The BMW stand at the IAA Cars 2019 international motor show in Frankfurt am Main revolves around the theme of the future of driving pleasure. Alongside the latest new additions from a broad range of segments that the premium carmaker will be bringing out as it presses ahead with its ongoing product offensive, BMW is also exhibiting fascinating vehicle studies and trailblazing technologies that are set to have a major impact on individual mobility in tomorrow’s world. The new products on show at the IAA Cars 2019 reflect both the tremendous variety in the company’s model portfolio and its capacity for innovation in the future-focused fields of action identified as part of the NUMBER ONE > NEXT strategy and known by the acronym D+ACES (Design, Automated driving, Connectivity, Electrification and Services).
The upshot of the largest model offensive in corporate history was that the BMW Group sold more vehicles worldwide between January and June 2019 than ever before in the first six months of a financial year. The BMW Group continues to be the world’s most successful supplier of premium cars and is able to offer customers in more than 160 countries just the right selection of models while catering to all sorts of different legal conditions, technical requirements and individual preferences. Besides a flexible marketing strategy and a diverse product portfolio, this also calls for a broad range of drive technologies comprising highly efficient petrol and diesel engines, all-electric powertrains and plug-in hybrid systems. The BMW Group has gained a clear advantage over its rivals by using flexible vehicle architectures that will allow any particular model to be quickly produced with different drive technologies as demand dictates. This high degree of customer-centric flexibility is illustrated to impressive effect by the globally successful BMW X3 Sports Activity Vehicle, which will be available with a choice of conventional engines, a plug-in hybrid system or all-electric drive from next year. The BMW Group’s outstanding expertise when it comes to integrating highly complex yet beautifully harmonious complete systems underlines what a strong position the company is in as it competes with established suppliers and newcomers in the automotive sector.
BMW Group market leader in electrification.Following an early product offensive that has resulted in a wider choice of models than any of its rivals can offer, the BMW Group has also emerged as a leading force in the manufacture of vehicles with electrified drive systems. The company is ranked as the market leader in Germany for new car registrations of electrified cars with all-electric or plug-in hybrid drive systems and the most successful established premium brand at both a European and global level. (Source: IHSMarkit Report 8/2019).
The introduction of the very latest battery cell technology in the plug-in hybrid versions of the BMW 2 Series, BMW 3 Series, BMW 5 Series, BMW 7 Series, BMW X5 and MINI Countryman as well as the BMW i cars further increases the electric range and brings new comfort functions when charging. Electric driving this way becomes an alternative for more and wider customer segments. By increasing the proportion of electric driving and employing digital services such as the BMW eDrive Zones function for automatically detecting green zones, the new plug-in hybrid models that can also be seen at the 2019 Frankfurt show will be able to make a major contribution to cutting CO2 emissions in urban areas.
The BMW Group will be bringing out yet more models with electrified drive systems as soon as 2020, including the plug-in hybrid variants of the BMW X3, BMW X1 and BMW 3 Series Touring and the all-electric MINI Cooper SE, which is also receiving its show premiere in Frankfurt. This will once again involve harnessing the expertise in the field of electrified drive systems that has been amassed during development of the BMW i models for transferring technology to the BMW and MINI brands. By 2023, the total number of models with an electrified powertrain offered by the BMW Group’s brands is set to increase to 25. Driving pleasure in unprecedented variety: the premieres at the IAA Cars 2019.The universally popular family of BMW X models is receiving further reinforcement in the form of the latest Sports Activity Coupe: the new BMW X6 is making its global debut at the IAA Cars 2019, marking the arrival of the third generation of the BMW model that first spawned this breed of vehicle. Anyone visiting Hall 11 at the main entrance to the Frankfurt trade fair arena on 12 – 22 September 2019 will also be able to experience how BMW’s characteristic brand of driving pleasure is set to evolve both now and in future with a wide array of vehicle concepts hailing from all manner of different segments. The third generation of the compact BMW 1 Series is celebrating its show premiere, as are the BMW 8 Series Gran Coupe four-door luxury sports car, the immensely sporty and versatile new BMW 3 Series Touring and the new edition of the BMW X1. The new BMW X5 Protection VR6 Security Vehicle that is making its maiden appearance in Frankfurt combines the ability to power ahead over any terrain with high levels of personal protection.
The presentation of the BMW Vision M NEXT, meanwhile, provides a foretaste of the future of motoring at its sportiest extreme. This progressive plug-in hybrid sports car serves up a captivating blend of emotion-stirring design and pioneering drive technology.
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It was at the 2007 Frankfurt Motor Show that BMW first unveiled the BMW Concept X6 in public and created a new breed of vehicle in the process – the Sports Activity Coupe. Now, twelve years later, the third generation of the production version is receiving its world premiere at the very same venue. The new BMW X6 succeeds in combining the agility and versatility of a BMW X model with the attention-grabbing looks of one of the brand’s coupes in more compelling fashion than ever. Crisply drawn lines, powerfully sculpted surfaces and proportions that have been stretched to even more dynamic effect help to give the car’s exterior an athletic, commanding and imposing appearance. The optional BMW Laserlight adds an eye-catching flourish to the front end’s design, as does the illuminated BMW kidney grille that can also be found on the list of optional extras.
The interior of the new BMW X6 creates an exclusive ambience while also radiating sporting flair. Standard specification includes the BMW Live Cockpit Professional featuring a fully digital instrument cluster and a Control Display that each have a screen diagonal of 12.3 inches. One of the operating concept’s key elements is the BMW Intelligent Personal Assistant, which can be controlled using naturally formulated spoken instructions. On the optional equipment side, highlights include thermoelectric cup holders, glass applications for selected controls, the Panorama glass roof Sky Lounge, the Ambient Air package for fragrancing the interior and the Bowers & Wilkins Diamond+ 3D Surround Sound System. The new BMW X6 will be launched in November 2019 with a choice of four engines. Heading the line-up will be two M models boasting extremely powerful V8 petrol and straight-six diesel units.
The new BMW 1 Series is set to continue the brand’s rich vein of success in the premium compact segment with a refreshed design and drive technology that has undergone an extensive overhaul. The new edition employs BMW’s sophisticated front-wheel-drive platform for the first time. This helps to substantially increase the amount of space on offer inside the new model while also ensuring that the third-generation BMW 1 Series continues to beguile drivers with its class-beating agility and dynamic prowess. What’s more, BMW xDrive intelligent all-wheel drive will also be available as soon as the model is launched in September 2019 – in the 225 kW/306 hp range-topping BMW M135i xDrive (fuel consumption combined: 7.1 – 6.8 l/100 km [39.8 – 41.5 mpg imp], CO2 emissions combined: 162 – 155 g/km) and the BMW 120d xDrive (fuel consumption combined: 4.7 – 4.5 l/100 km [60.1 – 62.8 mpg imp], CO2 emissions combined: 124 – 117 g/km) with an output of 140 kW/190 hp.
This new form of the driving pleasure for which BMW is renowned can be attributed first and foremost to the cutting-edge technology used in its chassis and control systems. Of particular note in this regard is the near-actuator wheel slip limitation technology – or ARB for short – which enables the DSC (Dynamic Stability Control) system to intervene far more swiftly and with much greater sensitivity. The BMW M135i xDrive is additionally equipped with a limited-slip differential at the front axle, while Adaptive suspension is available as an option for all model variants. There are other new features too, such as the state-of-the-art display and operating concept, the BMW Head-Up Display being offered in this model for the first time, plus the extended range of driver assistance systems and digital services from BMW Connected and BMW ConnectedDrive, including the BMW Intelligent Personal Assistant.
Premium carmaker BMW is pressing ahead with its product offensive in the luxury segment by adding a third model variant to the new BMW 8 Series range. The new BMW 8 Series Gran Coupe melds outstanding performance credentials with the flamboyant design and superior spaciousness offered by a four-door luxury sports car. The extra 201 millimetres of wheelbase length compared to the BMW 8 Series Coupe improves ride comfort, and every last millimetre has also been used to increase the amount of space in the rear, where two passengers are able to savour a genuine sports car feel. There is also a third seat in the rear compartment that is suitable for use on short journeys.
The four-door sports car was derived directly from the new BMW 8 Series Coupe. Quite apart from the new BMW 8 Series Gran Coupe’s distinctive proportions, the design of its flanks and rear end clearly distinguishes it from its stablemate too. The cabin's luxurious feel is partly down to the lavish standard specification, including Vernasca leather trim, an instrument panel and door shoulders wrapped in fulled leather, ambient lighting and the BMW Live Cockpit Professional. There are also a number of optional extras that are available exclusively for the four-door variant in the new BMW 8 Series line-up: a very generously sized panoramic glass roof, a four-zone automatic climate control system and electric sun blinds for the rear side windows and rear window. The three engines available at launch in September 2019 range in output from 235 kW/320 hp to 390 kW/530 hp and are mated to an eight-speed Steptronic transmission and BMW xDrive all-wheel drive. The BMW 840i Gran Coupe (fuel consumption combined: 7.5 – 7.4 l/100 km [37.7 – 38.2 mpg imp], CO2 emissions combined: 170 – 168 g/km) with rear-wheel drive is also available.
BMW M GmbH is stepping up its current model offensive and making a foray into the luxury segment with its new high-performance sports cars. The formidable performance capabilities are mainly down to a V8 engine with M TwinPower Turbo technology and high-revving concept, which generates 441 kW/600 hp in the new BMW M8 Coupe (fuel consumption combined: 10.6 – 10.5 l/100 km [26.6 – 26.9 mpg imp], CO2 emissions combined: 242 – 238 g/km) and the new BMW M8 Convertible (fuel consumption combined: 10.8 – 10.6 l/100 km [26.2 – 26.6 mpg imp], CO2 emissions combined: 246 – 241 g/km) and an even greater output of 460 kW/625 hp in the new BMW M8 Competition Coupe (fuel consumption combined: 10.6 – 10.5 l/100 km [26.6 – 26.9 mpg imp]; CO2 emissions combined: 242 – 238 g/km) and the new BMW M8 Competition Convertible (fuel consumption combined: 10.8 – 10.6 l/100 km [26.2 – 26.6 mpg imp], CO2 emissions combined: 246 – 241 g/km). The high-performance unit is partnered by an eight-speed M Steptronic transmission with Drivelogic, while the M xDrive all-wheel-drive system and Active M Differential take care of planting its power firmly on the road.
Designed with the specific demands of track use in mind, the bespoke chassis technology includes a newly developed braking system offering a choice of two different brake pedal settings that can be selected at the push of a button. The driving experience can additionally be customised using the Setup button, another new feature that provides direct access to the settings for the engine, dampers, steering, M xDrive and braking system so that they can be individually configured to suit personal preferences and the current driving situation. The M Mode button on the centre console that is also making its debut can be used to alter both the functionality of the driver assistance systems and the information shown in the instrument cluster and Head-Up Display. The dynamic potential of the new high-performance sports cars also shines through in the familiar M design cues that are the result of functional requirements and in the cabin’s model-specific styling. Here, a cockpit designed to deliver an exhilarating driving experience merges with an exclusive aura of luxury.
Characteristic sportiness and versatile functionality set the tone for the new BMW 3 Series Touring, which is making its show debut at the IAA Cars 2019 and will be arriving in dealer showrooms in September 2019 too. Equipped with the latest generation of engines and cutting-edge chassis technology, the sixth generation of the Touring model once again sets the benchmark for agility and driving dynamics in the premium midsize class. Heading the model range is the new BMW M340i xDrive Touring (fuel consumption combined: 7.5 – 7.1 l/100 km [37.7 – 39.8 mpg imp], CO2 emissions combined: 170 – 162 g/km) with its 275 kW/374 hp six-cylinder in-line petrol engine. A plug-in hybrid version of the BMW 3 Series Touring is going to be offered for the first time from summer 2020.
A host of intelligent details give an added boost to the Touring model’s state-of-the-art functionality, including the anti-slip rails for the boot floor and the separately-opening rear window. Boot capacity can be increased from 500 to a maximum of 1,510 litres. The premium ambience of the interior, the top-class standard specification, the sophisticated display and operating concept – which can be optionally upgraded to also include gesture control and the BMW Intelligent Personal Assistant – and the latest digital services from BMW Connected and BMW ConnectedDrive combine to ensure impressive levels of driving pleasure and passenger comfort.
Visitors to the 2019 Frankfurt Motor Show will find the new BMW X1 more alluring than ever. The Sports Activity Vehicle that has proved such a success in the premium compact segment takes the limelight with its carefully revised design, more sophisticated drive technology and top-class equipment features in the areas of control/operation and connectivity. Thanks to the larger BMW kidney grille and the new-look LED headlights and rear lights, the vehicle radiates a far greater sense of presence and individuality. The high degree of variability and refined premium ambience in the cabin add to the car’s state-of-the-art functionality. Apart from this, the new BMW X1 is optionally available with a more advanced operating system with a Control Display up to 10.25 inches in size, a multitude of cutting-edge driver assistance systems and an extensive range of digital services from BMW ConnectedDrive.
The new BMW X1 comes with a choice of latest-generation petrol and diesel engines with three or four cylinders producing outputs ranging from 103 kW/140 hp up to 170 kW/231 hp. Depending on the particular variant, the engines can team up with a six-speed manual gearbox, a seven-speed Steptronic dual-clutch transmission or an eight-speed Steptronic transmission and can be combined with either front-wheel drive or BMW xDrive all-wheel drive. A plug-in hybrid variant will also be added to the new BMW X1 model range in spring 2020.
The BMW Vision M NEXT was one of the highlights at the #NEXTGen Event held at BMW Welt in Munich. Now, visitors to the IAA Cars 2019 show are also being treated to a glimpse into the electrified future of the BMW M brand. Like the BMW Vision i NEXT that is also being exhibited in Frankfurt, the BMW Vision M NEXT represents a prototype version of the BMW driving experience of tomorrow. The all-electric BMW Vision iNEXT mainly serves as a showcase for the EASE experience concept, illustrating how autonomous driving is set to transform life on board vehicles. The BMW Vision M NEXT, on the other hand, places the focus more on the pure and emotionally engaging experience of driving yourself in the BOOST concept. The Vision Vehicle takes the form of a progressive plug-in hybrid sports car with an emotion-stirring design and a puristic interior that places the focus squarely on the active driver. Its Power PHEV drive system opens up a new dimension in sporty driving, offering a choice between electric all-wheel drive and puristic rear-wheel drive, with either purely electric propulsion or the power of a turbocharged four-cylinder petrol engine. It generates a system output of 441 kW/600 hp and enables the car to sprint to 100 km/h (62 mph) from rest in just three seconds. There is also a BOOST+ mode that puts extra drive power on tap at the push of a button for an even more exhilarating performance experience. The car has a range of up to 100 kilometres (62 miles) when driving in all-electric mode, allowing the majority of journeys to be completed with zero local emissions, both in urban areas and beyond.
With its unmistakable sports-car proportions, low-slung, wedge-shaped silhouette, gullwing doors and clear, pared-back styling, the BMW Vision M NEXT succeeds in blending classic design cues for dynamic performance with sustainable driving pleasure. Inside the cabin, innovative technology is used to focus the driver’s attention on what is happening on the road ahead. The “focus logic” takes BMW’s famed driver focus to the next level by adapting the information displays to the changing driving situation. As the vehicle speeds up, the readouts shift increasingly into the driver’s direct field of view and centre more and more on driving-related information.
BMW PRESS
Well what can I say - this car really does ring true for the BMW "Ultimate Driving Machine" !
I spent months and months researching the new BMW M140 as I pondered the thought of maybe one day being able to purchase one of these hot hatch rear wheel drive beauties which we now know is the last of its kind. The new 1 Series which is due to hit our showrooms in September 2019 is now either going to be FWD or an all wheel X Drive system and the fabulous 3.0 litre twin turbo straight 6 has now also been dropped from the line up. When I learnt that BMW were releasing a Finale Edition with some added goodies I thought what the hell...
I spoke with Jo Mawson as I knew we had 2 BMW dealers who were involved with the Club, Essendon BMW and Waverley BMW. Essendon being only 10 minutes from me and Waverley an hour. Jo advised who our contacts at each dealer were and off I went. It was late March 2019 and I went into Essendon BMW who unfortunately didn't have a car for me to test drive. I then contacted Matthew Hede out at Waverley BMW who booked me in for a test drive on the Saturday which turned out to be an extremely wet and horrible day. Not a very good time to test the legs of the M140! Anyway - I sat down with Matt who also remembered me from one of the Car Club meetings who sat down with me and went through every detail and specs of the car. Turns out there was not one M140 available Australia wide and a car had to be built to my specs. Just hovering around 3.5 months later I am now the proud owner of a Melbourne Red M140 - Finale Edition.
Waverley BMW, their M Performance parts specialist and of course Matthew Hede what can I say, you have been a delight to deal with from day dot and I cannot thank you and applaud you enough for your outstanding customer service. Thanks again for making what was an awful experience at having my E46 330ci stolen and written off to making me grin from ear to ear. 2,500km's in and the M140 just keeps on surprising.
Sam O'Neil | Member #17 BMW Drivers Club Melbourne
Prototypes of all vehicles are manufactured long before actual market launch, under the strictest secrecy in specially restricted areas of the facility. They are used for testing and to prepare for series assembly later. Experts from development and production work in close collaboration. When series manufacturing of the fully electric BMW iNEXT is launched in 2021, it will run on the same assembly line as combustion-powered vehicles and plug-in hybrids.
Udo Hänle, head of Production Integration and Pilot Plant: “Preparing a fully electric vehicle for series production is an exciting but challenging task. By the time of the official start of production, we will have built as many as 100 prototypes of the BMW iNEXT. Until then, the Pilot Plant will use a range of new innovations to streamline and speed up our processes even further. We are also already preparing our first production associates from Plant Dingolfing to work on the new product.”
New innovations improve quality of production processesThe process steps for series production are defined and matured at the Pilot Plant, where experts also validate all of the vehicle functions, including electric and automated driving functions, and sensors for driver assistance systems. In addition, associates working on the BMW iNEXT are making use of brand-new digital tools for the very first time to support more intelligent, efficient operations.
The first few bodies-in-white of the BMW iNEXT are being assembled in the Pilot Plant bodyshop. The various sections are bonded with the help of a new technology: rotary bonding. This joins aluminium and high-strength steel by using the friction heat generated as a steel element pierces an aluminium part. The heat of the steel part fuses the two components.
Once assembled, the bodies undergo detailed checks by laser radar, an automated measurement technology that quickly identifies individual surface characteristics. This solution eliminates the need to place measurement points manually, as has been done until now. The new optical process also dramatically shortens the time required for measurements to be made.
Complete surfaces of body parts are further examined using a high-resolution scanner located in a virtual measuring room. Data obtained here is compared fully automatically with the CAD model of the part, delivering the required information much faster than conventional methodologies.
An augmented reality app is radically speeding up the way bolts in the floor assembly are identified and compared with the CAD model. The app is an important innovation that verifies their precise position and completeness. As well as reducing complexity, it makes cooperation between the various specialist departments even more efficient.
The BMW Group also uses computer tomography to test prototypes in the early stages of development. In a dedicated testing system in the Pilot Plant, four closely coordinated robots create X-rays of the vehicle by a scanning process. Moving around the outside, they face each other in two pairs and send the X-rays to their opposites. The data they gather is used to calculate a multilayered 3D image. This can be used to analyse the internals of the entire vehicle. Computer tomography allows new materials and bonding techniques to be examined in minute detail without vehicles having to be dismantled. Previously components had to be removed and taken apart for analysis. The system picks up objects as small as 100 micro-metres – approximately the width of a human hair.
Digitalisation opens up new opportunities for design and efficiency in production Digitalisation is opening up new perspectives for enhancing production systems. Virtual models of workers are helping vehicle experts to define assembly processes early on. Before the first prototypes are even made, they can ensure workplaces are ergonomic and offer easy access not only to the inside of the vehicle to bolt in rear axles or integrate charging sockets, for example, but also to the various parts that need fitting.
When it comes to flexible components such as brake hoses, the specialists at the Pilot Plant use software to simulate their behaviour inside the vehicle. Digital tools offer insights into the dimensions and subsequent behaviour of fitted parts considerably earlier and more quickly. The software solution replaces the complex, costly construction of test setups used until now.
Radar sensors supporting the driver assistance systems and automated driving are tested and calibrated on a new innovation test rig. This ensures they can be fitted to vehicles without difficulty later on, in series production.
BMW iNEXT is the technology flagship With the proportions and dimensions of a luxury Sports Activity Vehicle, a fifth-generation electric drive unit and systems for highly automated driving, the BMW iNEXT embodies the future of driving pleasure in a particularly comprehensive way. As the BMW Group’s future modular construction system, it combines the latest innovations in the areas of design, automated driving, connectivity, electrification and services (D+ACES) defined by the NUMBER ONE > NEXT corporate strategy. The BMW eDrive ensures a range in excess of 600 kilometres*. Furthermore, the car is equipped with the latest connectivity features and designed for Level 3 automated driving.
All figures relating to driving performance, consumption, emissions and range are provisional.
Pilot Plant as a Competence Centre of the BMW Group The BMW Group’s Pilot Plant is located in the Research & Innovation Centre in Munich, with three further associated facilities to the north of the city, in Hallbergmoos, Oberschleissheim and Garching. With a total area of 100,000 m2, it is home to 850 associates, who work on up to six vehicle projects simultaneously. Like the series plants, the Pilot Plant can assemble both electrically and combustion-powered prototypes. As the interface between development and production, it allows not only the product but also the series assembly processes to be refined to maturity, ready for transfer to regular plants where they are used in series production. The Pilot Plant comprises a bodyshop as well as assembly, prototype and concept car construction units, and the Additive Manufacturing Centre, a centre of excellence for 3D printing.
The details marked * have already been calculated based on the new WLTP test cycle.
Dad picked me up from school just after 12:30pm on 19 July. When I saw my Race car, it had all new Bell stickers that dad put on when I was at school, and it looked great. Dad also put on my lucky number 4 that Joe let me have. I also found a new tow hook on the back that Belly had given dad for my race car, it was a really good one. I was so happy that I would finally be able to race my car that dad worked so hard on for me.
When we were on our way up there we stopped at a servo to get gas for dad’s car. When we were driving in we saw Jess' green E30 race car and we waved as we drove past. While we were getting out we had a look under my race car for any leaks. There was one coming from the fuel tank, but dad found out that it was just that one of the fuel tanks in the boot that its cap wasn’t don up right. We went inside to get some food. As we lined up we sore Jo lining up just in front of us. So we said hi and had a little chat. After that we went to pay for our gas at the other side of the servo and there we saw Belly, so we said hi to him and had a short chat about what I call the racing. But he had to go soon after because his tail lights weren’t working on the trailer and he had to get to Winton before it got dark, and so did we. After meeting almost everyone at one servo we were back on our way to the Top of the Town.
Once we got to the Top of the Town Hotel we got our special parking spot that we got last year. We started to pack all of our stuff into our room. Once that was done, we started to put some more Bell stickers on my race car and it finished it of. Then we walked to the Chinese shop down the road for dinner and went to bed for a big next day.
In the morning we had our brekkie and got straight into it we drove up to Winton, rolled my race car off the trailer and then we set up with our big canopy and some camping chairs. We said hi to Rachael & PK and to Jo & Belly and then went to the drivers briefing. I had to stay back with some other people because it was my first time and their first time as well. We got told some ideas and what to do for the day. Then we went to scrutineering. Thanks to dad and Belly, my race car did great so we were ready to go.
So we got started, group 1 went then group 2 which all the E30 race cars were in and Rachael. Then group 3 which I was in so I put my brand new suit on my brand new gloves and my brand new boots, also dad’s unused helmet and fire proof socks, now I was ready to unleash the beast. Before I went out there I thought go-karting was good, but this was crazy good and I had so much fun. Dad said that through the day I got better and better when I had a look at the times I had dropped off heaps of time and I was very surprised and then I saw how fast Rachael was and she was very fast. After about my 3rd run Belly gave me a very cool bag and it is so big and I love it and the best bit is that it is half a suit case and half a carry bag so I can take it almost anywhere and I will. Another cool bit is that the day before I was just telling dad how my bag is so small and how his is massive and now his is small compared mine so I want to say
Thankyou Jo & Belly!!!
After that we saw an awesome BMW E30 Evolution 3 and we watched it go around the track and it sounded great and it was so fast nothing could beat it, and I think it did a 1:35 it was so fast. We talked to the driver and he was really nice and he told us some of his secrets. Sadly he had to stop because he had fouled 1 of his plugs from idling for to long. Not long after that the day was over and we had to pack up we said by to everyone and went back home. And thank you so much Jo and Belly for making it such a fun day!!!
Royce Lyne | Member #406 BMW Drivers Club Melbourne
Anniversary mood under California’s sun. At the Monterey Car Week 2019 and the Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance, MINI celebrated the brand’s 60th birthday with a review of its history and an outlook on the future. On America’s west coast, MINI presented a series of historically important vehicles and provided an initial look at two fascinating new models: the brand’s most powerful series vehicle ever produced and the first all-electric powered MINI. The new MINI John Cooper Works GP is currently undergoing the final phase of its series development process with high-speed laps on numerous racing tracks throughout the world, before being launched on the market in an edition limited to 3 000 cars during the coming year. The new MINI Cooper SE (fuel consumption combined 0.0 l/100 km; electricity consumption combined: 16.8 – 14.8 kWh/100 km; CO2 emissions combined: 0 g/km) is anticipated with high degree of tension. Production launch is already scheduled for November 2019. Taken together, the two models represent the future bandwidth of the model range for the British premium brand – from local zero-emission mobility in city traffic, to thrilling performance on the race track.
The prototype of the new MINI John Cooper Works GP already gives an inkling of the outstanding high-performance characteristics in Pebble Beach with its yawning air scoops, large alloy wheels, an independent design for the front and rear aprons and a striking roof spoiler. The impressive appearance is certainly not overstated. During test drives on the Nürburgring, the new extreme sports car in the MINI model range went around the legendary North Loop in less than eight minutes. This feat is powered by a four-cylinder engine packing more than 220 kW/300 hp with MINI TwinPower Turbo technology under the bonnet. The new engine, the chassis technology developed with motor-sport know-how from John Cooper Works and the aerodynamically optimised body meld together to form a precisely tuned overall package for the exuberant race feeling.
The MINI Cooper SE is significantly more understated than the new elite athlete but it presents an inimitable character. Subtle accents of colour in yellow, the shrouded hexagonal radiator grille, the absence of an exhaust system and lightweight alloy wheels tailored to the model highlight the sustainable drive concept of the electric vehicle based on the MINI 3-door concept. Driving fun in the MINI Cooper SE is typical of MINI and yet fascinatingly new. The spontaneous development of power generated by its 135 kW/184 hp electric motor, a chassis tuned specifically for the model and the particularly low centre of gravity due to the high-voltage battery positioned in the vehicle floor give the vehicle exceptional agility and dynamic performance when cornering. In future, this means that electromobility can be experienced in the inimitable style of MINI.
When the two new vehicles were presented in Pebble Beach, they were supported by a cast of exceptional representatives from the 60-year history of the brand. Alongside a Mini Cooper S from 1965 in contemporary rally trim and two special editions from the final production year of the classic Mini, the first-generation MINI John Cooper Works and the MINI E were also on display. The MINI E produced ten years ago in a small series already yielded important findings about the operation of electric vehicles in everyday situations. The experience gained in testing across the world was subsequently channelled into development of the electrically powered models of the BMW Group.
What an awesome weekend at Phillip Island, back in an E30 Racecar after three years. I spend so much time looking after other people and their cars, or organising and running events, I don’t often get to have a drive myself. Apart from the odd lap to take people for rides, I haven’t had a proper drive for years. This weekend reminded me of why I do this. There was nothing at stake, no championship or anything, just have a race and enjoy it.
I was a bit apprehensive on Thursday, when Alex asked if I’d like to do the enduro with him, not having driven in anger for so long, but the more I thought about it, the more I thought it would be good to do. I did one session on Friday in the wet to see if I remembered how to do it, surprisingly I quite enjoyed pushing it in the wet.
Saturday consisted of a seperate qualifying session for us both in beautiful sunny weather. Alex went first and gave us a good start with second quickest, behind an E36 M3. My turn came and being a bit rusty, l was fourth quickest. Our combined times put us third on the grid. Pretty happy with that and even happier when we heard the car that was second on the grid had an engine failure, so they wouldn’t be on the grid on Sunday. Well, not happier, we don’t wish engine failures on our competition, but gave us an easier job with only a much faster car in front of us and the other E30’s in our class all behind us.
The three races on Sunday were progressive grids, so where Alex finished in the first ten lap race gave me the front row for my race and then where I finished would give us our start position for the 25 lap enduro.
Alex came home behind the E36 in second, so I started on the front row.
Sitting on the front row brought back lots of memories of past races, the feeling you get waiting for the lights to come on and then go out, is something racers love, there is nothing like it, and it is addictive.
Both our 10 lap races were on a nice dry track, lots of fun, being able to push the car a bit, get used to it and have a bit of fun playing with the other E30’s. It was good to know I haven’t lost all my racing skills, sometimes it’s better to let someone past and sit behind them, put them under pressure, then take the lead back when it suits you. Race craft is something that is learnt over years and when you don’t practice it, like a lot of things, you start to lose it. It was nice to see I still have a few skills and kept them behind me to also come home in second, behind the much quicker M3, giving us another front row start for the 25 lap enduro, where I would start, do the first half and Alex would finish.
Our luck with Phillip Island's weather ran out about an hour before the start of our final race, so it was with a lot of trepidation I lined up for a wet start. The formation lap showed us there was lots of standing water and even a few rivers running across the track, so lots of care would have to be taken.
I got a great start and went side by side with the M3 through turn 1 then had to let him take the lead in turn 2 when I got a little to hasty with the accelerator and got a bit sideways.
In the wet conditions I could keep up with the faster car but with the rain and spray and windscreen fogging up I wasn’t going to get too close and settled in to follow him around. The rest of the field disappeared behind us and when I was getting ready to come in for our driver change, fortuitously, a safety car was called, as one of the other E30s beached itself in the sand on turn 2.
John in the E36 M3 also thought it was a good time to pit, so we both peeled off for our compulsory 2 minute stop. I followed him in as close as I could get to his bumper and after doing our driver change Alex managed to jump him in pit lane when he stalled as he took off.
So now we were in the lead. Wow. Didn’t last long as the quicker car was soon on Alex’s tail and drove past him with its extra power.
We still managed to come home a very happy second place, the only other car on the lead lap! Very happy indeed.
I must say a big thank you to lots of people. Chris, who always helps us look after the cars and drivers, especially this year when we have had so many clashes with events. Jo who is always in my corner backing me and encouraging me and always there to help, even when hobbling on crutches. Alex for asking me to drive with him. Sean, for letting us use his car, all our friends and members of the Bell Motorsport and DCM families that came and watched and cheered us on on a cold wet winters day at Phillip Island. Thank you all. I really appreciate it.
Also, thank you to the other competitors, the trackside officials that brave the elements to allow us to do what we love (I must admit, it’s nice being in the car instead of out there doing it for a change).
I really loved getting back in the driver's seat. Hopefully won’t be a few years till next time.
Graeme Bell | Member #1 BMW Drivers Club Melbourne
BMW M GmbH presents the new spearhead to the MotoGP Safety Car fleet: the BMW M8 MotoGP Safety Car. The 625 hp lead car is based on the BMW M8 Competition (combined fuel consumption: 10.6 – 10.5 l/100 km*; combined CO2 emissions: 242 – 238 g/km*), which made its world debut at the BMW Group #NextGen at BMW Welt in Munich at the end of June. The new BMW M8 MotoGP Safety Car will make its first appearance this weekend, at the MotoGP Grand Prix at the Red Bull Ring in Austria.
Innovative high-performance automobiles for the safety of the top tier of motorcycles is the principle that has guided BMW M GmbH for more than 20 years as partner of MotoGP organiser Dorna Sports and ‘Official Car of MotoGP’. The Munich-based company has provided the official MotoGP Safety Car fleet since 1999 and the BMW M8 MotoGP Safety Car is the latest highlight in a long line of high-powered lead cars.
“The BMW M8 and the BMW M8 GTE were developed in parallel, and these racing genes distinguish the BMW M8 models in all areas,” said Markus Flasch, President of BMW M GmbH. “That’s why it was a logical step for us to choose the BMW M8 Competition as a basis for our new MotoGP safety car. Even in its production version, this high-performance automobile is suited to the racetrack. With its innovative technical features, it is yet another example of our quest to keep pushing the limit upwards. With the BMW M8 MotoGP Safety Car, we are really excited to present a new, powerful lead car for the top tier of motorcycle racing.”
The M power under the bonnet comes from the most powerful engine ever developed for a BMW M GmbH car. The high-revving V8 unit with M TwinPower Turbo technology develops 460 kW/625 hp. The high-performance power unit teams up with an eight-speed M Steptronic transmission with Drivelogic, and the engine’s power is channelled to the road via the M xDrive all-wheeldrive system. One of the features that stands out in particular is a newly developed integrated braking system, an M-specific version of which presents the driver with two different brake pedal feel settings.
The precise interaction between powertrain, chassis technology and aerodynamics has been carefully honed over the course of intensive testing at the BMW Group’s test track near Miramas in southern France, the winter testing centre in Arjeplog, Sweden and the Nürburgring’s Nordschleife circuit, along with other race circuits. Experience collected from the development of the BMW M8 GTE racing car also played a role in the configuration process. The performance-focused character of the engine, transmission and chassis allows the new BMW M8 Competition to power from 0 to 100 km/h (62 mph) in 3.2 seconds.
Painstaking manual work at the BMW M Manufaktur in Garching converted the high-performance base car into the BMW M8 MotoGP Safety Car, preparing it to appear as the course car in the world’s fastest motorcycle racing series. This process included the addition of numerous BMW M Performance Parts, many of which are available as retrofit parts for the BMW M8 production model. These emphasise the sporty appearance of the Safety Car and meet all the functional requirements for aerodynamics, cooling and lightweight construction. The transformation of the BMW M8 Competition to a MotoGP Safety Car was completed by the inclusion of special racing features and the necessary safety equipment.
MINI Fans all over the world have a variety of opportunities to look back on the 60 years of history enjoyed by the British brand over these weeks and months. Now there is another reason to celebrate. The ten millionth vehicle of the heritage brand was produced at the British MINI Plant Oxford where the classic Mini was manufactured from 1959 onwards. The anniversary vehicle rolling off the production line was a model of the MINI 60 Years Edition – and it then came face to face with the brand’s first small car ever manufactured. The classic Mini from 1959 and the Edition model from the year 2019 then joined forces with 60 other vehicles of the brand – each of them from one of the production years. They are all taking part in a road trip travelling to Bristol in convoy, where thousands of fans are celebrating the world’s biggest birthday party for the British original at the International Mini Meeting being held on Sunday 11 August.
The production anniversary to celebrate 60 years of the brand’s existence bears witness to the uninterrupted popularity of MINI in the 21st century. In 1959, the genius who designed the classic Mini, Alec Issigonis, laid down a definitive milestone in automobile history. The vehicle concept with the engine mounted transversely at the front of the car along with the gearbox configured beneath the engine, and the wheels positioned at the corners of the car together with a tailgate body provided maximum interior space on a minimum footprint. The design also ensured amazingly agile driving characteristics and it became the blueprint for modern small and compact cars. Around 5.3 million units of the classic Mini were sold worldwide up until the year 2000.
Just one year later, the global success story of the brand was continued. Since the relaunch of this marque, MINI is the original in the premium segment of small cars. The reinterpretation of the inimitable design, the unsurpassed driving fun that is unique in the competitive environment and the individual style of the brand are not simply generating enthusiasm in the class of small cars. These characteristic qualities are empowering MINI to continuously acquire new target groups in the premium compact segment. And the next stage is about to be launched. In November 2019, production of the all-electric powered MINI Cooper SE (fuel consumption combined: 0.0 l/100 km; electricity consumption combined: 16.8 – 14.8 kWh/100 km; CO2 emissions combined: 0 g/km) will commence – also in Oxford. In future, this will also make electromobility a typical MINI experience full of driving fun and individuality.
Alone in the previous year, almost 400 000 MINIs were sold in 110 countries. This means that the sales figures for the modern MINI are following hot on the heels of its historic predecessor. The models MINI 3-door, MINI 5-door and MINI Clubman are currently being produced at the MINI Plant Oxford. Up to 1 000 vehicles are manufactured there every day. The MINI Convertible and the MINI Countryman roll off the assembly line at the Dutch production partner VDL NedCar.
“Seeing the ten millionth vehicle of our brand come off the production line here in Oxford was a moment of pride for all the employees. Some of them have family members who were already producing the classic Mini at this site,” explained Peter Weber, Head of the MINI Plant Oxford. “This is a wonderful chapter in the history of MINI and proof of the passion that our customers have for this very special British motor car.”
In the run-up to the production anniversary, MINI put posts on social media asking the brand’s British community to share their personal stories from 60 years of MINI with other fans. The huge response made it possible to bring together characteristic vehicles from each production year between 1959 and 2019 as the showpiece for the anniversary celebration at the MINI Plant Oxford. The highlight of this exceptional coalescence was the joint outing to the International Mini Meeting in Bristol. The first classic Mini ever built drove at the head of the convoy. It bears the registration 621 AOK well known among MINI fans and the car was followed in chronological order by protagonists from 60 years with the ten millionth vehicle of the brand bringing up in the rear of the impressive anniversary procession.
Most of us like to keep our cars looking nice and well maintained. We’ll wash them and take them in for routine service, have other minor issues attended to even when not “mission critical”, and generally bask in their reflected glory.
However, life’s little mishaps sometimes spoil the story. Someone opens a door onto your pride and joy, the inevitable stone chip appears, the reverse parking goes a little awry and, thanks to the fabulous low profile tyres, rim contact kerb, or, worse still, the clearance you thought you had getting out of a tight spot turns out to not be there. Or even more annoying, someone else has that experience against your car and drives off.
None of these blemishes are particular hard, or that expensive, to fix but who do you get to fix them properly? And can you be bothered to make a separate trip to wherever to get them fixed?
Both these issues have been addressed in a blindingly obvious, but by no means simple, solution.
How good would it be if you could take your car in for a routine service, leave it there a bit longer and have the minor paint or wheel damage fixed at the same time? Even better, the paint work will be done in a proper dust free clean room with first class environmental controls.
Well, you can at Waverley BMW who showed us the only Pod paint repair system installed at a dealership at our August members meeting.
Installed in conjunction with the iQBody group, the iQPod is a fully self contained clean room with re-usable activated charcoal filters for maximum environmental protection and no need for external flues or pipework. The Pod is used for all the painting and other dust and environmental sensitive work. All the preparation work is done outside the Pod.
Dents which have not broken the paint, such as many small hail dents, can be repaired without needing the Pod, but larger dents or scratches or bumper scuffs can be fixed and then over-painted in the Pod with full clear coat and colour matching.
They also have an iQurb wheel refurbishment system which scans the wheel and then programs a diamond cut CNC (Computer Numeric Control) machining head to smooth out the damage. This means that the precise amount of material removed is known and is minimised, leaving undamaged areas unaffected. Importantly it enables the technician to ensure that the safe maximum amount of material removal is not exceeded.
Once rectified the wheel is re-painted and/or clear coated (as applicable) in the Pod.
There are quite a number of BMW wheel finishes which most wheel repair facilities can not handle, but the iQurb system can be used on all BMW wheels although, as with any wheel repair, if the damage is too severe no one can safely fix it.
The utmost care and attention is applied in each case, and yet repairs can usually be completed in under 3 hours.
For those of us who attended the meeting, we not only received an explanation of the iQ services and the opportunity to mingle with other members whilst drinking in the excellence of a number of carefully chosen M-cars, but we will get 15% of any iQPod repairs up to 31 December 2019.
Many thanks to Waverley BMW and iQBody group for a very informative evening with fabulous refreshments and a nicely personalised brochure.
Meeting date: 06 August 2019
Lawrence Glynn | Member #3 BMW Drivers Club Melbourne
August 4 started off with a cold but sunny morning and I can honestly say that the excitement in our house was something like the night before Christmas.
We arrived at Pakenham early and I was surprised at how many other travellers and members were there bright, early and so very excited. Not all the travellers joined the train at Pakenham, it started its trip at Southern Cross and picked up from around 7 other stations along the way, which made this a great way to travel.
You could hear and see everyone at the station (and others just waiting to see the train pull in) looking anxious and excited, and then you hear it, that amazing TOOT TOOT, from this majestic old steam train. You can’t yet see it but you can feel and hear it and then around the corner you see the plume of smoke and everyone cheers and she pulls into the station.
We all then got herded onto the train quickly, as they have limited time at each station.
We choose to travel first class (only $5 extra), as these carriages were heated. I'm not sure why you would not have all carriages heated but I guess it is an old train. We had some lovely people in with us, who shared very similar interests and the time from Pakenham to Moe went quickly, it was great to see all the train watchers along the tracks, as we went past.
Arriving at Moe was super organised with six buses waiting to take all the travellers going to the snow away, once they had pulled out, four more busses arrived within minutes to take the travellers to Walhalla, we were on the Walhalla bus.
Arriving in Walhalla around 11.45am we went straight up to the Long Tunnel Extend Gold Mine for the 12pm tour. There was a great turn out with over 30 of us doing this tour. Some choose to have lunch first and do the 1.30pm tour.
The tour was quite amazing, learning about how long it took them to tunnel through the hard rook face to finally reach the quartz shelf 9 years later. It was amazing and to see the conditions the men worked in was incredible. If you are ever in Walhalla, this tour is a must.
We were very lucky as the town was fairly deserted apart from four bus loads of our travellers. It was so peaceful and relaxing, you felt like you were stepping back in time. Such a lovely little gold mining town.
One piece of information we learnt on the tour, was because of the steam engines which kept the mine working, this enabled the town to have street lights as early as 1914(ish) but once the mine closed, the electricity stopped and Walhalla has just celebrated 20 years of electricity, they had to run on generators for all that time until 1998.
We spent the rest of the afternoon meandering around the town and then took the little train up and back through the valley, a little chilly but a lot of fun.
4pm came around and off we all went back to Moe to return to the steam train. We were all a little cold and hungry and were surprised to find the local Scouts and Lions Clubs set up with BBQs going, with sausages and hamburgers and hot pumpkin soup - not to forget tea and coffee, which I can say, was well received and just before the train was due in. They had sold out of sausages and hamburgers and nearly the soup. Well done guys, very clever thinking.
Back on the train you could hear a few children crying. It was a long day, but the gentle rocking of the carriages soon rocked the children off to sleep and quite a few of the bigger kids too.
What a day, I recommend it to all who have not grown up, as this is truly a magical experience.
Well done to the staff and volunteers, as they had us all organised and feeling very special all day. Brilliant job.
Look out for this event next year, as it will be something we will do again as a club.
Jo Mawson | Member #2 BMW Drivers Club Melbourne
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