 metres. It was also the perfect match for the XM Label , which has a fuel consumption in 1/100km (combined): 2.0-1.6 (WLTP); electric power consumption in kWh/100 km (combined): 33.5-32.5 (WLTP); CO2 emissions in g/km (combined): 45-35 (WLTP); electric range in km: 76-82 (WLTP).
Distinguished by features such as an accent band in Toronto Red metallic and rooted in extravagance, the XM Label R is the perfect combination of opulence and innovation. From quilted BMW Individual Vintage Merino leather within and a constellation of LED lights, the XM Label Red is also the exclusive winner’s car for the fastest qualifier of the MotoGP 2023. It is
powered by a hybrid drivetrain inspired by the BMW M Hybrid V8 racing car, boasting a sophisticated system that pairs a forceful turbocharged 8-cylinder engine with an electric motor.
The result — explosive power through and through, improved efficiency and reduced emissions.
Back to the climb!
The climb included more than 150 turns on a total distance of 12.42 miles (19.99 kilometres). Achieved at what is considered staggering elevations, the XM Label and its driver are to be truly commended. Not only does the uniquely challenging Pikes Peak run begin at 2,862 metres above sea level, but it finishes at the 4,301-metre summit of the famed mountain range.
With a rich history that dates back more than a century, Pikes Peak holds a distinct reputation in the history of motorsport. Equally notable is the background of Matt Mullins, who has been a professional driver for more than two decades, competing in six major racing series. He even worked as a stunt driver in Hollywood films and has also served as BMW’s Chief Driving Instructor at the BMW Performance Center in South Carolina.
This isn’t the first time he has made history, though.
He was part of the famed team in 2018 that set a pair of Guinness Records when they completed the world’s longest drift at more than 230 miles (370 kilometres) and eight hours behind the wheel of the F90 M5. He did this while managing to seamlessly refuel mid-drift in synchronized fashion with a custom-built F10 M5 fuel car.
With a record-breaking time in a record-breaking vehicle, take a moment to view all the excitement in what was undoubtedly an epic do-over!
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