The BMW Group has acquired a stake in its partner Kinexon. The two companies have been working together for several years in order to advance the comprehensive digitalisation of the BMW Group production network. The premium carmaker announced on Tuesday that it has now acquired a minority stake in the innovative, Munich-based software company through its own venture capital company, BMW i Ventures.
In order to improve steering of highly complex processes in automotive manufacturing, the integrated IPS-i software platform was developed in collaboration with Kinexon. This platform can record a wide variety of position data (RFID, UWB, RTLS, GPS) and transfer it into its digital twin. On this virtual basis, the software recognizes, observes and automates a broad variety of manufacturing and logistics processes with utmost precision.
Thus, the innovative platform makes light work of keeping a digital overview of highly complex processes. In car manufacturing, some ten thousands of components have to be available at exactly the right place on the production line, right beside the tools that will be used – and all of them just in time. The new, state-of-the-art operating system orchestrates the second-by-second application accordingly.
Kinexon’s high-precision real-time locating systems are also designed for use in competitive sports and applied by numerous sport clubs of FiFA and NBA which record the movement data of athletes and their equipment through wearables. This allows the position data, tactics, movement patterns and performance of top sportspeople and entire teams to be analysed and targeted measures introduced to improve them.
“Automotive production at the BMW Group is a lot like top-flight sport in that it’s about high-performance processes. The real-time locating platform IPS-i forms the backbone for fully digitalising our production. It’s an innovative operating system that makes our highly complex manufacturing processes transparent and raises efficiency in production even further. We are now intensifying our well-established, long-standing partnership with Kinexon by acquiring a stake in them,” said Milan Nedeljković, Board Member for Production at BMW AG. “Together, we want to set new standards in digital production steering.”
The IPS-i platform has been in use at the BMW Group since 2017 and operates in ten plants around the world. It forms the basis of numerous digitalisation projects, allowing the BMW Group – a pioneer in digital process optimisation and automation – to develop innovative production where efficiency and quality come first.
The IPS-i platform also allows logistics processes to be controlled and will be rolled out in further plants in the future. In 2021 its holistic location-based service architecture was nominated for the German Innovation Award.
The BMW Group and Kinexon GmbH have agreed not to disclose any acquisition details.
KINEXON is a global technology leader that develops groundbreaking software and connected devices for the Internet of Things (IoT). KINEXON Industries implements specialized real-time IoT solutions for Industry 4.0, in order to capture, analyze and automate manufacturing and logistics processes for industry leaders such as BMW and Continental. More than 400 teams and leagues worldwide rely on KINEXON Sports & Media in the areas of performance tracking, analytics, and fan engagement. Headquartered in Munich, Germany, KINEXON has grown to more than 300 employees across offices in Munich and Chicago. For more information, visit www.kinexon.com.
With its four brands BMW, MINI, Rolls-Royce and BMW Motorrad, the BMW Group is the world’s leading premium manufacturer of automobiles and motorcycles and also provides premium financial and mobility services. The BMW Group production network comprises 31 production and assembly facilities in 15 countries; the company has a global sales network in more than 140 countries.
In 2021, the BMW Group sold over 2.5 million passenger vehicles and more than 194,000 motorcycles worldwide. The profit before tax in the financial year 2021 was € 16.1 billion on revenues amounting to € 111.2 billion. As of 31 December 2021, the BMW Group had a workforce of 118,909 employees.
The success of the BMW Group has always been based on long-term thinking and responsible action. The company set the course for the future at an early stage and consistently makes sustainability and efficient resource management central to its strategic direction, from the supply chain through production to the end of the use phase of all products.
BMW i Ventures is the BMW Group’s venture capital firm, investing money and resources in startups in the fields of transportation, manufacturing, supply chain and sustainability. The firm has made many successful investments over the years in companies such as Chargepoint, Graphcore, Proterra, Solid Power, Tekion, Turntide, Xometry and many more. BMW i Ventures invests in all stages from seed to growth with a focus on Series A/B.
BMW PRESS
BMW is leading the luxury segment into a new era that will be shaped by innovations in the fields of sustainability and digitalisation. With the new BMW 7 Series, the world’s most successful manufacturer of premium vehicles is creating forward-looking ways to enjoy driving pleasure, unsurpassed long-distance comfort and a top-end digital experience. Central to this reinterpretation is the BMW i7. The all-electric luxury sedan is a fully integrated member of the model family and clearly demonstrates how an exclusive driving experience and the ultimate feeling of on-board wellbeing can be combined with an unwavering commitment to sustainability.
The generation change at the pinnacle of BMW’s model range is wrapped up in a new definition of luxury that focuses on the individual and their personal attitudes, needs and emotions. In addition to presence, elegance and exclusive premium quality, there is a progressive approach characterised by innovations that directly enhance the user experience, wide-ranging connectivity and standard-setting sustainability of the car. In this way, the new BMW 7 Series has been designed to meet the needs of a modern target group that sees itself as committed to meeting challenges in a responsible manner – and one that views personal mobility as a way to experience unique moments in everyday life and on trips away.
The new BMW 7 Series incorporates a modern style that focuses on the essentials in its exterior and interior design. The front-end design for BMW vehicles in the luxury segment is dominated by features that are typical of the brand, but a clear distinction is maintained between these models and the others in the BMW range. Innovative features such as the BMW Theatre Screen, the multi-sensory vehicle experience BMW iDrive with the latest generation of BMW Operating System 8, plus the BMW Curved Display and the Manoeuvre Assistant for automated parking and manoeuvring, highlight the progressive character of the luxury sedan. In addition to the enhanced level of comfort and the unique in-car entertainment system, the Executive Lounge option for the rear with optimised reclining seat position and new BMW Individual Merino leather/cashmere wool interior trim takes a pioneering route to maximising wellbeing inside the car.
45 years on from the debut of the BMW 7 Series, the seventh model generation takes to the stage as the most advanced and innovative vehicle in the luxury segment. At the same time, the new edition captures the imagination with an overall design coherence unmatched by any rival. The BMW 7 Series is therefore once again a symbol of the BMW Group’s innovative strength.
The world premiere of the new BMW 7 Series in April 2022 and its global market launch starting in November 2022 are the key milestones in the brand’s current model offensive in the luxury segment.
The new BMW 7 Series was designed from the ground up for particularly demanding target groups in a globalised marketplace. This is also reflected in a market-specific drive system portfolio that includes exclusive offerings for China – as the company’s most important sales region – and a diesel model for Europe.
The new generation of luxury sedans from BMW opens up a whole new dimension in spaciousness. Unlike its predecessors, the new BMW 7 Series will be available worldwide exclusively as a long-wheelbase model that maximises space in the rear. Different facets of its character are defined by the use of specific design features and drive system variants. The new BMW 7 Series range also includes models from the BMW i and BMW M brands, which allow its myriad characteristics – from elegant, modern and sustainable to expressive, sporty and dynamic – to be brought prominently to the fore.
The new BMW 7 Series now offers a choice of combustion engines, plug-in hybrid systems and all-electric drive for the first time ever. The degree of diversity in the drive system portfolio is based on a newly developed flexible vehicle architecture and is an expression of a global model strategy for the new edition of the BMW 7 Series. This enables the BMW Group to take into consideration a customer’s individual needs, infrastructure factors and legal regulations in all relevant automotive markets around the world. The market launch in Europe will initially feature only the BMW i7. In the USA, China and other selected sales regions, two models will be offered at market launch in addition to the all-electric variant, each equipped with a petrol engine and 48V mild hybrid technology.
Plug-in hybrid variants of the new BMW 7 Series are expected to follow in numerous markets from the beginning of 2023. These will include the first BMW M model with a six-cylinder in-line petrol engine and plug-in hybrid drive system. A model variant with a diesel engine and 48V mild hybrid technology will be added to the range in Europe just after the market launch. Further variants of the all-electric BMW i7, including the future top-of-the-line BMW i7 M70 xDrive, will be made available at a later stage.
As was the case with all its predecessors, the new BMW 7 Series will be built at BMW Group Plant Dingolfing. The company’s largest production facility in Europe will be fusing tradition with the future and is also the BMW Group’s centre of excellence for the production of e-drive components. The highly integrated electric drive system and the high-voltage battery of the BMW i7 will also be manufactured there. Vehicles with combustion engines, plug-in hybrid systems and all-electric drive systems will come off the same production line in Dingolfing. In addition to the all-electric BMW iX and the new BMW 7 Series, the BMW 8 Series luxury sports car and BMW 5 Series models, among others, are also produced here.
The new BMW 7 Series model range worldwide will expand to include two BMW M models equipped with electrified drive systems. The new BMW M760e xDrive (fuel consumption combined: 1.2 – 1.1 l/100 km [235.4 – 256.8 mpg imp]; electric power consumption combined: 26.9 – 25.8 kWh/100 km; CO2 emissions: 28 – 25 g/km in the WLTP cycle; figures in NEDC cycle: –) has output of 420 kW/571 hp and torque of 800 Nm (590 lb-ft) and will debut as early as spring 2023. Its electric motor generates a temporary boost worth an extra 30 kW/40 hp when particularly invigorating acceleration is the order of the day. An M-specific design for the exterior and interior, including an exhaust system featuring the distinctive twin tailpipes with unique geometry, underscores the performance characteristics of the BMW M model with plug-in hybrid technology.
The future flagship model, the new BMW i7 M70 xDrive (power consumption combined in the WLTP cycle: 26.4 – 21.2 kWh/100 km; CO2 emissions: 0 g/km; figures in NEDC cycle: – ), will have an all-electric drive system with two motors – on the front and rear axle – and will be available later in 2023. Its drive system generates maximum output of well over 600 hp and maximum torque of more than 1,000 Nm (737 lb-ft). The most powerful BMW model ever registered for road use accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h (62 mph) in under 4.0 seconds. (All output, performance and energy consumption figures for the BMW i7 M70 xDrive are estimates based on the car’s current development stage incl. temporary boost.)
Driving pleasure, long-distance comfort and the user experience in the new BMW 7 Series are shaped largely by the latest innovations in the field of digitalisation. The new BMW 7 Series offers customers the new multi-sensory vehicle experience BMW iDrive with the latest generation of BMW Operating System 8. With the fully digital BMW Curved Display, the innovative BMW Interaction Bar, the enhanced capabilities of the BMW Intelligent Personal Assistant – plus additional My Modes, the latest version of the BMW Head-Up Display, and the Augmented View function available for the first time on the information display behind the steering wheel – intuitive dialogue between the driver and vehicle has reached a new level.
Passengers in the rear are greeted by a unique entertainment offering in the form of the new BMW Theatre Screen – a 31.3-inch panoramic display in 32:9 format with 8K resolution which extends downwards from the roof and transforms the second row of seats into an exclusive private cinema on wheels. The driver and front passenger can also use YouTube video-on-demand streaming on the control display for the first time. A 5G-compatible aerial system takes care of high-speed connectivity in the new BMW 7 Series.
A high-security vehicle based on the new BMW 7 Series is now being developed and will be added to the range in the course of 2023. With its integrated protection concept, which is unique in the segment and has been developed entirely from scratch, the armoured model variant meets the special requirements of authorities, state representatives and high-profile individuals in need of special protection.
The development of the new high-security BMW 7 Series centres on an innovative protection concept developed by the BMW Group. This provides extremely high standards of security combined with the levels of interior comfort, driving dynamics and ride comfort applied across the new BMW 7 Series range. Integrated development and production in a special manufacturing process at BMW Group Plant Dingolfing will ensure the high-security vehicle based on the new BMW 7 Series sets new standards.
The 24-hour race at the Nürburgring is considered to be the ultimate endurance test for man and machine. The 50th edition of the high-speed showdown will take place this year from 26 to 29 May on the 25.378 kilometre circuit consisting of the Grand Prix circuit and the legendary Nordschleife of the Nürburgring with a MINI John Cooper Works competing.
In September last year, the project was launched at Bulldog Racing in the Eifel region, just a few metres away from the Nordschleife. The base vehicle is a MINI John Cooper Works with the 4-cylinder turbo engine known from the MINI John Cooper Works Clubman and MINI John Cooper Works Countryman with 225 kW/306 hp and a maximum torque of 450 Nm. The 8-speed Steptronic gearbox taken from large-series-production featuring an integrated, mechanical differential lock with a locking effect of up to 70% ensures that the drive torque is converted into thrilling performance without any losses.
For racing purposes, the following modifications were made to the standard MINI John Cooper Works which go beyond SP3T class regulations:
Pat Moss made motorsport history in 1962, scoring the first international rally victory for MINI at the Tulip Rally. Her victory marked the beginning of the Classic Mini's unique success story in rally sport, with 3 overall Monte Carlo Rally wins in 1964 (Paddy Hopkirk), 1965 (Timo Mäkinen) and 1967 (Rauno Aaltonen).
This string of successes included six overall Dakar Rally victories in 2012 (Leonid Novitskiy), 2013 (Stéphane Peterhansel), 2014 (Nani Roma), 2015 (Nasser Al-Attiyah), 2020 (Carlos Sainz Sr.) and 2021 (Stéphane Peterhansel).
The MINI John Cooper Works racing car "Made in Nürburg" pays homage to the racing tradition of the MINI brand in the classic colour scheme of the 1960s racing cars in red / white.
Only seven months passed between the start of the project and the roll-out at the end of March 2022. In the coming weeks and until the start of the 24h race, further tests are scheduled on the Nordschleife of the Nürburgring and at the BMW Group testing centre in Miramas in southern France. Located between Marseille and Avignon, the former race track offers the best conditions for extensive testing and optimisation under a wide range of conditions. The chassis of the MINI John Cooper Works racing car is subjected to an extensive and varied test programme there. Friedhelm Thelen, Nürburgring expert and team boss of Bulldog Racing, knows how important comprehensive testing is before a race: "The 24-hour race at the Nürburgring puts all components of the vehicle under extreme stress. That's why we're delighted to be able to use the BMW Group Test Centre to put the John Cooper Works through its paces there."
The BMW Group has been testing new models and innovative chassis technology at the Miramas test grounds since 1986.
The driver line-up and the further race programme for 2022 will be announced at a later date.
Event date: 7 - 10 April 2022
If you have never been to the Australian Grand Prix you have missed out on a wonderful 4 day event – and you don’t even have to watch the racing!
In return for having a car on display throughout the entire event 20 of our members get 2 General Admission tickets each which were much sought after this year – Saturday and Sunday were both sold out.
Despite being moved back a little in the calendar this year’s event had perfect weather and a great atmosphere with the added thrill of some unintended nearly-night-time racing as delays pushed the schedule into fading light.
Our display this year had a perfect balance starting with 4 cars proudly telling BMW’s post 1959 technical bankruptcy recovery at one end, and 8 M-Cars celebrating 50 years of M at the other bookending a lovely selection of E30s, including 2 gorgeous JPS Editions and 2 Baurs, a 535i, a 840i and everyone’s favourite fun roadster the Z3.
It was very pleasing to see so many people taking a proper look at our cars and showing a genuine interest in the display. I was also proud on behalf of our members to receive a number of compliments about individual cars and the line up in general, which is a great credit to our members.
It is a big sacrifice to bump one’s car in on Weds morning and not get it back until late Sun evening and we are very grateful to our members who did so. This made for a magic 4 days. And the racing was good too!
Lawrence Glynn | Member #3 BMW Drivers Club Melbourne
Event date: 12 April 2022
This outing was my first participation in a BMWDCM event having only joined a few weeks earlier. I have had a very keen interest in motor cars almost all of my life and have been a member of one particular car club for 40 years and three others for 25 years. While new to BMW, having purchased a 2020 M340i a year ago, I became aware of BMWDCM and had a look at the activities available and liked what I saw, so I joined.
Any motor car enthusiast would be keen to receive an invitation to view a private collection. For obvious security reasons, these invitations are not common place. I was free that night and it wasn't far away, so I thought what the heck, the fact that I would be the newbie in this new club and didn't know a soul, paled in to insignificance given what was on offer.
And Malcolm did not disappoint!
It was a very diverse and eclectic collection of some 35 motor cars from the post war to relatively modern – and it would seem that what we saw was only half the collection! Malcolm gave us a brief outline of most of the cars and why they were special to him.
For me it was a bit of a trip down memory lane with cars so diverse as the 2016 Ford Mustang 5.0 Ltr V8 and the early 1960's Ford Anglia 105E (Harry Potter car), both of which I have also owned and driven. The Anglia 105E was in fact my first car. Other cars of note were Malcolm's father's MG Magnette, a very nice MGA (also had one of these as well and wish I still did!), a DeLorean – which Malcolm admits is great to look at but you wouldn't want to drive one any distance. There was an interesting Toyota Sera with butterfly doors, a bit similar to the DeLorean. The Sera was never sold in Australia.
Malcolm also has a standard Ford XD Falcon V8 that is about to undergo a restoration/transformation in Dick and Steve Johnson's workshop in Queensland to produce a Tru-Blu replica. Other vehicles included several Mercedes models spanning 4 decades, a Borgward, a couple of Porsches, a Rolls Royce and a couple of Hillmans just to name a few more.
While any one of the cars had its own particular appeal, the car that caught my eye the most was the BMW 328i convertible, and I am not just saying that as a newbie. The green paint and cream interior with a splash of woodgrain looked really great!
Thankyou Malcolm for inviting BMWDCM to view your collection and thankyou BMWDCM for welcoming me to your club.
Terry White | Member #850 BMW Drivers Club Melbourne
With its inimitable combination of exclusivity, dynamic excellence, luxuriant spaciousness and versatility, the BMW X7 has quickly developed into the most successful BMW model in the luxury class. And now the unique character profile of the brand’s largest Sports Activity Vehicle (SAV) has been honed to significant effect thanks to extensive design refinements – most notably a visually impactful front end – plus a new-look M Sport package, light-alloy wheels measuring up to 23 inches (an ex-factory first for BMW) and the latest-generation iDrive control/operation system including BMW Curved Display and BMW Operating System 8. The new BMW X7 also comes with a further expanded range of standard equipment, additional driver assistance systems and the latest 48V mild hybrid technology for the three engine variants offered.
The new BMW X7 is a central pillar in the ongoing product offensive at the most exclusive reaches of the premium carmaker’s model line-up. The new X7 will be produced at BMW Group Plant Spartanburg, the competence centre for BMW X models in the US state of South Carolina. The worldwide market launch for the new BMW X7 will get underway in August 2022.
Fuelled by its highly versatile skillset, the largest BMW X model convinces with both on-the-road elegance and off-road ability. Extensive design modifications accentuate above all the visual exclusivity of the largest BMW X model even more vividly. Indeed, its design underscores more clearly than ever the status of the new BMW X7 as one of the brand’s flagship models. The newly structured front end picks up on signature BMW design cues such as the twin headlights and BMW kidney grille. In their newly interpreted form, these features emphasise the car’s upright stance and reinforce its road presence.
Split headlight units are making their debut in the new BMW X7. The horizontal LED light elements set higher up in the front end house the position light, daytime driving lights and turn signal indicators. The LED units located below them for the low-beam and high-beam headlights give the impression of retreating into the background with their dark housing and deeply embedded position in the front apron, and only come to the fore when activated. The new adaptive matrix LED headlights with non-dazzling high beam and adaptive light distribution now also provide the functionality of front fog lights with their automatic bad weather light.
Discreet cascade lighting for the two BMW kidney grille elements brings a richly extravagant feeling to the front end of the new BMW X7, both when stationary and on the move. The “Iconic Glow” BMW kidney grille is a standard feature of the range-topping BMW X7 M60i xDrive (fuel consumption combined: 13.3 – 12.2 l/100 km [21.2 – 23.2 mpg imp]; CO2 emissions: 303 – 278 g/km in the WLTP cycle; figures in the NEDC cycle: –) and will be offered as an option for the other model variants.
At the rear end, the progressive style of the extremely slim light units, which now have three-dimensional sculpting, is accentuated. The elegant chrome bar connecting the rear light units on the new BMW X7 is enclosed within an exquisite glass cover.
The optional, newly designed M Sport package shines an even brighter spotlight on the dynamic driving properties of the BMW X7. And M-specific design features for the exterior and interior also clearly emphasise the performance attributes of the BMW X7 M60i xDrive. The M Marina Bay Blue metallic paint finish can be ordered exclusively for the BMW M model. Another new addition to the range of exterior colours is Sparkling Copper Grey metallic. 20-inch light-alloy wheels are fitted as standard on the new BMW X7. The range-topping model and cars specified with the M Sport package come with 21-inch M light-alloy wheels. Optional 23-inch light-alloy wheels are available ex-factory for the first time for a BMW model.
The generous feeling of space on board the new BMW X7 can be enjoyed across three rows of seats. The second row accommodates three passengers as standard and offers two particularly comfortable individual seats as an option. Heated comfort seats are provided as standard for the driver and front passenger. In European markets, BMW Individual Merino extended leather upholstery comes as standard. In other markets, standard specification includes seat surfaces in new Sensafin trim (not available in Europe). This high-quality, vegan surface material with leather-like properties has exclusive three-dimensional quilting and surface perforation.
Together, the newly designed instrument panel – with its slim air vents and an ambient light bar included as standard in its lower section – and the BMW Curved Display bring a modern style shaped by progressive digitalisation to the cockpit. The innovative light bar complements the likewise standard ambient light. Its effective backlighting – with the help of LED units and a graphic including “X7” lettering (or the M logo in the new BMW X7 M60i xDrive) – is an integral element of the situation-based light effects and enhances the aura of exclusivity inside the cabin. The gear selector lever is also given a new and cutting-edge design.
The further expanded range of standard equipment for the new BMW X7 goes to new lengths in enhancing the comfort of those on board and maximising their wellbeing. As well as the four-zone automatic climate control, panoramic glass sunroof and hi-fi system, it now also includes the comfort seats for the driver and front passenger, a Sport leather steering wheel with gearshift paddles and a new tray for wirelessly charging compatible mobile phones. Highlights of the options list include the Sky Lounge panoramic glass sunroof (illuminated by LED units), the Bowers & Wilkins Diamond Surround Sound System and the newly designed Travel & Comfort System. Active seat ventilation and a massage function are also offered for the driver and front passenger. If the new Comfort Package is specified, the seats in the second and third rows can also be heated, as can the steering wheel and the armrests for the driver and front passenger.
The engine range is headed by a new 4.4-litre petrol V8 for the range-topping BMW X7 M60i xDrive, which is derived from the engines powering the high-performance cars coming out of BMW M GmbH. M TwinPower Turbo technology and a cross-bank exhaust manifold imbue the 390 kW/530 hp unit with peak torque of 750 Nm (553 lb-ft) with impressively assured power development.
A latest-generation six-cylinder in-line engine makes its debut in the BMW X7 xDrive40i (fuel consumption combined: 10.5 – 9.2 l/100 km [26.9 – 30.7 mpg imp]; CO2 emissions: 240 – 210 g/km in the WLTP cycle; figures in the NEDC cycle: –). It boasts a wealth of innovations for the combustion process, gas exchange, valve control, injection and ignition system that enhance both performance and efficiency. The output of the new engine is 35 kW/47 hp up on the predecessor unit, at 280 kW/380 hp, while peak torque rises by 70 Nm (52 lb-ft) to 520 Nm (383 lb-ft) – and can be boosted to as much 540 Nm (398 lb-ft) with the input of the mild hybrid system.
Detailed upgrades to the six-cylinder in-line diesel engine in the new BMW X7 xDrive40d have also yielded improvements to its fuel economy and emissions (fuel consumption combined: 8.7 – 7.6 l/100 km [32.5 – 37.2 mpg imp]; CO2 emissions: 230 – 200 g/km in the WLTP cycle; figures in the NEDC cycle: –). The maximum output of its overall drive system is 259 kW/352 hp. The nominal torque of the diesel engine is 700 Nm (516 lb-ft), which can be increased to as much as 720 Nm (531 lb-ft) with the input of the mild hybrid system.
The most important shared feature of the three engines is the integration of new-generation 48V mild hybrid technology. In its latest incarnation, this form of electrification consists of a crankshaft-mounted starter generator integrated into the transmission and contributes an extra 9 kW/12 hp of output and an extra 200 Nm (147 lb-ft) of torque. All of the engines partner with an eight-speed Steptronic Sport transmission including shift paddles on the steering wheel and a Sprint function. Engine power is channelled to the road – or unsurfaced terrain, if required – via the intelligent all-wheel-drive system BMW xDrive.
The adaptive two-axle air suspension teams up as standard with electronically controlled dampers to deliver signature BMW dynamic prowess combined with excellent comfort on long journeys. Standard specification for the new BMW X7 M60i xDrive also includes Integral Active Steering and the Executive Drive system with active roll stabilisation. Both are available as options for the six-cylinder models, as is the xOffroad package.
All the chassis systems have been retuned for the new BMW X7 to enable it to span the widest possible spectrum between sporty handling and driving comfort. Standard specification for the BMW X7 M60i xDrive also includes 21-inch M light-alloy wheels and an M Sport differential at the rear. The six-cylinder models come as standard with 20-inch light-alloy wheels. And the new BMW X7 is the brand’s first ever model to be offered with the option of factory-fitted 23-inch light-alloy wheels.
Comfort and safety in the new BMW X7 are further enhanced by a significantly expanded selection of automated driving and parking systems. New features include the extended range of functions offered by the front-collision warning system, which now also reduces the danger of a collision with cyclists, pedestrians or oncoming vehicles when turning off. If the optional Active Cruise Control with Stop&Go function is specified, the automatic Speed Limit Assist, route monitoring and traffic light recognition features will be included too. Also new is the exit warning function, which alerts occupants to a risk of collision when opening the door.
The standard Parking Assistant also includes the Reversing Assist Camera and Reversing Assistant. On cars with the optional Parking Assistant Professional specified, the Reversing Assistant can now take over the job of steering the car for a distance of up to 200 metres. And the new Trailer Assistant makes it easier to execute reversing manoeuvres when towing a trailer. The new Manoeuvre Assistant can store manoeuvres covering a distance of up to 200 metres each. When the vehicle next arrives at a memorised starting point, the Manoeuvre Assistant will be able to carry out all the tasks required to complete the manoeuvre, controlling the accelerator, brakes and steering as well as changing gear to move forward or reverse. While the automated manoeuvre is being performed, the driver can focus on monitoring the vehicle’s surroundings.
The standard BMW Live Cockpit Plus in the new BMW X7 includes the latest edition of the BMW iDrive control/operation system. It is based on BMW Operating System 8 and comprises the BMW Curved Display, which is formed by a 12.3-inch information display and a control display with a screen diagonal of 14.9 inches. With the new display grouping in place and the continually expanding skillset of the BMW Intelligent Personal Assistant, the new BMW iDrive is geared squarely towards touch operation and gesture control as well as dialogue using natural language.
The cloud-based navigation system BMW Maps can be specified as an option with Augmented View on the control display. The optional BMW Digital Key Plus enables customers to lock and unlock their new BMW X7 with their Apple iPhone via security-enhanced ultra-wideband (UWB) radio technology. And the new BMW X7 also allows customers to enjoy the benefits of optimised smartphone integration, a personalised BMW ID and an eSIM designed for the new 5G mobile technology.
Event date: 2 April 2022
I asked my 21 year old son, Mitch, what he was up to on the first weekend of April. He said he was off to a house warming in Sydney. I mentioned that the Club was holding a track “Driver Training Day” on the Saturday and that he could join me. As both of us had spoken about the potential of doing a track day ‘one of these days’ but had never got around to doing it, we were both keen to give it a go. Needless to say, the Sydney plan was quickly dropped and the two of us registered for the event.
As we live in Torquay, we decided it would be best not to drive the 2 hours up to the track, attempt a track day and drive a further 2 hours home all on the same day. So I booked us in for an overnight in Kilmore. We had a reasonably early start so as to top up with fuel and pumped the tyres and of course, some fuel for ourselves. The only place open for brekkie at that time of the morning between our accommodation and the track was the big “M”.
We arrived at the track while still in darkness and proceeded to find the pits and the organisers track office. I must confess there was a little anxiety creeping in, especially as we approached the pits to be greeted by other drivers busy off-loading their “race” cars from trailers. It all looked quite professional and a little more hard core racing than my expectation of taking my pride and joy, a 2009 E89 30sDrive Z4, for a spin on the track. We were guided to pick a pit garage for the day where we removed our overnight gear and any other movable items from the little beemer and dumped it at the back of the garage.
The excitement levels started creeping up as we met other drivers in the track office, shared some banter and proceeded with the official business of purchasing a Motor Sport “Single Event Licence”, a battery location sticker and of course a number sticker for the car identification. The car prep was pretty straight forward, make sure the car has been cleared of any loose items, check, place a blue triangle sticker on the body panel closest to where the battery is located, check, place white or black car identifying numbers on the side windows or panels of the car, check, and finally, remove the tow eyelet mounting point cosmetic cover and install the eyelet at the front of the car, check.
The proceedings for the day started off with the officials having their briefing. The nervous excitement filled the air shortly thereafter as the drivers were called for their briefing. The session commenced with the introduction of the key officials for the day, a reiteration of the track rules together with the identification of the different colour flags. A two man team of photographers were also present and kicked off with a driver group pic.
Following the briefing, the reality of the day was really starting to sink in and with it a fair mixture of anxious excitement forming. By now the day’s proceedings were rapidly moving along with the first timers offered the opportunity to go for a couple of rounds on the track with an experienced driver behind the wheel. I was paired with Andy who was really great in providing an overview of the track and the special training day markers placed at specific points on the track to provide racing line guidance. I can only assume it must have been the look of excitement on my face, as there was little time to slowly become accustomed to the track, we were hitting a fair pace straight from the blocks. Once on the track, Andy continued with his valued commentary of do’s and don’ts including some of the potentially hidden pitfalls of this characterful track. To me, this was the real ice-breaker, after the first lap any fear rapidly evaporated, to be replaced by pure excitement. I was fortunate enough to have a second session with Eagle (apologies if I got the name/spelling slightly wrong). He was also extremely informative and started introducing me to braking and cornering points and techniques.
Following the experienced driver rides, it was our turn to take the wheel. As part of the introductory process, we were once again accompanied by an experienced driver. I understand there were 40 entrants for the day and we were divided into 4 groups of ten drivers. Mitch and I were split into group 2 and 4 respectively as we were sharing the little Z4. Each group of ten drivers were started individually with a couple of seconds delay so as to provide each driver with plenty of wriggle room.
I do apologise, but with the excitement of the day, I have forgotten the name of the experienced driver that accompanied me on my first run. He was a great source of very useful info from guiding me with my driving habits to some of the more interesting characteristics of the track. My confidence grew in leaps and bounds and by the end of the session I had already significantly improved my driving techniques. In fact, I was so impressed by the guidance I opted to request an experienced driver to accompany me on my second outing for the day. This time, Jessie joined me. He quickly established my level of competence and started coaching me on braking and cornering. Before his input I was heading into corners having not used the full potential of the car’s braking capability, with one hand on the steering and the other on the gear lever and my right foot hovering over the brake and accelerator. His instruction was that I head flat out towards the corner, find a braking marker, hit the brakes hard, once the car has slowed, gear down and get my left hand back onto the wheel and my foot off the brake as I enter the corner. I must confess that although I have been impressed with the little Z4’s braking capability, I was blown away with how much more he guided me to get out of it. In retrospect, I think one of my fears was related to what may lay around the corner and with that, being nervous to remove my foot from the brake until I was pretty confident that the car had commenced the corner rotation. Once again, with Jessie’s guidance, I began to have more confidence in myself and the car’s ability and started to trust it to take me around the corner.
For the rest of the day, I spent each session practicing the techniques that I had been given some guidance in during the early part of the day. During each session I could feel my confidence levels improve and with it my overall performance, not to mention the extremities of the smile on my dial. From starting the day with a fair measure of excitement and a healthy measure of anxiety to finishing the day having completely relaxed and thoroughly enjoying myself. To add to the day’s fun, I managed to finish the day being awarded the Makulu Vehicle Storage “Most Improved” trophy. I feel very honoured to be awarded this accolade amongst a group of other drivers that also finished the day having significantly improved on thier skill levels during the day. I would also like to mention that my son must have been a very near contender as the car was very new to him, he does not drive dad’s pride and joy around very often, and by the end of the day he was able to extract a lot from the car, particularly around the corners – well done Mitch!
I was also impressed by the number of woman participants, some arriving on the own, some with their partners, notwithstanding that it was an “International Woman’s Day Come ‘n Try” there were plenty of lady drivers to show the boy’s how it is done. Well done to you all and great to see you participate in the day.
Also, as a new member to the Club, I am impressed by the Club’s community. This was my second Club event participation an am impressed by the level of friendship and fellowship within this Club community. Every person that I approached was really friendly and keen to share their experiences or strike up a conversation on mutual interest.
However, there is one aspect of the day that really impressed me the most. The organisation. I was blown away with how smooth and professional the whole event was run, from the early days of registration through to the day’s proceedings. In discussion on the way home, Mitch said he was quite anxious at the start of the day not knowing what to expect. But he also conceded that he needn’t have been as the whole process on the day, from the driver’s briefing, the experienced drivers drive and the experienced drivers coaching readily removed any fear.
I can only imagine the amount of behind the scenes work and effort that went into organising the day. A huge thanks to BMW Drivers Club Melbourne and the organising team, in particular to Graeme and Jo, the officials for giving their time and the experienced drivers who provided their invaluable guidance. I can only but highly recommend the day. It sure as hell put a big smile on my dial and am positive it will do it for you too.
Steve Wesson | Member #837 BMW Drivers Club Melbourne
Featuring classic sporty flair, invigorating openness and a particularly extravagant look, the MINI Cooper S Convertible (combined fuel consumption: 6.9 – 6.5 l/100 km; combined CO2 emissions: 157 - 148 g/km WLTP) is available in the Resolute Edition – right on time for the upcoming spring season. The exclusive, precisely aligned design and equipment features of the edition model add fresh accentuations geared towards individual style and maximum fresh-air driving fun. The MINI Cooper S Convertible in the Resolute Edition will be in dealerships for the first time in March 2022 as it sets out to conquer the boulevards and country roads.
The open-top four-seater from the British premium brand is currently the world’s only premium convertible in the small car segment. In the Resolute Edition, its appearance is both exclusive and unmistakable. The exterior paintwork, light alloy wheels, interior design and equipment characterise the edition model as an ambassador for traditional style and the open-air driving fun that is so characteristic of MINI. The powerful engine technology of the MINI Cooper S Convertible in the Resolute Edition ensures particularly spirited encounters with the wind and the sun: a 2.0-litre, 131 kW/178 hp 4-cylinder power unit with MINI TwinPower Turbo Technology enables acceleration from a standstill to 100 km/h in 7.2 seconds.
As such the MINI Cooper S Convertible in the Resolute Edition embodies classic go-kart feeling in its most up-to-date manifestation. In keeping with this, the exterior design of the edition model cites hallmark design features in a completely new form. The Rebel Green body finish reflects purist sporting style, while numerous traditional design features exhibit an exclusive Resolute Bronze finish rather than the original chrome. These include the headlight surrounds, the radiator grille and rear lights, the side scuttles on the front side panels and the handles of the doors and tailgate, as well as the air intakes in the front apron and the fuel filler cap. They are combined with a Piano Black finish for the brand logos and model inscriptions, the inner frame and crossbar in the radiator grille and the tailpipe trims of the exhaust system. A black finish is also to be found on the edition model’s electrically operated soft top – which can also be activated while driving at speeds of up to 30 km/h – and its exterior mirror caps. The only feature to be designed as a classic chrome element in the MINI Cooper S Convertible in the Resolute Edition, too, is the all-round trim strip at the height of the shoulder line.
The athletic character of the open-top four-seater is further underscored by means of edition-specific bonnet stripes. They feature a pattern made up of parallel lines with a colour gradient that runs between a light and a dark shade of gold, along with the inscription “RESOLUTE”. The striking sporty appearance of the edition model is rounded off with 18-inch alloy wheels in Pulse Spoke Black design. 17-inch alloy wheels are also available in the Tentacle Spoke Black variant as an option.
Door sill finishers bearing the inscription “RESOLUTE” mark the entrance to the edition model interior, where the occupants settle into sports seats in exclusive Black Pearl / Light Chequered fabric/leatherette. This colour scheme harmonises perfectly with the Rebel Green body finish as well as with the black and gold exterior design features. The MINI Yours Leather Lounge variant in Carbon Black is also available as an option.
The exclusive style of the inside of the vehicle is further enhanced by interior surfaces that were specially designed for the Resolute Edition. Against the black background of these surfaces, parallel and evenly curved lines in a light golden tone form an exquisite pinstripe pattern, also echoing the structure of the bonnet stripes. The specific design features are atmospherically showcased by means of the lighting package, whose LED units ensure selective illumination of the interior along with Ambient Light – another element that comes as standard in the edition vehicles.
A further highlight of the interior of the MINI Cooper S Convertible in the Resolute Edition is the sports leather steering wheel in Nappa leather. It bears a discreet “RESOLUTE” emblem in the lower area of the steering wheel spoke. The latest generation of the MINI operating system optimises the quick and intuitive control of vehicle functions, audio programme, communication, navigation and apps. In addition, the newly compiled equipment packages allow highly specific individual preferences in the areas of driver assistance and connectivity.
Well where do I start our first track day for Deb and myself, and what an amazing group of club members nothing was to hard or no question was looked upon as silly.
I would first of like to thank Jo Mawson for the seamless communication for the event, and the officials, flag marshals, down to the people making the best hamburgers.
I did 60 laps I think, all of sheer pleasure. All I can say if you have not done a track day please do one you will not regret the experience. I could still smell the brakes on the way home! But wow what an experience for a 63 year old petrol head again thank you to our amazing club and members. And the efforts of fellow club members leaving room and respectful of new drivers on the track we still are blown away and thank you to broadford motorsports complex for a unreal clean complex.
PS “ better tyres on the way”.
Terry and Deb Braddock | Member #830 BMW Drivers Club Melbourne
How have you settled in during your first weeks at BMW M Motorsport?
Andreas Roos: “The first weeks were really intense, but also very nice. I have been received warmly by the whole team and there has been plenty of advice and support for me. Working together in this way really is a huge amount of fun; the motorsport spirit is everywhere. I am delighted and things could not be better.”
What have you been focusing on?
Roos: “My focus during the first weeks has been on settling in and getting to know the people. I have moved from another major car manufacturer, so there are a lot of similarities. On the other hand, each manufacturer naturally has its own specialities. That is why the initial main task has been on getting to know the people and the team, and then to get into the work at hand and to understand where we are right now.”
From your perspective, what are the most important tasks as Head of BMW M Motorsport?
Roos: “Creating the environment and the working conditions for the team, so that the performance can really be delivered on the circuit. The team needs to be formed so that the people can do their work and can perform by being in the right environment. I think that is my work, checking that the environment is right and that this can then produce the best racing cars.”
How would you describe your way of working and your management style?
Roos: “I like to be in an environment that fosters open and honest cooperation. Of course, part of me is a person that needs things to be harmonious, but it is also clear that you sometimes have to make decisions that are going to see you tread on someone’s toes. However, in general I understand that we look one another in the eye and say, ‘we make the decisions together’. That is the most important aspect. I think that when you work together in a team and take all that expertise from the individual people, put it all together as the basis for decisions, then that will generate the best result in the end.”
Why did you decide to move to BMW M Motorsport?
Roos: “That is actually pretty simple, because BMW is a great brand that has superb products and builds superb cars. It also has something else that is important to me, a huge history in motorsport. The brand has been so successful in the past and now I would like to be part of that success and join BMW on this path. In all honesty, I have to say that my interest in motorsport began back with the old DTM, when BMW was competing with the E30 M3 and that made a massive impression on me, so much so that, even though I worked for another manufacturer for many years, I always kept a bit of an eye on BMW to see what great stuff they were doing. A lot of people are saying that I’m now where I belong.”
What is your anticipated schedule for the LMDh project development phase?
Roos: “The development phase in the LMDh project – and we have to be open about this – is tense. It’s a tight schedule and our clearly stated objective is to be racing at Daytona in 2023. And we don’t just want to make an appearance, we want to be competitive. That means that we still have a few problems to solve together with our partner Dallara. After an intensive development phase, we now also have an intensive development programme on the racetrack to really probe and test the car. That means that we have some really busy days to look forward to, which will demand everything from our drivers, from our team, from BMW M Motorsport and from Dallara. However, you do notice that the spirit is there. Everyone is absolutely motivated and looking forward to the first rollout for the race car, and then of course to the first racing appearance.”
How challenging is LMDh with regard to the tight schedule, compared to some rivals and the fact that other manufacturers are having major problems?
Roos: “As I mentioned earlier, our schedule is very tight. Perhaps also because the decision to actually join the LMDh class was made relatively late. It is definitely a challenge. Of course, we would all prefer to have a bit more time, if I’m being absolutely honest, but we don’t have that luxury and we are working flat out. We have already noticed that one or two manufacturers may be having issues. Of course, I hope that they won’t overtake us. It’s clear that our planning does not allow for any errors before the first race. We can also be realistic about this. Things normally don’t always go smoothly and so one or two things will still come along. But, like I said, the team is highly motivated, that will work. Of course, there are some manufacturers that have gone one step further and have started on-track testing, for example. We simply have to catch up with that. However, our highly motivated people, our team, give me reason to be positive.”
What is the objective for the first LMDh season in 2023?
Roos: “We also have to be realistic here. There are plenty of good manufacturers competing, all of whom have shown in the past that they can develop racing cars. Our aspiration at BMW is also quite clear, we don't want to just be making up the numbers, we want to win races. However, it would be presumptuous to assert that we are so good that we can beat everyone right away, and that no-one else has a chance. Our aim is clearly to be challenging for wins and to be up at the front. A race season is long and hopefully we will have a say in the championship battle at the end of the year. But, of course, there are no guarantees in such a tough and hotly contested field.”
The BMW M4 GT3 has not been able to display the full extent of its great potential in its first races. Is that normal for a new race car?
Roos: “It is only natural that many people hope everything will be great when you build a new car. Everything is a totally new development, and it all has to work perfectly. But you also have to say that not everything has gone smoothly in the first races. Some problems have occurred that we had not been there before during the development phase, but that is simply the difference between racing and testing. However, we analysed and understood everything, and it shouldn’t happen anymore. You could see the change in Sebring; the pace is there, the car is producing a good performance and we were battling away at the front. This is added by the first win at the 12 hours Mugello. That is what we are building on now.”
What are your expectations of the car during its debut season – and in the years to follow?
Roos: “I have to say quite clearly, that the BMW M4 GT3 represents a great development from the preceding GT products from BMW M. Of course, there has been extensive focus on achieving significant improvements to performance, driveability, handling, and the handling for the teams. I believe that the first appearances have shown that already. The feedback from customer teams which have already competed in races with the car is very positive. I believe that we have taken a big step forward, and that is the future of course. Customer racing is clearly a mainstay of BMW M Motorsport, and we aim to continue to serve this in the future. To do that, you also need the right product, but we are convinced that we do. Enquiries and initial feedback from customer teams show us that we have taken a good step forward here in the right direction.”
What is your general assessment of the BMW M Motorsport setup for the next few years with LMDh, GT3, GT4 and M2 CS Racing?
Roos: “As far as I am concerned, the BMW M Motorsport programme boasts a perfect setup and portfolio. Starting with the BMW M2 CS Racing, which is real club racing, we move from the one-make cup subject to the next level, the GT4. This is a very, very popular car and has already recorded a large number of successes. We are currently working on development of its successor. That is classic customer racing. We then continue with the GT3, which also represents the transition from classic customer racing to works-supported customer racing, where works drivers appear in competition. However, we can only offer work-supported customer racing if we also have a works programme. That pinnacle for us is LMDh, where we have committed to competing with a works programme. This combination of all the possibilities that we have is the perfect combination.”
Why are you so passionate about motorsport?
Roos: “In fact, I come from a family of chemists which has nothing at all to do with motorsport on a professional level. However, my father understood a lot of the technical aspects and he was always interested in cars. From day one, he was also a BMW driver through and through. He was the one who gave me the bug, and I was interested in motorsport from a very young age. As a small child, I spent many hours in front of the television, watching motor racing. I remember it well. Even back then, at the end of the 1980s and the start of the 1990s, it was clear in my mind that I would like to be involved in motorsport sometime. And I would most liked to have been a race engineer in the DTM. At one point I did achieve that, and now I am happy that I am able to work at BMW M and can continue my involvement in motorsport here.”
How has your career developed thus far?
Roos: “I have enjoyed a variety of career phases during the many years that I have already spent in motorsport. As a small child, I spent a lot of time at the racetrack thanks to friends of my parents who were involved in motor racing. When I was young, I was cleaning rims and washing tyres. When it became clear that I wanted to study mechanical engineering after leaving school and was looking towards motorsport, I already started thinking about working in motorsport in parallel to my studies. I tried to spend every free minute in motorsport while I was studying. That was when I had my first professional contact within the DTM. After that, I worked for teams for years and learned about motorsport from the bottom up. Whether it was washing tyres or working as a mechanic, data engineer, vehicle engineer or technical director, I was involved in every position for the teams. Then I had the chance to move to the Audi LMP1 programme to compete in the World Sportscar Championship, which was just fantastic. Throughout the years, I have been able to experience a host of jobs and various classes in motor racing. This has allowed me to amass truly comprehensive knowledge of motorsport, which of course helps me to see the big picture as Head of BMW M Motorsport.”
Which race event are you looking forward to the most this season?
Roos: “In all honesty, I actually look forward to every event. Each race has its own particular character. Each race has specific challenges. Of course, there are a few races that are real highlights. The 12 Hours of Sebring is certainly a highlight, it’s something you need to have experienced as a real motorsport fan. And that of course also applies to the Nürbürgring 24-hour race. But DTM races and the GT World Challenge are highlights, too. I believe that virtually all of the events that we race and compete in as BMW M are highlights for us. That’s because these are also the races and series that we choose, that we want to appear in, and I believe that every race and every championship has its own character and its own challenges. In the end, it is generally a superb task for BMW M to participate.”
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