BMW introduces dual-mode brakes in its new cars

BMW will soon begin equipping its cars with electromechanical brakes instead of the traditional vacuum-boosted ones. The new BMW M8 will be the first model to take advantage of the new brake configuration.

The electromechanical brake system is generally implemented in hybrid and all-electric cars to ensure that the brakes remain operational even when the internal combustion engine is off. The BMW M8 is different in this respect, though, as it offers two selectable brake modes (Comfort and Sport). The currently selected mode determines the sensitivity of the brake pedal and the braking effort.

The upcoming BMW M8 generation will offer similar selectable modes for other components such as the engine, the AWD transmission, the steering column, and the suspension. The current settings will be permanently displayed in the menu of the multimedia system.

Other than that, the Bavarian flagship series will be technically identical to the M5. This includes the M xDrive system, the eight-speed automatic transmission, and the 4.4-liter twin-turbo V8 rated at 600 or 625 hp (447 – 466 kW, depending on the particular trim version). The manufacturer keeps acceleration times secret so far, but you may consider that the M5 Competition sedan/saloon only needs 3.3 seconds to sprint 0-100 km/h (0-62 mph). The new M8 could hardly be expected to be slower than that.

The M8 series will celebrate its initial market debut as the coupe and convertible, followed by the four-door BMW M8 Gran Coupe.

Photos: BMW