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Milltek has launched a fully emissions-compliant OPF/GPF-back exhaust system for the BMW G90 M5 – designed to work seamlessly with its hybrid powertrain. And there’s plenty more in the pipeline…
More performance cars are turning hybrid – not just to make them greener, but meaner. Electric motors are adding instant torque, improved traction, and better economy. But if there’s one thing they lack, it’s the soundtrack to match the speed.
Don’t blame the manufacturers. Blame Brussels. Increasingly stringent emissions laws mean despite being faster than ever, many performance cars are leaving the factory sounding quieter than expected. And when the petrol engine finally kicks in, the note is often strangled by gasoline particulate filters (GPFs).That’s where a high-quality OPF/GPF-back exhaust makes all the difference – restoring tone and character without compromising compliance.
It’s not just emissions. New regulations also limit the maximum decibel levels a car can produce from the factory. It’s why we’re seeing such a massive uptake in the number of manufacturers turning to augmented sound through the speaker system. The new F66 Mini JCW for example, no longer makes any signature cracks and pops on the overrun: they’re only audible on the inside of the car. But we all know the problem with these fake synthetic noises – they’re a shadow of the real thing.
That’s why a new high-quality OPF/GPF-back exhaust system can have a transformative effect, not just in terms of sound, but on the overall driving experience. It makes the car feel more alive at all speeds, right across the rev range.
BMW has always struggled with the authenticity of their augmented sound, and the new G90 M5 is no exception, despite producing 727bhp through a combination of 4.4L twin-turbo V8 and electric motor.
Thankfully, Milltek has developed a new exhaust system for the BMW G90 M5, which has just been revealed at the Goodwood Festival of Speed. It's a non-resonated GPF-back exhaust built to deliver more presence without affecting emissions compliance, bringing back the emotion that’s been engineered out of not just the M5, but too many fast cars these days.
As with all Milltek systems, the new OPF/GPF-back exhaust for the G90 M5 is built to perform and endure. Constructed from T304L stainless steel and developed at Milltek’s Derbyshire headquarters, they’re designed for durability, corrosion resistance and consistent performance.
Milltek’s team of engineers carry out in-house testing using road and dyno data to refine both sound and performance characteristics to ensure a reliable, well-finished system for daily, spirited and even track use.
Alongside the M5, Milltek also displayed a Porsche 992.2 Carrera GTS T-Hybrid fitted with a prototype system, now nearing production.
Unlike the M5’s plug-in system, the GTS-T Hybrid’s electric power exists solely to enhance performance, with the engine always active. Milltek’s target is to produce a GPF-back design that enhances tone and delivers full compatibility with the 911’s complicated array of sensors and controls.
Rest assured we’ll bring you the full details when the finished item launches.
Having a proper exhaust tone come alive under throttle makes a big difference to the overall driving feel, especially on plug-in hybrids, where the electric motor can dominate low-speed driving. Hybrid tech may be the future – but that doesn’t mean performance has to become sterile.
Milltek’s OPF/GPF-back system brings back the emotion, without compromising on compliance. Much like the hybrid powertrain itself, they’re about balance – not just chasing decibels. And for drivers who want modern performance with proper character, this is exactly the kind of upgrade that makes sense. Milltek’s new systems for the BMW G90 M5 and Porsche 992.2 GTS Hybrid prove that it’s still possible to enjoy the kind of sound, feedback and driver engagement that make a car exciting. And we expect more systems to follow in their footsteps. Watch this space.
*ML Performance is an approved supplier of Milltek’s full range of hybrid and performance exhausts, and fitment can also be arranged at one of our Xatrix locations.*
