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BMW Drivers Club Melbourne

  • 22 Jun 2022 8:01 PM | Anonymous

    BMW M GmbH is adding a new body variant to its line-up of high-performance models in the premium midsize class. The first-ever BMW M3 Touring combines authentic motor sport feeling with a very distinct character and a broader spread of practical qualities. Its powertrain technology is focused wholly on delivering beguiling performance and brings together the 375 kW/510 hp version of the six-cylinder in-line engine with M TwinPower Turbo technology, the eight-speed M Steptronic transmission with Drivelogic and the M xDrive all-wheel-drive system. The latest addition to the range is therefore available exclusively in BMW M3 Competition Touring with M xDrive form (fuel consumption combined: 10.4 – 10.1 l/100 km [27.2 – 28.0 mpg imp]; CO2 emissions combined: 235 – 229 g/km in the WLTP cycle; NEDC figures: – ). The variable-use interior of the first BMW M3 Touring gives it a distinctive character profile, providing fresh scope for experiencing M-typical performance in everyday use. The new BMW iDrive including BMW Curved Display brings cutting-edge control/operation and connectivity tech to the cabin.

    The BMW M GmbH model offensive continues in its 50th anniversary year with the addition of a fourth model type to the BMW M3/M4 range alongside the Sedan, Coupé and Convertible. The BMW M3 Touring will celebrate its world premiere at the Goodwood Festival of Speed in June 2022. Orders for the new BMW M3 Touring can be taken from September 2022, ahead of a market launch that will get underway with the start of production in November 2022. The BMW M3 Touring will be produced alongside the BMW M3 Sedan at BMW Group Plant Munich.

    Standalone vehicle concept with extravagant design.

    The first BMW M3 Touring goes to particularly impressive lengths to deliver on the traditional M promise of dynamic flair, agility and precision combined with unrestricted everyday practicality and mile-covering ability. Extravagant exterior design shines a particularly vivid spotlight on its unique vehicle concept, ensuring clear differentiation within the line-up and a dynamic aura unmatched by any rival.

    Cleanly designed surfaces and athletic forms signal the standout performance potential of the BMW M3 Touring, as do the M-specific design cues firmly invested in the functional requirements of cooling air routing and aerodynamic balance. Chief among these are the vertically arranged, frameless BMW kidney grille, large side air intakes, powerfully sculpted wheel arches and prominently extended side skirts which, together with the attachment parts for the front and rear aprons, form a Black high-gloss band around the whole of the car. Other distinctive features are the M gills in the front side panels and the exhaust tailpipes integrated into the rear apron to the left and right of centre.

    Whatever exterior colour is specified for the BMW M3 Touring, its roof will be finished as standard in Black high-gloss. The standard roof rails and the model-specific Gurney air-directing flap on the roof spoiler are painted in the same shade. The roof can also be finished in body colour as an option, and an M Carbon exterior package can also be found on the options list.

    High-revving six-cylinder in-line engine.

    The version of the six-cylinder in-line engine with M TwinPower Turbo technology developed for the Competition models in the BMW M3/M4 line-up produces maximum output of 375 kW/510 hp and peak torque of 650 Nm (479 lb-ft). Distinguished by the appetite for revs for which M engines are renowned, plus linear power delivery sustained into high load ranges, the 3.0-litre straight-six forms the basis for the unit in the new BMW M4 GT3 endurance racing car. Its cooling and oil supply systems are designed to handle extremely high longitudinal and lateral dynamic forces on the track. And the M-specific exhaust system with electrically controlled flaps generates an emotionally arresting soundtrack that brings an extra layer to the performance experience.

    The engine joins forces with an eight-speed M Steptronic transmission with Drivelogic, which offers three gearshift programs and can be operated using shift paddles on the steering wheel. The engine’s power is channelled through to the road via the M xDrive all-wheel-drive system, which teams up with the Active M Differential at the rear axle. The need-based distribution of power across all four wheels optimises the traction of the BMW M3 Competition Touring with M xDrive, as well as its agility and directional stability. Acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h (62 mph) takes 3.6 seconds and the sprint from 0 to 200 km/h (124 mph) requires just 12.9 seconds. Opting for the M Driver’s Package increases the electronically limited top speed from 250 km/h (155 mph) to 280 km/h (174 mph).

    As well as the basic 4WD setting, the driver can also select 4WD Sport mode via the Setup menu. This provides an even more intense experience of the M xDrive system’s rear-biased tuning. Switching off DSC (Dynamic Stability Control) brings 2WD mode – a.k.a. pure rear-wheel drive – into play.

    Ideal balance of performance and long-distance comfort.

    Chassis technology tuned both to the performance profile of the powertrain and to the specific vehicle concept of the BMW M3 Touring creates an ideal balance of sports performance and majestic ride comfort in everyday use and over longer-distance journeys. Detailed fine-tuning has been carried out as part of intensive testing on race circuits, country roads and urban routes. The high torsional stiffness of the body structure and chassis mountings imbues the car with even greater agility, dynamics and precision, and is further enhanced by model-specific bracing elements in the underfloor section and load compartment.

    Both the double-joint spring strut front axle and the five-link rear axle have M-specific kinematics and combine lightweight design with particularly high rigidity. Adaptive M suspension with electronically controlled shock absorbers and M Servotronic steering with a variable ratio come as standard on the BMW M3 Touring. The integrated braking system offers two settings for pedal feel. Optional M Carbon ceramic brakes can be ordered as an alternative to the standard M Compound braking system. Meanwhile, forged M light-alloy wheels in 19-inch (front) and 20-inch (rear) format are fitted as standard and can be specified with track tyres as an option.

    The DSC system includes wheel slip limitation integrated into the engine control unit. As well as M Dynamic Mode, the BMW M3 Touring also has the M Traction Control function as standard. In the M xDrive system’s 2WD mode, the driver can adjust the intervention thresholds for wheel slip limitation through ten stages in order to carefully approach the physical limits under hard cornering on the track.

    Racing feeling in the cockpit, highly versatile rear compartment.

    The BMW Curved Display will be fitted as standard in the BMW M3 Touring from launch. It provides a fresh interpretation of the cockpit design focused on providing an intense performance experience. The fully digital screen grouping is made up of a 12.3-inch information display and a control display with a screen diagonal of 14.9 inches. It is positioned behind a single glass surface that is angled towards the driver. The information display behind the steering wheel presents all relevant driving information with new graphics and in an M-specific style. M-specific widgets with information on the car setup and tyre condition can be shown on the control display’s home screen. A BMW Head-Up Display with M-specific content is offered as an option.

    Electrically adjustable M Sport seats with memory function and seat heating plus Merino leather trim come as standard in the BMW M3 Touring. The optional M Carbon bucket seats for the driver and front passenger offer a unique symbiosis of motor sport feeling, lightweight design, sumptuous workmanship and long-distance comfort. The use of carbon-fibre-reinforced plastic (CFRP) in the structural elements of the seat cushion and backrest, together with cut-outs in the side bolsters and below the head restraints, saves 9.6 kilograms over the standard M Sport seats.

    The rear compartment of the BMW M3 Touring has three full-size seats. The rear-seat backrest can be split 40 : 20 : 40. Folding down individual seat sections or all of them at the same time allows the car’s load capacity to be expanded from 500 litres to a maximum 1,510 litres, as required. Automatic tailgate operation and the separately opening rear window are both standard. A storage compartment underneath the boot floor provides space for the luggage compartment cover and boot partition net. Anti-slip rails that rise up automatically from the boot floor can be ordered as an option. These prevent items of luggage from sliding around in dynamic driving situations.

    M Drive Professional and BMW Maps navigation system as standard.

    Comfort-enhancing features fitted as standard in the BMW M3 Touring include three-zone automatic climate control, the BMW Live Cockpit Plus including BMW Maps navigation system, ambient lighting, the hi-fi speaker system, and the interior and exterior mirror package. Customers can also benefit from a broad selection of automated driving and parking systems. Front Collision Warning, Speed Limit Display with no-overtaking indicator, Lane Departure Warning and Park Distance Control come as standard. Among the available options are the Driving Assistant Professional with Steering and Lane Control Assistant, Active Cruise Control with Stop&Go function, traffic light detection and Active Navigation, plus the Parking Assistant with Reversing Assistant.

    The M-specific control/operation system includes the Setup button, which provides direct access to the settings options for the engine, chassis, steering, braking system and M xDrive. Two overall vehicle setups can be stored and called up using the M buttons on the steering wheel. As well as M Traction Control, the likewise standard M Drive Professional also contains the M Drift Analyser and the M Laptimer.

    The M Mode button on the centre console can be used to adjust the responses of the driver assistance systems and the content shown in the information display and Head-Up Display. BMW M3 Touring drivers can also choose from the ROAD, SPORT and TRACK settings.

    The latest-generation BMW iDrive vehicle experience system in the BMW M3 Touring represents the embodiment of progressive digitalisation. It is based on BMW Operating System 8 and, together with the BMW Intelligent Personal Assistant and BMW Curved Display, has been designed squarely to deliver intuitive interaction between the driver and car using natural speech and touch control. The new BMW iDrive enables personalisation via the BMW ID and My BMW App, plus in-car use of the Personal eSIM. Smartphone integration for using CarPlay® and Android Auto™ is also part of standard specification. A 5G-compatible antenna system provides optimised connectivity.

    BMW PRESS

  • 21 Jun 2022 6:58 PM | Anonymous

    +++ Digital twin leverages vast efficiency potential in planning process +++ Highly innovative 3D scanning creates photorealistic images of all building structures, facilities and outdoor areas +++ “New dimension of factory planning” +++

    By early 2023, the BMW Group will have a digital scan of every one of its vehicle plants worldwide. In this way, the company is systematically merging the real and virtual worlds and tapping into the enormous potential for highly efficient planning of future plant structures and production facilities. “This opens up entirely new possibilities for us to implement both extensive new planning and smaller-scale remodelling of existing structures in a highly efficient, precise and flexible manner,” says Michele Melchiorre, head of Production System, Planning, Tool Shop, Plant Construction at the BMW Group.

    Alongside data science and artificial intelligence, virtual planning is a core element of digitalisation within the strategic vision of BMW production: the BMW iFACTORY. The aim is to make planning and simulation of all processes and the entire production system 100 percent virtual. Virtualisation takes planning for all processes to a new level, by enabling collaboration in real time between different locations and across different time zones. “Production planning can integrate the virtual product into the virtual factory at an early stage. This reduces planning effort and capital expenditure and, at the same time, ensures processes are more efficient and more stable during ramp-up,” explains Melchiorre.

    For completely new future production structures, the BMW Group will rely on cooperation with NVIDIA and its Omniverse software platform. “We are entering a new dimension of factory planning,” underlines Melchiorre. This means planners can conduct a virtual walk-through of BMW Group plants at any time, from anywhere. They can develop production systems together in the simulated world, compare best practices and share information quickly and easily within the network. “This forms the basis for planning and developing our new vehicle plant in Debrecen in Hungary,” continues Melchiorre: “Today, around three years before the series launch, we are already able to simulate core processes at our future plant virtually.”

    The BMW Group is digitalising its existing plants in cooperation with NavVis. The Munich startup is considered one of the world's leading providers of technology in the field of reality capture and digital twins. Mobile 3D laser scanners will be used to create photorealistic panoramic images, floor plans and scatter plots for all BMW Group vehicle plants, by early 2023, that are accurate down to the last detail, including all building structures, facilities and outdoor areas.

    Since November 2020, around four million square metres of indoor space and nine million square metres of outdoor space at BMW Group plants have been scanned using portable mobile scanning systems and drone systems. As a result, digital twins are already available for the US plant in Spartanburg, the main plant in Munich and Plant Regensburg. Plants Dingolfing, Leipzig and Tiexi in China will also be captured by September of this year. By spring of 2023, digital data will also be available for the BMW Group plants in Mexico, South Africa, the UK and Dadong, China. The NavVis IVION Enterprise platform will then create a digital image of reality – the Digital Twin – from these huge data volumes.

    Around 15,000 BMW employees are already working with this data, using a cloud- and web-browser-based software called the BMW Factory Viewer. With the help of this software and with just a few clicks, existing plants can be virtually inspected, specific points in production found via points of interest (POIs) and highly precise measurements carried out.

    The system also allows individual sections of the 3D scans to be cut out and made available to external suppliers, for instance. This saves time and effort during production planning, improves collaboration with internal and external interfaces and eliminates planning errors.

    3D scanning technology also allows both smaller and larger-scale remodelling projects at BMW plants to be transferred quickly and easily to the digital world, using the so-called re-scan process. The company is working in this area on developing its own autonomous scanning robots to keep the digital master data current in the long term, without requiring additional personnel effort. For this purpose, the BMW Group is using in-house solutions, such as the Smart Transport Robot (STR) developed by BMW Group subsidiary IDEALWORKS. Michele Melchiorre: “Partnerships like those with NVidia and NavVis allow us to combine our pioneering spirit and process know-how with cutting-edge technologies.”

    BMW PRESS

  • 17 Jun 2022 7:54 PM | Anonymous

    With the official presentation in the run-up to the SRO race weekend at the VIRginia International Raceway (USA), BMW M Motorsport has rung in the sales phase of the new BMW M4 GT4, which is set to continue its predecessor’s run of success in the internationally established GT4 category as of the 2023 season.

    With the official presentation in the run-up to the SRO race weekend at the VIRginia International Raceway (USA), BMW M Motorsport has rung in the sales phase of the new BMW M4 GT4, which is set to continue its predecessor’s run of success in the internationally established GT4 category as of the 2023 season. The car was on display with the BMW M Motorsport design for the first time on Friday, having previously successfully completed a test race in camouflage livery at the Nürburgring-Nordschleife (GER). The new BMW M4 GT4 goes on sale with plenty of technical highlights and at a net price of 187,000 euros. Production is set to start in October 2022, to allow the first cars to be delivered to teams in time for the start of the 2023 season. 

    “We took on the challenge to develop a successor to the highly successful first-generation BMW M4 GT4”, said Franciscus van Meel, CEO of BMW M. “Using a wide range of customer feedback, our experienced development team and the new sixth generation BMW M4 based production car has led to a faster, even more reliable and very emotional all new BMW M4 GT4.”

    The new BMW M4 GT4 was developed to win races and titles, just like its predecessor. To this end, the latest key technologies from the production model have been combined with a range of components from its big brother, the BMW M4 GT3. The developers focused on four key areas: performance, reliability, cost efficiency and maintainability. In addition, further developments in ergonomics and electronics have considerably improved the customer experience. These include the M Track Cockpit, which makes many vehicle settings and checks possible directly via the control elements, thereby minimising the more time-consuming connection to a laptop.

    When developing the new BMW M4 GT4, BMW M Motorsport had the backing of support from strong partners. Bcomp, H&R, PUMA, RAVENOL and RECARO shared valuable expertise in their areas, and in doing so made an important contribution to the success of the project.

    After the presentation in the USA, the BMW M4 GT4 is entering the final phase of testing. This will include the car taking part in the next race of the Nürburgring Endurance Series and in the 24 Hours of Portimão (POR). Production for delivery to customers is due to start in October 2022. The net price of the BMW M4 GT4 has been set at 187,000 euros. Thanks to near-production development and the pending SRO homologation, the car can be used in all GT4 race series around the world.

    Technical highlights and specifications of the BMW M4 GT4.

    Dimensions:

    • Length (incl. splitter and rear wing): 4,863 mm
    • Width (incl. mirrors): 2,093 mm
    • Height: 1,368 mm (variable)
    • Wheelbase: 2,857 mm

    Drivetrain:

    • Engine: Six-cylinder in-line with M TwinPower turbo technology, four valves per cylinder, direct injection, Valvetronic
    • Capacity: 2,993 cc
    • Output: Up to 405 kW / 550 hp & 650 Nm torque (depending on regulations)
    • Engine management: Production-ECU, power for BoP management adjustable
    • Transmission: 7-speed automatic gearbox by ZF with motorsport software, DREXLER limited slip differential with separate temperature controlled auxiliary cooling, motorsport optimised driveshafts

    Further technical highlights:

    • Air conditioning, heated windscreen as standard
    • M Track cockpit and laptop-less functions
    • FANATEC GT4 illuminated steering wheel with various controls
    • 10-step traction control
    • Purpose-built RECARO safety-seat with ventilation, fixed position and BMW M4 GT4 branding
    • Interior and exterior made from lightweight natural fibre by Bcomp, engine bonnet with aero designed louvres
    • GT3 lightweight roof (CFK)
    • Adjustable GT3 concept Motorsport rear wing (natural fibre)
    • Focus on ease of maintenance
    • Five-level adjustable motorsport anti-roll bar front and rear
    • Purpose-built KW 2-way Motorsport shock absorbers with
    • Three different H&R spring rates
    • Front camber adjustable with shims
    • Rear toe and camber adjustable with shims
    • Double-flow brake air cooling

    BMW PRESS

  • 14 Jun 2022 5:47 PM | Anonymous

    The distinctive styling is also taking a huge leap forwards with the fully electric next model generation of the British premium brand. Reduction without compromise, digitalisation creating an intensive user experience, sustainability running through the MINI DNA, maximum emotion with minimum footprint.

    Electric, digital, sustainable and distinctive: the new generation of MINI models brings the brand’s driving pleasure, user experience and responsible attitude into a completely new era. Its forward-looking design language makes this transformation instantly visible. It melds the brand’s traditional values with state-of-the-art technology and acknowledges the elementary principles of vehicle design as well as the urban character of the MINI and its community’s innovative spirit. The principle behind Charismatic Simplicity is a design that helps each new MINI model develop a strong individual character of its own, intuitively focussing on the essence of the brand with a clear, reduced design language. Another central factor of the new design language is its choice of materials with a keen eye on sustainability. The next MINI model generation has a leather-free interior and dispenses almost entirely with chrome elements.

    The MINI models of the future bring together a modern and purist exterior and an interior design that focuses on the essentials. This reflects the principle of creative use of space that the classic MINI is already renowned for. The new design language also exploits the opportunity of electrifying the powertrain to generate the driving pleasure you expect from MINI entirely without local emissions. “Purely electrically powered models from MINI give us a unique opportunity to rethink our design. At the same time, we retain the attention to detail, sense of tradition and passion for innovation that MINI is renowned for,” says Oliver Heilmer, Head of MINI Design.

    The vehicle architecture for the new MINI model generation has been developed for purely electric mobility right from the outset. Every inch of the available installation space is used even more efficiently for the comfort, well-being, emotional experience and driving pleasure of the occupants. This means that every MINI model, whatever its exterior dimensions, will continue to offer the ideal combination of a small footprint and available interior space in the future.

    The core of the brand will also be embedded in the future model generation of the MINI 3-door – purely electric and consistently geared towards urban driving pleasure. The successor to the current MINI Countryman will also be hitting the road with a purely electric drive. MINI will soon also be presenting the concept study of a – fully electrically powered – crossover model for the premium small-car segment. “The MINI Design DNA will clearly come through in every model of this new generation, leaving its brand affiliation in no doubt whatsoever,” announces Oliver Heilmer. “At the same time, the MINI design team has successfully created strong product features with individual accents that more than ever before underscore a sense of independence.”

    Creation of independent vehicle personalities is one of the central features of the new design language. Charismatic Simplicity gives each member of the future MINI model family its own individual charisma that is unmistakably based on the brand’s core, reinterpreting it confidently and in its own way. The authentic reference to the essential values of MINI is expressed in a very modern design language featuring clearly and cleanly modelled surfaces. Charismatic Simplicity reduces the number of components and concentrates on essential elements, helping the design of future MINI models achieve an emotional, intuitively perceptible identity.

    “We combine the core of the MINI DNA with innovative, aesthetic and technological inspiration in our new design language,” says Oliver Heilmer. “This means that every new MINI remains a genuine and at the same time future-proof original.” For example, innovative LED technology gives the typical Union Jack design of the MINI combination rear lamps a variety of forms, creating an individual light signature for each model.

    The combination of tradition and progress creates an immersive user experience in the interiors of future MINI models, further intensifying the traditionally strong connection between person and car at MINI. “MINI is an urban brand, every facet of whose design helps to make life in the city as enjoyable and eventful as possible,” explains Oliver Heilmer. The key to this is both in advanced digitalisation in operation and connectivity, and in a clearly designed interior with intuitive functionality.

    In the cockpit of future MINI models, too, reduction does not mean having to do without. The OLED technology for the fully digital display and control unit presented for the first time in the MINI Vision Urbanaut means significantly more functions can be combined in a single control unit. This is presented in the archetypal MINI circular central instrument in the middle of the dashboard. MINI is the world’s first car manufacturer to offer a touch display with a fully usable round surface. The innovative display technology paves the way for a new user interface design. At the same time, the MINI design retains analogue control units such as the toggle switches below the central interface. These embody the attention to detail and distinctive design features that transform intuitive functionality into an emotional experience.

    “The future of MINI design is based on the courage and determination to shape change and stamp a distinctive and inimitable profile on the brand,” says Oliver Heilmer. This also includes a range of materials with a relentless focus on sustainability. The new MINI model generation will move completely away from leather surfaces and also reduce its use of chrome components to almost zero. A fundamental attitude shaped by a sense of responsibility and a focus on the future is expressed through electrification, resource-conserving production, exacting environmental standards and a progressively increasing share of secondary raw materials as well as natural and recycled materials. A minimal ecological footprint is deeply anchored in the brand’s tradition and is incorporated more comprehensively than ever by MINI Design into the new model generation.

    The concept study of a crossover model from the new, fully electric MINI generation will provide the first full preview of the new design language for the next-generation all-electric model family and will be presented to the public for the first time at the end of July 2022. With it, MINI Design showcases how technological innovations and a progressive interpretation of individual mobility are taking the brand’s design language far into the future with this concept car.

    BMW PRESS

  • 13 Jun 2022 7:44 PM | Anonymous

    Dynamic driving test with the new BMW M2 under racetrack conditions. High-performance drive, M chassis and two transmission options guarantee a unique, sporty driving experience, even when pushed to the limit.

    With just a few months remaining until the world premiere of the new BMW M2*, the final test phase in the development of the new high-performance car is in full swing. The new BMW M2 offers thoroughbred racing technology for the roads. In keeping with its affinity with the racetrack, the car’s driving dynamics were subjected to an intensive test at the Salzburgring in Austria.

    The tests focussed on the driving dynamics and chassis, and the new BMW M2 impressed with outstanding characteristics. The new production car boasts a similar performance level to the BMW M2 CS**, the exclusive, special-edition sports car from BMW M GmbH. It allows the driver to experience that pure racetrack feeling in any conditions – even at the limit.

    The power under the bonnet of the BMW M2 is provided by the tried-and-tested engines from the M3 and M4 models. The two optional transmission types, the manual 6-speed gearbox and 8-speed M Steptronic gearbox, guarantee that the power is applied extremely dynamically, redefining sheer driving pleasure. The sporty driving characteristics are intensified by the adaptive M chassis and the rear-wheel drive on the new BMW M2. The powerful brake system comes from the M3 and M4 and ensures the power is controlled effortlessly.

    The sporty appearance of the new BMW M2 is rounded off by a selection of special equipment options. For example, a carbon roof to reduce weight, among other benefits. M carbon bucket seats for the driver and passenger, also available as an option, emphasise the racing look of the new BMW M2.

    The world premiere of the new BMW M2 will be in October, followed by the market launch in April 2023.

    BMW PRESS

  • 8 Jun 2022 7:50 PM | Anonymous

    Officine Riunite Milanesi and Customizer Radikal Chopper reveal new R 18 custom bike in Monaco.

    The exclusive Top Marques show in Monaco (MC) was the perfect stage to present the new BMW R 18 customisation project by Radikal Chopper.

    The R 18 Magnifica has been unveiled on June 8 during the Monaco show première: an extreme reinterpretation of the German maxi cruiser where luxury, craftsmanship and the nobility of the materials used meet in this unique and fascinating motorcycle. The development of this project commissioned by Officine Riunite Milanesi was entrusted to the genius and art of Andrea Radaelli from Radikal Chopper: a happy union that with this first joint project gave birth to Radikal Design.

    BMW R 18 Magnifica. 

    Handmade, using noble materials such as brass, aluminium and wood, with a design unlike any other custom: this is the identikit of the BMW R 18 Magnifica. The idea of building a custom bike based on the BMW R 18 is due to Raffaello Polchi, owner of Officine Riunite Milanesi and a lifelong motorbike enthusiast, but the project and the hand are by Andrea Radaelli of Radikal Chopper, a well-known name in the sector and already winner of the MBE Award 2020 with his Ad Maiora: a special edition built with maniacal care starting from a BMW R 1100 S. The approach followed in the making of Radikal Chopper motorbikes is really radical, and the design of the R 18 Magnifica is not different. According to Andrea, "the bike has to be my own creation, I don't feel like dredging up or modifying a concept already set up and done very well by others." The inspiration for the design of the BMW R 18 Magnifica winks at the vintage motorbikes of the 1920s, 30s, and 40s and in particular the BMW R 37, objects that “have an incredible charm that even today many modern motorbikes cannot replicate". The use of a particular material such as wood is a strong reminder of the motorbikes of the past, which used it for certain details such as the grips; an idea that also came to mind when thinking of the old BMW cars of the 1940s with wooden steering wheels. The use of this material also responds to the desire to put something 'alive' on the motorbike. Moreover, the wood fits coherently with the design of the R 18 Magnifica, giving this custom a chic, retro, and modern effect at the same time.

    Hand-forged from noble materials.

    No CAD or render as a starting point, but at most a sketch of the bike: the rest is all down to the creative imagination of Andrea Radaelli. The R 18 was initially considered without all the elements necessary for series production and then rethought respecting the proportions between the front and rear of the bike, to achieve a harmonious visual logic. Nothing on the R 18 Magnifica is bought, everything (or almost everything) has been thought out and built by hand. The exception are the rims, machined from billet and machined with numerically controlled machines, but always to a design by Radikal Chopper. Even the innovative brake discs and callipers were specially created. Tail and seat are one-piece suspension and give the idea of floating in the air. The rear end is mahogany with a polished stainless steel centre section, giving the motorbike a jewel-like appearance. The forks have the same slope as the original ones but a look reminiscent of those on vintage motorbikes, inside, however, they are completely modern, built from billet parts. The electrical system has not been modified; everything is fully functional. The dimensions, rims, and tyres have remained true to the original: the bike is perfectly serviceable. Beneath the retro aesthetics lies a technologically modern motorbike, lightened by around 100 kg: the weight of the BMW R 18 Magnifica is in fact around 250-260 kg, compared with 345 kg for the original model. 

    Link to video presentation R 18 Magnifica.

    BMW PRESS

    Disclaimer.
    The vehicles shown may be modified and fitted with third-party accessories and/or proprietary parts that are not manufactured, distributed or tested by BMW. BMW accepts no liability for the modifications (including the fitting, characteristics and use of the accessories shown). NOTE: Modification of series production vehicles (including the fitting and use of third-party and self-made parts) can impair riding characteristics! Riding our vehicles in modified condition is at your own risk.

  • 7 Jun 2022 8:48 PM | Anonymous


    Event date: 30 April 2022 

    Every 4 years great things happen:

    • The Olympics
    • Soccer World Cups
    • Leap Years
    • Presidential Elections
    • World Expo’s
    • And of course, the BMWDCM 4th Anniversary*

    So, it was only fitting that we celebrated in style with a wonderful evening at the Park Royal in Clayton on April 30.  A magnificent gala night of fancy dress, superb food, brain-twisting trivia, laughs with friends and of course our Annual Awards.

    For Fiona and I this was our second BMWDCM birthday- but at our first one we were still very new members and because of COVID restrictions it was one of our first events with the club.

    Fast forward 12 months, and who would have thought just how immersed in the club our family (including our daughters Harper and Payton and my Dad, Wayne) have become- and how much the club has thrown it’s arms around us.

    When I first joined the club, it was on the back of some self-reflection during one of those COVID lockdowns…. “what am I doing… working all the time with no real outlet, hobbies or social connections….”  In fact, over the last few years my life had been my beautiful family and my work.  One by one, I lost contact with my friends, and become more insular in my life.  Don’t get me wrong, I was happy and enjoying everything… but just kind of lonely and going through some motions in life- if you know what I mean.

    So, I decided to look for something else… and the idea of a car club appealed.  I owned a BMW, so why not a BMW Club.  I was a bit hesitant; I mean most car clubs are full of jerks that are often all about one-upping each other.  But, what the heck… I joined anyway.

    Our first ‘event’ was the Australia Day drive in Beechworth (2021)- which was a blast.  We were made to feel so very welcome by everyone, and really sensed a family focus with the club.  Oh.. and no jerks!

    From that point on we have been to numerous events, family days, weekends away, drives, motorsport days and come and try days.  I tried to count but gave up.  From Family Day’s at Werribee Zoo and Cruden Farm, ANZAC Weekends, Come and Try Days, Drivers Championships Days, Car Shows at Sandown and the GP, club meetings where we had the VIP treatment at places like Jay Leno’s Garage, Revolution Racewear and Creative Customs… and that’s just a small sample. 

    In addition, my family and I have also been fortunate to be able to support some wellbeing initiatives on behalf of the club.

    Oh, and I also now own an E30 racing car that keeps me (and Bell Motorsport) busy.  I only took delivery of the car in March last year (it was previously club member Walter Buehler’s car), and have enjoyed competing in the Traction Tyres Club Championship since- and managed to win my class last year, receiving a wonderful award during our anniversary event.  It goes to prove that consistency in our club championship counts, as I was far from the fastest, I just showed up, gave it a crack, had fun and learned about my new car.  I now have a class championship to my name- It was quite unexpected, but something I am proud of.

    So it has been a big year.

    Most importantly, through all of the events my family and I have made some wonderful friends- real friends.  Mates.  Genuine people that we love to spend time with… and not just because of the shared BMW thing either.

    The club- each of you- really has become an extension of our family, so it was a wonderful surprise for me to be awarded New Member of the Year for 2021.  A beautiful perpetual trophy and a piece to keep will now sit proudly in my office.  It was unexpected- and truth is that my family and I have immersed ourselves into the club only because of the warm, genuine welcome and great friends we have made.

    I joined the club just to meet a few people, make some new friends, and maybe go to a few events and things now and then. I wanted to feel less insular and lonely.  I also hoped that joining the club would help me feel a little less exhausted and give me an outlet beyond work.

    I never anticipated what has happened simply from joining a car club, and how much joy it has given our family since.

    With the raffle prizes we won, three trophies and the gifts given to each of us on the night, we almost didn’t have enough hands to carry it all out.

    So, a big thank you to each of you; especially Jo and Graeme for creating such a wonderful club- the Best Club in the World!.

    *Of course in the next four years it will be our 8th Anniversary… but still a special event!

    Shannon Cooper | Member #631
    BMW Drivers Club Melbourne

    I decided to sell my E30 that spend a lot of time and money on as I thought I really wanted an E31 850i that came up for sale in New Zealand. The price was awesome, it was a fantastic deal. I made my offer, and I was ghosted. I turned my attention to looking for another car locally this time. I saw a Carbon Schwartz E46 M3 pop up in my searches. I saved it. Then I went back to look at several more times over the next few days. I was in a hotel room in Adelaide at the time, in two-week quarantine, when the SA borders were restricted back in 2020. It was October at that stage. 

    I emailed the person advertising the car. We ended up speaking on the phone. He was selling the car on behalf of one of his friends, who was not well. After a few phone calls, lots of emails and agreement on a price (a price that now only seems a pipedream for an E46 M3). This car was on the mid north coast of NSW. How the hell could I get there to collect the car? Well as luck would have it, the day after borders opened, we secured a flight up to Ballina, where the seller picked us up from the airport and took us back to his house where the car was. 

    It was nothing short of magnificent! We drove it back to Melbourne; it was a delight to drive.

    Now we are in the 2021 season, in a new car and back in familiar territory on the tracks. I prepped the car. At least I thought I prepped it right. I upgraded the brakes; I chose brake pads poorly. I cooked brakes after only one and half track days. My day at Sandown was over after only 2 sessions. I decided to drive home. On my way I stopped at BMW Waverley, on the off chance they’d have a set of 135i 6 pot Brembo pads (which were the front brakes I upgraded to). Luck was on my side; they had a set. I did a brake change in the carpark of Waverley BMW. Needless to say, I had some strange looks from the sales & mechanical staff. Once changed out, I headed back to the track to continue my track day! After another session the rear pads decided they were done too. I made my way home. Learned a lot about brake pads that day!

    The rest of the season was issue free. The car ran like a dream, even in the heavy rain at Phillip Island in early July, it was a hoot! Had loads of track time in 2021 and even more fun.

    Aside from doing the motorsport thing, my primary passion is Athletics. I have been involved in Athletics pretty much all my life, so now that I am LONG retired from being a competitor myself, I have been coaching for the last 12 years. I coach about 48 weeks of the year, only taking a small amount of time off after Easter. So when we have summer track days, sometimes they clash with Athletics meets and because I coach so many Athletes, I have to prioritise my time, so I sometime miss track days because of that. 2021 was a fortunate year, pretty much all out track days lined up with the day before or the day after an Athletics meet, so I had the opportunity to attend all but one or two events through the season.

    Jo messaged me asking if I was attending the awards night. I wasn’t sure at that stage, but Jo insisted that it would be a great night and It’d be well worth attending. So, I began to think about the season and thought, maybe I am in the shortlist for my class??? There are other M cars on the track that are faster than me. I mean it’s always going to be difficult for an E46 M3 to keep up with M2 Competition, M4 etc, so I honestly thought I was shortlisted. The points pages hadn’t been updated all year, so it was difficult to tell where I stood.

    Whilst we didn’t go in theme, it was great to see others all dressed up and being the part, who can forget Greg in THAT costume eh?

    When I was announced as the Class winner, I was pretty excited. This was my first trophy in Motorsport. It was very definitely worth attending! I was well chuffed!

    Then as the evening went on, the overall award was up for offer. I sat there listening, wondering who it might be, there were loads of great drivers through the season, so I was looking around the room to see who ready to stand up to accept the award. My name was read out! I was in a little disbelief at that point. How on earth could I win it? Well, I guess Jo and Graeme spoke on how the award was based. It certainly seemed logical, but I still didn’t quite believe it. But it was the case and now I have this magnificent M6 GTR Trophy in a Perspex case sitting on our buffet in the dining room.

    So now I am now keen on returning to the track to keep putting in my time and effort to develop my driving skills. Sadly, I have already missed a few this year due to Athletics commitments, and on top of that, we head overseas so I miss out on the track day at Broadford on July 17th. And on that note, when one is in Germany, a member of the Number 1 BMW Club in the world and 2021 Motorsport Champion, what does one do? That’s right, go book a car and book a day on Nürburgring! So I have secured an E46 M3 and 4 laps of instruction, plus 6 laps on the famous Nürburgring Nordschleife! Oh, and it’s on the same day as Broadford too, so I will be on track in Solidarity with the rest of our Club. On top of that, the day before we head home, I am planning a trip to BMW Classic Museum, to not only visit the plaque where BMWDCM is proudly displayed, but to visit the people and museum and obligatory photo next to our plaque.

    My next track day with the Club will be Winton on 21 August.

    So, thank you to all the club members who I have had the enormous pleasure of meeting, befriending, and spending track days with, it’s one of the loveliest places to be as it’s my personal, selfish indulgences.

    Shane McKenzie | Member #118
    BMW Drivers Club Melbourne

  • 7 Jun 2022 8:42 PM | Anonymous

    Event date: 23 April 2022

    On 23 April, we joined the BMWDCM drive to Lakes Entrance for the ANZAC weekend.

    While we were there we did many things including; going to the Buchan Caves, going to the dawn service, and going to 2 delicious dinners.

    Out of everything we did, my favourite activity was when we went on the cruise on the Seabird.

    We sailed around for about 2 hours, with the friendly crew and enjoyed the beautiful view. Then we stopped at a pub for lunch and I got fish and chips.

    About an hour later we all hopped back on the boat and went back to Lakes Entrance.

    Going to Lakes Entrance was super fun and I would definitely go again.

    Harper Cooper | Member #631
    BMW Drivers Club Melbourne

  • 7 Jun 2022 3:05 PM | Anonymous

    • Honoured marque BMW M GmbH celebrates 50th anniversary at 2022 Goodwood Festival of Speed. • Striking ‘Central Feature’ outside Goodwood House showcases iconic models from BMW M. • World premiere of the first-ever BMW M3 Touring UK premiere of the all-new BMW M4 CSL. • BMW Group Classic joins the celebration with historic racing cars displayed on the Central Feature and participating in the Hillclimb. • First-ever BMW iX1 and BMW i7 on display at the Stable Yard. • BMW iX M60, BMW i4, BMW i4 eDrive40 and BMW iX3 available for test drives on Frida

    All eyes will be on BMW M GmbH at the 2022 Goodwood Festival of Speed, as BMW’s legendary Motorsport division celebrates five decades of success. Festivalgoers will witness the world premiere of the first-ever BMW M3 Touring and the UK premiere of the new BMW M4 CSL, as both take to the hill throughout the world-famous four-day event. All this against the backdrop of a striking central feature sculpture on the lawn of Goodwood House, designed as a homage to 50 years of motorsport excellence as it showcases some of the most iconic models from BMW M. Elsewhere, visitors will be able to see – and in some cases, drive – the latest models from BMW’s exciting range, including the new BMW iX1, i7, i4 and iX M60.

    For the first time in its history, the BMW M range will be complemented by a BMW M3 Touring which is a distillation of the technological prowess and know-how from the BMW M3 and M4 family, combined with the practicality of a five-door touring model. This latest BMW M model will be unveiled at BMW M at Trackside at 10:00 am (BST) on Thursday 23 June, alongside a high-performance M3 Touring with Performance Parts, and can then be seen on the Hillclimb in the ‘First Glance’ category every day of the Festival.

    Alongside the M3 Touring and BMW M3 Touring MotoGP Safety Car on the hill will be the new BMW M4 CSL, celebrating its UK premiere. This ultimate, track-honed, two-seater coupe is defined by a 40hp power hike over the current BMW M4 Competition Coupé to 550hp, while meticulous weight-saving measures – including the use of carbon-fibre for the roof, bonnet and boot lid – achieve a 100kg reduction in overall weight (in standard specification in the German market). As a result, the new BMW M4 CSL has recorded the best-ever lap-time for a BMW road car at the Nürburgring’s Nordschleife circuit.

    With BMW M GmbH as the honoured marque, the Central Feature in front of Goodwood House will present an eye-catching display of BMW M cars past, present and future. BMW UK will add its legendary BMW 3.0 CSL to the Central Feature, while BMW Group Classic is providing three further examples: the BMW M1 Procar from the late 1970s; a WTCC BMW 3 Series E90; the Le Mans winning 1999 BMW V12 LMR. The display is completed by the BMW M LMDh racecar, that will debut next year.

    Besides providing historic BMW M cars for the Central Feature, BMW Group Classic will bring four additional famous race cars to Goodwood’s Hillclimb. Pedro Piquet (BRA), son of three-time F1 World Champion Nelson Piquet, will drive the world’s first turbo-charged F1 World Champion car, the 1983 Brabham BMW BT52.

    Steve Soper (UK) will climb the hill in the BMW V12 LMR on Thursday. He is followed by Markus Flasch (CEO of BMW M GmbH, 2018-2021), who will be in the driver’s seat on Friday, Saturday and Sunday.

    HRH Leopold Prince of Bavaria (GER) will drive the sharknose BMW 635CSi and Bruno Spengler (CAN) will drive his famous BMW Z4 GTR which features the Michel Vaillant Design from the 2015 Spa-Francorchamps 24h race.

    For many, BMW M at Trackside will form the focal point for the long weekend’s celebrations. Crowned by an original BMW M1, the stand will host iconic models from BMW M’s illustrious past, from the legendary BMW M3 E30 to the revered BMW M3 CSL E46. They will take their place alongside a thrilling line-up of modern-day BMW M greats, from the ultimate 635hp BMW M5 CS and track-honed BMW M4 GT3 to the exclusive new BMW M850i Convertible and innovative electric BMW i4 M50. Visitors will be able to catch a glimpse of the future for BMW M, with the innovative BMW Concept XM, a vision of uncompromising high performance and extravagant luxury.

    The Stable Yard – once again dedicated to BMW’s latest range of all-electric and electrified models – will offer the chance to see the stunning BMW i Vision Circular, a concept which illustrates the company’s determination to become the most sustainable manufacturer. Optimised for the circular economy and with the goal of achieving 100% recycled and recyclable material use, the BMW i Vision Circular offers a view of a compact yet luxurious fully-electric vehicle with a focus on sustainability for the year 2040.

    BMW’s sustainability focus is equally apparent in the new BMW i7, on display in The Stable Yard following its recent unveiling. The latest version of the brand’s flagship saloon is set to redefine the luxury segment with new levels of electrification and digitalisation. Its state-of-the-art all-electric drivetrain is complemented by a blend of luxurious interior design and an astonishing entertainment experience, with the multi-sensory BMW iDrive and unique 31.3-inch 8K BMW Theatre Screen. These attributes are further displayed in the powerful new BMW M760e, a plug-in hybrid with 571hp that delivers scintillating performance yet achieves remarkable efficiency.

    The recently revealed BMW iX1 will make its UK debut at Goodwood Festival of Speed, representing another first at the Stable Yard. The third-generation BMW X1 features a sharper design, across-the-board sustainability and cutting-edge digital innovations. Available for the first time with an all-electric drive system, the BMW iX1 xDrive30 is set to offer an electric driving range between 257 – 272 miles (WLTP, provisional figures).

    These models will also be joined by the company’s technology flagship, the new BMW iX M60, a fully-electric Sports Activity Vehicle that combines emissions-free driving pleasure and sporting agility with lounge-style luxury and comfort. Powered by two BMW M eDrive electric motors to provide intelligent BMW xDrive all-wheel-drive capability, the BMW iX M60 can accelerate from 0-62 mph in a seamless 3.8 seconds, yet still achieve up to 348 miles (WLTP) of driving range on a single charge.

    Members of the public will be able to experience the BMW iX M60’s searing performance for themselves during Friday’s ‘Electric Only’ Motor Circuit Test Drives, where they’ll also be able to take to the circuit behind the wheel of the new BMW i4, the brand’s first-ever fully-electric Gran Coupé, and the practical BMW iX3.

    Frank van Meel, CEO of BMW M, said: “There can be no better place to celebrate our 50th anniversary than among our fans at this year’s Goodwood Festival of Speed, surrounded by the iconic cars that have cemented our position in motorsport history. But we’ll also spend our time at the world-famous event looking to the future, with a selection of exciting new models from our innovative electrified line-up, and the global premiere of the eagerly-anticipated first-ever BMW M3 Touring.”

    The Goodwood Festival of Speed is being held over four days from 23-26 June 2022.

    BMW PRESS

  • 6 Jun 2022 8:50 PM | Anonymous

    Ahead of the testing phase for the LMDh prototype for the 2023 season in the IMSA WeatherTech SportsCar Championship, BMW M Motorsport announces the name, the design, and an exciting camouflage livery for the car. The BMW M Hybrid V8 will sport a look designed by BMW Group Designworks, and celebrates the history of BMW M Motorsport in North America while defining a dynamic hybrid electric future.

    Ahead of the testing phase for the LMDh prototype for the 2023 season in the IMSA WeatherTech SportsCar Championship, BMW M Motorsport announces the name, the design, and an exciting camouflage livery for the car. The BMW M Hybrid V8 will sport a look designed by BMW Group Designworks, and celebrates the history of BMW M Motorsport in North America while defining a dynamic hybrid electric future. Key information for fans is that the prototype is clearly recognizable as a BMW M car.

    This message is echoed by Franciscus van Meel, CEO of BMW M GmbH: “The most critical task and the greatest challenge for the design team in the LMDh programme design team was that the prototype must be clearly recognisable as a BMW M Motorsport car. And I can say this to all the fans, just one look is enough to confirm that the BMW M Hybrid V8 is a BMW. It clearly carries the genes of BMW M. I also love the camouflage livery with its references to the great history of the brand in North America. Congratulations to the design and aerodynamics departments at BMW M Motorsport and Dallara on their great work. I can hardly wait to see the BMW M Hybrid V8 on the track soon.”

    The hallmark of the design for the BMW M Hybrid V8 is the wide kidney. In addition, it boasts typical BMW M design elements such as the nested 50th anniversary logo on the hood, twin BMW icon lights, dynamic body side, Hofmeister kink window graphic, M ‘hook’ mirrors and the tail-lights. The camouflage livery in which the BMW M Hybrid V8 will complete its testing, contains many elements from five decades of motor racing history in North America. The images of iconic racecars – the 1976 BMW 3.0 CSL, the 1981 BMW M1/C, the 1978 BMW 320i Turbo, the 1986 BMW GTP, the BMW M3 E36 GTS-2, the BMW Z4 GTLM and the BMW M8 GTE – create a graphic mosaic which obscures the shape of the BMW M Hybrid V8 to maintain competitive IP during development testing.

    “My team's job was to make the BMW M Hybrid V8 look like a BMW, and embrace every opportunity to make it also perform like one on the race track,” said BMW Group Designworks Global Automotive Director Michael Scully. “The design is rooted in BMW’s DNA of purposeful, efficient performance, and the exterior’s bold, determined character invokes BMW's frontiersmanship of turbo power, now united with an optimised hybrid electric powertrain. The camouflage livery celebrates the 50 Years of M by commemorating the great cars of BMW’s storied history in IMSA racing while uniquely cloaking the BMW M Hybrid V8’s future-facing exterior geometry and technologies during the critical on-track development phase of the project. If you look closely you’ll discover multiple winners of the Daytona 24 Hours, as well as the very first purpose-built IMSA GTP car from 1981, the BMW M1/C. We’ll follow-up this camouflage with a works livery that exemplifies the dynamism and excitement of hybrid electric-powered competition.”

    BMW PRESS

    More details about the design process in the new ‘MBEDDED’ episode: https://youtu.be/-G8DhowAGj8.



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