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.
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.
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.
Event date: 30 April 2022
Every 4 years great things happen:
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
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
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.
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.”
More details about the design process in the new ‘MBEDDED’ episode: https://youtu.be/-G8DhowAGj8.
With its robust appearance and functional versatility, the new BMW X1 embodies an authentic experience of freedom and independence in day-to-day driving and on longer journeys. The interior’s progressive design and sophisticated ambience, and the much broader selection of standard equipment compared to the outgoing model, serve to underline its deeply embedded premium character.
At launch in October 2022, there will initially be a choice of two petrol and two diesel engines. These will link up with a seven-speed Steptronic transmission with double clutch as standard, and their drive power will be channelled to the road via either the front wheels or the BMW xDrive intelligent all-wheel-drive system, depending on the model. This starting quartet will immediately be followed by the all-electric BMW iX1 xDrive30 (electric power consumption, combined in the WLTP cycle: 18.4 – 17.3 kWh/100 km; CO2 emissions: 0 g/km; figures in NEDC cycle: –; estimates based on the car’s current development stage) as well as by a pair of plug-in hybrid models and another two conventionally powered variants with 48V mild hybrid technology. The new BMW X1 will be built at BMW Group Plant Regensburg, where models with combustion engines, plug-in hybrid systems and all-electric drive will all roll off a single assembly line for the first time.
The BMW iX1 will bring the experience of locally emission-free driving pleasure to a vehicle segment enjoying worldwide growth, making it accessible to a very wide target audience. The compact SAV powered by the latest BMW eDrive technology will therefore give a major boost to the accelerated ramp-up of electric mobility. The improvements in sustainability compared to the predecessor model can be partly attributed not just to the wide-ranging electrification measures, but also the increased use of green energy, both for production and in the supply chain, and the greater quantities of secondary raw materials and natural materials used.
The surface treatment, lines and classy exterior design details of the BMW X1 display its Sports Activity Vehicle identity more clearly than ever in its third model generation. Distinctive design features include the powerful proportions, almost square wheel arch contours and the signature BMW X model styling of the front and rear ends.
The upright front end of the new BMW X1 gives it a much greater sense of presence, with slim LED headlights, a large, almost square BMW kidney grille, X-shaped lines radiating out to the sides and eye-catching chrome strips in the lower air intake serving as its defining elements. Adaptive LED headlights with matrix high beam, pulsating turn indicators and variable light distribution are available as an option.
Expressively sculpted surfaces and a long roofline are the distinguishing features of the new model’s dynamically stretched silhouette. When viewed from the rear, the slim tailgate window, horizontal lines, striking LED lights and flared wheel arches produce the typical SAV look.
The robust aura of the new BMW X1 can be intensified to great effect with the specific design elements of the xLine model, which include stylistic underride protection. The M Sport model also offered as an alternative to base specification places the focus firmly on dynamic driving pleasure with features such as its large cooling air inlets.
All model variants come as standard with 17-inch light-alloy wheels. 18-inch light-alloy wheels are fitted on xLine and M Sport cars, although these models are also available with 19-inch and – in a first for the BMW X1 – 20‑inch wheels. Customers can choose from two solid and ten metallic shades for the exterior paint finish – including a Frozen paint option from BMW Individual for the first time.
A raised seating position and a progressive premium ambience styled on the BMW iX help to create a distinctive driving experience inside the compact SAV. The key elements of the cabin’s redesign are the slender instrument panel, the BMW Curved Display, the “floating” armrest with integral control panel and the smartphone tray with indirect illumination at the front of the centre console.
The newly developed seats are available with the option of both Sensatec perforated and Vernasca leather upholstery. Also to be found on the options list are sport seats, electric seat adjustment with memory function and lumbar support including massage function. Improvements have been made to both acoustic comfort and occupant protection. The integrated passive safety concept now also includes a new interaction airbag between the front seats.
The rear compartment of the new BMW X1 includes three full-sized seats offering a notable improvement in seating comfort. The 40 : 20 : 40 split rear seat backrests can be folded down or adjusted to a different angle to expand the boot capacity. The fore-and-aft adjustment of the rear seats available as an option for the purely combustion-engined models provides even greater versatility. Boot capacity can be increased from 540 to a maximum of 1,600 litres. The trailer tow hitch available to order as an option for the new BMW X1 is now operated electrically at the touch of a button.
The BMW Maps navigation system, a Sport leather steering wheel, intelligent two-zone automatic climate control and a rain sensor with automatic headlight activation all come as standard in the new generation of the BMW X1, as do four USB-C ports, two 12V power sockets and a far greater number of driver assistance systems compared with the outgoing model.
Restructured equipment packages enable targeted individualisation of the car. The premium character can be turned up another notch by optional features such as the mirror package, ambient lighting, panoramic glass sunroof and Harman Kardon Sound System.
The BMW iX1 xDrive30 is the first all-wheel-drive electric car introduced by the brand in the premium compact segment. Two highly integrated drive units at the front and rear axles deliver a combined output of 230 kW/313 hp (taking the temporary boost effect into account), and post overall torque of 494 Nm (364 lb-ft). The electric all-wheel-drive system ensures supreme traction and directional stability in all situations. The BMW iX1 xDrive30 completes the 0 to 100 km/h (62 mph) sprint in 5.7 seconds.
The fifth-generation BMW eDrive technology additionally comprises the car’s highly efficient charging technology, including the improved charging software also found in the BMW i7, and a high-voltage battery positioned flat within the vehicle’s underbody, whose high energy density gives the car a range of 413 – 438 kilometres (257 – 272 miles). (The figures relating to output, performance, energy consumption and range for the BMW iX1 xDrive30 are predicted values based on the car’s current stage of development.)
Fifth-generation BMW eDrive technology is also employed in the plug-in hybrid variants of the new BMW X1, which means significant advances over the preceding generation in terms of sporting prowess, efficiency and charging capacity. There has also been a substantial increase in electric range.
The new BMW X1 will be launched with a choice of conventional combustion engines featuring two petrol and two diesel units from the BMW Group’s new modular generation of Efficient Dynamics engines. Second-generation 48V mild hybrid technology with an electric motor integrated into the seven-speed Steptronic transmission is on hand to help boost both efficiency and power delivery in the two most powerful engines.
This enables the four-cylinder BMW X1 xDrive23i (fuel consumption combined: 7.2 – 6.5 l/100 km [39.2 – 43.5 mpg imp]; CO2 emissions combined: 162 – 146 g/km in WLTP cycle; figures in NEDC cycle: – ) to produce maximum output of 160 kW/218 hp (developed by the combination of the combustion engine with up to 150 kW/204 hp and the integral electric motor with up to 14 kW/19 hp). Also in the launch line-up is the new BMW X1 sDrive18i (fuel consumption combined: 7.0 – 6.3 l/100 km [40.4 – 44.8 mpg imp]; CO2 emissions combined: 158 – 143 g/km in WLTP cycle; NEDC cycle: – ) powered by a 100 kW/136 hp three-cylinder engine.
A four-cylinder diesel engine combines with mild hybrid technology in the new BMW X1 xDrive23d (fuel consumption combined: 5.4 – 4.8 l/ 100 km [52.3 – 58.9 mpg imp]; CO2 emissions combined:142 – 125 g/km in WLTP cycle; NEDC cycle: – ) to deliver maximum output of 155 kW/211 hp (developed by the combination of the combustion engine with up to 145 kW/197 hp and the integral electric motor with up to 14 kW/19 hp). The four-cylinder diesel unit in the new BMW X1 sDrive18d (fuel consumption combined: 5.5 – 4.9 l/100 km [51.4 – 57.6 mpg imp]; CO2 emissions combined: 145 – 129 g/km in WLTP cycle; NEDC cycle: – ) generates 110 kW/150 hp.
Irrespective of the drive system fitted, all new BMW X1 models offer well-resolved handling characteristics in any situation and deliver the driving experience for which the brand is renowned. The compact all-rounder’s sophisticated chassis technology produces a perfectly harmonious balance between sporty, agile handling on the one hand and long-distance comfort on the other. All the tools required here are provided by a body construction that reduces weight while increasing rigidity, a long wheelbase, wider tracks than the predecessor model, and targeted upgrades to the single-joint spring strut axle at the front and the three-link rear axle.
Near-actuator wheel slip limitation is fitted as standard in the new BMW X1, benefiting both traction and directional stability. Other new features include the integrated braking system and the extra, lift-related damping at the front axle. The optional adaptive M suspension features frequency-selective damping, sport steering and a 15-millimetre drop in ride height.
The technological advances made in the new BMW X1 compared with the outgoing model are also evident in the far greater variety of automated driving and parking systems available to use. Standard features include Cruise Control with brake function and the front-collision warning system, which is now also capable of detecting oncoming traffic when turning left (in countries where vehicles drive on the right) and pedestrians and cyclists when turning right. The Parking Assistant including Reversing Assist Camera and Reversing Assistant also forms part of the standard equipment roster.
The list of optional features, meanwhile, includes the Steering and Lane Control Assistant, Active Cruise Control with Stop&Go function, Active Navigation, exit warning function and BMW Head-Up Display, as well as the Surround View, Remote 3D View, BMW Drive Recorder and Remote Theft Recorder functions. Existing functions can be upgraded by means of the Remote Software Upgrades facility, which also makes it possible to add new functions (availability depends on the hardware fitted in the vehicle and the market conditions).
The new BMW X1 also treats its occupants to the latest-generation BMW iDrive multi-sensory vehicle experience in the form of the standard-fit BMW Live Cockpit Plus. Based on BMW Operating System 8, it comprises the BMW Curved Display with its state-of-the-art graphics and menu structure along with the BMW Intelligent Personal Assistant that has now gained additional skills. The fully digital screen grouping is formed by the 10.25-inch information display and the control display with a screen diagonal of 10.7 inches. The new BMW iDrive is geared purposefully to providing intuitive touch and voice control. The broad-based digitalisation of the interior enables the number of physical buttons, controls and switches required for operation to be significantly reduced.
The new My Modes combine individually selectable vehicle settings with matching experience worlds for the interior. The Augmented View function is available as an optional add-on for the cloud-based BMW Maps navigation system. An interior camera makes it possible to take snapshots of the occupants or have images of the interior sent to the customer’s smartphone. In addition to this, a Personal eSIM designed for 5G mobile technology, the BMW Digital Key Plus, the BMW ID functionality and smartphone integration using both Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™ are also all available in the new BMW X1.
Month in review.
Dear members,
Well winter has well and truly set in. We don't know about you, but we're starting to feel the cold already!
May was a fun month. It began with Round 3 of our Traction Tyres/Yokohama Drivers Championship at Sandown. We had all seasons in one day, but we think all who attended had lots of fun.
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On 10 May we visited Adex Detailing for our members meeting. We were able to explore the fantastic facilities at Adex and get a thorough explanation of their detailing process.
On the weekend of 12 May a group of club members made the annual trip to Bathurst for the Bathurst 12 Hour. The event is usually held in late January - early February and much warmer conditions, but we're told that those who attended had a great time.
That same weekend we had a number of our members competing in the third round of the E30 Racing Championship at Phillip Island. Many of our members also volunteered to assist with the running of the meeting. Congratulations to Alex Jory for another round win!
If two events on the same weekend wasn't enough, 15 May was National Motoring Heritage Day. We arranged a drive to start in the city, ending at Phillip Island to watch and support our racing members. It was great to see so many come along for the drive and support our racers.
Our last event for that weekend was the Maling Road Autoclassico Car Display. This was the first time our club had a display at Autoclassico, and for the first time in years it didn't rain! It was great to see so many fantastic cars on display.
On 22 May we then had our drive to the Otway Fly. Our members had a great time walking amongst the tree top scape. Luckily the fog had lifted by the time we left the Otway Fly. The roads there and back the long way were fun although some parts of the Great Ocean Road had moss in-between the wheel tracks.
We then finished our month with a drop in donuts and coffee night at Daniels Donuts, Belmont. Thanks to those who braved the cold and dropped in for a coffee and a donut (or two)!
OFFICIALS REQUIRED - Driver Training and Come & Try Day - 19 June
We are in need of officials for the Driver Training and Come & Try day at Sandown on Sunday 19 June 2022.
If you are interested, please email Meg with your mobile number (for onsite contact), your licence number and licence type, as well as the role/position you wish to do on the day (ie Instructor, Scrutineer, Trackside, General etc).
This event is always a great day for all, and if you have anyone else interested in getting involved in motorsport, this is a great event to start at!
If anyone has questions in regards to Motorsport Australia officials licences, please don't hesitate to reach out.
MEMBERSHIP UPDATE: 740 MEMBERS
Welcome to our new members Nick Mammies, Adam Durso, Couper Gross, Riley Meens, Richard Harvey and Shannon Creasey. We look forward to seeing you at an event soon!
Don't forget to catch up with this month's update from our President, Graeme Bell here.
The month ahead.
Here's what we've got planned in June:
Tuesday, 7 June June Members Meeting | Via Zoom This month we'll be sharing with you our plans for our club trip to Tasmania in October. If you're interested in attending, make sure you join us remotely on Tuesday! Saturday - Monday, 11-13 June Queens Birthday Weekend trip to Port Fairy Finally! After years of cancellations we're finally taking our trip to Port Fairy where we'll have plenty of driving, whale watching and lots more planned for a fun long weekend away. Sunday, 19 June Driver Training and Come & Try Day | Sandown Ever wanted to find out what it's like to get on track in a relaxed atmosphere without being surrounded by the seriousness of competition? Want to better your driving skills? Our driver training and come & try days are perfect for you! Sunday, 26 June First Aid Course Unfortunately registrations for this event have already closed. Keep an eye on our calendar updates to register for the next one.
Be sure to keep an eye on our calendar to stay up to date with our events. If you're attending a social drive or weekend away, we recommend checking out our event tips to help you get the best out of the event.
We want you!
We are now one of the largest Official BMW Car Clubs in Australia and we need your help.
Have you ever attended one of our events and thought “wow this event was well run” or purchased some of our merchandise and thought “I really like that”? Well, all these things and more happen because your volunteer committee who all work tirelessly behind the scenes to make your day/weekend/event run smoothly and be as fantastic as it is.
Do you have skills we can tap into? Do you have a business we can engage or use the services of? Do you have some spare time you’d like to fill with an interest that gives a lot of people joy, including yourself?
We are putting out an early call to all our members to think if you would like to help our team with any of the day to day running of our wonderful club.
Click here to find out more information.
Club Permits.
We are finding an increasing number of members leave renewing their Club Permit registrations until the last minute, which sometimes results in members having to get a new roadworthy certificate.
The best option is for you to use the online system through a MyVicRoads account (see option 1 under Renewals on our Club Permits page).
Taking this option means you are not required to get a physical signature and is quicker for you and easier for us. Instead of us signing the renewal form, we sign a Club Endorsement Form, which you send to us by email. This can be done any time after you receive the renewal reminder.
In fact, no matter which option you choose, the paperwork can be completed any time after the renewal is received. There is no need to wait. Once the paperwork is completed, you can then pay for the permit at your leisure (within the expiry period).
Please remember that all club officials are acting in a volunteer capacity, even if conducted during business hours at a business premises - club work is not paid work and may be preventing paid work from being done.
News & Blog.
Our blog page on the website is constantly being updated with not just club news, but everything BMW from all around the world! We welcome you to submit any articles of your own.
Club blog.
BMW around the globe.
From the Welfare Team.
Click here for Welfare Team updates and their contact details.
Classifieds.
Have you seen our classifieds page?
Want to sell something? Looking for a specific item? Email us today to list your car/parts/anything BMW related!
idrive magazine.
Everyone has their own BMW story - we'd love to share yours.
Email us to feature in our very own idrive magazine.
Club partners.
Members are welcome to submit their business to be shared on the Club Partners page on our website and idrive magazine. We believe in supporting those who support us. If you would like your business listed email us with your details.
As always - thanks for reading, we look forward to seeing you at an event soon!
President | Graeme Bell 0407 186 296 Vice President | Jo Mawson 0412 661 900 Secretary | Lawrence Glynn 0414 563 290 Treasurer | Shaaron Glynn
Proudly supported by: All Commercial/All Residential Real Estate Adex Detailing
Bell Motorsport
Berwick BMW
BM Tech
Creative Custom Cars German Auto Haus
Mornington BMW
Shannons Insurance South Yarra BMW
Southern BM
Traction Tyres
Waverley BMW
What a brilliant month May has been and so many great things happening in the club.
On 7 May, we joined AROCA for Round 3 of our Traction Tyres/Yokohama Drivers Championship at Sandown. The day started off not too bad with a threat of rain in the afternoon. We had a great attendance as per normal and all our guys were having a ball, then the weather changed and it got a little ugly (weather) and visibility was getting a little tricky but still fun out there.
On 10 May was our members meeting at one of our sponsors, Adex Detailing. Adex Detailing have a fantastic facility and gave us such a comprehensive explanation of what their process is. If you want your car detailed, give them a call. You will not be disappointed.
On 12 May, we had a group of club members make the pilgrimage up to Mount Panorama for the Bathurst 12 Hour. This event is normally held at the end of January and due to COVID the dates got changed to May and unfortunately, we could not attend but many still had a great group up there enjoying the racing and all things Bathurst 12 hour. This event is already locked in for February 2023, we already can't wait!
On 13-15 May we had some of our members competing at the VSCRC at Phillip Island with the E30 Racing series. We also had quite a few of our members there helping in the pits and our Jo was Deputy Secretary of the meeting, getting everyone signed in and sorted for the weekend. It was Shannon Cooper’s first ever race and he did so well, I'm very proud of him. Congratulations to Alex Jory for winning the weekend with two race wins and a third.
15 May was also National Motoring Heritage Day and we arranged for a drive starting in the city and picking up members along the way to finally stop at Phillip Island to watch the racing and cheer for the E30 Racers. This was very well attended, and it was great to see so many of our members coming along to support other members racing for the day.
On 15 May we also had Maling Road Autoclassico Car Display and a fabulous display of cars were on display there. This was the first time our club have displayed at this event, and it was very well received and attended and for the first time for years it didn’t rain!
On 22 May we had our drive out to the Otway Fly, with a beautiful sunny day for the drive and the group had a very enjoyable day. Luckily for those who attended, the fog lifted in the afternoon for a more enjoyable drive through the picturesque Otways.
Tonight is our our final event for the month, a casual drop in coffee night at Daniels Donuts in Belmont (Geelong). I hope those who brave the cold enjoy their sweet treats!
Jo and I missed the last two events for the month, as we took off to Fiji for a much-earned rest, but we are now back refreshed and ready for some more adventures with the club.
We begin our meetings for June on 7 June with our monthly meeting which will be a Zoom meeting about our upcoming trip away to Tasmania. This trip is going to be a great week away, so be sure to Zoom in and don’t miss out.
On 11 June we have our Queens birthday Whale watching weekend away. We have some great driving roads to explore but also some down time to enjoy the coastal region and a short cruise to hopefully see some wildlife.
On 19 June we have our Sandown Driver Training and Come and Try Day. Don’t miss out on this one and if you are not able to put your car out on track, why not come along and help out as either an instructor or and official for the day? Email Meg at officials@bmwdcm.com.au if you’d like to help as an official, or motorsport@bmwdcm.com.au if you’d like to join us as an instructor.
On 26 June we have our First Aid course which is be fully funded by BMWDCM for all those who registered. If you did register, please don’t forget to do the pre-registration form and complete all the necessary requirements before attending on the day (links have been sent to all registered via email earlier this month).
Our merchandise team have been busy designing a new winter polo shirt and matching hoodie which we are hoping to have in stock by the end of June watch out for update on that.
Upcoming events to put in your calendar:
Our membership continues to grow, now passing 740, so I’d like to welcome all the new members, I look forward to seeing you out at one of our events soon. It’s fantastic to see so many joining us in what we love, our passion for BMWs and our love of sharing that passion with an awesome bunch of people.
Stay safe and drive carefully.
Graeme Bell | President BMW Drivers Club Melbourne Inc.
P.O. Box 81, TYABB VIC 3913 Incorporated in Victoria #A0102695G BMW Drivers Club Melbourne Inc is a member of: BMW Clubs Australia and the BMW Clubs International Council Motorsport Australia Affiliated Motorsport Club
Event date: 2 May 2022
Weather conditions in Victoria are notoriously unpredictable and glorious days can emerge from unlikely beginnings.
Such was the case for our one day to the Otway Fly, which started with low level fog rolling in with bright sunshine over the top. Although the fog did deepen as we started the drive it dissipated to a lovely day, sunny enough but not too much.
Once the highway stage from out meeting point to just outside Colac was complete we enjoyed the wonders of driving through the bewitching canopy of trees of the Otway Forest and the open bends contained therein until we reached the Otway Fly.
The name of which can be a bit confusing but it now refers to a tree top walkway (as if flying through trees) and a zip line/flying fox adventure experience where you really are flying through the trees. Or, at least, more nearly!
The construction of the metal walkways at dizzying heights about the ground is quite a marvel, especially as it appears that no vegetation was damaged in the process. Quite how it was done without ripping up all the trees I do not know.
The end result is a very satisfying walk looking at nature in a quite unique way in total tranquillity, equally ideal for family groups or the solo explorer alike.
Our return trip initially headed West, ie the wrong way, to Lavers Hill before joining the Great Ocean Road to head East to Skenes Creek.
Whilst the Great Ocean Road lives up to its name along just about all of its length (it is consistently great in varying ways, it is close to the ocean most of the time and it is undoubtedly a road), this section is probably one of the more satisfying from a driver’s perspective. There tends to be less traffic, adequate supply of not too tight bends, and there are ocean views and other nice scenic elements. Not as pretty as the sections between Lorne and Torquay but generally emptier.
We did, however, encounter a very particular type of road hazard – moss on the road. The foliage tells you that this area is very damp much, or even most, of the time and this can result in excellent moss growing conditions. The road appears to be a very suitable location for moss in sheltered areas, although the wheel tracks are clear. The hazard comes in driving in a slightly more, shall we say, spirited fashion when one would like to use a bit more of the lane’s width through corners which may mean straying onto moss, whose coefficient of friction I am unsure of but I presume to be low. Just where there might be moss is all part of the challenge and not unlike the “sport” of black ice spotting from my English upbringing.
No mishaps ensued and we all hade an enjoyable day.
Lawrence Glynn | Member #3 BMW Drivers Club Melbourne
Event date: 15 May 2022
Its always nice to try something new every now and then. This year we dipped our toes into the waters of the Autoclassico show put on by the Maling Road Traders group in Canterbury.
This show attracts a lot of entrants and a very wide range of very fine cars, making a welcome change from the usual show circuit that we traverse most years. As a result there were many cars, and types of cars, that we don’t usually see and many people we don’t usually get to meet.
The weather was perfect and the atmosphere was superb making for a very enjoyable day. With cafes aplenty and many other shops, there was plenty to do.
As the show is put on in the streets and car parks of the shopping area space is at a premium. Which is a pity as at times it was very hard to move about in the central area and some car owner’s anxiety levels were off the scale. By the afternoon things were a bit quieter and more relaxed. As cars were not allowed out before 3pm there was not the usual depletion of the ranks after 12!
Given the restrictions on space, and given we were first timers, we were very fortunate that our Mark McDermott, whose idea it was to take part, was able to sweet talk his way into 5 spots for us. This did mean we had to whittle the 18 registrations down to 5, but as it turned out we had 5 beautiful M cars on the list, and as “50 Years of M” is our display theme for the year that settled the issue.
Just in case 1 of the 5 was unable to take part for whatever reason, which would have left a very conspicuous gap, I took my E21 323i JPS along as stand by. But it was not needed and spent the day outside Eastern Tyre Centre, whose forecourt Joe Brogno had kindly let us use as a meting point.
My 1964 BMW 700 was meant to be part of the “small car” display in the central area but sadly it failed to start on the Saturday – there is fuel in the tank but its not getting into the cylinders but I have not had chance to find out why not.
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