In times of uncertainty, inspiring people play an even more important role in sustaining society. The BMW Group and CNN International Commercial (CNNIC) have teamed up to portray the stories and attitude of some of the most remarkable creatives, artists and leaders of our time through two unique series comprising a total of eleven short films exploring “The Art of Leadership”. By focusing on the personal stories that drove exceptional individuals in their field to inspire modern society, each film in the series will embody core leadership values of BMW: responsibility, inner strength and independence. Values also inherent to BMW´s luxury car suite – BMW’s X7, 7, 8 und M8 Series.
On Thursday, CNN kicked off a six-part branded content series by launching the first brand film produced by CNNIC’s award-winning in-house studio Create. This first film portrays one of the most successful DJ duos and electronic music producers in the world, Dimitri Vegas & Like Mike. Set against the backdrop of one of their concerts in Norway, the Belgian brothers recall how they became leaders in their field, reflecting on their passion and the relationship with their audience. This and the other upcoming brand films produced by Create are shot and edited for global distribution on a mix of CNN International’s platforms across TV, digital, and social, Great Big Story and will also be featured on BMW’s central brand website.
Later this year Great Big Story, CNN’s global media company devoted to cinematic storytelling, will launch a sponsored editorial series comprising five micro-documentaries that put the spotlight on inspiring women and men who created their social impact on leading by example.
The first film scheduled for May, will introduce the fascinating double life of Brandon Tory. Talented in tech while being a gifted emcee, Brandon successfully navigates both worlds – working as a senior AI engineer at Google by day and a successful hip-hop artist at night. Each film will run across Great Big Story’s platforms and social accounts, while distribution will be enhanced using WarnerMedia’s Launchpad technology to reach defined audiences across social media.
“BMW has a long and diverse history of projects that provide platforms and stages for creative minds and bold new voices - be it in design, art, sports or engineering. We see it as one of our missions - and have always done so, to enable and nurture transformation. These stories are the result of a perfect match between two entities which share the same values and goals. We are absolutely delighted that CNN and BMW work together to create these unique pieces about exceptional people, who are rethinking and redefining leadership. As we are always striving for excellence, we strongly believe this partnership is a milestone for both of us.” said Jens Thiemer, Senior Vice President Customer and Brand BMW.
“All the best partnerships are based on common values, and I am delighted that this is the case with this exciting new project with BMW,” said Cathy Ibal, Senior Vice President, EMEA, CNN International Commercial. "As leaders in our respective fields, we honor and value those talents and characters that are portrayed in the fims as theychange our society for the better. Powerful, emotional storytelling from Creat and Great Big Story will ahve a prominent stage as we distribute these films in smart ways across all platforms to reach a truly global audience that values leadership and the stories behind it."
BMW PRESS
Dear Members,
Under Stage 2 of the Government restrictions for gatherings and non-essential travel, we are suspending all of our Club meetings and events for the time being. We are working on other ways to keep engaged with our members and to try to bring a little joy to the situation we all find ourselves in.
Whilst we can’t go out and meet up, we can do some virtual meetings. Our next members meeting we will be trying something new with a live stream or video meeting. We will advise on the details of this as soon as they are available.
We want to keep engaged with you but not flood you with updates. We will send out an update weekly with any news or changes to upcoming events. If you have anything of interest or ideas for members to do whilst in virtual lockdown, send them to us and we'll share them with the rest of our members.
For now though, all events that were due to be held for the rest of March and all of April will be cancelled or postponed for later in the year. Sadly, our Second Birthday Celebration Night scheduled for 2 May will also be postponed. The good news is that at this stage, you will all still receive our second edition of idrive magazine in May as planned. Something to really look forward to!
Keep an eye on our Facebook group and Facebook page, we'll be sharing some ideas for things to do whilst you are at home, starting this weekend with a show-us-what’s-in-your-garage event, so look out for that.
Keep in touch with your family and friends, via phone or internet, we have to be physically isolated but we don’t have to be socially isolated. A phone call or email from a friend can really brighten someone’s day, so keep in touch and support each other in any way you can. If we all work together and do what we need to do, we will get through this.
We are only a phone call away too, so if you need anything please do call or email.
Club Permit RenewalsAt this time, VicRoads are still processing renewals at their offices, however wait times are now much longer than normal and you must adhere to the current social distancing measures. Please instead consider posting your renewal VicRoads. You can pay by cheque or VicRoads have advised that you can use this credit card form.
If you are yet to receive a signature from us for your renewal, we request that you post them to us for the time being.
To be as fast an efficient as possible we recommend to sign your renewal, attach your payment and post it to us with a stamped envelope addressed to VicRoads inside. We will then sign on behalf of the club and post it straight to VicRoads for you.
We would like to remind you that you do have three months after the expiry date to pay your renewal, but you can’t drive it once it expires, just like normal registration.
If you have any questions about your renewal please call or email us. If you are not comfortable providing your credit card details or don’t have a cheque book, give us a call and we will see what we can do to help you.
For more details on club permits, including where you can send your renewal for signing, please visit our Club Permits web page.
Take care and stay safe.
Graeme Bell | President BMW Drivers Club Melbourne Inc.
P.O. Box 81, TYABB, VICTORIA. 3913 Incorporated in Victoria #A0102695GBMW Drivers Club Melbourne Inc is a member of: BMW Clubs Australia and the BMW Clubs International CouncilMotorsport Australia Affiliated Motorsport Club
I am sure you have been inundated, like we all have, with emails and news stories of what is being done and should be done to try and prevent the spread of COVID-19.
We are no different. Many of our upcoming events have been, or expect to be, cancelled or rescheduled to later in the year and we want to make sure we are doing what we can to look after the health and wellbeing of our friends, members and the public.
Many clubs like ours are cancelling everything on their calendar for the foreseeable future, regardless of event type and location, and some of our members have suggested we should do the same. There are lots of reasons to do so but there is also a lot of misinformation and unwarranted panic out there too… ie buying up all the toilet paper!
We feel, for now, that we should try and live as normal a life as we can within the Government and Health Department guidelines, so this is what we plan on doing. If you are at all concerned about going out in public or indeed are feeling unwell, then you should stay home and self-isolate for as long as needed, or until you feel it is safe for you to go back to a normal life.
Of course, should advice from the Government and Health Department change, we will follow the directions as required.
You will be getting emails or seeing changes to upcoming events as we assess their viability on a day to day basis, both in line with Government and Health Department guidelines and also in what we consider to be acceptable and safe.
Whist we are mindful of all the guidelines, there are still some ways we can all get out of the house, enjoy the fresh air and regain a little sanity in these stressful times. Mental health is especially important in times like these and to some, sitting at home and worrying can be unhelpful.
We are looking at replacing some events that would require gathering together in a space to going for a drive instead and just enjoying our cars and friends from a distance. We can still talk on the radios, enjoy the countryside and driving our favourite BMW, without putting our health at risk.
April Members Meeting Our April Members meeting scheduled for Eastern Tyre Centre has been postponed. We will instead holding a small casual meet and greet at Adex Detailing in Airport West for those that want to come out and meet our latest club sponsor. This is in a large space that will allow for social distancing. As there will be far less than 100 people we think it is safe to go ahead. Make sure you register if you are intending to come so that if we do have to cancel we can let you know in advance.
Good Friday AppealThe next event that has been cancelled for us is the Good Friday Appeal Display at Birrarung Marr. We have instead decided to go on a drive to Hanging Rock for a picnic lunch so we can still have event and raise money for the Royal Children's Hospital. So, on Good Friday we will meet in Warrandyte and Wallan, we'll then drive to Hanging Rock where we can each bring our own picnic, sit a good distance apart, enjoy the day, watch a raffle and still raise some much needed funds for the Royal Children’s Hospital.
2020 Yokohama/Traction Tyres Drivers ChampionshipAt this point the next round of our championship is still happening at Winton. We are working closely with AROCA, Motorsport Australia and Winton Raceway to assess the situation daily. We do ask that if you are interested in attending Winton please let us know by replying yes or no to motorsport@bmwdcm.com.au so that we can assess if there is still enough competitor interest for the day to run.
Be sure to keep an eye on the website and social pages for upcoming events as the situation is changing daily.
I can’t stress enough that we all need to be mindful of the current situation and take every precaution we can for our own health and those around us. However, it is important to remember that life can be as normal as we make it, if we are all careful and look after each other.
If you want to call or need help in any way, we are here and will remain so going forward.
Stay safe.
Bavarian luxury car manufacturer BMW and leading Italian bike manufacturer 3T announce a collaboration delivering sheer cycling pleasure to BMW customers. Modelled on the highly popular Exploro all-road bike, 3T has produced a special edition 3Tfor BMW model in two colour variations for the adventure-seeking BMW clientele.
“3T was a natural choice for us, as 3T’s Exploro model is the best gravel bike available combining performance, luxury and cycling pleasure to our customers”, says Gaston Streiger, Head of BMW Lifestyle division. Characterised by sharp silhouettes and precise lines, the new gravel bike seamlessly aligns with the minimalistic BMW design and perfectly fits into the overall lifestyle product range.
Fine quality and peak performance being central to design, the 3T FOR BMW bikes feature an aerodynamic carbon frame, the world’s lightest carbon aero cranks (made at 3T’s Italian carbon factory), an exclusive Brooks leather saddle and matching Brooks leather grips. Fulcrum alloy wheels and resistible Schwalbe One Speed tyres ensure a secure grip with maximum speed on any terrain - from cobbled city streets to abandoned B-roads and mountain trails. The innovative Shimano GRX group set for gravel bikes brings the highest quality down to the finest detail.
“We are extremely proud that BMW selected 3T to partner exclusively on the creation of the special 3T FOR BMW bike. BMW delivers ‘sheer driving pleasure’ to customers and with the 3T FOR BMW bike, we aim to deliver the same all road biking experience” says René Wiertz, co-owner and CEO of 3T.
Both colour variations of the 3T FOR BMW bike are shortly available for purchase at selected BMW dealers and 3T Experience Centers.
On Wednesday, 11 March we all arrived at gate 5 nice and early to put our pride and joys on display for the weekend of the 25th Australian Grand Prix in Melbourne, one of our favourite display events of the year.
I was happy that all arrived well before time and after we all received our tickets and credentials, we managed to get ushered into position at 12.20pm. Not bad seeing our bump in time was 12.30!
We lined all the cars up in age range to drive to our display location, and once we got there, Sean Bell and Lawrence Glynn got all the cars lined up and looking fabulous. We had an amazing range from 1964 to 2020 all gleaming and ready to show the world.
We made sure all the cars had BMWDCM windscreen banners and an information sheet inside their cars, so that the general public could read about our wonderful display. The display area looked great with flags and banners. This was going to be another great year, proudly displaying at this fantastic event... We hoped.
After a final check and some photos we all headed home for the afternoon, expecting to be back each day over the coming weekend to chat to people, revel in the atmosphere and enjoy the racing.
We were very lucky this year to have Melbourne BMW displaying their new 2 Series Gran Coupe and I would like to thank them so much for coming on board as Sponsors for 2020 and helping us with the display. The new Gran Coupe looked fabulous in our display.
Another new Club Sponsor, Adex Car Detailing, was also there with one of their cars - another huge thank you for coming on board this year and joining our Display.
We also had the President and Vice President from BMW Car Club Gold Coast bring their lovely E30 325is which they drove down, and it was looking amazing after they managed to find a car wash and clean off 1,000kms of road grime. Andrew Grosse from BMW Drivers Club NSW also brought his 635 Group A replica, which was in with the E30 racing cars, who we shared a second display with nextdoor. If you didn’t know you would have thought this was the original car, what an amazing machine.
Thursday was a little quiet at the track. With the virus scare numbers were a little low but the display still had lot of interest and Lawrence was kept busy chatting to people all day.
Then on Friday came the news we were all waiting for but hoping it would not come, the whole Grand Prix Event was cancelled!
What a disaster and what a real shame, as all the teams were there and set up and cars were even on the pre grid waiting to go out.
Lawrence went in the help coordinate the collection of the display cars and after several phone calls and texts we managed to get all the cars picked up and the area cleared as the authorities wanted. Those that were there at the final moments said it was such an eery feeling with the track and surrounds looking like a ghost town.
Unfortunately this is something that had to happen for the safety of the public and all the drivers and officials and we would like to thank all our members and sponsors who attended and put their cars on display and also managed to drop things at very short notice and get the cars back out.
We look forward to returning in 2021 and hope that this ongoing situation doesn’t continue too long and we can all get back to some normality.
Jo Mawson | Member #2 BMW Drivers Club Melbourne
Your Committee is closely monitoring the developing situation regarding concerns surrounding the COVID-19 Coronavirus and how it may affect upcoming events in the coming months.
We are taking advice from Motorsport Australia and the Victorian and Federal Governments regarding upcoming events, see below for links to Government and Health Dept Agencies etc.
At the moment, none of our events are directly affected by the restrictions currently imposed by the State Government. It is our intention that all current BMWDCM events will continue as planned, unless it becomes apparent that it is unsafe to do so.
Your welfare is paramount.
We will continue to monitor the situation with the relevant authorities and provide regular updates as required via our website, email and social media platforms.
If you are feeling unwell for whatever reason, we recommend you follow the Health Department guidelines and seek appropriate care as required, including self-isolation if necessary. Please also refrain from attending Club events if you are at all concerned you may be unwell.
If you are concerned about coming to an event you have already registered for, we understand if you wish to withdraw but please let us know. You can cancel your registration for an event via the relevant event's page on our website or you can email any of the committee by clicking our names at the bottom of this email.
Should you require any further information in relation to COVID-19, click here.
All BMWDCM Members, officials and volunteers are urged to follow the government’s advice on how best to protect yourself from the virus and practice good hygiene methods, whether within the club, at home or anywhere else. You are very welcome to call or email us if you have any questions or concerns.
The Committee BMW Drivers Club Melbourne Inc.
References: Motorsport Australia update 14 March 2020Department of Health Coronavirus (COVID-19) health alertDepartment of Health | Active Health AlertsSport & Recreation Victoria update 14 March 2020
The final stretch on the way to the "Hall of Fame" of BMW sports cars: Six years after its market launch, the BMW i8 ends its product life cycle. When production of the BMW i8 Coupé (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) ceases, the plug-in hybrid sports cars will have long secured their place among the company's milestones. The BMW i8 started its worldwide success story as a unique symbiosis of futuristic design and pioneering technology. The BMW Group's first plug-in hybrid model paved the way for driving pleasure that was as dynamic as it was sustainable and became the epitome of the fascination of driving with electrified drive technology. It laid the foundation for the BMW Group's now broad range of plug-in hybrid models. At the same time, the BMW i8 developed into the world's most successful sports car with an electrified drive system. With more than 20 000 units sold since 2014, it achieved higher sales than all competitors in its segment combined.
The BMW Vision EfficientDynamics was already an enticing prospect for the future of individual mobility. The concept study presented at the International Motor Show (IAA) in Frankfurt in 2009 represented the promise of combining hallmark BMW driving pleasure and inspiring design with pioneering sustainability. The study of a 2+2-seater sports car with gull-wing doors, a reinterpretation of the typical BMW design language, plug-in hybrid system and four-wheel drive that is entirely geared towards aesthetics and efficiency, met with an overwhelming response. With the announcement that the central features of its design and technology would be transferred to a production vehicle of the new BMW i brand and thus start into a new era of driving pleasure the BMW Group soon triggered enthusiastic reactions.
The BMW i8 made its world premiere at the IAA motor show in 2013 together with the BMW i3. The double debut was the starting signal for implementing a comprehensive electrification strategy, with which the BMW Group set the early and consistent course for a model programme geared towards sustainable driving pleasure. Today the company is one of the world's leading suppliers of vehicles with electrified drive systems. Besides the purely electrically driven BMW i3 (fuel consumption combined: 0.0 l/100 km; combined power consumption: 13.1 kWh/100 km; combined CO2 emissions: 0 g/km), BMW i3s (combined fuel consumption: 0.0 l/100 km; combined power consumption: 14.6 – 14.0 kWh/100 km; combined CO2 emissions: 0 g/km) and MINI Cooper SE (fuel consumption combined:0.0 l/100 km; power consumption combined: 16.8 – 14.8 kWh/100 km; combined CO2 emissions: 0 g/km), plug-in hybrid models are available in all relevant segments, from the compact and mid-size class, through the BMW X models, to sports cars and luxury sedans. The BMW Group plans to expand its range to include 25 electrified models by 2023, more than half of which will run on electric power alone.
As a pioneer and flagship for driving pleasure with plug-in hybrid technology, the BMW i8 was the ideal vehicle for the job right from the start. And this not only applies to its role as Safety Car in the FIA Formula E Championship, which it already took on in 2014. The BMW i8 is the world's first sports car that had been developed with sustainability in mind right from the outset. In particular, new paths were forged with the BMW i specific vehicle architecture and the plug-in hybrid system. The combination of a passenger cell made of carbon fibre reinforced plastic (CFRP) with an aluminium chassis was just as revolutionary as the intelligently controlled interaction of the combustion engine and electric motor. The vehicle concept of a 2+2-seater, the aerodynamically optimized design, the intelligent lightweight construction and the innovative drive concept were aimed at resolving the contradiction between dynamics and efficiency that prevails in conventional automotive engineering. As a result of this innovative approach, the BMW i8 offers the driving performance of a top-class sports car - combined with average fuel consumption at small car level.
The control of its plug-in hybrid system was designed both for dynamic power delivery and for the most efficient interaction of the two engines. The combustion engine with BMW TwinPower Turbo technology transfers its power to the rear wheels. The electric motor drives the front wheels. The result is a hybrid-specific all-wheel drive with a noticeably positive influence on traction, agility and driving stability. This, and the spontaneous power delivery of the electric motor with a maximum torque of 250 Nm available immediately from standstill, means that the sporting character of the BMW i8 also comes into its own in purely electric and therefore locally emission-free driving. Up to 120 km/h can be reached in pure electric driving mode. The combined drive torque of both engines unleashes inspiring performance characteristics in the style of a high-performance sports car.
Driving dynamics and efficiency are also enhanced by the LifeDrive architecture typical for BMW i. The design principle of the BMW i8 was completely and exclusively geared to a plug-in hybrid drive from the ground up. The body structure and powertrain were developed as a conceptual unit, which helped the BMW i8 achieve the authentic character of a trailblazing sports car. The passenger cell (life module) made of carbon fibre reinforced plastic (CFRP) and the drive module made of aluminium, which in addition to the engines, power electronics and chassis also includes the structural and crash functions, not only enabled a DIN empty weight of less than 1 500 kilograms, but also a balanced axle load distribution in the ratio 50 : 50. And since the high-voltage battery was placed centrally and low in the vehicle, the centre of gravity was shifted far down.
Right from the start, the pioneering function of the BMW i8 extended far beyond establishing BMW eDrive technology in an iconic sports car. The extensive use of CFRP in the body structure and the clearly visible measures to reduce air resistance, set new standards in the areas of intelligent lightweight construction and aerodynamics. Together with the BMW i3, the plug-in hybrid sports car paved the way for innovative manufacturing technologies, with which the BMW Group became a pioneer in the use of CFRP in the industrial production of series-produced automobiles. The experience gained at BMW i with this particularly light high-tech material secured the BMW Group lightweight construction expertise that is unique in the automotive industry and has since been used in the development of CFRP components for other BMW models.
The progressive character of the BMW i8 was also evident at first glance in the expressive yet aerodynamically optimised design of its exterior. Its dynamic sports car proportions and the gull-wing-like doors that swing open to the front still attract attention today. The flat front end, the almost completely closed BMW kidney grille, air curtains in the front apron, the covered underbody, contoured side skirts, the lines of the side section known as Stream Flow, and the air ducts between the rear lights and the roof frame also allow the wind to be directed in a targeted manner. It not only results in a low drag coefficient (Cd value) of 0.26, but also in an exceptionally favourable aerodynamic balance. The ideal ratio of air resistance and lift for driving dynamics and safety is characteristic of this and is achieved without additional spoiler attachments.
The selection of materials for the interior and in the production of the BMW i8 was focussed greatly on sustainability. The leather used for the surfaces of the seats and instrument panel is tanned with an extract of olive tree leaves. The starting material for the textile materials is a polyester granulate, which comes from recycled PET, among other things.
The holistic sustainability concept that is characteristic of BMW i vehicles extends from development and design to production, use and recycling and thus covers the entire value chain. Not only is the proportion of recycled plastics exceptionally high, most of the aluminium used in the BMW i8 is also either obtained by recycling or produced using regenerative energy. In addition, the electricity required for the production of the BMW i8 Coupé and the BMW i8 Roadster at the BMW plant in Leipzig comes from four wind turbines on the plant premises. The electrical energy required for carbon fibre production in Moses Lake in the US state of Washington is generated from 100% hydropower.
At its market launch, the BMW i8 was the world's first series-produced car to be equipped with innovative laser headlights. Following its world premiere in the BMW i8, the BMW laser light was also introduced in other models - first in the luxury sedans of the BMW 7 Series and then in numerous other model series. The BMW laser light provides particularly intensive illumination of the road and a considerable increase in the range of the high beam. At the same time, the energy consumption is again significantly reduced, even compared to the already particularly efficient LED headlights.
In the field of drive technology, the forefather of all plug-in hybrid models in the BMW Group was also the pioneer of a new generation of combustion engines. A new 3-cylinder petrol engine with BMW TwinPower Turbo technology was used for the first time in the BMW i8. The 1.5 litre engine was characterised both by a particularly compact design and an exceptionally high specific power output. With 113 kW/154 hp per litre displacement, a new record for BMW series models was achieved.
With the world premiere of the BMW i8 Roadster, fresh impetus for sustainable driving pleasure was provided in autumn 2017. The open two-seater now offered the opportunity to experience the fascination of this visionary sports car in the open air - a truly pure experience in purely electric drive mode.
The output of the plug-in hybrid drive was also increased for the BMW i8 Coupé with the world premiere of the BMW i8 Roadster. Since then, the high-voltage storage battery of both models has had a cell capacity increased from 20 to 34 Ah and a gross energy content of 11.6 kWh. At the same time, optimized battery cell technology made it possible to increase the peak output of the electric motor by 9 kW/12 hp to 105 kW/143 hp. In combination with the combustion engine, this resulted in a system output of 275 kW/374 hp. The BMW i8 Coupé now accelerates from zero to 100 km/h in 4.4 seconds, while the BMW i8 Roadster takes 4.6 seconds. Both models reach a top speed of 250 km/h. The electric range is now 55 kilometres for the BMW i8 Coupé and 53 kilometres for the BMW i8 Roadster.
Innovative production processes were used in the construction of the soft top for the roadster. For the first time, the aluminium connecting parts of the soft top mechanism to the bodywork were manufactured using a new type of 3D printing process. This manufacturing process for aluminium components, which is new to the automotive sector, makes it possible to produce the topology-optimised struts in a geometric shape that would not be possible using conventional casting methods and ensures an optimum balance between component rigidity and weight. Thanks to the expertise acquired by BMW i, additive manufacturing processes can now be used for a steadily increasing number of components and in models of various series.
No matter whether as an eye-catcher on the street or as a serial winner in jury evaluations and reader surveys: The BMW i8 impresses sports car fans and experts time and again. Five times in a row between 2015 and 2019 its plug-in hybrid drive won at least one title at the world-renowned "Engine of the Year Award". In addition, the vehicle concept and technology of the BMW i8 have been awarded the "Auto Trophy" and the "Green Mobility Trophy" of the "Auto Zeitung” car magazine, the "International Paul Pietsch Award" of the "auto, motor und sport” car magazine and the "Car Connectivity Award" of "auto, motor und sport" and "Chip", among others. The title "World Green Car" went to the plug-in hybrid sports car as well as the class victory in the "All-Wheel Drive Car of the Year” survey.
The British "Top Gear" magazine named the BMW i8 "Car of the Year", as did the jury of "UK Car of the Year". It was voted "Auto Test winner in green” by "Auto Test" and "Ökotrend". Renowned awards such as the iF Design Award and the red dot Award confirmed the quality and charisma of its design.
With their progressive and exclusive character, the BMW i8 Coupé and the BMW i8 Roadster are integral parts of the latest BMW product initiative in the luxury segment. Just like the luxury sedans of the BMW 7 Series, the Sports Activity Vehicle BMW X7 and the sports cars of the BMW 8 Series, they also provide a unique mobility experience. In addition, the "Next Premium" character of the two plug-in hybrid sports cars is reflected in the BMW i Pure Impulse Experience programme created for the BMW i8. The programme for extended dialogue with customers, which is unique in the world, provides owners of a BMW i8 with exclusive access to visionary personalities as well as extraordinary cultural and travel experiences.
The exclusive edition models of the BMW i8 also added a further flair of individuality. The limited edition models are characterized by unique design features that make them a sought-after rarity. The BMW i8 Protonic Red Edition was presented at the beginning of 2016. Just one year later, the BMW i8 Protonic Frozen Black Edition and the BMW i8 Protonic Frozen Yellow Edition followed, which will remain the most exclusive edition worldwide with around 100 units.
The Leipzig plant is currently producing the 200 vehicles of the limited Ultimate Sophisto Edition of the BMW i8. One of the edition models was already manufactured in December 2019 as the 20 000th unit of the plug-in hybrid model. With this production volume, the BMW i8 has already outstripped many a legendary BMW sports by far. Among the milestones in the history of sports cars, its sales figures are well ahead of classics such as the BMW M1, of which only 399 units were produced for road use, and also ahead of the BMW Z8 roadster, which was built around 5 000 times.
In addition, the BMW i8 has held a global market share of more than 50 per cent in the segment of sports cars with electrified drive for years. The BMW i8 will be able to maintain this leading position until the middle of April 2020. Then the bestseller with plug-in hybrid drive will have finally achieved the status that the readers of "Auto Bild Klassik" attested it only a few months after its market launch. Already in 2014, they declared the BMW i8 the "classic of the future".
Video: Paul Holliday
This was the first outing for me with the club so I decided to wake the family up early and share my joy (and 4th child!) with them. This was going to be my longest ride in the M3 so I was a bit nervous to see her endurance.
We met Lawrence and Shaaron at the San Remo Bakehouse, grabbed our entry sticker and headed to the track. We were promised the best spot on the track and that’s what we got! High on the hill overlooking turn 12 and the pits.
We were lined up with all the other cars by Jo, jumped out and went for a look at the pits. Race meets like this make you feel extra important as you can go into the pits and rub shoulders with all the cars and drivers and feel like you are a part of the action and the variety of cars meant there was something for everyone.
After a few laps of the pits the little ones got tired of all the walking so we went back the club display had a chat with a few of the members and enjoyed the action.
The weather was perfect, the day was action packed and the BMWDCM made us feel welcome. The perfect event for the whole family and a great chance to show off my ride.
It was a great weekend, the M3 didn’t miss a beat and made it home in one piece. Cant wait for the next outing!
Reece Todd | Member #457 BMW Drivers Club Melbourne
A big thanks to Jo Mawson, Graeme Bell and the team at BMWDCM for hosting club members at the recent Phillip Island Historic Car Display and races at the Phillip Island Grand Prix Circuit.
It was a great turnout with some amazing vehicles on display. Great examples ranging from the classics we all love through to the new M235i Gran Coupe and the new M3 CS.
The weather was great, creating a perfect day for racing and it was great to see BMWs and other historics out on the track. A bit of ‘old skool kool’ racing was made even better by having Touring Car Champions like Jim Richards and Greg Murphy there too.
For us, the golden years of racing really were the 80’s and 90’s and it was great to be able to re-live some of that excitement and fun.
Our favourites would have to be the E30 M3s of which there were plenty to admire. We don’t make cars like this anymore which is why events like this are so important and they just wouldn’t happen without the support of the clubs.
With such a full calendar of club events throughout the year, we don’t know how Jo and Graeme do it. But we’re very grateful they do!!
We are very lucky to have them running the club for us and send out a genuine and heartfelt thank you for all their hard work and efforts to provide plenty of events throughout the year that we can all enjoy.
Nella Santisi | Member #141 BMW Drivers Club Melbourne
The opportunity for a long drive to Phillip Island ensured that the recently turned 16 year old female in the family was up early in order to get 1.5 hours behind the wheel and into the log book. First stop was Sam Remo bakery rather than the usual Koo Wee Rup bakery. We followed from San Remo to the circuit another member's GT 40 which looked and sounded fantastic and was obviously the best non BMW car on display from the BMWDCM club.
Upon arrival at the circuit we easily found the BMWDCM location at the top of the hill with one of the best positions to see across to the pits as well as Lukey Heights and the series of turns as you come on to the main straight.
We spent most of the morning in the pits exploring all of the different classes, we managed to get up close to the ex-Michele Alboreto Ferrari of Guido Belgorni-Nettis as well as the ex- Porsche 956 of Vern Schuppan and a number of superbly presented e30 M3's from the likes of Bill Cutler.
Further along to the BMWDCM there was a great display of old Toranas including A9X mixed with a number of Brock Commodores including my personal favourite several blue meenies.
When we returned to the BMWDCM area we enjoyed some fantastic racing action with the highlight being the ultimate control of Paul Stubber in Group Nc with his Chev Camaro that he drifted through the last corner on to the main straight every lap.
Stephen Gorman | Member #372 BMW Drivers Club Melbourne
To welcome on board Melbourne BMW as a new sponsor of BMW Drivers Club Melbourne, we held our March Members Meeting at their Southbank showroom on Tuesday, 3 March. We were lucky to have a livestream from BMW AG of the launch of the new i4, which was absolutely amazing.
We were given the royal treatment, with so many of the Melbourne BMW team staying back to help our members with Q&A time, including their BMW genius.
We also got to unveil the new M235 Gran Coupe, which I had the pleasure of doing, it was very cool.
This night fell the night before my birthday, and I was totally shock when two birthday cakes came out and a chorus of Happy Birthday was sung by all. Thank you Shaaron and Lawrence for organising that, it was very special.
We held our lucky door prize raffle out of the back of the wonderful X7 with over 10 members winning great prizes. Thank you again Melbourne BMW for all the effort you put into this night, from the catering to the wonderful prizes and lots of beautiful cars to admire.
It was so good to see so many members attending, with lots of new faces there as well.
The BMW Group is opening a new chapter in its history with the unveiling of a pure-electric Gran Coupe. The BMW Concept i4 takes electric drive to the core of the BMW brand and heralds a new era in Sheer Driving Pleasure. The BMW Concept i4 represents a look ahead to the BMW i4, slated to enter production in 2021. It provides a whole new take on the dynamic excellence for which BMW is renowned and blends a modern, elegantly sporty design with the spaciousness and functionality of a four-door Gran Coupe – all while generating zero local emissions.
“The BMW Concept i4 brings electrification to the core of the BMW brand,” says Adrian van Hooydonk, Senior Vice President BMW Group Design. “The design is dynamic, clean and elegant. In short: a perfect BMW that happens to be zero emission.” The drivetrain’s standout numbers include a range of up to 600 km (WLTP), output of up to 530 hp, 0 – 100 km/h (0 – 60 mph) acceleration of approximately 4.0 seconds and a top speed in excess of 200 km/h (124 mph). However, the driving qualities of the BMW Concept i4 cannot be expressed in figures alone. The virtually silent delivery of power creates an entirely new sensation of dynamism.
The design of the BMW Concept i4 shows fantastic proportions, a powerfully expressive character and, of course, a lot of attention to detail,” adds Domagoj Dukec, Head of BMW Design. “With the BMW Curved Display, we have redefined BMW’s signature driver focus in an extremely elegant way. At the same time, the BMW Concept i4 transports a feeling of sustainable driving pleasure.” As part of the package, the Concept i4 includes several exterior and interior design elements which will make an appearance in both the BMW i4 and other electrically-powered production vehicles.
Fifth-generation BMW eDrive technology is a defining feature of the BMW i4 and therefore also of future electric mobility. The BMW iX3 due to go into production in 2020 will lead the way in the application of the new tech, which will be introduced in a number of electrically powered BMW vehicles – such as the BMW iNEXT and BMW i4. The electric motor, power electronics, charging unit and high-voltage battery using fifth-generation BMW eDrive technology are all-new developments enabling the BMW Group to take another significant step forward in the field of electrified drive systems. The electric motor developed for the BMW i4 generates maximum output of up to 390 kW/530 hp, which ranks it alongside a current BMW V8 combustion engine. Its instantaneous power delivery gives the BMW i4 standout performance attributes and exceptional efficiency.
The fifth generation of BMW eDrive also brings a newly designed high-voltage battery with the very latest battery cell technology. The version of the battery developed for the BMW i4 impresses with its extremely slim construction and optimised energy density. It weighs roughly 550 kilograms, has an energy content of around 80 kWh and achieves an operating range of up to 600 km in the WLTP cycle.
All in all, fifth-generation BMW eDrive technology sets new standards in terms of power density, efficiency and range in locally emission-free driving.
Series production of the new BMW i4 will begin in 2021 at the BMW Group’s main plant in Munich. This means that, in the future, combustion-engined vehicles, plug-in hybrids and all-electric vehicles will be manufactured on the same assembly line in Munich.
Integrating the BMW i4 into the existing production system represents a challenging task for Plant Munich. The body concept of the BMW i4 differs from the architectures of the vehicle models produced at the plant to date due to the need to accommodate its high-voltage battery. Approximately 90 per cent of the existing production equipment in the body shop can be incorporated into the process, i.e. adapted to manufacture of the i4. However, the remaining ten per cent – especially the machinery involved in building the rear structure – will need to be newly built.
A separate new piece of equipment will be fitted in the assembly halls for installation of the high-voltage battery, as the battery needs to be fitted in the car from below. A particular challenge in the conversion/installation process are the crowded structures of the assembly halls. Working within these tight confines, old machinery will have to be removed and new equipment installed and brought on stream within a six-week period. This requires long-term planning and precise implementation.
The company is investing a total of around 200 million euros in Plant Munich to bring series production of the BMW i4 to fruition.
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