Event date: 24 October 2021
My partner Lucy and I have just experienced our first day out with the BMWDCM. Having only joined the club some months ago and looking forward to some involvement, of the already planned adventures.
It was disappointing to see the lockdown imposed and take away the Christmas in July, the whale watching weekend as well as other planned future drive days and track events. However, that being in the past it was nice to leave the house this morning with a new-found sense of freedom.
It was quite wet when we left home but as we travelled down along Eastlink the weather soon cleared and we enjoyed the sunshine. Arriving at the Hastings Marina carpark shortly before 9am we met Graeme and Jo, after checking in with the club QR code, Graeme assisted me with the setup of my newly purchased CB radio. Once the radio was up and running I quickly gave the handset to the conversationalist of the duo, Lucy.
The rest of the attendees arrived gradually over the next hour in a wide variety of BMW models and not forgetting the Monaro and Porsche drivers (apologies if I missed any other participating types). Soon, we all convened for the drivers briefing under Jo’s megaphone guidance, which concluded conveniently as the rain began to fall.
Leaving the carpark just after 10am in two groups of each around fifteen cars we soon were threading our way around the interesting mix of roads that traverse the Mornington Peninsula. The scenery was as usual for the area quite spectacular, a mix of flat runs, twisting tree lined hills and valleys not that you can spend too much time gazing at the distant ocean between the trees or you’ll end up wrapped around one. Lucy and I have travelled some of these roads in the past but it was a real pleasure to play follow the leader and not worry about where we were going and which way to turn (thanks to Lead Navigator Jo).
Lucy at one stage was worried that Jo had been so quiet on the communication of instructions until she realised that she had turned the volume down on our hand set. Soon enough we were up and running, and world order had returned.
When we stopped at Flinders to have a toilet and coffee break Lucy commented that this is not a long drive, when I told her that we had been moving for about for an hour and twenty minutes she was surprised that the time has passed so quickly.
The driving groups were at times split up due to stop, give way signs and roundabouts and other intruding vehicles but with a bit of manoeuvring Jo managed to keep nearly all of us together except a few lost souls who eventually found their way to the Seawinds picnic and playground park on their own. We had not been to this park before but it will be on our list to bring the grandkids to when the weather is a little warmer. Lots of seats and picnic fold out tables appeared as we set up out lunches.
I think from what I could see amongst all the other picnic tables Michael and Ushi probably set the bench mark, with fresh fruit and Moet Shandon. Quite a step up from my sourdough roll and warm tea, because, as it turned out our thermos was not really a thermos LOL.
An enjoyable return to our normal life, lovely to meet new people and Lucy and I are looking forward to more of the same. Lucy has expressed interest in doing a track day. It would be great to see her on the track and see the inner hoon appear.
A satisfying day all round and thank you to all the organisers and participants that we met and didn’t get a chance to meet this time round.
Alex Baxter | Member #740 BMW Drivers Club Melbourne
The first series-produced BMW i4 has today rolled off the production lines at BMW Group Plant Munich. The company’s home plant now manufactures all drive variants on a single assembly line. “For the plant and team, the launch of the BMW i4 is a milestone on the road to electric mobility,” said Milan Nedeljković, BMW AG Board Member for Production. “By 2023 more than half of all vehicles from our Munich facility will have an electrified drive. The majority will be fully electric. So Munich goes fully electric.”
Setting up production of the fully electric BMW i4 in the confines of the almost 100-year-old plant, the conversion and installation of systems proved particularly challenging. “We succeeded in integrating the new vehicle into our existing systems without halting production. The team and our partners did an amazing job,” added Peter Weber, Director of BMW Group Plant Munich. Space constraints notwithstanding, existing systems were removed, and new ones installed and ramped up. “Our bodyshop is a shining example of intelligent, efficient integration. Most of the new production processes for the BMW i4 can be carried out on the existing bodyshop systems,” Weber explained.
The main difference between the BMW i4 and conventional architectures is the electric drive and high-voltage battery. About 90 percent of the existing systems in the Munich bodyshop can still be used for the new model. Additional ones were required only for the floor assembly and rear end.
Another highly complex topic was the integration into assembly of the high-voltage battery. The battery pack is now bolted onto the body by a new, fully automated battery assembly system that works from below. Fully automated, high-resolution camera systems scan it thoroughly beforehand to ensure the surface is absolutely clean and there are no impurities that could cause damage.
The BMW Group’s home plant now manufactures an extensive portfolio of products, comprising not only the BMW i4 but also the combustion-powered and hybrid BMW 3 Series Sedan and Touring, the BMW M3 and the BMW 4 Series Gran Coupe. The scope of production is a testament not only to the plant’s flexibility but also to the outstanding skills of its associates.
Increasing digitalisation plays an important part in BMW Group production. The whole of Plant Munich is currently being 3D-scanned in minute detail to obtain a full set of basic digital data of both the building and its systems. The scans are then processed and saved on the cloud so the data can be accessed from anywhere using an intuitive, browser-based tool. Several plants have already been fully 3D-scanned – Spartanburg and Regensburg among them – and Plant Dingolfing is undergoing the process at the moment. By the end of 2022, the structure of all the major car plants in the BMW Group production network will have been scanned, and digital data will be available for everyone.
The BMW Group already utilises virtual planning tools to plan buildings and systems today. Axle pre-assembly for the BMW i4, for example, was planned with the Omniverse Nucleus platform, by NVIDIA. This converges data from the design and planning tools of various producers to create photorealistic real-time simulations in a single collaborative environment. The data from the 3D scans is also fed into the Omniverse platform.
Other digital applications are used directly in production. Radio frequency identification (RFID), for example, allows parts to be identified and assigned contactlessly and automatically along the value chain, eliminating the need for manual scanning and ensuring the right one is fitted to the right car. RFID technology is already in use in seat production but has also made its way into various areas of vehicle assembly at Plant Munich. The smart labels required for it are attached to parts while they are still with suppliers or in BMW Group component production, ready for use in assembly. They are then picked up by line-side antennae that track every labelled component in every car. Digitalisation of this kind makes processes faster and more secure, and enhances efficiency and quality as a result.
Within the production system, the issue of sustainability is of fundamental importance, and the BMW Group has adopted a holistic approach to reducing CO2 emissions and minimising the use of resources. Between 2006 and 2020, resource consumption per car produced fell more than half, and CO2 emissions have dropped even further, by 78 percent. The aim is to reduce CO2 emissions per vehicle produced by another 80 percent by 2030. At Plant Munich some changes have been made and a series of new measures implemented. That’s why the plant now uses reverse osmosis to cut freshwater consumption. The system was integrated into production in the spring of this year and now treats water from the cathodic dip – where the base coat is applied to vehicles – so it can be re-used for the same stage of the process. The new system is expected to reduce total annual freshwater consumption by more than six million litres. Since 1997, BMW Group Plant Munich has been using groundwater from its own source on the plant campus. This provides enough to cover about half of the plant’s annual needs and makes a significant contribution towards saving valuable drinking water.
With a particular focus on reducing CO2 emissions, the BMW Group has also announced another goal to coincide with the production launch of the BMW i4: over the next few years, local emissions from transport logistics at Plant Munich will gradually fall to zero. This will be achieved mainly by making greater use of rail transport and battery-electric trucks. At the moment more than 750 truck deliveries are required daily for the delivery of parts. In the future the inner-city stretches of these journeys will be made by electric trucks. In addition, the share of vehicles leaving plant Munich by train will gradually increase from the current 50 percent. The ultimate aim is to eliminate emissions completely from transport logistics in the Munich area, but also to bring about significant cuts within a broader radius and from intercontinental transportation.
Peter Weber, Director of BMW Group Plant Munich: “We are well aware that, owing to the city location of our production facility, we have a special responsibility. Our project to reduce CO2 emissions at our home plant will have a major impact that’s positive both for the environment and for our immediate neighbourhood.”
Since last year, all the energy sourced worldwide by the BMW Group has been green. For production of the BMW i4, for example, the environmental credentials of green energy were further enhanced by sourcing it directly from regional hydro-electric power stations. Furthermore, starting this year, the BMW Group is offsetting its remaining (Scope 1 + 2) CO2 emissions from production. These are caused by combined heat and power generation and are fully offset worldwide with relevant carbon credits.
The integration of the BMW i4 into existing production structures came at an investment of €200 million. The i4 is an important trailblazer for the Neue Klasse, due for rollout in Munich and other plants around the middle of this decade, and designed purely for electric powertrains.
The BMW Group first announced its plans to upgrade Plant Munich for electromobility less than a year ago: new vehicle assembly and bodyshop facilities were to be constructed, and engine production was to relocate to other parts of the production network. Since then, hundreds of associates have started working at other technologies or other facilities. By the end of this year, four-cylinder engine production will have relocated to Hams Hall, UK, and Steyr, Austria. The relocation of engine production as a whole from Munich will reach completion by 2024 at the latest.
BMW PRESS
BMW has honed the track-inspired characteristics of its four-cylinder high-performance model for the premium compact segment. Detail upgrades to its chassis components endow the BMW M135i xDrive (fuel consumption combined: 7.8 – 7.3 l/100 km [36.2 – 38.7 mpg imp] as per WLTP; CO2 emissions combined: 177 – 167 g/km as per WLTP) with noticeably enhanced performance qualities. And the retuned drive soundtrack in the cabin makes the driving experience even more emotionally engaging.
The standout power of the 225 kW/306 hp four-cylinder unit with BMW TwinPower Turbo technology under the bonnet of the BMW M135i xDrive is harnessed more effectively than ever to produce the captivating dynamics and driving experience for which BMW is renowned. Detailed set-up modifications for the bespoke chassis technology result in even better mounting, ensuring precisely controllable driving characteristics even when pushing hard on the track. The optimised traction enables drivers to explore the car’s performance limits with confidence, especially when cornering at extremely high speeds.
The camber values for the front wheels of the BMW M135i xDrive have been increased to optimise absorption of lateral forces when powering through corners. A new hydromount has additionally been used to attach the front suspension wishbones, while the mounts for the trailing and control arms at the rear axle have also been redesigned. At the same time, the spring and damping systems have undergone recalibration. The result is a significant improvement in roll behaviour in corners, which has a further beneficial effect on steering feel when the car’s sporting abilities are put to the test.
This latest raft of modifications reinforces the commitment of the BMW M135i xDrive to delivering BMW’s hallmark driving pleasure. Its chassis technology combines with the engine’s extremely sporty performance characteristics and BMW xDrive intelligent all-wheel drive to create a flawlessly composed overall package for a richly engaging drive. The compact BMW M model comes as standard with near-actuator wheel slip limitation integrated into the engine control unit. The resultant shortening of the signal paths allows traction to be controlled up to ten times faster than with conventional systems when pulling away, on slippery surfaces and during dynamic cornering. The BMW M135i xDrive additionally benefits from a mechanical limited-slip differential at the front axle. Built into the car’s standard eight-speed Steptronic Sport transmission, it enhances traction and directional stability along with agility and cornering dynamics. With locking factors of 36 per cent when accelerating and 26 per cent on the overrun, the differential is capable of transferring extra torque to the front wheel with better grip as and when required. The customary Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) functions are complemented in the BMW M135i xDrive by Performance Control, which optimises the car’s steering behaviour with judicious applications of the brakes.
Specially tuned M Sport steering and exceptionally powerful M Sport brakes can also be found on the standard equipment list for the BMW M135i xDrive. The compact sports car leaves the factory on 18-inch M light-alloy wheels as standard, with the option of 19-inch light-alloy items available in a variety of designs.
The twin-tailpipe exhaust system facilitates power delivery from the engine with its reduced backpressure, while also producing a characterful acoustic accompaniment. The distinctive, emotion-stirring sound is also transmitted into the interior, where it is carefully amplified through the audio system’s speakers.
The revised soundtrack conveys the signature four-cylinder engine note of a BMW M model to those on board more authentically than ever. The instant response to every movement of the accelerator is translated into corresponding acoustic signals. From the powerful building of torque under acceleration through to the drop-off in load on the overrun, the power unit’s operating state is clearly discernible at all times. Starting the engine prompts a sound composition specially created for this model, adding another facet to the rich acoustic experience inside the car.
A new selection of particularly striking paint finishes has been introduced to accompany the performance enhancements and underscore the individual character of the BMW M135i xDrive. BMW Individual paint finishes and special customer requests can also now be incorporated into the manufacturing process at BMW Group Plant Leipzig, where the compact model is built. The special colours require additional servicing and technical support work, with an increased number of manual processes. To cater for this, an existing paint shop was modified and the number of employees working there increased by ten.
The BMW Individual paint finishes bring even greater visual impact to the high-performance model’s modern design language and bespoke styling features. New additions to the range of exterior colours for the BMW M135i xDrive include the M paint shade Sao Paulo Yellow non-metallic, as well as the Frozen Orange metallic and Frozen Pure Grey finishes.
The BMW Group continues to push forward with climate protection and is systematically pursuing its goal of significantly reducing CO2 emissions at their source in the supply chain. From 2025 on, the company plans to source steel produced with up to 95% less CO2 emissions and without requiring fossil resources such as coal. The BMW Group has now reached an agreement to this effect with the Swedish startup H2 Green Steel, which uses hydrogen and only green power from renewable energies for steel production. Owing to its particularly energy-intensive manufacturing process, steel production is considered one of the main sources of global CO2 emissions.
“Our goal is to reduce CO2 emissions in our steel supply chain by about two million tonnes by 2030. Sourcing steel produced using hydrogen and green power can make a vital contribution to this,” says Dr Andreas Wendt, member of the Board of Management of BMW AG responsible for Purchasing and Supplier Network. “Steel is essential for producing cars and will be no less important for future vehicle generations. Innovative technologies that enable virtually carbon-free production of steel have a significant impact on our ability to reduce CO2 emissions in our steel supply chain.”
In addition to the delivery of steel produced using green power, the BMW Group and H2 Green Steel have also agreed to create a closed-loop material cycle. H2 Green Steel will take back sheet metal remnants, such as those produced at press plants when doors are punched out, and will process them in such a way that they can be shipped back to the plants as new steel rolls, also known as steel coils. In this way, raw materials can be used multiple times in a circular economy and natural resources protected. Since it requires less energy to produce, secondary steel lowers CO2 emissions by an average of 50-80%, compared to primary material.
The BMW Group is already using between 20% and 100% secondary steel in its vehicles and will continue to increase this percentage in the future. BMW Group press plants in Europe process more than half a million tonnes of steel per year.
H2 Green Steel is building its steel production site in the province of Norrbotten in northern Sweden, close to the Arctic Circle. The region is best known for its reindeer and spectacular northern lights, but also provides access to high-quality iron ore, plentiful energy from renewable sources such as hydroelectric and wind power, a major seaport and generations of steel production know-how.
Unlike conventional processes that rely on coke for making steel, the company employs hydrogen produced using green power to remove the oxygen from the iron oxide. This so-called direct reduction of iron ore produces almost no CO2 at all, only water – thereby avoiding 95% of the CO2 emissions normally produced. The specially built hydrogen power plant, which uses water and green power from across the region, will be directly integrated into the steel production plant. The company also uses local green power for the remainder of the manufacturing process.
Swedish company Northvolt, which develops and produces battery cells for electric cars, is also exploiting the potential for green power in the north of Sweden.
Last year, the BMW Group signed a long-term battery-cell supply contract with Northvolt. The battery cells will be produced in Europe at the Northvolt gigafactory currently under construction in Skellefteå in northern Sweden from 2024. The company will use only green electricity from local wind and hydroelectric power to produce the battery cells.
From 2025 onwards, the BMW Group will be realigning its product range – which has grown successfully over decades –on the basis of the Neue Klasse. The Neue Klasse will be characterised by three key aspects: a completely redefined IT and software architecture, a new generation of high-performance electric drive trains and batteries and a radically new level of sustainability across the entire vehicle lifecycle. These strands are interwoven within an overall vehicle architecture that has been uncompromisingly optimised for electric drive trains, setting a new benchmark in terms of digitisation and electrification, while at the same time ensuring that the characteristic flair of a typical BMW is transferred to future vehicle generations.
As part of its involvement with the not-for-profit organisation ResponsibleSteel, the BMW Group actively participated in establishing environmental and social standards throughout the entire steel value chain, starting at the mine. This sustainability standard for production sites in the steel industry was published in 2019 as part of a multi-stakeholder process and now forms the basis for certification. ResponsibleSteel is the steel industry’s first global multi-stakeholder standard and certification initiative.
Event date: 12 October 2021
The evening was held by Zoom. Jo had a fantastic power point presentation giving an outline of what was to be discussed. Presenters spoke about different aspects of motor sport officials.
Mark Thompson from the Victorian Flagmarshalling Team (VFT), gave a comprehensive talk about all the aspects of flag marshalling including details of what each flag represented. This part of the presentation should be compulsory for all competitors as the comprehensive information would assist all racing on the tracks to understand what is seen by officials close to the track. The information would help all drivers understand how they fit onto the track.
Scrutineering was discussed by both Geoff Riddle and Graeme Bell and the talk was specific in that you did not have to be a mechanic to be able to be part of this team. An eye for detail is needed with expert help always by your side. Specialists can check the special requirements for each individual class.
Rescue and medical are the areas that require prior knowledge in their field such as medical training for medical.
There are levels of officials culminating in bronze, silver and gold. The training is recognised Internationally, and all are insured while on the job. FIA registration as an official means you can work worldwide.
The main aspect was the importance of officials and the need for new blood. It is an area where you meet fantastic and dedicated people.
A special thanks to the organisers of the evening – their commitment and excitement at being an official stood out.
Chris Allen | Member #770 BMW Drivers Club Melbourne
For almost two decades now, attending the BMW Motorrad Days has been a must for motorcycle fans from all over the world. Visitors from countries such as the USA, Japan or Australia, sports, touring and enduro riders, customizing freaks or motorsports enthusiasts will all find their personal highlight to feel great and have loads of fun at the BMW Motorrad Days.
Following a two-year break - caused by the Covid 19 pandemic - BMW Motorrad invites fans and friends of the brand to the BMW Motorrad Days again on 2 and 3 July 2022. This time the location will be in the Summer Garden of the Messe Berlin trade fair grounds. The event will immediately follow the Pure&Crafted Festival, which will take place on 1 July 2022 at the same location and for which BMW Motorrad is once again the initiator and title sponsor.
Currently, the fourth edition of the Berlin Pure&Crafted Festival held on 17 and 18 September 2021 has already impressively shown that the new location in the heart of City-West has what it takes not only to become the permanent new home for the Pure&Crafted Festival, but at the same time also offers perfect conditions for the BMW Motorrad Days.
Dr. Markus Schramm, Head of BMW Motorrad: "The new concept is based on establishing a long-term presence at the BMW’s Berlin plant location with the BMW Motorrad Days. We can make use of the synergies with the already well-known and proven Pure&Crafted Festival. However, they will continue to be two separate and independent events: BMW Motorrad is a partner and sponsor of the Pure&Crafted Festival, while we host the BMW Motorrad Days, the brand's biggest customer event worldwide, ourselves."
On the first weekend of July next year, Pure&Crafted will offer its magic, charm and special moments to visitors already on Friday. As a unique event, the festival will thrill everyone attending with a distinctive mix of live music, motorcycle culture and new heritage lifestyle before the BMW Motorrad Days take the reins on Saturday and Sunday.
Lasting two days, the gathering will once again be dedicated entirely to the international BMW Motorrad fan community and riding fun on two wheels. In addition to new products, spectacular stunts, motorsports celebrities, test rides and a great deal more, guests can particularly look forward to the now legendary party atmosphere of the BMW Motorrad Days, garnished with a dash of Bavarian lifestyle. Visitors to the BMW Motorrad Days 2022 in Berlin can look forward to a varied programme of activities that is broader than ever. The tastes of both young and old are catered for with fun and high spirits being guaranteed for everyone.
The stunt shows push the limits of driving physics and in the original Motodrom, the oldest Wall of Death in the world, the great tradition of wall-of-death riding will be revived. Customizing fans will get their money's worth in the Heritage Area where they can inspect a whole series of custom bikes and the respective equipment".
On top of that, the Berlin hinterland can be explored by motorbike both onroad and offroad on organised tours with local guides. Once again in 2022 there will also be a wide selection of current BMW Motorrad models available for test rides.
Its uncomplicated functionality, progressive character profile and range of standard equipment – which comfortably exceeds that of the predecessor model and stands out against its rivals – make the new BMW 2 Series Active Tourer a particularly attractive proposition for active, lifestyle-oriented target groups. Four model variants with front-wheel drive and outputs ranging from 100 kW/136 hp to 160 kW/218 hp will be available at launch in February 2022. The new model will be built at BMW Group Plant Leipzig and its vehicle architecture is designed to accommodate both combustion engines and electrified drive systems. Two plug-in hybrid models will be added to the line-up a few months after launch.
The exterior design of the new BMW 2 Series Active Tourer brings lifestyle attributes and aesthetic sophistication together into a modern crossover character profile. The clean, reduced surface treatment exudes sporting prowess and assured presence. At the front end of the car, these qualities are expressed most prominently by the striking BMW kidney grille, with its increased dimensions, and the slim contours of the headlights. The new BMW 2 Series Active Tourer comes as standard with full-LED headlights. Adaptive LED Headlights with cornering light function, non-dazzling matrix high beam, urban lights, a motorway beam pattern and bad weather light are on the options list.
Much more heavily raked A-pillars compared to the predecessor model, a stretched side window graphic, flush-fitting door handles and slim C-pillars also play their part in the new car’s dynamic silhouette. The newly designed door shoulders around the A-pillars create much improved all-round visibility. With its broad shoulders and slim LED light units, the rear of the new BMW 2 Series Active Tourer cuts a particularly muscular figure. The exhaust tailpipes are integrated into the rear apron out of sight on all model variants.
Depending on the model variant, 16-inch or 17-inch light-alloy wheels are fitted as standard. Light-alloy wheels up to 19 inches in size are available as an option. The new BMW 2 Series Active Tourer can also be ordered in Luxury Line trim or with an M Sport package as alternatives to basic specification. Two non-metallic and nine metallic paint finishes are available for the exterior.
The size and versatility of the new BMW 2 Series Active Tourer’s interior are emphasised by the fundamental redesign introduced by the second-generation car. The cabin geometry and a host of details take their cues from the interior concept of the BMW iX technology flagship. This creates a progressive premium ambience, the key features of which include the slim instrument panel, the BMW Curved Display, the “floating” armrest with integrated control panel and an across-the-board reduction in the number of physical control elements.
The space underneath the armrest is used as a storage compartment, while the area in front of it houses generously sized cup holders and a newly designed smartphone slot. The phone remains visible to the driver and front passenger here and can be wirelessly charged as an option.
The new BMW 2 Series Active Tourer offers occupants in its five seats noticeably better long-distance comfort that of its predecessor. The newly developed, multi-adjustable seats can also be ordered in optional Sensatec perforated or Vernasca leather. Also on the options list are sport seats with prominent bolsters and shoulder areas, electric seat adjustment (including memory function), lumbar support and a massage function. Acoustic comfort and occupant protection have been stepped up too. Indeed, a new interaction airbag between the driver and front passenger is added to the integrated passive safety concept.
An array of storage areas and the multi-adjustable rear seats also contribute to the car’s uncomplicated functionality in everyday use and on longer tips away. With the rear backrests in their cargo position, boot capacity increases by as much as 90 litres. The rear seats can also slide forwards by up to 13 centimetres. This and the 40 : 20 : 40 split/folding rear seat backrests present customers with a load compartment that can be used for a multitude of purposes. Boot capacity is 470 –1,455 litres in the BMW 218i Active Tourer and BMW 218d Active Tourer and 415 – 1,405 litres in the BMW 220i Active Tourer and BMW 223i Active Tourer. Automatic tailgate operation comes as standard, while an electrically operated trailer tow hitch can be ordered as an option.
The progressive premium character of the new BMW 2 Series Active Tourer is also underscored by its extensive standard specification. Fitted as standard alongside the BMW Maps navigation system are four USB-C ports and a 12V power socket in both the centre console and the boot, intelligent two-zone automatic climate control, a Sport leather steering wheel, a rain sensor with windscreen wiper control and automatic headlight activation, a much larger number of driver assistance systems compared with the predecessor model, and Park Assist with Reversing Assist Camera.
Newly structured equipment packages enable extremely specific individualisation of the car. Customers can order high-quality interior trim strips, as well as Sensatec surfaces for the instrument panel and front door shoulders with eye-catching contrast stitching. Other contributors to the premium feel include a mirror package, ambient lighting, a panoramic glass sunroof and a Harman Kardon Sound System.
The new BMW 2 Series Active Tourer is also at the vanguard of powertrain technology. The extensively updated combustion engines increase driving pleasure while reducing fuel consumption and emissions, and the latest generation of the seven-speed Steptronic dual-clutch transmission – now standard for all model variants – is likewise extremely efficient. A new version of 48V mild hybrid technology is making its debut in the BMW 223i Active Tourer (fuel consumption: 6.6 – 6.0 litres/100 km [42.8 – 47.1 mpg imp]; CO2 emissions combined: 149 – 137 g/km in the WLTP test cycle) and BMW 220i Active Tourer (fuel consumption: 6.5 – 5.9 litres/100 km [43.5 – 47.9 mpg imp]; CO2 emissions combined: 148 – 133 g/km in the WLTP test cycle). The electric motor integrated into the automatic transmission supplements the combustion engine with a power boost now increased to 14 kW/19 hp.
The new BMW 223i Active Tourer has an output of 160 kW/218 hp (generated jointly by the 150 kW/204 hp combustion engine and 14 kW/19 hp electric drive system), and the BMW 220i Active Tourer develops 125 kW/170 hp (generated jointly by the 115 kW/156 hp combustion engine and the 14 kW/19 hp electric drive system). Also available from launch is the 100 kW/136 hp BMW 218i Active Tourer (fuel consumption: 6.8 – 6.2 litres/100 km [41.5 – 45.6 mpg imp]; CO2 emissions combined: 154 – 140 g/km in the WLTP test cycle).
All the petrol engines feature a new combustion process and a dual injection system. The diesel engine powering the new BMW 218d Active Tourer (fuel consumption: 5.3 – 4.8 litres/100 km [53.3 – 58.9 mpg imp]; CO2 emissions combined: 138 – 125 g/km in the WLTP test cycle) employs low-friction pistons and two-stage turbocharging with increased efficiency. Maximum output is 110 kW/150 hp.
The line-up will expand further in summer 2022 with the addition of two plug-in hybrid models. These will feature fifth-generation BMW eDrive technology for the first time, enhancing dynamism and giving them a significantly longer electric range.
The chassis technology in the new BMW 2 Series Active Tourer has been engineered to deliver the brand’s customary sporting flair combined with impressive levels of ride comfort in every situation. With a body construction that reduces weight while increasing rigidity, a long wheelbase, and wider tracks than its predecessor, the car’s basic design provides the ideal blueprint for the job at hand.
Steering precision and agility have been enhanced by targeted updates for the single-joint spring strut axle at the front and the three-link rear axle. The near-actuator wheel slip limitation function included as standard improves both traction and directional stability. The integrated braking system is another new feature, as is the extra, lift-related damping for the front axle. The optional adaptive M suspension includes frequency-selective damping, sport steering and a 15-millimetre drop in ride height.
The largest selection of systems for automated driving and parking yet offered for a BMW compact-segment model are available for the new edition of the BMW 2 Series Active Tourer. Standard specification includes Cruise Control with brake function, Lane Departure Warning, the Evasion Assistant and front-collision warning. The latter now also reacts to oncoming traffic when turning left and to pedestrians and cyclists and when turning right (in countries where vehicles drive on the right). The Parking Assistant including Reversing Assist Camera and Reversing Assistant also comes as standard. Options include the Steering and Lane Control Assistant, Active Cruise Control with Stop&Go function, Active Navigation, the exit warning function, the BMW Head-Up Display and the Surround View, Remote 3D View, BMW Drive Recorder and Remote Theft Recorder functions.
Existing functions can be improved or expanded by means of Remote Software Upgrades, and customers can also use Functions on Demand to select and import a range of functions at a later stage, such as Driving Assistant Plus including Active Cruise Control with Stop&Go function (availability depends on the hardware fitted in the vehicle and the market conditions).
The new generation of the control/operation system iDrive, included here in a compact-segment model from BMW for the first time, is based on BMW Operating System 8. It links up as standard with the BMW Curved Display – with its state-of-the-art graphics and menu structure – and the BMW Intelligent Personal Assistant with expanded skills range. The BMW Curved Display fully digital screen grouping is formed by a 10.25-inch information display and a control display with a screen diagonal of 10.7 inches. The new BMW iDrive is built around intuitive touch control and voice control.
The new My Modes bring together individually selected vehicle settings with the relevant interior experience worlds. The cloud-based navigation system BMW Maps can be specified as an option with the Augmented View function on the control display. The interior camera allows those on board to take snapshots during a journey and send them to their smartphone. New BMW 2 Series Active Tourer customers can also make use of a Personal eSIM designed to work with the new 5G mobile technology, as well as the BMW ID for individualisation of the user experience and further improved smartphone integration with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
Thank you to all of those who entered our colouring competition over the school holidays. See below for the results!
Harlow, age 1 (special mention)
Vivienne, age 3 (draw ages 2-4)
Olivia, age 2 (draw ages 2 - 4)
Elisa, age 6 (draw ages 5 - 8)
Payton, age 7 (draw ages 5 - 8)
Harper, age 11 (draw ages 9 - 13)
Tim (draw ages 17+)
MONTH IN REVIEW
Dear members
For many of us, September meant another month in lockdown so all of our in-person events were cancelled. However we did start our month with a virtual car show. Lots of members sent in their cars and we saw some really surprising collections out there! Lawrence did a fantastic job of putting each of the cars into a presentation so that the owners could give us some insight into their collections.
____________________
We were also asked by one of our members if we could have a children’s activity for the school holidays, so we ran a two week colouring in competition with varying age groups from 2 to 102. We can't wait to announce the winners! Thank you to Shannon Cooper and his family for sponsoring this competition.
On 21 September we held our AGM. The new committee were voted in as were two resolutions. We are happy to say our committee will remain unchanged for the next 12 months. Thank you all for having the faith to have us back for another year, we hope we do you all proud.
On 25 September many of us got up at 2am to join the BMW Clubs and Community Management team who showed us how to access the new online BMW Archives department. It was great seeing how easy and accessible it is to be able to source information about your car or motorbike. There will be more of these style events in the future, they are definitely worth joining if you don't mind the late night (or very early morning).
MEMBERSHIP UPDATE: 624 MEMBERS
Welcome to our new members Johnathon Oliver, Brett Ditchfield, David King, Jim Graham, Marla Waak, Jason Hrvatin, Alex Caldwell and Chris Houghton-Allen. We look forward to seeing you at an event soon!
NOTICE TO CLUB PERMIT CAR OWNERS
With our cars being locked away in either our garages or storage it is easy to forget to ensure our club permits are kept up to date. Please take this message as a timely reminder that it is your responsibility to ensure your club permit is current and does not lapse. If it does lapse and remains unpaid for 90 days, you will need to reapply for your club permit (which means also getting another road worthy certificate). When you receive your club permit renewal make sure you get them to us in time for them to be posted back, allowing extra time for delayed postage throughout Covid. Please also ensure you have a self-addressed stamped envelope in with the renewal for us to return to you. If you are paying your club permit electronically please make sure all the details are filled in correctly on the form before emailing it to us. If you have any questions, please reach out to us any time.
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 October:
Tuesday, 12 OctoberVirtual October Members Meeting - Becoming a Motorsport Official If you are a keen motorsport enthusiast and have never been able to get on the track, being an official may just be up your alley. Being a Motorsport Australia official will give you access to all types of motorsport, from grass roots to Supercars and F1. Tuesday, 26 October (member only event)Drop in with The Richards - Virtual Zoom Event Join us for an informal catch up with Steven and Clayton Richards. Steve and Clay will be chatting to us via Zoom about their motorsport careers and there will be plenty of time to chat after and ask them both lots of questions.
Be sure to keep an eye on our calendar to stay up to date with our events.
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.
2021 AGM
Thanks to those who attended our AGM in September. We had 45 attendees and a quorum of 53 with 25 voting members and 28 Proxy votes received.
Re-elected roles:
President: Graeme Bell
Vice President: Jo Mawson
Secretary: Lawrence Glynn
Treasurer: Shaaron Glynn
All matters from the meeting were voted in.
Prize winners
We would like to thank our sponsor for their donations and Stephen Mattingly for chairing the meeting.
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!
FROM THE WELFARE TEAM
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 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
Zagame Autobody
© 2024 BMW Drivers Club Melbourne Inc. All Rights Reserved.
