Safety: the only thing that matters more than speed

BMW Motorsport's top priority was to build a vehicle that set new standards in safety for a Formula racing car. In fact, the Formula BMW FB2 actually exceeded these initial aims. It meets each and every one of the safety requirements for the much more powerful cars used in Formula 3, and also incorporates many safety features previously found only on Formula One cars. For example, the wheel tethers are identical to those used by the BMW WilliamsF1 Team on the FW23, and keep the wheels on the car in the event of an accident so that they do not fly off and hit the driver, spectators or course marshalls. One safety feature deserving of particular attention is the FORS (FOrmula Rescue Seat), developed especially for the FB2. It includes a number of innovations that make it easier to rescue a driver from a crashed car. If necessary the driver can be removed from the car together with the seat and can be transported while still in it. This reduces the scope for error by the rescue team, ensures that the driver's spinal column is not subjected to any further strain, and saves valuable time and, potentially, lives. In addition, crash structures on the front and rear of the car increase its deformation length and thus absorb energy in the event of an impact, while an aluminum bulkhead prevent the wishbones from penetrating the monocoque.

All the safety features of the monocoque are compatible with the HANS (Head And Neck Support) safety system, which prevents excessive neck strain to the head in the event of a serious accident. The HANS system is mandatory for all drivers in the Formula BMW Americas Championship.