To bring gaming fantasy into the real world, BMW has unveiled a physical version of its latest virtual racing machine at BMW Welt. The BMW M4 GT3 EVO, which recently debuted in both Fortnite and Rocket League in an anime-inspired livery, is on display now through January 11th for fans who want to see the digital icon up close.
The collaboration marks a significant transition between automotive design, esports and anime culture. Fortnite, the battle royale phenomenon from Epic Games with over 650 million registered players worldwide, and Rocket League, the physics-based soccer game where cars replace players, have both welcomed BMW’s competitive racer into their digital garages. But this isn’t just another branded vehicle drop – the M4 GT3 EVO comes with a striking design inspired by “BLEACH,” the long-running anime series that’s seeing a resurgence thanks to its ongoing “Thousand-Year Blood War” adaptation.
From Digital to Physical: The Anime-Inspired Livery Explained
The livery recreates the iconic look of Ichigo Kurosaki, the series’ orange-haired protagonist, transferring his signature black and white Shinigami uniform to the racing car’s body. It’s a bold aesthetic choice that’ll immediately stand out whether you’re drifting through Fortnite’s island or scoring aerial goals in Rocket League.
“With this very special BMW M4 GT3 EVO, we are bringing together the fascination of motorsport, digital pop culture and design in a unique way,” said Sandra Wittemer, Head of BMW Welt. “The paintwork inspired by ‘BLEACH’ shows how creatively and diversely the BMW M can be interpreted. It is fascinating to see that this car not only makes an impression in virtual worlds such as Fortnite and Rocket League, but will now also be a very real experience for visitors to BMW Welt.”
BMW has been strategically expanding its presence in gaming since 2023 with the launch of “Hypnopolis” – the world’s first in-game car configurator in Fortnite. The Creative Island allowed players to customize the BMW iX2 with custom colors and features before the crossover SUV even hit showrooms. Previously, the E30 generation M240i, 1 Series and M3 made their debut in Rocket League, giving players access to BMW’s performance range in virtual form.
The latest partnership goes beyond just the car. A limited-edition PUMA sneaker from the BMW M Motorsport collection, designed to match the anime-themed M4 GT3 EVO, is also available in Fortnite’s in-game shop, allowing players to coordinate their avatar’s shoes with their virtual vehicle.
For those planning to visit, BMW Welt will be closed for public holidays from December 24th to 26th and from December 31st to January 1st. The display offers what the automaker calls “unforgettable photo opportunities” – a chance for gaming and anime fans to pose next to a car that exists at the intersection of three different subcultures.
