Romania, known for producing the first electric MINI race car, has taken its innovation up a notch with the transformation of a BMW. The i4 M50, now dubbed “Elsa,” has shed its street-legal status to become a dedicated race car. This remarkable project is the brainchild of the independent racing team, Engage Racing, with support from BMW’s local division. This marks the first time the i4 M50 has been fully converted into a race car. While the dual-motor setup remains intact, delivering an impressive 536 hp (400 kW) and 795 Nm (586 lb-ft) of torque, and the 81.3 kWh lithium-ion battery pack is also retained, many other significant modifications have been made to prepare Elsa for the track.
The most noticeable changes are in the car’s aerodynamics, including a massive rear wing and a robust diffuser, complemented by an oversized front spoiler that looks capable of clearing snow. To optimize weight, the vehicle’s body has been stripped of all sound-deadening materials, and the traditional glass windows have been replaced with lighter Plexiglas. Inside, the car has been reduced to the bare minimum, with only the essentials left intact. The interior now features a Pikes Peak-spec roll cage and a carbon fiber dashboard packed with numerous buttons for different racing functions, many of which can be customized for quick access. Although the rear doors remain, the cabin is now strictly a two-seater, outfitted with Sabelt bucket seats and racing harnesses.
Beyond the visible upgrades, the BMW i4 M50 “Elsa” boasts custom Drexler limited-slip differentials on both axles. The suspension system, provided by Dutch company Intrax, includes specialized shock absorbers and springs designed to manage the vehicle’s weight on the track. While the exact weight of the race car hasn’t been disclosed, it’s expected to be significantly lighter than the standard i4 M50, which weighs 2,215 kilograms (4,883 pounds) in its European road-legal version. An artificial engine sound generator has also been installed to help the driver gauge speed more accurately and to alert bystanders to keep a safe distance from this powerful machine.
The transformation of Elsa was a year-long effort, involving a dedicated team of nine engineers. The ultimate goal for this unique race car is to compete in the legendary Pikes Peak International Hill Climb. Originally, Engage Racing planned to enter Elsa in this year’s event, but the attempt was postponed due to funding issues. However, the team remains committed to their vision. They liken Pikes Peak to a World Championship, considering it the pinnacle of global motorsport. With this in mind, they continue to work toward developing a competitive entry, acknowledging that securing the necessary resources remains their biggest hurdle.
This ambitious project not only highlights the capabilities of the BMW i4 M50 as a base for high-performance electric racing but also underscores the determination and innovation driving Engage Racing. Despite the challenges, their pursuit of excellence in the grueling Pikes Peak climb continues to inspire.
Bennex Bennex 
geraldine ikyelleve