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BMW Drivers Club Melbourne

  • 13 Jan 2020 9:06 PM | Anonymous



    Philipp Eng, German Touring Car Masters (DTM) driver, pilots the BMW M3 Rally and Christian Menzel in the 2012 Dakar MINI ALL4 Racing drifts across the ice. Another legend is also part of the action: the Morris Mini Cooper S Works Rally.

    Chilly weather is not to everybody’s taste but there are two huge advantages to a racing event for historic vehicles on ice: low tyre wear and “natural” cooling for engines running hot. At the weekend of 1 and 2 February 2020, the GP Ice Race will be held for the second time in the Austrian town of Zell am See. Motor-sport classics from different marques and derring-do drivers will battle together in enthralling duels on the frosty surface there. BMW Group Classic is taking part in the icy spectacle for the first time. Vehicles with a winner’s genetic makeup are being dispatched to the GP Ice Race 2020, including a first-generation BMW M3 which won the European Touring Car Hillclimb Championship twice before being converted to a successful rally vehicle, and a MINI ALL4 Racing, triumphant in the Dakar Rally in 2012. And the replica of the classic Mini Cooper S that created a sensation just a few weeks ago at the Coppa delle Alpi 2019 will also line up at the starting grid on the automotive ice rink in Zell am See.

    The GP Ice Race is a tribute to the legendary racing events that were held on the town’s frozen lake in each of the winter seasons between 1937 and 1974 and attracted large numbers of spectators. The new edition will take place on a natural ice track at the old airfield where modern racing cars piloted by numerous celebrity drivers compete alongside youngtimers and classic cars to test their mettle in a setting with a wintry mountain backdrop.  The event programme also includes skijoring, which is one of the precursors for ice racing in Zell am See. Daredevil skiers used to be pulled along over the icy track by galloping horses and later by motorcycles and cars.

    BMW Group Classic is launching two historic racing cars on the ice. These winners achieved their biggest successes on very different terrain. A first-generation BMW M3 has been registered for the GP Ice Race 2020, which Francis Dosières drove to victory at the European Touring Car Hillclimb Championship in 1988 and 1989. In the subsequent year, the BMW M3 was converted to a rally car. And it also demonstrated its strengths in the new discipline. Dosières’ compatriot Patrick Artru was successful with it in the French Rally Championship for several years. The BMW M3 is being piloted by a local matador. The GP Ice Race counts as a home race for Salzburg-born DTM driver Philipp Eng.

    By contrast, sand and stones were once the territory of the MINI ALL4 Racing. In 2012, the two French drivers Stéphane Peterhansel and Jean-Paul Cottret drove the car to victory at the Dakar Rally. This was the first Dakar success for MINI. Eight years later, Christian Menzel is testing whether the MINI ALL4 Racing can shine with unstoppable tempo on ice as well as in the desert. And Menzel has a proven track record of experience as an endurance racing driver. In 1998, he was a member of the quartet of drivers that won the 24 Hour Race driving a BMW 320d on the Nürburgring.

    The replica of the Mini Cooper S in the rally version is having its second outing in the Alps within the space of just a few weeks. While the rubber was still hitting the snowy or cleared roads in December, this time the track is a sheet of pure ice. However, versatility has always been the forte of the most athletic version of the classic Mini. After all, the Mini Cooper S won the Monte Carlo Rally in the years 1964, 1965 and 1967.

    BMW Group Classic is also presenting two classic racing cars in Zell am See which once created a sensation at the 24 Hour Race of Le Mans. The BMW M1 entered the French endurance classic in 1981 and was an immediate eyecatcher with its unusual paintwork finish. Design artist Walter Maurer had styled the mid-engined sports car with hand-painted images of traditional Munich inns and city sights. The “Tavern Automobile” became a symbol of the close connection between BMW and local sponsors from Munich. It will be presented in Zell am See together with the Le Mans winner from 1999: the BMW V12 LMR. With this open-top sports car, BMW succeeded in achieving overall victory for the first time with a works car at the world’s most legendary endurance race.

    BMW PRESS

  • 12 Jan 2020 10:59 AM | Anonymous

    BMW Drivers Club Melbourne 2019 in pictures by Paul Holliday
    Member #296

  • 9 Jan 2020 7:14 PM | Anonymous



    Plug-in hybrid variants of the Sports Activity Vehicle and the Sports Activity Coupe in the premium compact segment combine agile versatility with exemplary fuel consumption and emissions – efficient electric motor and cutting-edge battery cell technology allow locally emissions-free travel up to a range of 57 kilometres*.

    The BMW Group is consistently driving its electrification strategy forward and presents new plug-in hybrid models for an especially popular and dynamically growing vehicle category. In the new BMW X1 xDrive25e and the new BMW X2 xDrive25e, the intelligently controlled interaction between a fuel combustion engine and an electric motor as well as locally emissions-free travel can be experienced in the Sports Activity Vehicle (SAV) and Sports Activity Coupe (SAC) premium segment starting in 2020. A highly efficient electric drive and a latest-generation lithium-ion battery enable an electrically powered range of up to 57 kilometres* in the two new plug-in hybrid models. With an average fuel consumption of 2.1 to 1.9 litres per 100 kilometres* and CO2 emissions between 48 and 43 grams per kilometre* for the BMW X1 xDrive25e and 2.1 to 1.9 litres per 100 kilometres* and between 47 and 43 grams per kilometre* for the BMW X2 xDrive25e, both models set a benchmark within their competitive fields. Combined power consumption of the BMW X1 xDrive25e is 14.3 to 13.8 kWh per 100 kilometres*, the corresponding values of the BMW X2 xDrive25e are 14.2 to 13.7 kWh per 100 kilometres*. The hybrid specific all-wheel drive with its fast and precise distribution of power between the front and rear wheels delivers a high level of driving pleasure and thrilling agility.

    The two plug-in models are an extension to the wide range of BMW models in the premium compact segment of SAV and SAC vehicles. In addition to numerous variants featuring extremely efficient petrol and diesel engines, models with electrified drive will be on offer for the first time. Thus, the portfolio will include in addition to economical entry models with a 3-cylinder combustion engine also the new plug-in hybrid models and the BMW X2 M35i (combined fuel consumption: 7.1 – 6.8 l/100 km; combined CO2 emissions: 163 – 154 g/km*), the extremely athletic top model with a maximum output of 225 kW/306 hp. With the extension of its range in the premium compact segment the BMW Group’s model offensive is gaining further momentum in the area of plug-in hybrid models. The current selection comprises the MINI Cooper SE Countryman (combined fuel consumption: 2.1 – 1.9 l/100 km; combined power consumption: 13.9 – 13.5 kWh/100 km; combined CO2 emissions: 47 – 43 g/km*), the BMW 225xe Active Tourer (combined fuel consumption: 1.9 l/100 km; combined power consumption: 13.5 kWh/100 km; combined CO2 emissions: 42 g/km*), BMW 3 Series and BMW 5 Series models and plug-in hybrid luxury sedans of the BMW 7 Series. In future, four BMW X models with plug-in hybrid drive will also be available. As a pioneer in electric mobility BMW intends to have more than one million vehicles with electrified drive on the road by the end of 2021. By 2021, 25 percent of the vehicles sold by the BMW Group in Europe will feature an electric drive. By 2025 this figure is scheduled to reach 33 percent and 50 percent by 2030. The BMW Group plans to extend their portfolio by additional 25 electrified vehicles by 2023.

    The plug-in hybrid system of the new BMW X1 xDrive 25e and the new BMW X2 xDrive25e consists of a 1.5 litre 3-cylinder petrol engine with BMW TwinPower Turbo Technology and an electric drive specially developed for this model. It is taken from the eDrive technology modular system of the BMW Group. The petrol engine mobilises a peak output of 92 kW/125 hp and a maximum torque of 220 Newton metres. It transfers its power to a 6-speed Steptronic transmission and drives the front wheels. The electric motor generates an output of 70 kW/95 hp and delivers 165 Nm of torque to the rear wheels via a single-speed transmission. This makes for a hybrid specific all-wheel drive, which gives both models a unique level of agility in their competitive fields delivering hallmark SAV and SAC driving pleasure. The highly responsive power delivery of the electric motor, which delivers its full torque spontaneously from standstill, enables the driver to react extremely quickly to changing driving conditions. In addition, the position of the electric motor above the rear axle contributes to the harmoniously balanced axle load distribution of the new BMW X1 xDrive25e and the new BMW X2 xDrive25e. In conjunction with the intelligently controlled interaction between the two power units, it provides maximum driving stability, ride comfort and dynamic response.

    Together the combustion engine and electric motor produce a system output of 162 kW/220 hp. The maximum system torque of both drive units is 385 Nm. The new BMW X1 xDrive25e accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in 6.9 seconds. The new BMW X2 xDrive25e does the 0 to 100 km/h sprint in 6.8 seconds. In addition, the electric boost provided by the drive system ensures additional safety reserves and intense sporty flair when overtaking on country roads, for example. The top speed of the new BMW X1 xDrive25e is 193 km/h. Maximum speed of the new BMW X2 xDrive25e is 195 km/h.

    With the very latest high-voltage battery cell technology, the new BMW X1 xDrive25e and the new BMW X2 xDrive25e possess generous reserves of electrical energy enabling the driver to conduct the main share of everyday travel locally emissions-free with the electric motor alone. The latest-generation lithium-ion battery has a gross energy content of 10 kWh. This allows for an electrically powered range of between 54 and 57 kilometres* in the BMW X1 xDrive25e (between 55 and 57 kilometres* in the new BMW X2 xDrive25e). The high-voltage battery can be charged at conventional household sockets using the standard-equipment charging cable. An empty battery can be fully charged in around five hours in this way. It only takes 3.8 hours for the battery to reach 80 percent of its total capacity. Using a BMW i Wallbox, the relevant charging operation from 0 to 100 percent takes less than 3.2 hours. 80 percent of total capacity is already reached after 2.4 hours. The charging socket is located under a separate flap on the front left side wall of the car.

    The driver can use the eDrive button on the centre console to influence the drive system’s operating mode. In the AUTO eDRIVE standard setting, the intelligent drive system ensures optimum interaction between the two power units in all driving situations. Navigation data is also used to manage the plug-in hybrid system to increase both efficiency as well as driving pleasure. When navigation guidance is activated, the anticipatory energy management can also take into account the route profile for controlling the drive system. The MAX eDrive mode can be activated for maximum use of the electric drive. In this mode, the new BMW X1 xDrive25e and the new BMW X2 xDrive25e reach a top speed of 135 km/h. In addition there is also the SAVE BATTERY mode. It enables the driver to maintain the charging state of the high-voltage battery while driving or to increase it by means of recuperation. In this way battery capacity can be saved for later use when driving in purely electric mode in the city for example. The driving experience switch can be used independent of the drive mode. In the new BMW X1 xDrive25e and the new BMW X2 xDrive25e, the driver can use this to activate the COMFORT, SPORT and ECO PRO modes in order to influence the drive and suspension functions as well as to operate the electrically powered comfort systems.

    Due to a long electric range and low CO2 emissions, the new BMW X1 xDrive25e and the new BMW X2 xDrive25e (depending on equipment) meet the criteria which have been stipulated for the classification as an electric vehicle in Germany and the associated preferential treatment in public road traffic. In addition, it also qualifies for reduced company car taxation in Germany. Only half the gross list price is used as a basis when calculating the monetary benefit from private use of the company car.

    The new BMW X1 xDrive25e and the new BMW X2 xDrive25e feature acoustic pedestrian protection as standard. When driving electrically at speeds of up to 30 km/h, an unmistakable sound designed specifically for electrified BMW models is generated to alert other road users to the approaching car without impairing the acoustic comfort of the vehicle occupants. In addition, the standard equipment of the two compact BMW X models with plug-in hybrid drive also includes 17-inch light alloy wheels, 2-zone automatic air conditioning as well as auxiliary air conditioning. The interior can be pre-conditioned remotely via BMW Connected using a smartphone. The new BMW X1 xDrive25e is available as Advantage, Sport Line, xLine and M Sport models. For the new BMW X2 xDrive25e customers can choose from the following models: Advantage, Advantage Plus, M Sport and M Sport X. In addition to the respective equipment packages, virtually all options of the conventionally powered BMW X1 or BMW X2 are available for the plug-in hybrid models.

    The positioning of the high-voltage battery underneath the rear seats not only leads to a very low centre of gravity, which optimises the agility of the BMW X1 xDrive25 and the new BMW X2 xDrive25e, but also to a slightly reduced transport capacity compared to the conventionally powered compact model variants. The luggage compartment volume is fully available in primary use. In the new BMW X1 xDrive25e luggage compartment capacity is 450 litres. With a standard split of 40: 20: 40, the folding backrests enable this to be increased to 1,470 litres. A trailer tow hitch with detachable ballhead is optionally available for the new BMW X1 xDrive25e. The maximum trailer load is 750 kilograms.

    BMW PRESS

  • 8 Jan 2020 10:00 AM | Anonymous



    Edition model of the open four-seater features exclusive design and equipment and provides fresh accents for individual style and spontaneous joie de vivre in urban traffic - three engine variants available - market launch in March 2020.

    Winter is upon us and next spring is already being awaited with great anticipation. MINI is doing its share in this respect and presents a particularly exclusive opportunity to enjoy driving pleasure without a fixed roof over your head. With its individual design and equipment features, the new MINI Convertible Sidewalk offers ideal conditions for making an extroverted appearance in urban traffic. The innovative and precisely coordinated colour and material concept of the new edition model sets fresh highlights for individual style and spontaneous joie de vivre. The new MINI Convertible Sidewalk will be available worldwide from March 2020. There are three engine versions for the edition model of the open-top premium small car.

    Variants of the exterior paintwork, soft top design, rim styling and interior fittings developed especially for the edition model, as well as numerous specific design accents, give the new MINI Convertible Sidewalk its unmistakable charisma. The expressive exterior and the stylish ambience in the interior make for a particularly emotional and hallmark MINI open-air experience. With the MINI Convertible Sidewalk, the traditional British premium car manufacturer has once again created an attractive combination of MINI typical go-kart feeling and exclusive flair to provide a unique open-top driving experience. An edition model of the same name of the first open-top MINI generation already heightened open-top driving fun considerably. The direct predecessor of the current open-top four-seater, the MINI Convertible Highgate, also ranks among the top model highlights of the British premium brand. 

    Exclusive paintwork, unique soft top design, special light alloy wheels.

    In the current generation too, the MINI Convertible is the only open-top model in the premium small car segment. In addition to its exceptional position in the automotive market, the new MINI Convertible Sidewalk also offers an extra touch of exclusivity. Thanks to the Deep Laguna metallic body paint finish presented for the first time with the edition model, it is instantly recognisable. The expressive blue tone accentuates the powerful surfaces of the vehicle particularly intensively. The sporty character of the open four-seater is additionally emphasised by the model-specific bonnet stripes with contrasting colour edges. On request, the exterior paintwork Midnight Black metallic, White Silver metallic, Enigmatic Black metallic, Moonwalk Grey metallic and Thunder Grey metallic are also available for the new MINI Convertible Sidewalk. The exterior mirror caps are always painted in body colour.
     
    The MINI Yours Softtop Sidewalk offers protection against precipitation or when the sun is simply beating down too strongly. The version of the fully automatic textile soft top, specially designed for the edition model, which can be opened or closed electrically and almost silently in 18 seconds, features an artistically woven-in arrow graphic in the particularly high-quality finish typical of MINI Yours. The 17 inch light-alloy Scissor Spoke 2-tone wheels of the new MINI Convertible Sidewalk are also a model-specific design feature. A further contribution to the model’s unmistakable appearance is made by the side indicator bezels, known as side scuttles, which bear the "Sidewalk" model designation.



    Characteristic interior ambience: exclusive MINI Yours leather upholstery, specific interior surfaces.

    The edition model features brushed aluminium door sills bearing the "Sidewalk" lettering. Inside, the occupants sit on seats in the exclusive MINI Yours Leather Lounge Sidewalk variant. Their anthracite-coloured leather surfaces are combined with contrasting seams in Petrol and Energetic Yellow. In addition, braided piping in Petrol and the "Sidewalk" logo add touches of individual style. The doormats have matching dark Petrol surrounds and Energetic Yellow seams.

    The interior surfaces of the new MINI Convertible Sidewalk also have a model-specific design. The backlit decorative trim on the passenger side in Piano Black is combined with accents in petrol and silver. In addition, the elliptical door trim is in Petrol. The sports leather steering wheel with its discreet "Sidewalk" logo at the bottom and contrasting seams is a further highlight in edition model’s interior.

    In conjunction with the Sidewalk Chili equipment package, the edition model also features LED headlamps, LED fog lamps, the interior lighting package as well as the MINI Driving Modes, automatic air conditioning, a height-adjustable front passenger seat and a storage package.

    Driving fun made to measure: Three engines to choose from.

    The drive range for the new MINI Convertible Sidewalk is made up of three petrol engines with MINI TwinPower Turbo technology. The new MINI One Convertible Sidewalk (combined fuel consumption: 5.5 – 5.4 l/100 km; combined CO2 emissions: 125 – 122 g/km) generates an output of 75 kW/102 hp from the 1.5 litre 3-cylinder engine. The new MINI Cooper Convertible Sidewalk (combined fuel consumption: 5.4 – 5.1 l/100 km; combined CO2 emissions: 123 – 116 g/km) is also powered by a 1.5 litre 3-cylinder engine which produces 100 kW/136 hp of power. The 141 kW/192 hp 4-cylinder engine of the new MINI Cooper S Convertible Sidewalk provides the sportiest fresh air experience (fuel consumption combined: 6.5 – 5.4 l/100 km; combined CO2 emissions: 147 – 123 g/km.

    All engines are combined with a 6-speed manual gearbox as standard. A 7-speed Steptronic transmission with double clutch is optionally available for the new MINI Cooper Convertible Sidewalk and the new MINI Cooper S Convertible Sidewalk. Alternatively, the new MINI Cooper S Convertible Sidewalk can also be equipped with a 7-speed Steptronic Sport transmission with double clutch, which provides even faster gear shifts and can also be operated using paddles on the steering wheel. As a further addition to the standard equipment, a wide range of options is available for all engine variants of the edition model to provide extra comfort, driving fun and spontaneous open-air pleasure.

    BMW PRESS

  • 3 Jan 2020 5:19 PM | Anonymous



    Historic events and the special stories associated with them: 100 years of Boxer engines, the launch of the roadster tradition for BMW in 1930, the victory in the Mille Miglia 80 years ago and the model diversity of the MINI brand for the past 60 years.


    Legendary model premieres, trailblazing innovations, top sporting performances and pioneering decisions – the history of the BMW Group is full of milestones that have shaped the development of the company for the past 104 years. And behind each historic event, there are fascinating stories of people, technologies and products. They are all about the courage to dare to do something new, creativity in the search for unique solutions and the willingness to compete with the very best. In 2020, a host of anniversaries offer opportunities to narrate these stories. As a taster for the many different historic events that are worthy of attention in 2020, BMW Group Classic presents four very special anniversary stories below.

    The Boxer engine – unsurpassed for 100 years: How the young engineer Martin Stolle brought BMW to the motorcycle.

    Martin Stolle was a talented young engineer in the development department of BMW and he was having great fun riding his motorcycle from the British marque Douglas. After the First World War, his employer – like all German companies – was prohibited from producing aero-engines. They kept their heads above water with large-displacement four-cylinder inline engines for trucks, tractors and boats. A new product needed to be created in order to secure a permanent future. Martin Stolle had the brilliant idea. Inspired by the engine powering his Douglas machine, he designed a 500 cc, air-cooled twin-cylinder engine with horizontally opposed combustion chambers. This type of engine arrangement was already known as a Boxer engine, in which the pistons always operated “one against one” similar to boxing competitors in a fight. The power unit impressed aficionados with its outstanding smooth-running performance right from the start – a quality that continues to excite fans of BMW motorcycles powered by Boxer engines to this day.

    In 1920, production of the new engine was launched. At that time, Stolle was just 34 years old and his design of the Boxer engine was based on smooth-running and reliability. In his initial design, he settled for generating 6.5 hp at 4 500 rpm. The new power unit was supplied to various motorcycle manufacturers under the sales designation “Bayern-Kleinmotor” (Bavaria Small Engine). And soon Stolle’s development was installed in motorcycles of the brands Helios, Bison, SMW (Stockdorfer Motoren Werke), Corona and Hoco. The most successful motorcycles were manufactured by Nürnberger Victoria-Werke, whose KR 1 model powered by the “Bayern-Kleinmotor” from BMW attracted a large number of purchasers. More than 1 000 examples of the first Boxer engine from BMW were installed in this model alone.

    Two years after the launch of sales for the new BMW bestseller, Martin Stolle followed in the footsteps of “his” engine. He switched companies and moved to Victoria-Werke where he was involved in other successful motorcycle developments. In Munich, his legacy was not only a groundbreaking engine concept but also a pioneering inspiration for the future of BMW. The company was destined to move forward on two wheels. The development of a complete motorcycle had already begun. In September 1923, the BMW R 32 was presented – naturally powered by a Boxer engine.

    First in every respect: “Bobby” Kohlrausch and his victories in the BMW 3/15 PS DA 3 “Type Wartburg” 90 years ago.

    Motorcycle races were quite simply too dangerous. For this reason alone, the young engineer Robert Kohlrausch was given a sports car by his father in 1930. From that point onwards, his son enjoyed a sensational career of speed on four wheels. In his first race on 15 June 1930, Kohlrausch took victory in the Kesselberg Race competing in the sports-car class up to 750 cubic centimetres.

    The vehicle that assisted the rookie in achieving success from a standing start came from Eisenach like the driver himself. This was where BMW produced its first roadster on wheels just one year after its debut as an automobile manufacturer. The BMW 3/15 PS DA 3 “Type Wartburg” – named after the city’s landmark castle – was ideal for driving fast laps with engine performance enhanced to 18 hp and a weight of just 400 kilograms. “Bobby” Kohlrausch was the first driver to understand how to make the most of these qualities. He accelerated from one victory to another, winning a total of 27 national and international races with the first BMW roadster up until 1933. This string of wins enabled him to lay the foundation stone for the reputation of the brand in motor sport.

    Simultaneously, the “Type Wartburg” laid the tradition of BMW roadsters 90 years ago. Its successors, the BMW 315/1 and the BMW 319/1, also continued the successful racing heritage, along with the BMW 328, which went on to become the most successful German sports car of all time. The BMW 507 was presented in 1955 and also raced in a number of competitions but the car’s primary fascination to this day has been its aesthetic appeal and legendary flair as a dream automobile. Sheer driving pleasure defines the story of the BMW roadster in all its facets to the present day. It ranges from the BMW Z1 designed as a technology platform, through the BMW Z3 produced for the first time in the USA and the BMW Z8 which swiftly took on the mantle of a classic, to the BMW Z4 that is now continuing the tradition of open-top sports cars at BMW meanwhile in the third generation.

    80 years ago: victory at the Mille Miglia, a spontaneous driver change and an eternal record.

    The first competition also happened to be the first victory for the BMW 328. At the Eifel Race in 1936 held on the Nürburgring, it was the fastest vehicle in the two-litre class. Four years later, the car competed in a race that transformed the BMW 328 into a motor-sport legend. Two men raced to a spectacular triumph. The duo of Fritz Huschke von Hanstein and Walter Bäumer drove in the Mille Miglia held in 1940, a race which entered the annals of motor sport and the company BMW – and this only had a really perfect ending as a result of a surprising stopover shortly before the finishing line.

    In 1938, the BMW 328 had already made its mark with a class victory in the Mille Miglia. Two years later, BMW set its sights on overall victory. Three roadsters and two closed versions of the BMW 328 were entered in the race. The BMW 328 coupé had been styled with an aerodynamically streamlined body by Italian specialist coachbuilder Touring. The young drivers von Hanstein and Bäumer were nominated as drivers. Both of them had started their racing careers on motorcycles and at the beginning of the 1930s they had both achieved initial successes with BMW models in automobile racing. Bäumer had already been successful driving the BMW 3/15 PS DA 3 “Type Wartburg”, and in 1938 von Hanstein became the German Sports Car Hillclimb Champion in the BMW 328. They were the dream team for the Mille Miglia in 1940.

    When the race started on 28 April 1940, the two closed BMW 328 cars lived up to expectations and took the lead right from the start. But after just seven laps, the BMW 328 Kamm coupé had to retire from the race with technical problems. Now it was up to von Hanstein and Bäumer to secure success for BMW. Their Touring coupé unerringly ate up the miles and continued to expand its lead over the Italian competitors who had achieved many racing victories. Only the constellation in the cockpit gave the team management a real headache. Fritz Huschke von Hanstein was so fixated on victory that he continuously pushed forward the change in drivers that had actually been agreed. And Bäumer soon found it extremely difficult to suppress his impatience. The team management ordered him to remain in the passenger seat. Shortly before the finishing line, the drivers undertook a manoeuvre that took spectators’ breath away. Von Hanstein brought the BMW 328 to a stop on the open road and Bäumer took over the steering wheel. There was undoubtedly ample time for the late change in driver. When Bäumer crossed the finishing line, the BMW 328 Touring coupé had a lead of a quarter of an hour over the second-placed Alfa Romeo. Von Hanstein and Bäumer also set up a speed record with an average speed of 166.7 km/h that went down as an eternal record never to be equalled in the history of the Mille Miglia. The three BMW 328 roadsters that had lined up at the start took third, fifth and sixth places to earn the team award for the team from Munich alongside overall victory.

    60 years of MINI model diversity – and the special by American Nicholas Upton.

    The classic Mini has always been a source of inspiration for Nicholas Upton from the US. He has restored a wide range of examples of the British original small car. And Upton has been dreaming of a Morris Mini Traveller for a very long time. A very special type of restoration project has been coming to fruition at his workshop in California. Upton has combined the engineering of a classic Mini Cooper S with the body of a Morris Mini Traveller and created an estate car that never even existed. The little runabout from the West Coast of the US is not going to win any prizes for authentic restoration, but it will be a genuine eyecatcher at any meeting of classic cars. Upton’s custom special is one of the topics in the video-clip series “Work in Progress” in which BMW Group Classic presents unusual classic fans and their vehicles – you can watch it on the YouTube channel of BMW Group Classic.

    A wealth of different versions is a constituent element of the tradition of the MINI brand. 60 years have now elapsed since it was launched. Even then, it was obvious that the revolutionary concept of the classic Mini was good for more than one model. The inventive genius of the engineers and the brand diversity of the British Motor Corporation (BMC) paved the way for this. As early as 1960, BMW presented a Mini Van alongside the classic Mini.  The closed delivery van was the ideal company vehicle for workmen and tradespeople.  An estate car with all-round glazing followed and this was marketed as the Morris Mini Traveller and the Austin Seven Countryman. A Mini Pick-up completed the line-up of small commercial vehicles in the following year. And the desire for more finesse was soon satisfied. The Wolseley Hornet and the Riley Elf provided an individual profile with distinctively upmarket radiator grilles, an extended luggage compartment and swallow-tail wings at the rear.

    In addition, a version was created in 1961 that would contribute to the legendary status of the classic Mini like no other. The Mini Cooper met the desire for enhanced driving fun with output increased from 34 to 55 hp and appropriate chassis modifications. The sports-car designer John Cooper had identified the sporting talent of the classic Mini at an early stage. Ultimately, power was further enhanced with the Mini Cooper S packing 70 hp. It formed the platform for those racing vehicles that enabled the classic Mini to take three victories at the Monte Carlo Rally – and delivered the inspiration for Nicholas Upton’s unique version of the Morris Mini Traveller.

    BMW PRESS

  • 2 Jan 2020 5:27 PM | Anonymous




    Designed for local emission-free mobility, the model demonstrates its impressive everyday capability and durability with its original battery – since its market launch, the BMW i3 has been the most widely sold electric vehicle in the premium compact segment with more than 165,000 units already sold worldwide.


    Trailblazer for sustainable mobility and endurance runner – within the six years following its launch, the BMW i3 has become an extremely successful model and a symbol of electric mobility. Since its market launch, it has been the most widely sold electric vehicle in the premium compact segment. More than 165,000 units have been sold worldwide to date. And since the car’s launch, sales figures have steadily increased year after year. The BMW i3 convinces in everyday use with a future-oriented interpretation of driving pleasure and versatile qualities reaching far beyond driving short distances in major metropolitan regions. This is underscored by the experience gained by electric car pioneers who regularly travel longer distances in their BMW i3 and have each completed more than 200,000 emission-free kilometres.

    Thanks to its role as a visionary technology flagship and continuing sales success since its launch in 2013, the BMW i3 has acquired the status of an icon. The BMW Group will continue to further develop this vehicle and currently plans to extend production until at least 2024. Customers emphasize above all the reliability, durability and the practicable range of the BMW i3, whether in the heat of South Africa or in the cool north of Sweden. The first all-electric vehicle from the BMW Group has for years now proven everywhere to be a cost-effective means of transport that is fully suitable for day-to-day use. Customers who had their BMW i3 delivered shortly after its launch and since then have subjected both the vehicle and its original battery to a real endurance test, use sustainable mobility not only for daily commuting between home and the workplace, but also regularly for longer distances and even holiday trips.

    Over 277,000 kilometres with the original set of brake pads.

    “The vehicle concept of the BMW i3 is unique,” comments Helmut Neumann from the community of Titz in North Rhine Westphalia. “It looks so modern from the outside that people still turn around to catch a glimpse of it.” Neumann has been driving around locally emission-free since 2014 and even drove his BMW i3 BMW (60 Ah) (combined fuel consumption: 0.0 l/100 km; combined power consumption: 12.9 kWh/100 km; combined CO2 emissions: 0 g/km) as far as Berlin and the Alps without any trouble. “Apart from the immense driving pleasure, the BMW i3 is simply an extremely economical car,” he says. “This applies both to power consumption and maintenance costs alike.” With an average power consumption of 13 kWh per 100 kilometres over the entire lifespan, energy costs are kept to an absolute minimum – not only compared with an automobile with combustion engine, but also with other electric vehicles. At an electricity rate of 30 cents per kilowatt-hour, Neumann’s energy costs are just EUR 3.90 per 100 kilometres.

    An analysis by the German Automobile Club ADAC has already shown that in addition to ecological aspects, economical aspects speak in favour of the electric vehicle. In a comparison of overall costs, the BMW i3 was around 20 percent better in terms of size and performance than a comparable BMW model powered by a combustion engine. In addition to lower energy costs and high value retention, low expenditure for maintenance and wear also contribute towards cost-effectiveness. For the driver of a BMW i3, oil changes or defective exhaust systems are relicts of the past. Deceleration is usually effected by means of recuperation. Therefore, even after over 277,000 kilometres, Helmut Neumann has still not had to replace the brake pads and discs on his BMW i3 one single time.

    Neumann is one of the customers who participated in the retrofit programme and substituted the 60 Ah battery of his BMW i3 with a gross energy content of 22 kWh for a 94 Ah high-voltage battery unit (BMW i3 (94 Ah): combined fuel consumption: 0.0 l/100 km; combined power consumption: 13.6 – 13.1 kWh/100 km; combined CO2 emissions: 0 g/km) with a higher energy content of 33 kWh. The new battery offers greater energy reserves. “This makes things simply more convenient on long journeys,” he says.

    Consistent vehicle range confirms the quality of the high-voltage battery.

    Experience obtained by customers who use a BMW i3 from the first years of production shows that even with the original battery, the achievable vehicle range decreases only marginally even after high mileage. This validates the BMW Group’s expectations in regards to the quality of the high-voltage battery unit. Not one BMW i3 high-voltage battery has had to be replaced due to premature ageing to date. As the battery’s potential is far from being exhausted when reaching the previously quoted 100,000 kilometres, the BMW Group has now extended its European warranty for the battery in new BMW i3 vehicles even further. The maximum mileage over a warranty period has been extended to 8 years and/or 160,000 kilometres.

    The BMW Group has also developed solutions for re-using batteries that are no longer suitable for demanding use in automobiles. After a long life in cars they can still provide valuable service as stationary energy storage units. High-voltage batteries from pre-series vehicles and those handed in by customers participating in the BMW i3 retrofit programme are used on the grounds of the BMW plant in Leipzig as storage units for the green power produced there by means of wind turbines.

    Offering a range that is actually achievable in practice, the BMW i3 meets the requirements of regular long-term use. Gabriele Forster from Austria immediately found the ideal drive and charge rhythm, for example. She made a conscious decision in favour of an environmentally friendly vehicle with which she now commutes every day between home and work. At midday and overnight she plugs her BMW i3 (60Ah) into a wall box, which is sufficient to cover a distance of around 200 kilometres each day with a battery that has a capacity of 22.6 kWh.

    Robert Cleary from the US drives locally emission-free almost 150 kilometres every day. Only on one single occasion did he run out of power – about 50 metres from his front driveway. The problem was solved using an extension cable. Robert had already participated in field testing with the BMW Active E and in 2014 was therefore given a BMW i3 (60Ah) in the “Electronaut” version for electric vehicle pioneers. His car constantly provides a topic for discussion. Together with colleagues from his company, Robert initiated an electric vehicle workgroup that, among other things, advocates the provision of additional public charging stations. He is convinced that “electric driving strengthens environmental awareness”.

    To Shaun Maidment from South Africa “range anxiety” is completely unknown. “I once drove the BMW i3 from Johannesburg to Cape Town. It took slightly longer, but it was okay,” he says. On normal workdays, he drives up to 300 kilometres, making use of customer visits to charge the battery. In 2014, Maidment opted for a BMW i3 (60 Ah) with Range Extender (combined fuel consumption: 0.6 l/100 km; combined power consumption: 13.5 kWh/100 km; combined CO2 emissions: 13 g/km). However, he now considers the petrol-driven “emergency power generator” indispensable. “The Range Extender is essentially just a kind of assurance.” In order to further promote electric mobility in his home country, Maidment has launched a crowd funding platform designed to support the installation of further public charging stations in South Africa.

    With a battery of the latest generation installed in the BMW i3 (120 Ah) (combined fuel consumption: 0.0 l/100 km; combined power consumption: 13.1 kWh/100 km; combined CO2 emissions: 0 g/km), whose gross energy content has now been extended to 42.2 kWh, it was possible to increase the vehicle range to values between 285 and 310 km as per WLTP test cycle and to 260 kilometres in everyday use. This equates to an increase of around 50 percent vs. the BMW i3 featuring a high-voltage battery of the first generation.

    Sustainable driving pleasure – a characteristic feature of the BMW i3.

    Even after many years of all-electric driving, customers are still fascinated by the spontaneous power and torque of the electric motor and the one-pedal feeling with which their vehicle decelerates by means of recuperation. “In the past, I have also tested other electric vehicles, also larger and faster ones,” says Rob van Roon from the Netherlands, “but none of them was as agile and easy to handle as the BMW i3.” Since the end of 2013, Roon has driven 276,000 kilometres with the first series production electric vehicle from the BMW Group, with another 25,000 having been added since March 2019 in a new BMW i3 (120 Ah). The new model only needs to be charged once a day, and van Roon usually knows how to make practical use of this. “Charging doesn’t necessarily mean waiting,” he says. “I spend the time doing administrative work or making phone calls, which demands my full attention.” On long journeys he has discovered the advantages of the quick charging stations from Ionity, which can be found at around 200 service areas along European long-haul routes. “If you can eat there, you can charge your car there,” he has noticed. Consequently, Rob van Roon and his family have driven their BMW i3 on trips taking them as far as the North Cape, the Algarve and Sicily.

    In October 2013, Leif Carlsson from Sweden had already taken the first opportunity of a test drive in Stockholm. “After one single lap I was convinced – this is my car. It was the coolest drive I had ever experienced.” Today he still drives a BMW i3 (60Ah) with Range Extender every day and after travelling more than 216,000 kilometres, he enjoys the ideal balance between driving pleasure and sustainability. At first, it is sufficient to charge the car from conventional power sockets at home or at the workplace. In Sweden, there is no shortage of these even in multi-storey car parks, because there, auxiliary heating systems in automobiles are often supplied with electricity from the mains. Meanwhile, quick charging stations have been installed at workplaces and the network of public charging stations is becoming increasingly denser. Therefore, Carlsson now hardly ever uses the Range Extender. On the other hand, he still appreciates the auxiliary heating in his BMW i3 during the winter. The timer function works perfectly. When I get in the car to leave, the interior is warm and the windows free from ice and snow.”

    For João Gonçalves from Portugal a test drive in the winter of 2013 was also enough. It was “Love at first sight – combined with many economical and ecological advantages.” Since then he has enjoyed every trip “to work, in his spare time and on holidays. My BMW i3 takes me simply everywhere.” He drives up to 250 kilometres a day and an opportunity to recharge the battery is always easily found during working hours at the office or when visiting customers. Meanwhile Gonçalves changed to a BMW i3s (120 Ah) (combined fuel consumption: 0.0 l/100 km; combined power consumption: 14.6 – 14.0 kWh/100 km; combined CO2 emissions: 0 g/km). The increased output of 135 kW/184 PS hp adds to driving pleasure and the high-voltage battery’s extended storage capacity “makes daily life even easier”, he says. “And longer journeys are now more comfortable and faster.” To prepare for long journeys Gonçalves uses the navigation system of the BMW i3. “It plans my route and indicates quick charging stations along the way, so I can be sure of reaching my destination without any problems.”

    BMW PRESS

  • 1 Jan 2020 11:00 AM | Anonymous


    MONTH IN REVIEW 

    Hi {Contact_First_Name}

    Happy New Year!

    We hope you had fantastic Christmas and are enjoying the holiday (if you're lucky enough to have one!), and most importantly staying safe with all the bushfires around.

    2019 was a fantastic year for us.  We have run over 80 events with over 50% membership participation which is just fantastic! 

    Moving on to December, we started the month with our annual multi-club weekend which took us to NSW for a 2 night stay in Merimbula.  It was fantastic to see so many Vic, NSW and ACT members attend.

    Next up was our movie night, which was originally supposed to be at the Dromana Drive-In.  Unfortunately due to circumstances beyond our control, we had to change the location to the Karingal Cinema.  Ford v Ferrari was an awesome film with something for everyone - tears, laughter, heartache and great cars.  We definitely recommend seeing it, if you haven't already!

    Our last members meeting of the year was held at Strike Bowling in Glen Waverley.  It was a really great way to finish off the year with some varied bowling styles, all members seemed to have a great time and most walked away with some prizes in the raffle!

    MEMBERSHIP UPDATE: 427 MEMBERS

    Welcome to our new members, we look forward to seeing you at an upcoming event!

    Don't forget to catch up with this month's update from our President, Graeme Bell here.

    THE MONTH AHEAD 

    As we move into a new year, we're starting with a quieter month in January:

    • Friday, 31 January - Monday, 3 February
      Bathurst 12 Hour
      Bathurst
      It's time for our annual trip to the Bathurst 12 Hour!

    EVENTS AHEAD

    Keep an eye on our calendar for events coming up, we’re always adding something new.  

    Click on any of the following events for more information.
    • 8 February Pre-Torquay Motor Show Cruise 
      Come for a drive off the highway through the Otway hills to the iconic Great Ocean Road at Skenes Creek and then drive along part of the more interesting section of the road to Lorne where we will join the inaugural Torquay Motor Show Cruise to Torquay.
    • 9 February Torquay Motor Show
      Located only metres from the beach in one direction and the bustling retail hub in the other, the Torquay Motor Show hosts a wide range of vehicles (over 350 in 2017) in a scenic and enjoyable location with plenty to see and do.
    • 11 February February Members Meeting Featuring Jay Leno's Garage Car Products
      Our February Members Meeting will be an casual night, so we can all catch up and find out what we all have been up to over the holdiay season. We'll also share the Club's plans for 2020 and we'll also be featuring Jay Leno's Garage Car Products, with a demonstration on how to use them and you will also be given the opportunity of winning some of their amazing products.

    NEWS | BLOG 

    Our News | Blog page on the website is constantly being updated with not just club news, but everything BMW from all around the world!  We welcome you to submit any articles of your own! 

    Club blog.
    BMW around the globe.

    idrive magazine

    Have an interesting story about you or how you came to own your BMW?  How about a story about a restoration or a build of your car?  It could be anything! 
    Email us because we'd love to read it and share it with our members.

    MEMBER SERVICES

    Members are welcome to submit their business to be shared on the Member Services page on our website.  We are all about supporting those who support us, so if you would like your business listed, email us with your details and we'll add you to the page!

    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

    BMW Drivers Club Melbourne Inc.

    Proudly supported by:


       
  • 30 Dec 2019 2:44 PM | Anonymous


     


    Dear Members,

    Welcome to my last Report for the year and what a year 2019 was! I could bore you with the stats but in short, we have run over 80 events this year, with over 50%-member participation.  By that I mean that around 50% of our membership have been to at least one event in 2019, many of you a lot more than that. This is amazing, as to us it means we are doing the right thing in the way of events. Most clubs like ours would be lucky to run at 20% member participation and we are very happy that you keep coming and supporting the club we have all built together. We are still growing, with nearly 430 members in our less than 2 years and new members coming along all the time, quite a lot from recommendation of existing members or looking at how great our events are and wanting to be a part of the our club. Thank you all for making it such a great club to be a part of and also welcome to all of those of you that have joined us to make it even better in 2020.

    December started with a our annual Multi Club Weekend away, which took us into NSW with a 2-night stay in Merimbula.  It was great to see so many Vic, NSW and ACT members and also young ones on the long weekend too.

    This is an event we plan on doing each year with varied destinations and the date may vary slightly, but it will be at the end of the year so keep a look out for this weekend.  We always include great driving roads, great exploring, fabulous food and accommodation.   Thank you again to Peter Williams for the amazing driving routes and Jo who always manages to get it right with accommodation and venues for meals, etc.

    Our movie night in December was supposed to be at the Drive In, but due to circumstances beyond our control, we all met up at Village Cinemas at Karingal to watch Ford v Ferrari.  This was an awesome film with something in it for everyone - tears, laughter, heartache, great cars and fantastic driving and just another different type of event to add to the list. We may be a car club, but we are a very social bunch and it’s nice to do some different events, sometimes not in our cars.

    Our last Members Meeting of the year was held at Strike Bowling in Glen Waverly and this was a really great way to finish off the year with some pretty varied styles, but all members had an absolute ball.  Again, just a fun social night out with a great bunch of friends.  In amongst the bowling fun we had our Christmas raffles too.  I am pretty sure nearly everyone who attended came away with some great treats, thanks to Ross from Celebrations in Clarinda.

    As I am writing this the weather is searing hot, with wild northly winds and a storm on the way, so I urge you all to take care this holiday season and stay safe and not only drive carefully on the roads but also be mindful of the weather.  We do live in a beautiful country but one that has extremes we need to live with, and with summer time and the lack of rain everywhere it brings the threat of fires and extreme heat. So please have a great holiday if you are off somewhere but stay safe and made sure you have the Vic Emergency App on your phone.

    Look out for our events calendar for 2020. It will be updated and added to over the next week or so, as we finalise what will be a huge year, beginning with our yearly trip to Mount Panorama to support the BMW teams at the Bathurst 12 Hour.  With some great drive events and not to forget our Yokohama/Traction Tyres Drivers Championship in 2020 which will be at some really mind-blowing tracks and an unprecedented number of events to suit everyone!

    Take care and I wish you all a very safe and Happy New Year and I look forward to seeing you at an event in 2020.

    Graeme Bell | President
    BMW Drivers Club Melbourne Inc.

    P.O. Box 81, TYABB, VICTORIA. 3913
    Incorporated in Victoria #A0102695G
    BMW Drivers Club Melbourne Inc is a member of:BMW Clubs Australia and the BMW Clubs International Council
    CAMS Affiliated Motorsport Club

  • 30 Dec 2019 2:12 PM | Anonymous



    International recognition for current models, attractive design and technological innovations – Munich premium brand again achieves numerous successes in public surveys and expert rankings.


    The appeal of the current model range and the progressive character of the latest technological innovations by BMW were also confirmed in the course of 2019 by a large number of coveted awards. The Munich premium brand's track record includes national and international awards, which are based both on public surveys and on the judgement of experts. The new BMW 3 Series, which was able to collect numerous titles immediately after its market launch, is one of the most frequently chosen prizewinners.

    The wide range of award-winning models and technologies is also striking. The list of winners includes the outstandingly sporty BMW M automobiles as well as models with electrified drive. In addition to the new edition of the compact BMW 1 Series, the BMW 5 Series, the BMW X models and the luxury sports cars of the BMW 8 Series were among the winners in various competitions. Further renowned awards were presented to BMW for innovations in the areas of driver assistance systems, operation and networking. At the J.D Power Awards, prizes for "Highest Quality" went to the BMW 2 Series and the BMW X4.

    Award-winning variety: BMW models successful with conventional and electrified drive.

    BMW M automobiles won seven categories of the "sport auto Award". The Swiss "Auto Illustrierte" also awarded BMW M GmbH the title of "Best of the Brands" in its competitive environment. The BMW M2 Competition (fuel consumption combined: 10.0 l/100 km; combined CO2 emissions: 227 g/km) ranked among the “10 Best Cars” of the year for the experts of the US “Car and Driver” magazine. BMW's leading position as a supplier of vehicles with electrified drive systems was also confirmed by its excellent performance in several competitions. The drive system of the BMW i8 Coupé won the internationally renowned "Engine of the Year Award” (fuel consumption combined: 1.8 l/100 km; combined power consumption: 14.0 kWh/100 km; combined CO2 emissions: 42 g/km*) and the BMW i8 Roadster (combined fuel consumption: 2.0 l/100 km; combined power consumption: 14.5 kWh/100 km; combined CO2 emissions: 46 g/km) won the award in the  “Hybrid Drive” category. This is the fifth time in a row that their drive has won an award at this competition. The two hybrid sports cars also took second place in the "Plug-in Hybrid Sedans/Sports Cars" category of the "e-mobility Award" presented by the car journal "Auto Zeitung".

    In Great Britain, BMW won the "DrivingElectric Awards" twice: the BMW 330e Sedan (fuel consumption combined: 1.9 - 1.6 l/100 km; power consumption combined: 15.4 - 14.8 kWh/100 km; CO2 emissions combined 43 – 37 g/km) won the ”Best Medium Plug-in Hybrid Car” category. The BMW X5 xDrive45e (fuel consumption combined: 2.0 - 1.7 l/100 km; power consumption combined: 23.5 - 20.3 kWh/100 km; CO2 emissions combined: 47 - 39 g/km) won in the "Best Premium Plug-in Hybrid Car" category. The plug-in hybrid luxury sedans of the BMW 7 Series were named "Green Executive Car of the Year" in the readers' poll of the British "Professional Driver Magazine".

    Award-winner straight from the start: the new BMW 3 Series.

    The new BMW 3 Series got off to an outstanding start not only thanks to its successful market launch, but also with top positions in numerous national and international competitions. In Germany, the new sports saloon immediately won the "Auto Trophy" in the "Middle Class" category awarded by the "Auto Zeitung" and the "Design Trophy" on top of that. The new BMW 3 Series was also honoured with the "autonis" trophy issued by the car magazine "auto, motor und sport" as the "best design innovation of the year".

    Its inner values were equally awarded: the new BMW 3 Series won the "best networked car of the year" award in the top category of the "Car Connectivity Award", also presented by "auto, motor und sport". The driving dynamics of the new BMW 3 Series led to two class victories in the readers' choice of the magazine "sport auto". In their respective competition categories, the new BMW 330i Sedan (fuel consumption combined: 6.1 – 5.8 l/100 km; combined CO2 emissions: 139 –132 g/km*) and the new BMW 330i Touring (combined fuel consumption: 6.4 – 6.0 l/100 km; combined CO2 emissions: 146 – 136 g/km*) and the new BMW M340i xDrive Sedan (combined fuel consumption: 7.4 – 7.0 l/100 km; combined CO2 emissions: 168 – 160 g/km*) and the new BMW M340i xDrive Touring (combined fuel consumption: 7.6 – 7.2 l/100 km; combined CO2 emissions: 172 – 163 g/km) received the “sportiest cars of the year” award.

    In Great Britain, the specialist magazines "What Car?" and "Auto Express" unanimously named the new BMW 3 Series "Executive Car of the Year" and “Compact Executive Car of the Year”. The “Carbuyer” magazine awarded it the title of “Best Compact Executive Car” and “Business Car” named it the “Best Premium Car”. In addition, the British comparison portal "carwow" declared the latest generation of the mid-range model "Car of the Year". In Asia the new BMW 3 Series was honoured as well. It was named “Premium Car of the year” at the ”Indian Car of the Year” and the "Automotive Researchers' and Journalists' Conference of Japan" awarded it the title "Import Car of the Year".

    Further titles for the BMW 5 Series and a double "Golden Steering Wheel” victory.

    The BMW 5 Series was also able to add further successes to its collection of titles in the course of 2019. In the "auto, motor und sport" vote for the "Best Cars", it secured class victory in the "Upper Middle Class" category. In the race for the "Auto Trophy", the BMW 5 Series was also victorious in its vehicle class. In addition, the editors of the car magazine "Auto Test" also placed the BMW 530d Sedan (fuel consumption combined: 5.1 – 5.0 l/100 km; combined CO2 emissions: 135 – 131 g/km) in the top position in their ranking of all models tested in the course of the year. The British magazines "Auto Express" and "Carbuyer" voted the BMW 5 Series "Car of the Year" in its vehicle segment and "Best Large Executive Car" respectively. The title "Executive Estate Car of the Year" awarded by "Professional Driver Magazine" went to the BMW 5 Series Touring. 

    BMW won a double victory at the "Golden Steering Wheel 2019" ceremony. The new BMW 1 Series prevailed in the "Compact Class". The new BMW 8 Series was awarded the title "Most Beautiful New Model of the Year" in the "Auto Bild" and "Bild am Sonntag" competitions. The BMW 8 Series Coupé, the BMW 8 Series Convertible and the BMW 8 Series Gran Coupé in the luxury sports car segment also made a big impact in Spain. This was reflected in a double success in the "Motor Awards 2019" competition of the online portal "coches.net". The new BMW 8 Series was named both "Best Car" and "Best Sports Car” here.

    BMW remains a leader in driver assistance systems, operation and networking.

    In 2019 BMW once again added to the brand typical driving pleasure with the market launch of further innovations in the areas of driver assistance systems, operation and networking. Numerous awards underline the brand's leading position, which has been strengthened by recent progress. The most important innovation in the field of vehicle operation is the BMW Operating System 7.0, which also includes the Intelligent Personal Assistant. The innovative language assistant was awarded the "Tech Award" by the British comparison portal "carwow" as the most important technology innovation of the year in automobiles.

    Four titles went to BMW in the competition for the "Car Connectivity Award". The reader survey of the car journals "auto, motor und sport" and "Moove" showed that, in addition to the overall victory for the BMW 3 Series as the "best networked car", the BMW Live Cockpit Professional was a clear success in the "Navigation Systems” category. Readers chose the Driving Assistant Professional as their favourite in the "Safety Assistance Systems" category. The Bowers & Wilkins Diamond Surround Sound System was also voted the best innovation in the "Sound Systems" category.

    Here is a summary of the main awards won by BMW in 2019:

    • Awarded by “Engine Technology International”
      “International Engine of the Year"
      - BMW i8 Coupé, BMW i8 Roadster (Hybrid Drive category)

    • Distinctions conferred by “J.D. Power“
      “J.D. Power Awards”
      - BMW 2 Series (Highest Quality small vehicles category)
      - BMW 2 Series (Highest Quality compact vehicles category)

    • Awarded by “Automotive Circle”
      “EuroCarBody Award”
      BMW X7 (Premium Segment category)

    • Awarded by “Auto Bild“ and “Bild am Sonntag“
      “The Golden Steering Wheel”
      - BMW 1 Series (Compact Class category)
      - BMW 8 Series (Most Beautiful New Model category)

    • Awarded by “Auto Bild“ and “Computer Bild“
      “Connected Car Award”
      - BMW X5 (Upper Class category)

    • Distinctions conferred by "auto motor und sport"
      "Best Cars"
      - BMW 5 Series (Upper Mid-Range category)

      “autonis”
      - BMW 3 Series (best new design)

    • Distinctions conferred by "auto motor und sport" and "MOOVE"
      “Car Connectivity Award"
      - BMW 3 Series (best networked car)
      - BMW Live Cockpit Professional (Navigation Systems category)
      - Driving Assistant Professional (Safety Assistance Systems category)
      - Bowers & Wilkins Diamond Surround Sound System (Sound Systems category)

    • Distinctions conferred by "Auto Zeitung"
      "Auto Trophy"
      - BMW 3 Series (Middle Class category)
      - BMW 5 Series (Upper Class category)
      - BMW X2 (SUV 25 000 to 50 000 euro category)
      - BMW X5 (Luxury SUV category)
      - BMW brand (Best Design category)

      "Design Trophy"
      - BMW 3 Series (Sedans, Estates, Vans category)

    • Distinctions conferred by "sport auto"
      “sport auto Award"
      - BMW M140i xDrive (compact car over 35 000 euros category)
      - BMW 330i (sedans/estate cars up to 50 000 euros)
      - BMW M340i xDrive (category sedans up to 100 000 euros)
      - BMW M5 Competition (sedan/estate car category over 100 000 euro)
      - BMW Z4 sDrive20i (convertible/roadster category up to 50 000 euros)
      - BMW Z4 M40i (convertible/roadster category up to 100 000 euros)
      - BMW 230i Coupé (Coupé category up to 50 000 euros)
      - BMW M2 Competition (Coupé category up to 75 000 euros)
      - BMW M4 Competition (Coupé category up to 100 000 euros)

    • Distinctions conferred by "Auto Illustrierte” (CH)
      “Best of the Brands”
      - BMW M GmbH (Factory Tuning category)

    • Distinctions conferred by “What Car?” (GB)
      “Car of the Year“
      - BMW 3 Series (Executive Car category)
      - BMW 5 Series (Luxury Car category)

    • Distinctions conferred by "Auto Express” (GB)
      “New Car Award"
      - BMW Series (Compact Executive Car category)
      - BMW 5 Series (Executive Car category)
      - BMW X3 (Midsize SUV category)

    • Distinctions conferred by "carwow” (GB)
      “Car of the Year“
      - BMW 3 Series (Overall Winner)
      - BMW Intelligent Personal Assistant (Tech Award)

    • Distinctions conferred by “Carbuyer“ (GB)
      “Best Car Award“
      - BMW 1 Series (Small Luxury Car category)
      - BMW 3 Series (Compact Executive Car category)
      - BMW 5 Series (Large Executive Car category)

    • Distinctions conferred by “DrivingElectric“ (GB)
      “DrivingElectric Award" 
      - BMW 330e (Medium Plug-in Hybrid Car award)
      - BMW X5 xDrive45e (Premium Plug-in Hybrid Car award)

    • Distinctions conferred by “Professional Driver Magazine“ (GB)
      “Car of the Year“
      - BMW 5 Series Touring (Executive Estate Car category)
      - BMW 745e/745Le/745Le xDrive (Green Executive Car category)
      - BMW X7 (Luxury SUV category)

    • Distinctions conferred by “Business Car“ (GB)
      "Business Car Award“
      - BMW 3 Series (Premium Car category)

    • Distinctions conferred by "coches.net" (ES)
      - BMW 8 Series (Best Car category)
      - BMW 8 Series (Best Sports Car category)

    • Distinctions conferred by "Car and Driver” (US)
      “10 Best Cars“
      BMW X1 (Best Subcompact Luxury SUV category)
      BMW M2 Competition (Best Cars category)

    • Distinctions conferred by “Automotive Researchers’ and Journalists’ Conference (JP)
      “Car of the Year”
      BMW 3 Series (Import Car of the Year category)


    BMW PRESS

  • 27 Dec 2019 11:34 AM | Anonymous



    The BMW iFE.20 is already an asset for BMW i Motorsport away from the track as well. Its flax cooling shaft emphasises its great importance as a tech lab for the BMW Group, being the first BMW race car fielded by a works team with parts made out of renewable textile fibres – making it a pioneer for series production.


    BMW i Andretti Motorsport and the BMW iFE.20 got off to a successful start in Season 6 of the ABB FIA Formula E Championship with their victory in Diriyah (KSA) in November. Alexander Sims (GBR) heads into the new year and the next race in Santiago (CHI) at the top of the driver’s standings, but the BMW iFE.20 is already an asset for BMW i Motorsport away from the track as well. Its flax cooling shaft emphasises its great importance as a tech lab for the BMW Group, being the first BMW race car fielded by a works team with parts made out of renewable textile fibres – making it a pioneer for series production.

    “The flax cooling shaft that we use in the BMW iFE.20 is further proof of the hugely important role of BMW i Motorsport as a tech lab for the BMW Group,” said BMW Group Motorsport Director Jens Marquardt. “We are consistently using Formula E as an innovative platform for series development – in this instance for testing flax in extreme weather conditions. What’s particularly remarkable is the fact that in some areas this renewable material even has advantages over materials established in racing, such as carbon. Our ambition is to always use the best suited material for each part.”

    Compared with carbon, flax has greater absorption and greater impact resistance, which can be advantageous on the street circuits with their bumps and crash barriers, on which Formula E takes place. The same is true of contact with other cars during races.

    The BMW iFE.20 is the first works BMW racing car in which the material is used. However, the expansion of this concept to include other BMW Motorsport race cars is currently already in the development phase.

    BMW PRESS



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