The 748hp BMW XM Red Label Crashes At Pikes Peak Course

Aiming to set a record for a production SUV around the Pikes Peak course, BMW and driver Matt Mullins had an unfortunate collision with a tree.

BMW participated in the 2023 Pikes Peak International Hill Climb with an XM Label Red, aiming to establish a record for a production SUV. However, their plans took an unexpected turn when driver Matt Mullins was involved in a collision with a tree.

In a fresh video, the automaker documents the extensive preparations for the rally and provides an inside perspective on the accident. You can find the video on YouTube here and the crash happens around just after 18:40.

The XM Label Red represents BMW's most potent production vehicle to date. It features a hybrid-assisted twin-turbo 4.4-litre V8 engine, boasting an impressive 738 horsepower and 738 lb-ft of torque. Distinguishing crimson accents adorn the windows, grille, and wheels.

Leading up to the crash, the XM was performing admirably at Pikes Peak. Mullins achieved three qualifying times that surpassed the team's targets, progressively improving with each attempt. Race day brought ideal weather conditions to the mountain.

Mullins' official run initially appeared promising. The XM maintained significant speed while navigating the corners. Nonetheless, the SUV veered too wide in a turn and ran out of road to fix the car up.

The video reveals the driver's efforts to steer the vehicle back onto the tarmac, but there was insufficient time. It seems the nearly three-ton (around 2,750kg in more accurate figures) SUV simply understeered off the road.

The impact with a tree caused Mullins' XM to roll over, completing a full rotation before landing back on its wheels. Swiftly responding rescue teams arrived at the scene. Meanwhile, at the starting line, the BMW team and Mullins' family anxiously awaited news of his condition.

Surprisingly, the XM didn't appear severely damaged, given the gravity of the crash. However, the passenger side front wheel had dislodged, and there was some noticeable damage.

Nonetheless, the passenger compartment remained intact, and the good news was that Mullins sustained no injuries. His family was relieved to see him emerge from the incident unscathed.

The video on YouTube concludes with the message "To Be Continued," with a second instalment in this series scheduled for release on November 2. According to a BMW spokesperson, "The current focus is on re-preparing the vehicle and planning for another record attempt later this summer."

The forthcoming episode on November 2nd may delve into this concerted effort. You can watch the full video on YouTube here.