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BMW Drivers Club Melbourne

  • 1 Jun 2021 12:30 PM | Anonymous


    MONTH IN REVIEW 

    Dear members

    May began with a bang, kicking off with our third birthday and presentation dinner and idrive launch at the Park Hyatt, Melbourne.

    Thank you to those who attended to help us celebrate another year of our club. We were also joined by two BMW Drivers Club NSW members and a brilliant guest speaker, Jacqui Cooper.

    All attendees also left with the new edition of idrive.  All members should all have theirs now, we hope you enjoy the read. 

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    On 8 May we had the fourth round of our Traction Tyres/Yokohama Drivers Championship at Sandown with AROCA. It was great to see so many attend on such a beautiful, sunny day.  

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    On 11 May we held our May members meeting at Creative Custom Cars where Alan How showed us around his elaborate workshop and explained with great passion what they do there and how they restore the vehicles currently in their workshop.

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    On 14-16 May quite a few of our members raced at Phillip Island for round 3 of the E30 Racing Championship. 16 E30s were gridded up over the weekend for some sometimes slippery racing, with only a few small incidents happening.


    On the Sunday as part of National Motoring Heritage Day, Lawrence and Shaaron led a drive all the way from Geelong to Phillip Island to watch the E30 races on the hill at turn 12. 


    The members racing really appreciated the support of the members who came to watch on Sunday. We'll definitely do this again later in the year.

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    16 May was a busy day for some of our members.  Not only did we have Racing and the Motoring Heritage Day Drive, Graeme and Lawrence also attended the 2021 BMW Clubs Australia AGM. While at the AGM, one of our very own was awarded the 2021 BMW Clubs Australia Award of Excellence.  Congratulations to Jo Mawson for your achievement. We're all so proud to have you as part of our club.

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    On 23 a group of us attended Rob Roy Hillclimb for Round 5 of our Traction Tyres/Yokohama Drivers Championship and Round 2 of the Motorsport Australia Interclub Challenge and boy what a beautiful day this turned out to be.  Graeme Bell even walked away with a couple of trophies on the day!

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    Unfortunately we had to cancel our final event of the month, Cars & Coffee due to lockdown in Victoria.  We hope you are all keeping well during this time and urge you to reach out if there is anything we can do.

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    MEMBERSHIP UPDATE: 600 MEMBERS

    Welcome to our new memberAnup Pokhrel,  Greg Bai Piper, Reinhold Schultz, Nadar Elgowhary, Peter Christopherson, Nick Page, Damian McVilly, Jay Pitrola, Dean Howarth, Nadine Byrne, John Byrne, Richard Giddings, Aaron Salkas, Nick Puccio, Cody Anderson, Hanwen Tian, David Read, James Cunningham, Simon Lee, Rebecca Kempton, Dennis Cacavas, Linda Cacavas and Daniel O'Callaghan. We look forward to seeing you at an event soon!

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    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, 8 June
    June Members Meeting at Makulu Vehicle Storage
    Let's all take some time to catch up, share what we've all been up to and chat about our plans for the rest of the year.  We'll be given a tour of the SouthernBM Classic Collection. We'll also be joined by Century Batteries who will be showing us some new products.


    Saturday-Monday, 12-13 June
    Whale Watching in Port Fairy Long Weekend Away
    We've been planning this one for over 12 months!  Join us for a weekend away to Port Fairy.


    Saturday, 19 June
    Sandown Driver Training and Come & Try Day

    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? Join us for our Sandown Driver Training and Come & Try Day to see what the fuss is all about!


    Sunday, 27 June
    Drive to Point Nepean National Park
    Starting with breakfast at Mornington BMW, we'll head off on a drive to Point Nepean National Park.  After we've had a chance to explore Point Nepean, we'll stop for a late lunch at the Pig & Whistle.

    Club members have also been invited to BMW Car Club Canberra's Merimbula Getaway and whale watching on 9-10 October, if anyone is interested in joining.


    Be sure to keep an eye on our calendar for more events.

    COMPETITION TIME!

    Have you wanted to get on track but you're still not sure if it's for you?

    We're running a competition to award someone entry to our driver training come and try day, thanks to our friends at Makulu Vehicle Storage.

    If you're over 16, have limited experience in motorsport, have access to a track worthy vehicle and have the intention to continue with motorsport, we want to hear from you!

    To enter, email motorsport@bmwdcm.com.au with your name, residential address and tell us in 50 words or less "why you would be most deserving of the prize."

    Entries close at 5pm (AEST) 12/6/21. By entering, you agree to the terms and conditions, which are summarised and linked at the end of this newsletter.

    WELFARE OFFICERS WANTED

    We are looking for a Welfare Officer or Officers, whose role is to make sure everything we do as a club is for the good of all involved, and everyone in our club, whether at events or out in the community, is looked after emotionally at all times.

    If you'd like to read more about what we are looking for, how to get involved and why we're looking for Welfare Officer/s, please take a look at Graeme's presidents report here.

    Alternatively, you can contact  welfare@bmwdcm.com.au.


    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. 

    BECOMING AN OFFICIAL

    Call out to all motorsport officials!

    If you are a motorsport official, please email v.preseident@bmwdcm.com.au and officials@bmwdcm.com.au with your level of licence, licence number and expiry, WWC number and expiry and the area you like to work best as an official.  

    If you are looking to do any upgrade, please also let us know which discipline you are keen on training for.

    Bronze Scrutiny Training Course

    If any officials are looking to complete a Bronze Scrutiny training course, there is one coming up on 10 - 11 July at the MG Car Club.  Please contact our friends at VSAP at rally22@bigpond.net.au.

    CLASSIFIEDS

    Did you know we have a 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.

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    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


    COMPETITION TERMS: AU residents 16+ only, can take prize on 19/6/21, is a BMWDCM member & has a track worth vehicle (as determined by Promoter). If <18, get parent/guardian OK. Between 12.01am (AEST) 1/6/21 & 5pm (AEST) 12/6/21, email motorsport@bmwdcm.com.au & tell us in 50 words or less "why you would be most deserving of the prize".  Email must include full name & residential address. Max 1 entry per person. Prize: opportunity to attend the BMWDCM Come & Try & Driver Training event at Sandown Raceway on 19/6/21 ($300). Must claim prize by 5pm (AEST) 13/6/21. Winner told by email. See bmwdcm.com.au/terms for full conditions incl. privacy statement.  Promoter: BMW Drivers Club Melbourne Inc (Inc. no. A0102695G).


  • 31 May 2021 5:00 PM | Anonymous


     


    Dear Members,

    May crept up on us with a bang, starting with our Third Birthday and Presentation Night and idrive launch at the Park Hyatt Melbourne and kicked off another very busy month.

    It was an amazing night, with so may members attending and dressing up in their finery. It was fantastic to see so many of you there, helping celebrate another year in the life of our wonderful club.  We had two members join us from BMW Drivers Club NSW and of course our fantastic guest speaker Jacqui Cooper.  Everyone left with a fresh new issue of our third edition of idrive, and boy it is another great addition to our collection. You should all have received your copy in the mail by now too and I hope you enjoy it. Thank you also to those of our sponsors who attended, it was great to see you out having so much fun.

    On 8 May we had Round 4 of our Traction Tyres/Yokohama Drivers Championship at Sandown with AROCA.  It was great to see so many attending this and the Championship ladder is looking great so far. It was a beautiful sunny day, and everyone enjoyed the day out on track. 

    On 11 May a large group of us attended our May meeting a Creative Custom Cars where Alan How showed us around his elaborate workshop and explained with great passion what they do there and how they restore the vehicles currently in their workshop. 

    On 14-16 May, we headed down to Philip Island where quite a few of our members were amongst the growing E30 Racing grid. 16 E30s were gridded up over the weekend for some sometimes slippery racing, with only a few small incidents happening and only one DNF (me) due to a broken rocker that we couldn’t fix between race two and three. It was great to see the club members coming to support the racing and joining us in the pits for a chat and taking part in the Motoring Heritage Day at the same time.

    On 16 May Lawrence and Shaaron led a drive all the way from Geelong down to Phillip Island for National Motoring Heritage Day, which was brilliant,and despite the arctic weather we had a great turnout and then they all displayed across from turn 12 to watch both the E30 races for the day.  It was so great to have the support of the members, we will definitely do this again as both competitors and spectators enjoyed the day.

    16 May was a busy day for some of us. Not only did we have Racing and the Motoring Heritage Day Drive and show, I also attended the 2021 BMW Clubs Australia AGM with Lawrence as an invited observer. This year the Clubs Australia AGM has been split into two parts. The first part was via Zoom, on 16 May, largely to get the government requirements out of the way for the year, have elections of the executive and also to make a few announcements to delegates and keep us informed about goings on Nationally and Internationally in the BMW Club World.

    One of these announcements was the 2021 BMW Clubs Australia Award of Excellence. Each year the executive of Clubs Australia call for nominations for this prestigious award and last year I put together a nomination for one of our members. Someone that works tirelessly for all of us, is the backbone of the club and spends her days doing everything she can to make the Club such a wonderful place for all of us. The 2021 winner of the BMW Award of Excellence is none other than our very own Jo Mawson. She was very surprised that not only could I nominate her without her knowing, but also receive the trophies and get them down to Phillip Island, so I could award it to her during the Zoom meeting. Quite amazingly, for once,  Jo was speechless! Jo is a very deserving recipient of the Award and deserves to be acknowledged for everything she does for us and the club.

    On 23 May a group of us attended Rob Roy Hillclimb for Round 5 of our Traction Tyres/Yokohama Drivers Championship and Round 2 of the Motorsport Australia Interclub Challenge and boy what a beautiful day this turned out to be.  Freezing on the drive up with my frost warning coming on as I dipped into the valleys, but the day turned out to be tremendous with again several of our members attending to support those who competed.  I even walked away with a couple of trophies on the day, although one was for the last Hillclimb there.

    We were supposed to finish the month with a coffee & cars day in Beaumaris but unfortunately, we have been placed into lockdown version 4 for 7 days and this has been postponed.  It was due to be a great day with over 60 registered and we were going to be supporting one of our club members Christopher George who is the owner of Flavours Patisserie.  Chris owns three patisseries, Black Rock Beaumaris, and Parkdale.  If you are in the area, be sure to pop in and let him know you are a club member, grab a takeaway coffee and pastry and we will run the event as soon as we can get back out again. Hopefully lockdown V4 won’t go longer than 7 days and we can get back to ‘normal’ again soon.

    Now we are back in lockdown again, we are not sure what will be happening in June, it will depend on what restrictions remain after this week, but all going well we will be joining Makulu Storage Facility for our June members meeting on 8 June and we will be joined by the boys from Century Batteries for a quick chat and they will also be supplying some great door prizes. 

    12 - 14 June is our Queen’s Birthday long weekend Whale Watching Weekend.  There are still spots available for this weekend, if you are wanting to attend you will need to make sure you can get accommodation, as I know rooms were selling very quickly. We're looking forward to getting out in the countryside again, our last few trips away with the Club were awesome. With great driving roads and a fantastic bunch of friends enjoying our time together. 

    19 June will be our first Come & Try/Driver Training Day for 2021. Run by BMWDCM at Sandown, this is a great event to get out and learn some track techniques, get someone in the car with you for some instruction, no matter what level, or just give your car a decent squirt, without the law sending you a pretty picture for your trouble. If in fact you are thinking about whether or not you should enter, just remember, it is the only safe place to put your foot down and you can do it all day for less than the cost of one little slip up on the road! 

    27 June will be our June drive heading from Mornington BMW down to Point Nepean, where you will be able to wonder around and take in some of the historic buildings and then lunch is at the Pig and Whistle at 2pm. 

    Further on in the calendar we have Christmas in July on 24 July and this is always a fun event, with members dressing up in festive costumes and as usual there will be great prizes to giveaway for the best Christmas costumes. 

    Our Major trip away this year is our drive Tour of Tasmania and so far, we have had a great response.  Get your registrations in early and if you are wanting to make progress payments, we have that option too. We really love getting down to Tassie and enjoying the roads and scenery and with a great bunch of people with us, it will be epic. Don’t miss out on it!

    Hopefully, this lockdown is only 7 days so please don’t despair, we will be back out doing what we love again soon and remember we are only a phone call away and if you do know someone who you think may have problems being isolated, give them a call, they would really appreciate that.

    In this light, we have decided to appoint a new position or role within the club.

    Firstly, we have decided we should have a Welfare Officer or Team, whose role is to make sure everything we do as a club is for the good of all involved, and everyone in our club, whether at events or out in the community, is looked after emotionally at all times. If you are concerned about anything we do or anything we don’t do, please let me know. Once we appoint someone to the role, we will let you know who it will be. Similarly, if you think you would like to be considered for the role also let me know.

    The second reason we think it is a good idea is, whilst we don’t and aren’t a religious group and we don’t wish to become one or to push any particular religion or faith over any other, sometimes it is nice to have someone to talk to, to offer guidance or even meaning at times of hardness or even to give thanks to what ever you believe in and if we have someone in that role, we can call on them for help when needed. Personally, I am not religious, but I have had occasion in life to turn to someone for answers or strength and it has been a Chaplain that has been there to listen and offer words of wisdom that kept me going or reassured me everything will be ok. I’d like to know what you think too, let me know what you think of this, we are a growing community and for a lot of us our club is more than just a club, it is a family, and a family offers support to its members, both physically and emotionally.

    Our first thought was to appoint a single person, but we feel this would be better served by a small group of people that can listen to you, help you or support you if you need it. This Welfare Team will be made up of both women and men and be available anytime you need support. Again, if you would like to be included or indeed need some help or support, please let me or one of us know. Only too happy to chat to anyone about anything. I have set up an email address welfare@bmwdcm.com.au, use it if you need it. Of course, anything you discuss with anyone on our welfare team will be treated with the utmost confidentiality and respect.

    Speaking of memberships and our growing family, we have this week reached yet another milestone. We currently have 600 members! Totally amazing! I am lost for words every time I think about how this club has grown and how fantastic it is to have so many like-minded friends joining us on our journey and enjoying the Club we have all built together. Thank you all for joining us and welcome to those new members that have joined recently. I know you will enjoy the atmosphere and events we create and the friendships we foster amongst us. We are a family, and we love that you have joined us, so again, welcome.

    Again, we will wait for the Government to decide what we are allowed to do, going forward, or when we will get back out, so keep an eye on the emails and facebook for updates as to our future events. At the moment, this weekend is postponed but we will let you know if anything else is affected.

    Don’t forget, we have Club logo, triple layer face masks and also neck warmers if you haven’t got one or can’t find what you did with yours. All available in our store, with all the other great Club Merchandise. Our new Club Umbrellas are on the way too, so we will have them in stock soon too. Go and check out what is available here.

    Take care everyone, stay safe, stay home, get a vaccination, and we’ll see you out somewhere soon.

    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

  • 30 May 2021 10:41 AM | Anonymous

    Each year the Executive of BMW Clubs Australia call for nominations for this prestigious award.

    It is awarded to a Club member that has excelled in club life and goes beyond what is asked of any member for the good or benefit of the club and its members. It is not awarded every year and is only awarded to someone that truly deserves it.

    Last year I put together a nomination for one of our members. Someone that works tirelessly for all of us, is the backbone of the club and spends her days doing everything she can to make the club such a wonderful place for all of us.

    The Executive of Clubs Australia agreed and awarded the 2021 BMW Clubs Australia Award of Excellence to none other than our very own Jo Mawson.

    She was very surprised that not only could I nominate her without her knowing, but also receive the trophies and get them down to Phillip Is so I could award it to her during the Zoom meeting that was part 1 of the 2021 BMW Clubs Australia AGM.

    Quite amazingly, for once,  Jo was speechless! When we called her in in the middle of the Zoom AGM she had no idea why and was totally lost for words. Anyone that knows Jo, will find this hard to believe, but for once Jo didn’t know what to say, other than thank you, she is very honoured and humbled that Clubs Australia have awarded her such a distinction.

    Jo is a very deserving recipient of the Award and deserves to be acknowledged for everything she does for us and the club. I am very proud that she was awarded the Award of Excellence, it is quite an honour and very well deserved.

    Graeme Bell | Member #1
    BMW Drivers Club Melbourne

  • 28 May 2021 3:51 PM | Anonymous


  • 26 May 2021 3:48 PM | Anonymous

    Event date: 11 May 2021

    As a new member of BMWDCM I was looking forward to attending my first event which just happened to be the monthly meeting to be held at Creative Custom Cars in Dromana. Arriving just in time for the start of the evening and making my way into the welcoming foyer at Creative Custom Cars, I had the chance to meet a couple of other members before Alan How the owner of Creative Custom Cars welcomed our club to his workshop.

    As Alan began to give an overview of the business operations I quickly realised this was no average workshop, I could see into operating theatre from the foyer where there was many interesting cars.

    It just so happened that on this evening there was 2 BMW's in his workshop undergoing complete nut and bolt no expense spared restorations one was a BMW M3 E30 and a 3.0 CSL which was the star of the show and had just been completed.

    Alan explained when they carry out restorations that are to be returned to original specs if they don't have all the details supplied by the customer they then carry out extensive research to ensure originality. It was great to see the attention to detail on the cars amazing paint jobs and bodywork thanks to the in house fabrication and paint shop.

    Creative Customs can also restore a part off your car when you not requiring a full restoration.

    The photo of the 3.0CSL does not do it justice this car really looked amazing. 

    Thanks to Alan for having us at his workshop and hopefully we can visit it again in the future it really was a very interesting evening. 

    Andrew Cross | Member #694
    BMW Drivers Club Melbourne

  • 26 May 2021 3:35 PM | Anonymous

    BMW Group continues to expand manufacturing capacity at the Competence Centre for E-Drive Production in Dingolfing +++ E-drive trains for 500,000 electrified vehicles per year from 2022 +++ Extensive in-house drive train expertise: Start of production for fifth-generation high-voltage batteries in Germany +++ Successful transformation to e-drive train production

    • MW Group continues to expand manufacturing capacity at the Competence Centre for E-Drive Production in Dingolfing
    • E-drive trains for 500,000 electrified vehicles per year from 2022
    • Extensive in-house drive train expertise: Start of production for fifth-generation high-voltage batteries in Germany
    • Successful transformation to e-drive train production

    Production of fifth-generation high-voltage batteries and battery modules for use in the BMW iX* and BMW i4 is now underway at the Competence Centre for E-Drive Production in Dingolfing. At the same time, the company is also increasing production capacity for its fifth-generation electric motor, which has been built in Dingolfing for the BMW iX3* since 2020 and will also power the BMW iX* and BMW i4. “We expect at least 50 percent of the vehicles we deliver to our customers worldwide to be electrified by 2030. To achieve this, we are relying on our extensive in-house drive train expertise: We are increasing capacity at existing drive train production locations – like here in Dingolfing – and developing capabilities at others – like recently in Regensburg and Leipzig,” explained Dr Michael Nikolaides, Senior Vice President, Production Engines and E-Drives, BMW Group.

    The BMW Group is investing more than 500 million euros in expanding production capacity for e-drives at its Dingolfing location alone between 2020 and 2022. From 2022, it will produce e-drives for more than half a million electrified vehicles. The BMW Group will invest a total of around 790 million euros in expanding capacity for electric powertrain components at its Dingolfing, Leipzig, Regensburg and Steyr locations between 2020 and 2022.

    Standard production of the BMW iX* will soon get underway at BMW Group Plant Dingolfing, followed by production of the BMW i4 at Plant Munich in the autumn. The highly integrated e-drives and high-voltage batteries for these vehicles will all be manufactured at the Competence Centre for E-Drive Production in Dingolfing. The BMW Group already began producing battery components at Plants Regensburg and Leipzig in April and May 2021. In line with growing demand for e-drives, BMW Group Plants Landshut and Steyr are also stepping up production of e-drive housings.

    Production of fifth-generation BMW eDrive technology

    The output and energy content of drive units and high-voltage batteries with fifth-generation BMW eDrive technology can be flexibly scaled. This means they can be optimally adjusted to suit different model variants.

    Each vehicle uses up to two highly integrated e-drives, which combine the electric motor, power electronics and transmission in a single housing. Based on the design principle of a current-excited rotor, the fifth-generation e-drive does not require any materials classified as rare-earth metals.

    BMW eDrive technology also comprises a high-voltage battery with state-of-the-art battery cell technology. The BMW Group agreed with its suppliers that they will only use renewable green power for producing fifth-generation battery cells. The entire high-voltage battery boasts outstanding qualities in the areas of performance, charging and discharging characteristics, durability and safety. The technically standardised production process for battery modules has been further developed in such a way that different module variants can be produced on the same production line – in line with the growing range of electrified vehicle models and performance levels. The production systems are highly flexible and scalable. Battery modules are produced from supplied prismatic battery cells at the respective BMW Group production location. A modular system developed in-house allows model-specific high-voltage batteries to be manufactured from these modules in a flexible arrangement.

    The company has outstanding expertise and experience, both in the field of battery cell technology and in production of model-specific high-voltage batteries. The BMW Group conducts basic research in the fields of cell chemistry and cell design at its own Battery Cell Competence Centre. The BMW Group also produces battery cell prototypes itself. These battery cell prototypes are used in tests to validate the development maturity of battery cells and to demonstrate the effectiveness of the production processes. In addition, the prototype production of the battery cells serves the identification of process potentials as well as the optimization of the production processes. In this way, the BMW Group gains a thorough understanding of the entire battery cell value chain and the decisive competitive advantages its chemical and technical properties offer. This enables battery cells to be manufactured to precise specifications that are geared towards each vehicle’s individual requirements.

    Competence Centre for E-Drive Production

    Following extensive expansion, the Competence Centre for E-Drive Production now provides a usable area of 125,000 sq. m. This is where the company manufactures electric motors and the components needed for them, as well as high-voltage batteries and battery modules. A paint coating is also applied to the battery cells at this location. The coating increases mechanical robustness and thermal conductivity, thereby improving insulation and cooling of the even more powerful fifth-generation battery cells.

    Plant Dingolfing has been manufacturing standard high-voltage batteries and battery modules since 2013, when the BMW Group's first all-electric vehicle, the BMW i3*, went into production. The first production lines for electric motors and high-voltage batteries for plug-in hybrids went on-stream there in 2014. The Competence Centre for E-Drive Production has been steadily growing ever since. The plant has also been producing high-voltage batteries for the fully electric MINI Cooper SE* since 2019 and, since 2020, also the highly integrated fifth-generation e-drive used for the first time in the BMW iX3*. Production of the even more powerful high-voltage batteries for the BMW iX* and BMW i4 is now getting underway. E-drives for future models can also be produced on the flexible production lines.

    Qualification for long-term, sustainable jobs

    With the BMW Group systematically pursuing progress in electromobility, the demands on employees and their areas of responsibility are also constantly evolving. “We are growing our staff for e-drive production almost exclusively through personnel restructuring. We are actively shaping the transformation process and leveraging our employees’ skills so we can develop long-term sustainable jobs,” explains Nikolaides.

    The Competence Centre for E-Drive Production in Dingolfing currently has almost 1,400 employees. By the end of 2021, around 1,900 employees are expected to work in e-drive production in Dingolfing.

    Production employees receive further training at the in-house learning centre, which uses innovative vocational training and further education methods to provide employees with intensive preparation for their new tasks. Employees’ knowledge and skills are being expanded specifically to include new electromobility technologies, with a training concept that is constantly updated. The training sessions are held in the classroom, at practice workstations and directly on the production lines. Digital methods and augmented reality play a bigger role here than ever before. Thanks to these methods, the training courses were also able to continue safely during the coronavirus pandemic, in compliance with health and safety measures.

    “The learning centre takes a holistic approach that supports employees throughout their professional development and further education, from their first day in production,” reports Dr Sven Jochmann, head of Production E-Drives Dingolfing, Landshut, Regensburg, Leipzig. “As well as trainers and managers, new colleagues are also supported by trained mentors who help them quickly find their way around their new working environment,” adds Jochmann. 

    Transformation of the Dingolfing location

    The Dingolfing location is a prime example of the successful transformation of the BMW Group plants towards e-mobility and digitalisation. E-drive production, including electric motors and high-voltage batteries, is located in an existing, roughly 50-year-old building at the site, rather than using new space. The infrastructure was adapted to the new requirements and expanded accordingly. A modern staff restaurant seats 300 and there is also a new parking deck with space for 800 vehicles. The structural measures are rounded out by a 25,000 sq. m. logistics hall, new office spaces and social rooms close to the production area, as well as an additional plant gate in the south for improved logistics flows.

    On the issue of sustainability, the BMW Group takes a holistic approach to reducing CO2 emissions and minimising resource consumption that covers the entire value chain, including in-house production, the supply chain and use phase. In Dingolfing, as at all BMW Group locations, production uses only green power. In addition, all BMW Group locations have been net carbon neutral since this year, through corresponding offsets and certificates. The company is also using many other levers: from building technology to energy-efficient installations to increased use of renewable energies. Electric trucks will be used for intra-company goods transport at the Competence Centre for E-Drive Production from the autumn. 

    2030: At least 50 percent of global BMW Group sales will be fully electric

    The BMW Group continues its massive electromobility ramp-up: The company will offer five fully-electric models by the end of this year: the BMW i3*, the MINI Cooper SE* and the BMW iX3*, as well as the two main innovation flagships, the BMW iX* and BMW i4.

    Between now and 2025, the BMW Group will increase its sales of fully-electric models by an average of well over 50 percent per year – more than ten times the number of units sold in 2020. Based on its current market forecast, the company also expects at least 50 percent of its global sales to come from fully-electric vehicles in 2030. In total, over the next ten years or so, the BMW Group will be releasing about ten million fully-electric vehicles onto the roads.

    Global e-drive production network with a focus in Germany

    The high-voltage batteries and battery components needed for all BMW and MINI electrified vehicles come from the company’s own battery factories in Dingolfing, Leipzig and Regensburg in Germany, as well as from Spartanburg (USA) and Shenyang (China). The BMW Group has also localised production of high-voltage batteries in Thailand, at its Rayong plant, and is working with the Dräxlmaier Group for this. Munich is home to the e-drive pilot plant and the Battery Cell Competence Centre, where the BMW Group is conducting a full analysis of battery cell value creation processes and advancing technology for its production processes.

    The company produces electric motors at the Competence Centre for E-Drive Production in Dingolfing and at BMW Group Plant Landshut. BMW Group Plant Steyr builds the housing for the highly integrated fifth-generation e-drive.

    BMW PRESS

  • 26 May 2021 10:54 AM | Anonymous

    Event date: 23 May 2021

    T ’was an early start on a crisp Autumn Sunday morning to head off to Round 5 of our Traction Tyres/Yokohama Drivers Championship at Rob Roy Hillclimb in Christmas Hills, to the North East of Melbourne. This event also forms Round two of the three round Motorsport Australia Interclub Challenge.

    Rob Roy is a bit over an hour’s drive away from our place, add in a stop for fuel in the racecar on the way, so I left around 6 to be there at the 7.30am opening time. It was a lovely quiet drive up from the Peninsula into a beautiful sunrise, promising another perfect Melbourne Autumn day. Cold in the morning, but quickly warming up as the sun comes up, love this time of year. As I got closer to the track, winding through the hills and crossing the Yarra at Warburton the frost alert on our trusty tow car, Helga, went off and looking at the outside temp it was indeed a frosty 2 deg and dropping as I neared Rob Roy.

    Once arrived, I found Phil and Blake already had their marquee up and were setting up camp for the day, with room for the rest of the club members to gather around too. There was quite a bit of frost on the ground still, but as the sun came up over the hills it quickly disappeared, and the sun gave us a beautiful day out to enjoy.

    Blake hadn’t been to Rob Roy before, so he went off to do a sighting lap after drivers briefing. Then we went through in class order for each of our timed runs. There was a bit of a hold up during the morning, as one of the MG’s dropped coolant all the way up the hill and the officials had to clean it up and make it safe again. We each lowered our times during the day, with Blake and I ending up second and third in the 2-3 litre class in our E30’s. I also received a trophy from the last round here, as I won the class on that day. This time though it was about making sure the car was running ok again, after racing last weekend at Phillip Island and having to pull our after breaking a rocker in race 2. Apart from an electrical issue with the start switch that will need attention, my E30 ran as well as it always has, so she is ready for the next track day with the club at Sandown for the Come and Try/Driver Training Day on 19 June.

    It was fantastic to see quite a few club members dropping in to see us during the day and watching some of our runs, enjoying a coffee and a chat in the sunshine with us. Thanks to Phil for setting up his kitchen to keep us in coffee, egg and bacon rolls and toasted sandwiches for lunch, it is a great atmosphere at our events, when we all congregate together as a group, just love it.

    Look forward to seeing you at the next event.

    Graeme Bell | Member #1
    BMW Drivers Club Melbourne


  • 24 May 2021 3:43 PM | Anonymous

    Event date: 16 May 2021

    It was a great day out for the National Motoring Heritage Day/E30 Racing drive to Phillip Island. Despite the weather, we had a good turnout and an awesome variety of new and Classic cars on display.

    Getting up close to all the race cars and talking to the E30 Racing crew was certainly a highlight not only for me but for my seven year old son Mackai as well. To say he was in he’s element is an understatement. He especially enjoyed sitting in the cars and watching the teams prepare for battle on the track.

    I certainly enjoyed watching the battle play out. In the wet and in the dry, with the E30 Racing being especially intriguing as I happen to own one myself. It was great to see Jess back on the track and doing really well.

    It was a massive effort by all involved and a spectacular day of racing. We certainly enjoyed our day out and had a lot to talk about on the drive home as Mackai had hundreds of questions to ask in absolute excitement.

    Fantastic day all round.

    Marlin King | Member #521
    BMW Drivers Club Melbourne

  • 20 May 2021 11:16 AM | Anonymous

    Event date: 15-16 May 2021

    Why not start something new and why not start car racing in your forties…

    My journey so far entering the world of motorsport and getting me to this point has been challenging but that’s another article.

    So Phillip Island and round 3 of the E30 racing calendar on 15 & 16 May 2021 was up and coming.  With a car not that too far away from being ready, the itch to get out there was growing, after all its Phillip Island a circuit regarded as one of the best in the world.

    With only a few items left to bring the car up to the category specifications, I booked the car into Bell Motorsport.  On the Thursday the car was ready, the anticipation growing however the car trailer (ordered months and months prior) was still not ready for collection.  A back up trailer was organised and used in the end (I’m still waiting for the trailer) to get me to the track.  A big thank you to Anton Bergman for the use of his trailer.

    The forecast for Phillip Island was less than ideal and when I jumped in the car to go to the track at 5:30am it was already raining.  I arrived got through the Covid-19 requirements and unloaded the car, at this stage it had stopped raining, a good sign I wondered.  As soon as that thought entered my head it started to hail and the wind was freezing.

    “Go racing at Phillip Island” they said, “You’ll have a ball” they said, really…

    Anyway time for the morning briefing and off we all went.  On my walk back our DSO (driving standards advisor so I learnt later) was Dave Stillwell who took the time to explain all about the racing and what was required.  A big thank you to Dave who guided and helped me the whole day.

    Now what am I forgetting? Race preparation 101, so I went through the check list (the one I know which is probably far from everything) and went about getting ready.

    Time to jump in the car for qualifying, a wet track, cold tyres and little experience I was second guessing my decision to go racing.  Off we went, slowly bringing the tyres up to temperature and getting a feel for the slippery track.  On about the third lap the car felt good and the speed increased.  I went across the start finish line and looked for turn one watching the cars in front of me and when they were braking.  I turned into turn one going close to the inside curb on the right when it all went pair shaped, the rear end got away from me and I headed toward the grass.  After a bit of sliding and a spin the car stopped, I was facing forward and looked for a gear.  I saw the car behind me go past and that’s when I heard that noise… the sound of locked tyres screeching toward me and then bang.

    Well that’s not ideal, I thought.  I again looked forward, checked around me and attempted to drive off.  Was the car ok? Would I be able to continue to drive?  I drove off carefully and got another feel for the car.  It appeared that it was running ok and I couldn’t feel any major handing issues so I kept going.

    The session finished and I headed into the pits.  Would I even make my first race or was I destined to remain the 40 year old virgin?  Graeme and Chris from Bell Motorsport came over to inspect the damage and away to work they went.  Thanks so much Graeme (who was also racing) and Chris who went to work on the car to get me back on the track.  I also need to thank the Richards family (Steve Richards) who provided some race tape which was required.  As I stared at the car I got a tap on the shoulder and asked to report to the medical staff.


    Jo Mawson was kind enough to accompany me to the doctors (I had no idea where to go) and I was greeted by the medics.  They checked me over, asked some questions, gave me some pain relief and thankfully cleared me to continue with the day. 

    Upon my return (it did take some time) I was very surprised with Bell Motorsport’s hard work and return to see a patched car ready to go.


    I was medically cleared and the car ready to go racing!  A little rattled but eager to go, I jumped back into the car for race one.  Where to now? Dave (DSO) stuck his head in my window and explained where to go and that a Marshall would direct us to a mini grid where we would wait to go out.  I took my place in the mini grid and was just looking around (probably like a lost sheep) thinking about how to best get off the line when Chris Bell came over and took the time to put my mind at ease and run me though what to expect and what to do when racing. 

    So out we went for the warm up lap and to the grid we headed where I took up my position as guided by our DSO.  I looked in my revision mirror and saw the Marshall waiving the green flag, now the adrenaline was really pumping.  I looked up at the lights eagerly waiting for the lights to go out and they did, I got a surprisingly good quick clean take off and away racing we were!

    My first race was really something else, awesome and with no expectations on my behalf as I was just happy to be finally on the track doing something for me and something I love.  Before I knew it I saw the black and white flag and my first race was over.

    As you leave the track you are directed to the weigh station where every car is weighed to ensure it meets the minimum weight requirement to enter the race.  Anyway my turn and I was told that I was 20kg underweight… what the, what do I do now?  Well time to stop my gym work and start eating take way food I thought.  But seriously how do I add weight to the car at this stage and at the track? Without the additional weight I would not be able to enter race 2.

    Instead of the casual time in-between races, perhaps even watching the other cars, I was again (first time with the medics) now busy trying to add weight.  Well fuel was suggested so I put 20 litres of fuel in the car and back to the weigh station I went.  ‘No keep trying’ I was told, so back to the park bay.  What next, I took the jerry can to the fuelling station and refilled the 20 litre container.  Would I even be able to fit another 20 litres in? How much did I need to put in to bring me up to weight?  I filled the tank until it was absolutely full and back to the weigh station I went.

    I got the thumbs up but was told that although it was fine now, how much fuel would I burn during the race? and if I used too much I maybe underweight at the end of the race and therefore disqualified.  Never a dull moment.  Determined not to let it distract me from the experience I stopped, looked around, took it all in and grabbed a coffee.  After getting the coffee I noticed that there were no cars racing as the track was being repaired following a significant accident.  This meant that our race 2 would have to be rescheduled to Sunday.

    Day two, as we missed our race the day prior and with a full line up for the day, the E30’s were put with the Saloon Cars category.  How does that even work I thought?  Our DSO went to work arranging and then briefing us on the procedure.  It ended up that the Saloon Cars would line up ahead of us on the grid, the lights would go through the sequence, they would leave and thirty seconds later it would start again for us. 

    The track was dry and the sun even came out, I was feeling excited.  We again lined up in our dummy grid and again Chris Bell came over and talked me though it again putting my mind at ease and importantly really helping me to enjoy the experience.

    Now this was cool looking down the straight seeing all the E30’s lined up and the full grid of Saloon Cars.  The first set of lights went out and the Saloon Cars were off.  The lights then went on and off and again we were off.  There must have been a bit of rubbing with the Saloon Cars as there were a few spots where debris was on the track.  I tried to be quicker and brake later this time around and enjoyed the race.  After the weigh in (I made the weight) I went into the parking area to be told that my Dorian (lap timer) wasn’t working.  Not to worry a trip to the timer people in the tower, grabbing a replacement and I was back in business.

    This time I was then able to enjoy the time in between races and managed to watch some of the other racing.  Time came around quickly and it was time for the final race, race 3.  This was our longest race and with growing confidence I was looking forward to it.  While in the dummy grid Chris Bell visited me again and we had our chat.  Out we went and again I turned my mind to getting off the grid quickly and cleanly. Lights out and away we went a little eager this time, with the wheels spinning but nevertheless a good start.  After the first lap and working into a groove the safety car came out and the field grouped while the track was cleaned.  Well this was definitely a weekend with the lot and before I knew it the final race was over.

    So that’s my experience of my first race meet.  Under qualified, under prepared and over enthusiastic, what a thrill to be behind the wheel of a race car going flat out around Phillip Island. 

    Thank you to all at BMWDCM, Bell Motorsport and E30 Racing for all their support and all the little chats I was able to have with people giving me little pointers along the way in particular Alex Jory.

    Adam Sleep | Member #421
    BMW Drivers Club Melbourne

  • 19 May 2021 3:40 PM | Anonymous

    Locally emission-free driving fun, variably usable luggage compartments and carrier systems for roof tent mounting make it possible: with the MINI Cooper SE Countryman ALL4 and the MINI Cooper SE, the British premium brand offers two models at once for sustainable holiday fun in natural surroundings.

    Holidays in the region and journeys of discovery through the local countryside will continue to be high on the list of priorities for many people seeking relaxation in the summer of 2021. The desire to relax in nature also inspires a preference for camping. These holiday trends are beneficial for the eco-balance, especially when they are combined with sustainable mobility. MINI has two models with electrified drive and matching optional equipment on offer for all those who want to be both flexible and particularly efficient on the road: the MINI Cooper SE Countryman ALL4 (fuel consumption combined: 1.9 - 1.7 l/100 km according to WLTP, 2.1 - 1.9 l/100 km according to NEDC; electricity consumption combined: 15.5 - 14.8 kWh/100 km according to WLTP, 14.8 - 14.1 kWh/100 km according to NEDC; CO2 emissions combined: 44 - 39 g/km according to WLTP, 48 - 44 g/km according to NEDC) with plug-in hybrid system and the purely electrically driven MINI Cooper SE (power consumption combined: 17.6 - 15.2 kWh/100 km according to WLTP, 16.1 - 14.9 kWh/100 km according to NEDC) Equipped in each case with model-specific carrier systems from the MINI Original Accessories range and a roof tent, they form the greenest camper fleet in the world.

    With its hybrid-specific all-wheel drive and a system output of 162 kW/220 hp, the MINI Cooper SE Countryman ALL4 is ideally equipped for excursions into the countryside. With the ALL4 Trim or Classic Plus Package, its equipment is supplemented by a roof rail, among other things. A roof tent can be easily mounted on the roof rails with the appropriate railing rack.

    The MINI Cooper SE can be equipped with mobile night quarters in the same way. The purely electrically powered small car is the only model in its competitive field that can also be equipped with roof rails. The matching carrier system can be found in the MINI Original Accessories range. And you're ready to go. The MINI Cooper SE carries the roof tent swiftly across the country: thanks to the aerodynamically optimised profile of its body, the roof tent does not noticeably restrict the temperament of the 135 kW/184 hp MINI Cooper SE, which can sprint from standstill to 100 km/h in 7.3 seconds. The MINI Cooper SE Countryman ALL4 is just as relaxed about the increase in power. As a robust all-rounder, it also masters its role as a touring vehicle with flying colours.

    On a joint camping trip, the two electrified models reveal their qualities each in their own way. According to the WLTP test cycle, the MINI Cooper SE has a range of 203 to 234 kilometres. The electric range of the MINI Cooper SE Countryman ALL4 is up to 59 kilometres. However, it can use the intelligently controlled interaction of the combustion engine and electric motor to replenish the energy reserves of its high-voltage battery on the road.

    On winding country roads, there is a lot of driving pleasure. The battery, which is located low to the ground in both models, also contributes to this, shifting the vehicle's centre of gravity downwards and thus ensuring even more agility. The MINI Cooper SE Countryman ALL4, together with the MINI Cooper SE, rolls onto the camping site so quietly that even the crackling of twigs under the tyres can be heard.

    The cautious approach signals respect for nature. Those who not only hike or cycle there, but also spend the night afterwards, experience it even more intensively - and can enjoy the view of the landscape from their sleeping place in the roof tent. Discovering the world from above - that's even possible from the roof of a MINI.

    The shelter can be erected at dizzy heights within a few seconds. After releasing the safety catches on the housing, the tent structure lifts up automatically with the help of gas springs. The eight rungs of the fold-out aluminium ladder can be climbed just as quickly. Inside, there are two comfortable sleeping berths. In summer heat, the windows can be rolled up, and thanks to the mosquito nets in front of them, no pests can get inside.

    Sleeping bags, luggage and provisions for longer camping trips for two can be stored in the luggage compartment of the MINI Cooper SE, which can be expanded from 211 to 731 litres after folding down the rear seat backrest. This provides the same stowage volume as in the conventionally powered model variants of the MINI 3-door. The MINI Cooper SE Countryman ALL4, with its five doors, five fully-fledged seats and a luggage compartment volume of 405 to 1 275 litres, is a true all-rounder in the premium compact segment.

    There is therefore also enough space for all kinds of holiday companions that add a touch of comfort to the simple life in the midst of nature. A glance at the digital cockpit display of the MINI Cooper SE and the MINI Cooper SE Countryman ALL4 reveals that there is no lack of energy. The charge level of the high-voltage batteries is still well within the green zone. If you have a cool box on board, you can enjoy a chilled drink. The audio system plays subtle music. There is also more than enough power to charge the smartphone. When a mobile espresso machine is added, the threshold from camping to glamping is finally crossed.

    And if the energy reserves do run low, this is no problem either. Many campsites are now equipped with charging points. So nature lovers can enjoy the beauty of the landscape on a hiking tour without worrying, while their electrified MINI charges up fresh energy to complete the onward journey to the next campsite or the drive home in the most sustainable way possible.

    BMW PRESS



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