The new BMW M4 DTM went through extensive testing before the season, including using thermal camera's.

Motorsport is a game of skill, with the aim of the game to achieve the optimal temperature. Engine and brakes must not overheat. And the BMW drivers must keep a cool head whilst going bumper to bumper out on the track.

The drivers' fitness can make the difference between victory and defeat. Only a driver in peak physical condition can withstand the extreme conditions in the cockpit. The temperature inside the BMW M4 DTM can climb to over 60 degrees Celsius.

On top of that comes the heating effect of the helmet, fire resistant undergarments and overall, making every race a sweaty affair.

And the carbon brake discs can reach temperatures of up to 800 degrees Celsius. The optimum heat for the DTM tires is between 80 and 100 degrees Celsius. Only then does the rubber achieve it's top performance for maximum speed and grip.

In order to guarantee that this temperature is achieved right from the first lap, the tires are pre-heated using heated blankets. Despite this, the drivers must still be a bit sensitive on the accelerator for the first few metres until they offer optimal levels of grip.

In the hot seat: cockpit temperatures of up to 60 degrees Celsius pose a real test of the drivers' fitness during a race

Red hot braking: the carbon brakes on the BMW M4 DTM can reach temperatures of up to 800 degrees Celsius during races

Pre-heated: DTM tires achieve maximum performance between 80 & 100 degrees Celsius

"Up to Speed" is a series of articles looking behind the scenes of various motorsport series at technical, rules and safety issues