Storm Motorwerks touts themselves as “engineered automotive art” and there probably couldn’t be a more accurate translation of what they offer. As with all art, high volume production runs aren’t things that Storm hold as a high priority; instead, this UK-based outfit far prefers a reputation based upon quality, and with it, a tangible improvement of your driving experience.
If this sentiment toward quality sounds familiar, it should. The figurehead behind Storm Motorwerks is also the shared mastermind behind Eventuri—a brand you’d be all too familiar with as an IND fan. Indeed, Storm was a venture that started during the E46 M3 era and remains a brand that this ever-popular demographic stands behind today.
The formula was straight-forward: address all the things that provide tactile feedback during a typical drive and make them better. As such, you’ll notice that a majority of Storm Motorwerks’ product offering centers on replacement shift knobs.
V1 Shift Knob:
This style most resembles a factory BMW knob for modern applications and is available in one of two finishes: brushed stainless steel or titanium plated (PVD) stainless steel. As you’d imagine, this material change nets an immense increase in weight—the V1 tips the scales at 18.8oz whereas a ZHP knob (already considered a sizable upgrade over stock) weighs a scant 6.2oz by comparison. The additional heft translates into an equally immense increase in shifter feel and confidence.
Storm V1 Knob = 18.8oz
OEM ZHP Knob = 6.2oz
OEM Motorsport Golf Ball Knob = 2.8oz
Within these two finishes, there are two style options: “shift lines” and “M logo”. The latter is rather self-explanatory as BMW fans, while the former presents the traditional shift pattern in a modern way. The knob is secured with a set screw and Allen key, both of which are included for your convenience.
https://ind-distribution.com/products/storm-motorwerks-bmw-stainless-mt-shift-knob-v1
V2 Shift Knob:
Version two takes on a more vintage vibe more reminiscent of the M-Technic knobs found in the E28 M5, E30 M3, and the like. The homage continues beyond the overall shape—each shift pattern inlay wears the M tri-colors proudly—which helps convey a very OEM+ aesthetic. Similar to the V1 knob, this vintage variant carries a substantial weight upgrade which provides a similar improvement in feel. The knob is secured with a set screw and Allen key, both of which are included for your convenience.
Storm V2 Knob = 15.1oz
OEM ZHP Knob = 6.2oz
OEM Motorsport Golf Ball Knob = 2.8oz
Again similar to the aforementioned V1, Version 2 is available in either brushed stainless steel or titanium plated (PVD) stainless steel finishes.
https://ind-distribution.com/products/storm-motorwerks-bmw-stainless-mt-shift-knob-v2
V3 Shift Knob (SMG Only):
As revealed in the title, the “V3” knob is reserved for E46 M3 cars exclusively. Foregoing the leather grip pads for a smoother, more uniform aesthetic, the Storm knob appears to be a much more focused product inside the E46’s clean cabin.
While handsome as a standalone product, this “V3” SMG knob is only a small part of a larger stainless SMG suite which includes a gaiter ring, an illuminated shift paddle set, and a V1 e-brake handle. The entire suite is available in Storm’s two finishes: brushed stainless steel or titanium plated (PVD) stainless steel.
Storm V3 SMG Knob = 10.6oz
OEM SMG Knob = 1.9oz
https://ind-distribution.com/products/storm-motorwerks-e46-m3-stainless-smg-shift-knob-v3
Accessories:
We’ve already alluded toward the E46 M3 SMG accessories—the gaiter ring, shift paddle set, and e-brake handle provide a sizeable visual upgrade over the stock plastic or leather pieces. The shift paddles are quite a bit larger as well, make them easier to operate (and admire).
We’re happy to report that there is something for E9X owners as well—a DCT shift paddle set. As an acknowledgement of a shifting aesthetic preference towards carbon fiber, these E9X-specific paddles feature a handsome carbon inlay enveloped by either a silver or black stainless body. The passive illumination trickery from the E46 is a welcomed carry-over—the “+” and “-” in each paddle light up within glass vials with no external power source—a bit of a nod to the lume found in classic timepieces.
The optional tactile touch neoprene pads from the E46 paddles were nixed, however, in favor of more modern cutaways.
Spoiled for Choice
Storm Motorwerks may not be new, but we are thrilled to bring even more deserved attention to one of the OG’s in the game. The entire lineup of Storm products represents yet another premium option for BMW owners that we at IND wholeheartedly endorse.
