May , 2016 – Renowned car constructor and international racing team Ekris Motorsport successfully introduced its own developed Ekris M4 GT4 during the first round of the Competition102 GT4 European Series at Monza. In a field of 27 competitors, the Dutch firm impressed by claiming two instant podium finishes.
But success didn’t come as much of a surprise. Ekris Motorsport is part of Ekris – a BMW and MINI dealership organisation in the Netherlands at six locations – and has over two decades of experience in international motorsports. It has won multiple titles in GT4 racing with their optimised BMWs M3 GT4. At the time the team attracted much attention, the desire to develop a new vehicle emerged.
After two years of designing, fine-tuning and thorough testing including a trial race in October 2015, the Ekris M4 GT4 was successful right from the start. “It all started with a vision two years ago”, says Ricardo van der Ende, three-time European GT4 champion and 1999 Formula Ford Festival winner. “We knew how we wanted to create a new race car and we did. I’m so proud on the final result and what we have achieved with the M4 on track.”
Team-mate Bernhard van Oranje added: “We couldn’t have wished a better opening weekend. We are already competing at the front and now can only learn more about the car to further maximise the potential.”
The Ekris M4 GT4 has been developed in close collaboration with respected partners, making use of combined knowledge. For example, Ekris Motorsport has received support from SRO (Stéphane Ratel Organisation), organiser of highly-respected GT racing series like the GT4 European Series.
The BMW M4 has been proved to be the ideal platform to develop a racing car. It is powered by a three litre six-in-line Twin Power Turbo engine that delivers 431hp. A large number of parts have been modified to make it track-ready. This includes, among other things, an adjustable race chassis, an exhaust system equipped with Hi-flow racing catalysts and the optimisation of the entire electronics system. The car has also been aerodynamically optimised to meet the demands of the GT4 rulebook, being equipped with Hi-end Endless monoblock brake callipers and supported by a Bosch Motorsport race ABS system.
In addition to that, the car is also equipped with a number of safety precautions. This includes approved role cage, safety belts and a race seat, that all meet the latest safety standards.
“The Ekris M4 GT4 is a true racing car. The impressive handling, the flippers on the steering wheel, it just makes it a perfect car. The first impression was overwhelming and provided good faith, proving the results,” says Simon Knap, driving the second Ekris M4 GT4 partnering Rob Severs.
Severs adds: “We’re racing against Maseratis, Chevrolets Camaro, KTMs, Porsches and drivers with DTM and WTCC experience. Compliments to the team to create such a great car as we directly can compete for victories.”
Ekris Motorsport is currently completing its third Ekris M4 GT4 and will make its race debut soon. The first two vehicles will hit the streets of Pau during for the second round of the GT4 European Series scheduled for 13 – 15 May, 2016.
