In late 2012, BMW Motorsport set out to replace the successful M3 GT/GT2, which had brought BMW two team and manufacturers' championships, one drivers' championship, and back-to-back Sebring 12 Hour GT class wins in the American Le Mans Series. BMW turned to the successful Z4 GT3 platform to develop a LM GTE specification race car for the ALMS and other GTE class series. The Z4 GTE was designed to meet the regulatory requirements of the GTE class, with a focus on aerodynamics and engine performance.
The Z4 GTE uses the Z4 body and the same 4.4-litre V8 engine as the GT3 car, producing around 500 horsepower. The drivetrain and gearbox are similar to those of the GT3 car, but with some modifications to meet the GTE regulations. The main differences between the GT3 and GTE cars are in aerodynamics, with the GT3 car having a more sophisticated aero package, including winglets on the front fenders and a double-deck rear wing. The GTE car has a single-deck rear wing and a less aggressive rear diffuser, as well as wider bodywork in the rear of the car.
The Z4 GTE made its debut at the 2013 12 Hours of Sebring), where it ran competitively despite being a new car. The car led the GTE class at times, but both Z4 GTEs encountered suspension problems with three hours to go and went 3-5 laps down from the class leaders. The car showed exceptional handling, but a slight lack of straight-line speed. The 2013 Long Beach Grand Prix-circuit) proved to be the first win for the car, with the #55 Z4 GTE driven by Bill Auberlen and Maxime Martin driving a fine race and bringing home a 1-2 finish for BMW. A second win for the #56 car of John Edwards and Dirk Muller from pole position at Lime Rock Park proved the pace of the car.
In the Tudor United SportsCar Championship, the Z4 GTE competed in the GTLM class, debuting at the 2014 Rolex 24 Hours of Daytona. Turner Motorsport won the inaugural 2014 Tudor United SportsCar GT-Daytona Championship with an altered version of the Z4 GT3. Drivers Dane Cameron and Markus Palttala won four races, with Cameron earning the pole position for the 12 Hours of Sebring.
The Z4 GTE did not trigger any significant rule changes during its racing career. However, the car was designed to meet the regulatory requirements of the GTE class, and its performance was influenced by the rules and regulations of the series in which it competed.
The Z4 GTE was replaced in 2016 by the M6 GTLM, which was designed to compete in the same series. The M6 GTLM built on the experience and knowledge gained from the Z4 GTE program, and its design was influenced by the regulatory requirements and competitive landscape of the GTLM class.