I am painfully aware that never having had, or caused, a serious car accident doesn't make me a competent or capable driver. And with a personality that naturally leans more towards anxious and neurotic, I would even say I'm a bit of a scaredy cat behind the wheel. This makes me a super conservative and very cautious driver at the best of times. More than once in my life I've driven around the block using all left turns to get to my final destination rather than turn right at a 'super scary' intersection. Having very little actual driving experience doesn't help. Whilst I may have been driving all of my adult life, the main extent of my driving experience has been to go up to Safeway for groceries, or driving to work. Both within a 4km radius.
So, what on earth is someone like me doing out on the track at Sandown? Well, I want to be a better driver. I'm conscious of my limitations handling a vehicle and my capability behind the wheel. And painfully aware that I would have no hope in maintaining control should something go wrong. Having enjoyed being Andreas co-pilot on dozens of drive days within Victoria and interstate I've had the privilege of seeing first-hand what it means to be a competent, capable and skilful driver. This level of skill takes years of practice, drive days, track days and race events. So, whilst I have no intention of 'sliding' into the car park at Safeway to collect my groceries, I wouldn't mind a little bit of what he's got. I'm not greedy. Just enough to make me safer on the road and a little less anxious behind the wheel.
So it was with great excitement that I leant that I had been awarded the Makulu Vehicle Storage Driver Training Scholarship for this event. This would be my second time out on a track. The first being the BMWDCM Come & Try Day at Broadford on Monday 18 March and I was super excited to have the opportunity to take my Volkswagen Jetta, aka 'The Jet', out onto the track again. I learnt a lot through both experiences.
At Broadford Greame Bell gave us some pre-track instructions on driving position. I had a small epiphany when he explained the wedgy-thing under your left foot is actually a foot brace, not a foot rest. I was genuinely like 'WOW". Never knew. But now that I did, it made perfect sense. When you treat it as a foot brace it completely changes your driving position which changes your attitude behind the wheel. You feel more grounded, stable and in control of the vehicle. This was a good feeling and helped to alleviate some of my anxiety around getting out on the track. As my instructor, Andreas helped me gain some insight into the capability of a vehicle under speed. Prior to this I had only ever used a vehicle within I'd say 20-30% of its capacity. So I learnt the world wouldn't cave in if took a corner at more than 20kms p/h, nor the car spontaneously combust if I went over 100kms p/h on the straight. Being WAAAY outside my comfort zone out on the track, both lessons were helpful in gaining my confidence.
At Sandown I was privileged to also have Glen Kennaday and Andy Kaos as my instructors. I Iearnt so much from both of them and am so thankful for them sharing their time and experience with me. Both helped me gain more confidence, instructing me how to handle the vehicle, how to approach an apex and what to do coming into and going out of a corner. But it wasn't just the track time that made the difference. Lining up in pit lane Glen noticed my driving position was too high. And Andy noticed I was holding my thumbs over the wheel instead of under. Changing these small things put me in better control of the car meaning I was a lot more confident behind the wheel and had a better 'feel' for the road.
So with only two come & try track days under my belt I can't yet say that I'm either competent or capable behind the wheel. But I can say that I am better for the experience and I'm a little less anxious and nervous. This gives me more confidence which makes me a better driver out on the road. This is all character building and has helped me not only be a better driver but has helped me be a better person. More confident within myself and in my driving ability.
Huge thanks to Jo Mawson, Graeme Bell and the rest of the BMWDCM committee team for offering us the come & try days, always well planned, well organised and well executed events. Thanks also to all the volunteers - flaggies, pit lane officials and instructors that are the heart and soul of the club and that make these events so special. Thanks to all the sponsors whose support makes these events happen, with special mention to Makulu Vehicle Storage for donating the driver training scholarship for the Come & Try Day at Sandown. Finally, special mention to my wonderful instructors at Broadford and Sandown, Andreas Doelling, Glen Kennaday and Andy Kaos.
The next BMWDCM Come & Try Day is being held at Broadford on Saturday 17 July. To register head to the BMW Drivers Club Melbourne events page: BMW Drivers Club Melbourne - Broadford Driver Training and Come & Try Day.
Nella Santisi | Member #32 BMW Drivers Club Melbourne
Event date: 27 June 2021
We left from McDonalds Mornington with the burble of Graeme's X5 our good group of mixed series cars headed down and around the winery trail on a fine but brisk morning heading towards Sorrento. Although the weather was fine it had rained overnight and the roads were wet with water running across the road in places and avoiding debris that had come off trees in the recent storms.
After some slight deviations enhancing our trip we pulled into Sorrento for a coffee break and I was surprised at the way Sorrento had been set out with plenty of parking and automated conveniences. After refreshing we headed down to point Nepean stopping at the Quarantine centre for 1.5 hours to take in the complex or enjoy watching the ships pass by. The Quarantine centre was set up in 1852 and ran through until 1980. There was a lot of speed humps in this area that would have challenged some of the lower cars. There is also a picnic area and walks for those so inclined.
After Point Nepean we headed back to the Pig & Whistle for lunch. We had a separate area and enjoyed the basic English style meals although I suspect the highlight was the desert for those that partook. After good food and good company we headed off gradually.
A good day was had by all and thank you to the organisers. Along the way it was mentioned that there is a winery with a sculpture garden and a maze at Arthurs Seat that may feature in an upcoming trip when the weather is warmer.
Adrian White | Member #606 BMW Drivers Club Melbourne
Event date: 22 June 2021
At the June Member’s meeting held at Makulu Vehicle storage, I was lucky enough to win the lucky door prize! That prize was the 12 Volt Battery Charger and Maintainer made by Century Batteries.
First thing the next morning, I decided to give it a test drive. I didn’t have a flat battery to properly test it out on. So I just hooked it up to my car to see what happened.
There is a little bit of homework you need to do beforehand. I won't go into too much detail because there is an excellent guide on how to use it on the Century Batteries website.
And if you’re not 100% sure of your battery’s specification, you can look up your car on the Century website. It will tell you the composition and Ah rating of the battery.
But as long as you know your battery type, and the correct charging rates; it’s as simple and connect, set, and forget! Charging took longer than expected on my daily driver - testing, charging, testing again, charge some more – but after 4 hours, the FULL light was illuminated, and I was ready to disconnect.
Like most battery chargers, this isn’t a tool you’d use often unless you have cars that remain in storage for a long time. But on that topic, my favourite feature of this charger is the second set of leads that have lugs instead of alligator clips. So, if you have a car that spends a lot of time on charge, you can simple bolt these leads to the battery terminals, and you’d never need to worry about them unclipping or being bumped off.
Overall, it’s a great product! Super easy to use, fool-proof, and cost effective at $159.99 at most major automotive and camping shops. Especially when you consider the price of a replacement battery for a modern auto start/stop car (which is a whopping $450 for my little F20 125i).
Thanks again, Century!
Scott Long | Member #588 BMW Drivers Club Melbourne
Event date: 19 June 2021
I thought I would drop you a quick line to congratulate BMWDCM for a great Come Try Day on Saturday. It is events like this that keeps not only the competitors enthusiasm but also those officials that would not normally get an opportunity to enjoy a day out doing something different in officiating. I for one enjoyed my day immensely at Pit Entry, working with Adam and Michael as a back up certainly made it an interesting and engaging day for us all.
We were able to speak with the competitors as they came off the track as well as they were heading down to dummy grid, their happy faces looking forward to the event ahead and sharing their top speeds and braking issues, Adam was very happy to be on the radio, something he had not done before and real confidence booster for his experience trackside. Jo, Graeme, Lawrence and Meg are to be congratulated on a fantastic day and a job well done, especially in these challenging times, well all know its not easy to run an event like this in these uncertain days and I'm sure your perseverance has paid off, with comments like "you have gotta love this BMW Club for what they do" being over heard repeatedly.
The breakfast and Pizza lunch together with the goodies pack provided were surely welcomed by all the officials I spoke to and plenty of comments about coming back to do another of you Come & Try Days.
So thanks again, It was a great day.
Mark Thompson | Vice President Victorian Flagmarshalling Team
Thanks again to the awesome BMWDCM team for a great day at Sandown - I can’t believe how much Dad and I learned- from Graeme, Alex, Jess, Simon and others… it was a great day. So chilled and relaxed and wonderful people as always.
Shannon Cooper | Member #672 BMW Drivers Club Melbourne
A huge thanks to Jo and Graeme and the whole team for a great day out at Sandown. It was very well organised all day and I had a ball. Looking forward to the next one already.
Ben Fenwick | Member #547 BMW Drivers Club Melbourne
Thank you to the committee members and volunteers for another first class event.
Every step is carried out with the utmost care, professionalism and your passion for fun and success is reflected by the enthusiasm shown by both members and friends. We had a beautiful day on the track and great company in the garage when we were off the track.
Congratulations and keep up the great work.
Michael Mimmo | Member #515 BMW Drivers Club Melbourne
I just want to thank you all for a great day. Your organisation was fantastic. I look forward to doing another day with you once I fix all the things I discovered during the runs. Would you especially pass on my thanks to whoever arranged the weather?
Stephen Corneille | Non-member BMW Drivers Club Melbourne
The new flagship in the BMW M Motorsport programme is set for its premiere on the famous ‘Eau Rouge’. As part of the development work, the BMW M4 GT3 will attend the official tests ahead of the 24 Hours of Spa-Francorchamps (BEL). The ‘Official Test Days’ take place at the circuit in the Ardennes on 22nd and 23rd June. Just a few days later, the new BMW M4 GT3 will complete its first test under race conditions on the Nürburgring-Nordschleife (GER).
The tests ahead of the 24-hour race at Spa-Francorchamps provide BMW M Motorsport with the ideal opportunity to test the BMW M4 GT3 at another demanding racetrack under real competitive conditions. The circuit is known as the ‘Ardennes Rollercoaster’ and is a fast, flowing track. Sharing the test work in Belgium will be Augusto Farfus (BRA), Marco Wittmann (GER) and Nick Yelloly (GBR).
“It is fantastic to have been given the opportunity to take part in the tests at Spa-Francorchamps with our new BMW M4 GT3,” said Mike Krack, Head of BMW M Motorsport. “Like the Nordschleife, this circuit has its own particular features, making it an optimal and very demanding test facility for us in the final stage of development of our car. The days at Spa will also be used to prepare for the race debut of the BMW M4 GT3, which we are all excited about. This test, under race conditions on the Nordschleife, is the next big step on the way to our first season in 2022.”
The 24 Hours of Spa-Francorchamps has an important place in BMW’s motorsport history. With 24 triumphs to its name, the manufacturer is the record winner of the Belgian marathon. The BMW M4 GT3 will compete from 2022 and will be looking to continue this success. However, it must first watch and see how the BMW M6 GT3 gets on in its farewell performance at Spa at this year’s edition of the endurance classic, which takes place on 31st July and 1st August.
The BMW M4 GT3 will make its race debut at round four of the Nürburgring Endurance Series (NLS), on the Nürburgring-Nordschleife on 26th June, immediately after the tests in Belgium. At the wheel of the race car will be Jens Klingmann (GER) and Sheldon van der Linde (RSA). The BMW M4 GT3 will compete in the prototype class SP-X as the new car is not homologated yet. As this is a test in race mode, the BMW M4 GT3 will not be classified in the Nordschleife results. The outing will be used to gain valuable experience under race conditions with the new car.
BMW PRESS
Let’s drift! The two new BMW M4 Competition models (combined fuel consumption: 10.2 – 9.9 l/100 km according to WLTP; combined CO2 emissions: 233 – 227 g/km according to WLTP) being driven by the Red Bull Driftbrothers are now ready for the racetrack. Backed by the BMW M GmbH, the brothers Elias Hountondji (35) and Johannes Hountondji (40) have completed the conversion and preparation of their new vehicles for the 2021 season of the Drift Masters European Championship. On 10 and 11 July during the season start of the series in Greinbach (AUT), the Driftbrothers will be taking the BMW M4 Competition to the starting grid for the very first time.
“I am deeply impressed with what the Red Bull Driftbrothers have managed to coax out of our vehicles and wish both of them every success for the start of the season. The result also shows how good a basis the BMW M4 Competition provides for motorsport use. From the start of its development, we had designed the production vehicle to also form the basis for our GT icon, the BMW M4 GT3, which we officially presented during the 24-hour race at the Nürburgring almost two weeks ago,” says Markus Flasch, CEO of the BMW M GmbH.
Elias and Johannes Hountondji have modified both BMW M4 Competition models comprehensively in order to adapt them to the special demands of drifting. They doubled the peak performance of the straight six-cylinder power unit of the BMW M4 Competition to 1,050 hp and increased maximum torque to almost 1,300 Nm, this being absolutely crucial for drifting. Elias Hountondji speaks with admiration for the production engine’s massive potential. “It is by nature a genuine racing engine in a road-legal car, so to speak. When you look at each component of this engine, it is clear that many engineers have put a lot of thought into creating an optimal design,” the younger of the two Driftbrothers says. In order to achieve the massive increase in performance, the two brothers installed, among other things, a special, particularly efficient cooling circuit along with an additional second cooler at the rear.
Moreover, the aerodynamics were extensively modified and optimised for drifting. Besides benefitting from their own experience, the Driftbrothers also relied on the expertise of BMW design experts. Virtually all newly designed aerodynamics components were manufactured exclusively at BMW M Prototype Construction. “It was a great honour for us to collaborate with experts from the design and prototype construction departments. With their help we were able to implement our ideas perfectly,” says Johannes Hountondji.
For example, the Driftbrothers’ BMW M4 Competition was fitted with a new BMW kidney grille to optimise the supply of air to the engine compartment.
Furthermore, carbon was used to produce a new spoiler lip (gurney) for the tailgate, side coverings for the rear diffuser and attachments for the side sills from the M Performance Parts portfolio. These were complemented by so-called winglets, which optimise airflow at the front splitter and behind the front wheels as well as in front of the rear wheels. Should the need arise during the course of the season, the production of an air scoop for the bonnet would also be possible.
Following the season start in Austria, the Red Bull Driftbrothers will be competing in a further three rounds of the Drift Masters European Championship, the world’s leading drift series. The second and the third round will be held in Riga (LAT) on 30/31 August, the season finale in Tiflis (GEO) on 4/5 October.
The Red Bull Driftbrothers have participated in the Drift Masters European Championship since 2018. The 45 best drivers from Europe, the USA and the Middle East compete in this invitation series. For some years now, Elias and Johannes Hountondji have ranked among the top drivers in the drifting scene and were, among other successes, 2017 King of Europe champion and vice champion. In 2016 and 2017, they also seized the team title there. Moreover, this year, the brothers will be making guest appearances during the MotoGP race at the Sachsenring (GER) and the Red Bull Ring (AUT), as well as during the Austrian Formula 1 Grand Prix, likewise at the Red Bull Ring.
“BMW is back on the big motorsport stage,” said Markus Flasch, CEO of BMW M GmbH. “In entering the LMDh class, BMW M Motorsport is fulfilling the prerequisites to challenge for overall victory at the most iconic endurance races in the world from 2023. We will be fully focussed on tackling this challenge. There is a spirit of optimism here. BMW has a successful history in prototype racing – the Le Mans victory in 1999 was unforgettable. Reviving this story in a modern prototype with M Power will thrill fans of BMW M Motorsport. The LMDh concept guarantees maximum cost control and offers a wide range of possible applications, including the IMSA series in North America, an extremely important market for BMW M. We are all eager to get stuck into the LMDh category with a compact and highly-efficient team set-up.”
Mike Krack, Head of BMW M Motorsport, is responsible for the development, testing and race outings of the new car. He added: “Everyone in our motorsport team shares the same motivation: we want to test ourselves against our strongest opposition at the racetrack – and to celebrate victories for BMW. As such, the LMDh project is a real affair of the heart for us and exactly the new challenge we were hoping for. An extremely exciting project awaits us. To challenge for overall victories in Daytona and Sebring is a massive motivation. We have a lot of work ahead of us, but the anticipation is immense.”
The regulations for LMDh cars stipulate that they have both a combustion engine and an electric motor. While each manufacturer may develop their own combustion engine, the electric motor and battery, as well as the transmission, are standard parts. The chassis is also built by an external partner. A BMW M Motorsport works involvement, with two cars, is planned from the 2023 IMSA season. The works team and the driver line-up for the two LMDh prototypes will be announced at a later date.
The last big win for a BMW prototype came in 1999, when the BMW V12 LMR won the 24 Hours of Le Mans (FRA). The car also won the 12 Hours of Sebring in the USA in the same season.
With the original BMW 4 Series Gran Coupé having enjoyed significant success, a second-generation model is now being added to the latest 4 Series range. The new four-door coupé captures the imagination with its noticeably enhanced driving dynamics, a sharper design following the BMW brand’s new design language, a refined premium feel for its interior and a host of innovations in the areas of operation and connectivity. In addition to the driving pleasure and sporting elegance for which BMW is renowned, modern functionality is central to this gran coupé concept for the premium midsize segment. Comfortable access to the rear compartment, five full-size seats, a large tailgate and a variable-usage load compartment ensure the new BMW 4 Series Gran Coupé retains its model-specific skillset in everyday driving and on longer trips.
This time around, a performance version of the new BMW 4 Series Gran Coupé courtesy of BMW M GmbH will be available from the car’s market launch (due to get underway in November 2021) alongside four other model variants. All will be built under a flexible manufacturing process at BMW Group Plant Munich on the same line as the all-electric BMW i4 and the BMW 3 Series Sedan and BMW 3 Series Touring models.
The standalone character of the new BMW 4 Series Gran Coupé is clearly expressed in its exterior design. Measuring 4,783 millimetres in exterior length, 1,852 millimetres in width and 1,442 millimetres in height, it has distinctive proportions combined with dynamically stretched coupé lines. It is 143 millimetres longer, 27 millimetres wider and 53 millimetres taller than its predecessor, while the track widths have also grown – to 1,595 millimetres at the front (+50 mm) and 1,623 millimetres at the rear (+29 mm). The wheelbase of 2,856 millimetres is 46 millimetres longer than the predecessor’s and 5 millimetres more than the figure for the 3 Series Sedan.
The model-specific body concept results in a versatile interior offering generous amounts of space in the rear. The new BMW 4 Series Gran Coupé offers 470 litres of boot space, the primary capacity in the directly viewable area of the boot having grown by 39 litres. Load capacity can be expanded to a maximum of 1,290 litres by folding down the sections of the rear backrest, with its standard 40 : 20 : 40 split.
Bold lines and surfaces with a three-dimensional structure are the defining elements of the new BMW 4 Series Gran Coupé’s expressive front end. Dropping deep down at its centre is the large and vertically prominent BMW kidney grille that transmits a feeling of assured presence. The slim full-LED headlights come with U-shaped fibre-optic light guides for the daytime driving lights. There is also the option of Adaptive LED Headlights with BMW Laserlight including BMW Selective Beam non-dazzling high beam assistant.
Precise lines, doors with frameless windows and flush-fitting handles, and powerful shoulders shape the elegantly sporty silhouette of the new BMW 4 Series Gran Coupé, while the roofline culminates in a pronounced spoiler lip on the tailgate. Horizontal lines are the dominant influence at the rear end. And the low-slung, muscular stature of the car is also accentuated by a rear apron with vertical aero lips at its outer edges and a Black finish for its lower edge. The stylishly darkened full-LED rear lights extend well into the flanks.
Bespoke design features add dynamic flourishes to M Sport cars and the BMW M model. An M Carbon exterior package can be specified as an option, and model-specific M Performance Parts are available as part of the Genuine BMW Accessory range.
Inside the new BMW 4 Series Gran Coupé, the high centre console and flowing surface structure running from the instrument panel into the door panels generate a cocooning feel in the front seats. The Start/Stop button for the engine is positioned in a classily designed control panel in the centre console, which also houses the BMW Controller and the buttons for the Driving Experience Control unit and electromechanical parking brake alongside the model-specific gearshift lever. The rear seat bench with folding head restraints allows three child seats to be fitted.
Sport seats and a Sport leather steering wheel come as standard. The dynamic style of the interior is accentuated in the BMW M440i xDrive Gran Coupé and in M Sport cars by features including knee pads on the centre console. The list of optional equipment provides extensive scope for individualisation. Driving pleasure and comfort can be enhanced with items such as seat heating and ventilation, Vernasca and BMW Individual leather trim options, Sensatec or leather coverings for the instrument panel, the M Sport package Pro, a large glass slide/tilt sunroof, ambient lighting and the Harman Kardon Surround Sound System.
The new BMW 4 Series Gran Coupé underscores its vividly enhanced sporting credentials with a performance model at the top of the range. The BMW M440i xDrive Gran Coupé (fuel consumption combined: 8.5 – 8.0 l/100 km [33.2 – 35.3 mpg imp] in the WLTP test cycle; CO2 emissions combined: 194 – 181 g/km in the WLTP test cycle) is powered by a 275 kW/374 hp six-cylinder in-line petrol engine. The BMW 430i Gran Coupé (fuel consumption combined: 7.6 – 6.8 l/100 km [37.2 – 41.5 mpg imp] in WLTP; CO2 emissions combined: 173 – 156 g/km in WLTP) gives a debut to a new four-cylinder petrol engine which develops 180 kW/245 hp and has an exhaust manifold integrated into the cylinder head to further reduce emissions levels. The four-cylinder petrol engine in the BMW 420i Gran Coupé (fuel consumption combined: 7.3 – 6.6 l/100 km [38.7 – 42.8 mpg imp] in WLTP; CO2 emissions combined: 166 – 150 g/km in WLTP) produces maximum output of 135 kW/184 hp. And a 140 kW/190 hp four-cylinder diesel engine can be found under the bonnet of the BMW 420d Gran Coupé (fuel consumption combined: 5.4 – 4.8 l/100 km [52.3 – 58.9 mpg imp] in WLTP; CO2 emissions combined: 141 – 126 g/km in WLTP) and BMW 420d xDrive Gran Coupé (fuel consumption combined: 5.7 – 5.1 l/100 km [49.6 – 55.4 mpg imp] in WLTP; CO2 emissions combined: 150 – 133 g/km in WLTP).
In the BMW M440i xDrive Gran Coupé and the diesel variants of the new car, mild hybrid technology further increases dynamism and efficiency. The 48V starter-generator puts an extra 8 kW/11 hp on tap when accelerating off the line or putting in a quick burst of speed. An additional battery helps to further expand the scope for regenerating and storing brake energy.
All the engines team up with an eight-speed Steptronic transmission as standard. Meanwhile, the optional eight-speed Steptronic Sport transmission (standard in the BMW M440i xDrive Gran Coupé) complements its sharper shift dynamics and shift paddles on the steering wheel with a Sprint function. This prompts the powertrain and shift characteristics to maximise dynamic performance when putting in a sudden burst of speed or overtaking.
The sporting characteristics of the new BMW 4 Series Gran Coupé are also well served by a low centre of gravity and almost 50 : 50 weight distribution. An intelligent material mix has been employed to optimise the weight of both the body and chassis technology. And the bespoke body struts at the front end and in the rear axle area can also take credit for the car’s superb handling agility and precision.
An active air flap control system comprising flaps at the top and bottom, plus air curtains and an almost completely sealed underbody optimise the car’s aerodynamics. The drag coefficient (Cd) of 0.26 measured for the BMW 420d Gran Coupé, for example, represents a reduction of 0.02 over its predecessor.
Model-specific geometry, mounting and tuning for the sophisticated chassis technology in the new BMW 4 Series Gran Coupé imbue it with exceptional dynamic assurance. The two-joint spring strut front axle and five-link rear axle have likewise been engineered to reduce weight while increasing rigidity. Standard-fitted lift-related dampers enhance both sports performance and ride comfort. Depending on the spring travel, these provide extra damping to control body movement when driving over large bumps, as well as preventing excessive dive. The system reacts to minor imperfections in the road surface with low damping forces that produce high levels of comfort.
The lift-related dampers are particularly firm in nature on the BMW M440i xDrive Gran Coupé and on cars with the optional M Sport suspension specified. The adaptive M suspension available as an option combines the characteristics of M Sport suspension with electronically controlled dampers, and therefore offers the widest possible range of driving experiences on the sporty-to-comfortable spectrum. Variable sport steering is included with both optional suspension variants. Also available as an option are M Sport brakes (standard on the BMW M440i xDrive Gran Coupé).
The new BMW 4 Series Gran Coupé comes as standard with 17-inch light-alloy wheels. Standard specification for the new BMW M440i xDrive Gran Coupé includes 18-inch M light-alloy wheels and an M Sport differential with electronically controlled, fully variable locking function in the rear differential. This is also available as an option for the BMW 430i Gran Coupé if M Sport suspension or adaptive M suspension is specified.
Some 40 assistance functions designed to enable comfortable and safe driving and parking are available as standard or options for the new BMW 4 Series Gran Coupé. Highlights include Active Cruise Control with automatic Speed Limit Assist, route monitoring and traffic light recognition (in Germany), plus Steering and Lane Control Assistant.
Standard specification comprises front collision warning, Speed Limit Info, Lane Departure Warning, Park Distance Control, the Reversing Assist Camera and Parking Assistant with Reversing Assistant. Parking Assistant Plus with Surround View and Remote 3D View can also be ordered as an option.
The driver and passengers in the new BMW 4 Series Gran Coupé benefit from the extended possibilities provided by BMW Operating System 7 as standard. Customers can take their pick of control interface for the situation at hand: control display touchscreen, familiar BMW Controller, multifunction buttons on the steering wheel, voice control or optional BMW gesture control. There is also access to a range of highly advanced digital services, including the BMW Intelligent Personal Assistant, BMW Digital Key, Connected Music and Remote Software Upgrades.
The standard-fitted BMW Live Cockpit Plus comprises the iDrive operating system with 8.8-inch control display and a 5.1-inch colour display in the instrument cluster. The optional BMW Live Cockpit Professional features a fully digital screen grouping including a high-resolution instrument cluster with a screen diagonal of 12.3 inches behind the steering wheel and a 10.25-inch control display.
The cloud-based BMW Maps navigation system offers extremely fast and precise route calculation and arrival times, real-time traffic data updates at short intervals and the ability to enter any word when searching for a destination. With smartphone integration fitted as standard, customers can use Apple CarPlay and Android Auto via the car’s operating system. And the Remote Software Upgrades function allows improved vehicle functions and additional digital services to be imported into the car over the air.
After claiming victory last year, ROWE Racing reached the podium once again at the 49th edition of the Nürburgring 24 Hours (GER). At the farewell appearance of the BMW M6 GT3, which will be replaced by the BMW M4 GT3 in 2022, Sheldon van der Linde (RSA), Martin Tomczyk (GER), Marco Wittmann (GER) and Connor De Phillippi (USA) finished second in the #98 car. Having started from 25th on the grid, the quartet put on an impressive recovery performance and crossed the finish line just 8.8 seconds behind the victorious Porsche. This proved to be the shortest-ever edition of the race after thick fog interrupted the event for more than 14 hours.
On Saturday afternoon, Tomczyk had laid the foundations for success in difficult conditions featuring soaking-wet sections of track as well as dry areas. He moved up from 25th position to third place during his double stint. In the final stage after the restart around midday on Sunday, van der Linde was involved in a thrilling duel for victory with the #911 Porsche. In the end, ROWE Racing was not even ten seconds away from defending their title. The team’s #1 car, with Nick Catsburg (NED), Nick Yelloly (GBR), John Edwards (USA) and Philipp Eng (AUT) at the wheel, started from pole position and led the field for the restart, but then fell back when regulations required a long pit stop after the red flag on Saturday evening. Shortly thereafter, the car was forced to retire due to a technical defect.
Schubert Motorsport also gave a strong performance. Jens Klingmann (GER), Jesse Krohn (FIN), Alexander Sims (GBR) and Stef Dusseldorp (NED) were on course for a podium finish for some time but then suffered some bad luck with Code 60 periods in the final stage and crossed the line in sixth place.
BMW Junior Team was unrewarded for a strong debut in the BMW M6 GT3 at the Nürburgring 24 Hours. Dan Harper (GBR), Max Hesse (GER) and Neil Verhagen (USA) were joined by Augusto Farfus (BRA) as they worked their way back to the top ten thanks to some great lap times after selecting the wrong tyres at the start of the race. However, Farfus started to struggle with technical problems 30 minutes from the end and was hit from behind by another car as he slowed down. That marked the end of the race for the BMW Team RMG #77 BMW M6 GT3. Walkenhorst Motorsport put two of its BMW M6 GT3s in the top 20, finishing in twelfth and 15th.
BMW M CEO Markus Flasch (AUT) finished fourth in the CUP5 class with the #241 BMW M2 CS Racing. Competing for Adrenalin Motorsport, he shared the car with Jörg Weidinger, Matthias Malmedie and Niki Schelle (all GER).
Markus Flasch (CEO BMW M GmbH): “What a race for the BMW M Motorsport family! We are delighted with this second place for the BMW M6 GT3 and the ROWE Racing team. Congratulations to the team and the drivers of the #98 car. They showed how strong the BMW M6 GT3 remains, even at this age, and that it can still battle for victory. Unfortunately, their team-mates endured some bad luck with the #1 car and had been among the favourites to win the race. The Schubert Motorsport car was also involved in the battle for a podium result for a long period. We had a very good set-up at the top. BMW Junior Team also gave a strong performance until being forced to retire just before the end of the race. Congratulations to the lads and Augusto Farfus for a strong performance. It was definitely a fine way for the BMW M6 GT3 to mark its farewell at this classic event. At the same time, we are also really looking forward to the BMW M4 GT3, which we presented here at the Nürburgring this weekend. We will be competing with the new car at this race in the future. This will put us back on the attack. Personally, I had a lot of fun getting out on the track in this race with the BMW M2 CS Racing. That was a unique experience. I would certainly not rule out competing again in 2022. I would also like to thank the many other BMW M Motorsport teams who celebrated class wins and gave a great battling performance. We are very proud of the BMW M Motorsport family at the Nürburgring. And of course, the same also applies to the huge BMW M fan community for their superb support. Congratulations to Porsche and the Manthey team on their overall win.”
Mike Krack (Head of BMW M Motorsport): “Once again, that was anything but a normal race here at the Nürburgring. We made it through the difficult opening stage really well. When the race was stopped, we had three cars in the top six but the interruption lasted for a very long time. Race control definitely made the right decision. We then had a three-and-a-half-hour sprint race. Unfortunately, we lost two cars due to technical problems, while the Schubert team and the #98 from ROWE Racing were battling for podiums and the win. Overall, our drivers and teams gave a faultless performance under the most challenging conditions. Congratulations to the Manthey team on their win.”
Hans-Peter Naundorf (ROWE Racing team principal): “We reached the podium thanks to a fantastically good performance from our drivers. The conditions in the opening stage were extremely difficult, however, the #98 car was still able to make great progress. Martin’s starting stint was sensational - it was like seeing the rain god walking on water. Sheldon was in the car for nearly three hours at the end and he applied some great pressure. The race was just a bit too short for us. We might have been able to achieve more over the full distance. The #1 car also gave a great performance but unfortunately a technical defect ended its race.”
Martin Tomczyk (#98 BMW M6 GT3, ROWE Racing, 2nd place): “After qualifying, we would never have expected to move to the front so quickly during the race. It is always wonderful to stand on the podium at this 24-hour race. The ROWE Racing team, BMW M Motorsport and my three fellow drivers all put so much work into this race. We have been rewarded for that. It was so much fun. A great result, and one that I was not really expecting.”
Sheldon van der Linde (#98 BMW M6 GT3, BMW Racing, 2nd place): “Considering our grid position, that is an unbelievable result. I could see the Manthey Porsche on Döttinger Höhe. It was so tight. Of course, it does hurt a little but we really should not be disappointed. My triple stint at the end was not half bad, I really gave it everything. But it was not to be. Congratulations to Manthey, they earned the win.”
Marco Wittmann (#98 BMW M6 GT3, ROWE Racing, 2nd place): “In the end, we can be very pleased with that second place, even though it is a little disappointing to finish not even ten seconds behind the winners. When we started from 25th on the grid on Saturday, we had no expectation of finishing the race on the podium. It was Martin Tomczyk who put us in this position with his unbelievable opening double stint. In general, we worked really well as a team. That is my first podium at a 24-hour race. I am really pleased with that.”
Connor De Phillippi (#98 BMW M6 GT3, ROWE Racing, 2nd place): “I am grateful for having been part of such a great team. I think that our car had the potential to win but the conditions were unbelievably tough at times. In the end, luck was not entirely on our side but I am sure we will get another chance.”
Jesse Krohn (#20 BMW M6 GT3, Schubert Motorsport, 6th place): “Our car was definitely good enough for the podium but luck was just not on our side. We had two Code 60 periods towards the end of the race, which our rivals did not have. That cost us a lot of time and you can’t make it back up. Nonetheless, we are happy to have made it to the finish. But we could have done better.”
Neil Verhagen (#77 BMW M6 GT3, BMW Junior Team, DNF): “I think that this 24-hour race on the Nordschleife is the most fun I’ve ever had in a racing car in all my life. You are simply always driving right on the limit here. I have never experienced anything like it at any other circuit. Being able to drive the restart after the interruption was a major highlight for me. I just gave it everything and had tunnel vision. My first 24-hour race in a GT3 car was just crazy. It’s a shame that we couldn’t get the car to the finish line in the end.”
Philipp Eng (#1 BMW M6 GT3, ROWE Racing, DNF): “We were doing really well. Our starting drivers in particular, Nick and Martin in the other car, did a phenomenal job of keeping the cars on the track during this difficult stage. Unfortunately, the red flag with the new regulation for the time required for a pit stop did not help us at all. We had to stay there for an unbelievably long time and then we knew we would have to drive right on the limit. I don’t think we have often pushed as hard on the Nordschleife as we did today, but then we had a technical issue. I no longer had full power and had to retire the car.”
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