High-rev concept.

High RPM, high performance: evolved from motorsport, the BMW high-rev concept enables BMW engines to deliver outstanding performance. It's a key element in the unmistakable and fascinating experience of driving a BMW M vehicle.

In engine design, there are three ways of increasing an engine's power output. The cylinder capacity can be increased, or turbochargers can be fitted - but these two approaches add weight and demand space. The third approach is to design the engine to run at very high engine speeds - and this is the approach that BMW M GmbH has successfully explored for more than thirty years.
The high-rev principle is based on a simple fact: more revolutions per minute means the combustion process happens more frequently and releases more energy. Energy and performance are directly related, so high-rev engines deliver outstandingly dynamic performance.
This approach does, however, put additional strains on the engine components. The pistons in a BMW M engine drive the crankshaft at speeds up to 8,250 revolutions per minute. Such enormous forces subject the engine block to extremely high temperatures and vibrations. For this reason, BMW M engines are constructed using extremely robust materials.
Engine weight plays an important role in determining the overall dynamic performance of a vehicle, and the lightweight high-rev engines created by BMW M deliver an unparalleled level of responsiveness, agile acceleration and thrilling power development at all engine speeds.