Spartanburg, South Carolina. The BMW Group announced today the completion of a $1.7 billion investment in its South Carolina operations. The company celebrated the milestone at the "Home of X" event at BMW Group Plant Spartanburg, reaffirming its longstanding commitment in the United States through continued investment and innovation leadership. With this milestone, BMW Group has completed the expansion of Plant Spartanburg and the construction of Plant Woodruff, establishing the foundation for the assembly of fully electric BMW vehicles in South Carolina. The United States remains one of BMW Group’s most important markets and business ecosystems worldwide.

The event also marked the world premiere of the new, fifth-generation BMW X5. BMW confirmed that the BMW iX5 will be the first fully electric BMW assembled in the United States, starting in late 2026.

"When we announced our investment plans for South Carolina in 2022, we made a clear commitment to the future of the BMW Group in the United States," said Milan Nedeljković, Chairman of the Board of Management, BMW AG. "Today, we are delivering on that commitment. The completion of our investments in Plant Spartanburg and Plant Woodruff demonstrates our confidence in the United States and reinforces South Carolina’s role at the center of BMW Group’s global operations."

Together, Plant Spartanburg and Plant Woodruff form a highly integrated network supporting the future of BMW X model assembly and electrification in the United States.

Home of X.

Home of X recognizes the significant role the United States plays in BMW Group’s global operations. South Carolina is the home of BMW Group’s largest plant worldwide. For more than 50 years, BMW has maintained a strong commitment in the United States, growing its presence to nearly 30 locations across 12 states. Today, BMW Group’s business activities in the U.S. support more than 120,000 jobs nationwide and contribute more than $43.3 billion annually to the U.S. economy.

Established more than three decades ago, BMW Group Plant Spartanburg is the global center of competence for BMW X models. Since 1994, more than 7.3 million BMW vehicles have been assembled in South Carolina for customers in the United States and around the world. In 2025, 412,799 BMW X models were assembled at Plant Spartanburg – this marked the seventh time the plant has exceeded 400,000 units.

Approximately half of the plant's current production is exported to nearly 120 countries, helping to make BMW the leading automotive exporter in the United States by value. To date, nearly 3 million BMWs have been exported from the United States, valued at over $113 billion.

The completion of BMW Group’s $1.7 billion investment in South Carolina represents the latest chapter in the company’s longstanding commitment in the United States. Together, Plant Spartanburg and Plant Woodruff will enable the assembly of the next generation of BMW X vehicles, including fully electric models, while strengthening BMW Group’s ability to serve customers around the world.

With two plants, over 400 suppliers, and many longstanding strategic partners across the country, the United States remains central to BMW Group’s global strategy. This foundation supports future growth, innovation, electrification, and customer choice for decades to come.

New BMW X5 Available in Five Drivetrains.

A centerpiece of the Home of X celebration was the world premiere of the new BMW X5. The X5 established the premium Sports Utility Vehicle segment and became one of the most successful products in BMW history. Since 1999, over 3 million BMW X5 models have been sold around the world, a third of which were sold in the U.S.

Assembled at Plant Spartanburg for over 25 years, the new BMW X5 becomes the first vehicle offered with five drivetrain technologies. The options span internal combustion, battery electric, plug-in hybrid electric, diesel and, soon, fuel cell electric powered by hydrogen. This breadth reflects BMW Group's technology-open approach and commitment to customer choice.

"Our strategic course remains unchanged. We will continue to pursue the same technology-open strategy that has made BMW successful and will continue to make us successful in the future," continued Nedeljković.

Plant Spartanburg will be the first plant in the BMW Group’s global production network capable of assembling a single vehicle with five different drivetrain technologies on one assembly line, demonstrating the technology-open strategy at the highest level.

By offering a broad range of drivetrain technologies, BMW enables customers to select the vehicle that best suits their needs, driving habits, and preferences. This flexibility reflects BMW Group’s conviction that multiple technologies will play an important role in the transition to sustainable mobility.

"The new BMW X5 demonstrates our belief that innovation and customer choice go hand in hand," said Sebastian Mackensen, President & CEO, BMW of North America. "Our customers both in the U.S. and around the world will love the new BMW X5 – and our technology-open approach puts them in the driver’s seat to enjoy the performance and premium experience that define BMW, regardless of which drivetrain they choose."

BMW Group also confirmed that the BMW iX5 will be the first fully electric BMW vehicle assembled in the United States. Assembly is scheduled to begin at Plant Spartanburg before the end of 2026.

The announcement represents another important milestone in BMW Group’s electrification strategy. It fulfills a key commitment made as part of the company’s 2022 investment announcement. By 2030, BMW Group will assemble at least six fully electric BMW models in the United States, supported by locally assembled high-voltage batteries from Plant Woodruff.

"The future of BMW X models will continue to be shaped in South Carolina," said Dr. Robert Engelhorn, President & CEO, BMW Manufacturing Co. "From highly efficient combustion engines and plug-in hybrid systems to battery-electric and future hydrogen-powered vehicles, Plant Spartanburg will be able to assemble a broad range of drivetrain technologies for customers in the U.S. and around the world. This flexibility of Plant Spartanburg and our global production network strengthens our resilience, supports customer choice, and enables us to meet customer demand at any level."

Digitalization and AI in Production: Key Principles of BMW iFACTORY are implemented in Plants Spartanburg and Woodruff.

The BMW iFACTORY concept defines the BMW Group’s strategic vision for the future of its global production network, driven by efficiency, sustainability, and digitalization. At both Plant Spartanburg and Plant Woodruff, the guiding principles of the BMW iFACTORY are already a reality.

Smart automation, end-to-end data integration, and virtual planning form a highly connected production system — with a highly skilled workforce at its core. Digital twins allow processes in both plants to be optimized long before the first component reaches the assembly line. 3D virtual simulations enable seamless implementation, reduce complexity, and enhance workflows and ergonomics for associates.

Artificial intelligence is deeply anchored in the assembly of both plants. AI-supported applications, including self-correcting robotics and vision-based quality controls, help ensure consistently high standards in a dynamic manufacturing environment. At both plants, AIQX (Artificial Intelligence Quality Next), an in-house IT platform at the BMW Group, is being applied. AIQX uses sensors and camera systems along the production line to automate quality processes. AI evaluates the data and provides real-time feedback to employees on the line.

At the same time, Plant Spartanburg is advancing the next stage of innovation through physical AI. By utilizing humanoid robots from Figure AI, Plant Spartanburg has become a pioneer of BMW’s Physical AI Initiative. These applications support associates in physically demanding and repetitive tasks, enabling greater focus on precision, craftsmanship, and quality that define every BMW vehicle.

At Plant Woodruff, the BMW Group is deploying intelligent, next-generation manufacturing powered by cutting-edge technologies — first proven in virtual environments. Guided by the BMW iFACTORY principles, the new plant also reduces complexity and sets new standards in high-voltage battery assembly. Following the “Cell-to-Pack” principle, the cells are assembled directly into the housing without the former processes of cell coating and cell module production.

All in all, innovative technologies at both plants support and protect people. In doing so, digitalization enhances production performance, resilience, and the flexibility and adaptability needed to meet the mobility demands of today and tomorrow.

Munich/Spartanburg, USA. BMW Group intensifies the usage of digitalization and the use of artificial intelligence (AI) in production. With so-called Physical AI, which connects digital AI with real machines and robots, intelligent systems such as humanoid robots can be integrated into real production processes. Following a successful deployment with the humanoid robot Figure 02 at BMW Group Plant Spartanburg in the USA, the further-developed successor, Figure 03, will now start at Spartanburg, working on complex sequencing applications in logistics.

“Plant Spartanburg is the birthplace of humanoid robotics in BMW Manufacturing’s operational day-to-day activities. Having already successfully completed a pilot with Figure 02 in our body shop, we are now looking forward to deploying Figure 03 for a sequencing use case in logistics,” says Ulrich Wieland, Vice President of Production Control and Logistics, BMW Manufacturing.

“Our 11-month deployment of Figure 02 proved that humanoids are no longer lab experiments - they can be a valuable asset in establishing a flexible, reliable manufacturing workforce,” says Brett Adcock, Founder & CEO of Figure AI. “We are excited to continue our work in Spartanburg as Figure tackles the complexity of the assembly and logistics hall.”

The BMW Group already gained important experience with humanoid robotics at Plant Spartanburg in 2025. In collaboration with the technology company Figure AI, the Figure 02 robot supported the production of more than 30,000 BMW X3 vehicles over ten months. In the body shop, the robot inserted sheet-metal parts for the welding process - a task that demands high speed and accuracy and can be physically demanding.

The collaboration demonstrated that humanoid robots can safely perform precise, repeatable work steps under real production conditions.

Next step with the next-generation Figure 03 robot

The findings gained from this project form the basis for the next step with the successor model, Figure 03. “The robot introduces several new features for expanded applications. These include soft components designed for enhanced safety, wireless charging designed for higher availability and audio functions for speech-to-speech communication, along with improved hands with tactile sensors and palm cameras designed to increase precision and dexterity,” explains Adcock.    

In the new sequencing use case application, delivered components initially arrive in larger containers, unsorted. Figure 03 will pick them up and sort them into a sequencing trolley. The trolley will then be taken to a defined collection point for onward transport. An automated tugger train or a Smart Transport Robot will then transport the parts to the installation location, where they will be provided to assembly employees “just in sequence”. This use case occurs frequently in automotive production logistics and offers potential for further development and scalability.

The use of humanoid robots is part of the BMW Group’s broader strategy to expand its automation portfolio with Physical AI. Humanoid robotics is a value-adding complement to existing automation. Its potential lies particularly in monotonous, ergonomically demanding, or safety-critical activities. The aim is to protect and most effectively utilize employees while further improving workplaces.

BMW iFACTORY applications in Plant Spartanburg Assembly Hall 

The new project is closely linked to the digital transformation of production at Plant Spartanburg. Hall 52, where variants of the BMW X3 and, in the future, the electrified BMW iX5 will be assembled, has been extensively expanded and updated. Digital applications were already used during planning and continue to be implemented in the BMW iFACTORY approach in daily production operations. Before components arrive at the production line, virtual 3D simulations help optimize processes and enable error-free implementation from the outset.

The BMW Virtual Factory makes complexity manageable and supports employees by simulating human movement sequences. This tool refines manual processes from planning through to the production line. A key objective is to optimize employee ergonomics.

Artificial Intelligence is also being used in quality assurance. With AIQX (Artificial Intelligence Quality Next), Plant Spartanburg uses AIQX for visual and acoustic quality inspection to ensure consistent quality in a dynamic production environment. BMW has established AIQX as a standard and is assessing options to make the system available to suppliers as well. It uses camera systems and sensors during line operations and provides line employees with immediate feedback via smart devices.

Munich. With the new BMW X5, the BMW Group is systematically extending its holistic approach to sustainability to additional vehicle derivatives. The aim is to further optimise the entire vehicle lifecycle and minimise its carbon footprint – from the supply chain and production, through to the use phase and, ultimately, recycling.

Supply chain decarbonisation as key lever
Targeted decarbonisation throughout the supply chain is a key lever for reducing CO₂e emissions. The BMW Group is focusing in particular on renewable energy and secondary materials, as well as product and process innovations. Its holistic approach to sustainability is being applied across all X5 drivetrain variants.
The impact of this approach is reflected in the CO₂e reductions achieved: during the product development process, CO₂e emissions of the BMW X5 were reduced by around 40 percent.[1][2]
A further advance is the increased use of CO₂e-reduced flat steel for the body. Around 50 percent of the flat steel used in the BMW X5 is electric arc furnace steel (EAF steel) with a high proportion of secondary material, produced using renewable energy. The high share of CO₂e-reduced flat steel is the result of close, long-standing collaboration with local suppliers in North America.

Systematic use of secondary materials
The new BMW X5 achieves a high proportion of secondary raw materials, even in heavy-duty components. These include aluminium suspension components such as wheel rims, swivel bearings, wheel supports, rear axle supports and brake callipers, which are manufactured using renewable energy for both electrolysis and production. The aluminium used for the doors of the new BMW X5 contains 35 percent recycled and closed-loop material from BMW Spartanburg’s press shop. The base material used for the yarn of the headliner fabric is made from 100 percent recycled PET. In the battery-electric BMW iX5 60 xDrive, around one third of the total vehicle is made up of secondary raw materials, equivalent to a weight of 940 kilograms.[3]

Gen6 battery cells with reduced carbon footprint
The Gen6 battery cells used in the BMW iX5’s high-voltage battery include a high proportion of secondary materials in the cobalt, lithium and nickel content. Renewable energy is also used in the production of anode and cathode materials, as well as in cell manufacturing. Compared with the Gen5 cell used in the BMW iX, CO₂e emissions have been reduced by around 28 percent per watt-hour.

Efficiency during use phase
With its EfficientDynamics technology package, the BMW Group optimises vehicle efficiency across all relevant subsystems during the use phase. This includes aerodynamics, lightweight construction, low rolling resistance wheels and tyres, and overall energy management. EfficientDynamics has been used by the BMW Group across all drive technologies since 2007. The new fully electric BMW iX5 also features the familiar “Heart of Joy” from the BMW iX3 and BMW i3, with the BMW Dynamic Performance Control driving stack developed entirely in-house. With effortless, confident drivability and a particularly smooth stopping experience, the system also enhances efficiency: during deceleration, more energy is recovered through recuperation in significantly more driving situations, right down to a standstill.

CO₂e advantage achievable after approximately one to two years of use
Comprehensive decarbonisation measures across the supply chain, production and use phase result in an early breakeven point. Depending on the drivetrain variant, annual mileage and source of the electricity used for charging, the new BMW iX5 60 xDrive achieves a CO₂e advantage over a comparable model with an internal combustion engine after approximately one to two years of use.

Production at largest BMW Group plant
The BMW Group’s holistic approach to sustainability also extends to vehicle manufacturing at its largest production site, Plant Spartanburg. All external power required for production at BMW Group Plant Spartanburg comes from renewable sources.
Between 2006 and 2025, energy consumption per produced vehicle decreased by 66 percent. The volume of waste sent to landfills was also reduced by 88 percent over the same period. The newly built high-voltage battery assembly plant in Woodruff, which is connected to the main plant, runs entirely without fossil fuels in normal operation.

TÜV-validated Product Carbon Footprint publicly available
The BMW Group will publish the Product Carbon Footprint for the BMW X5, validated by the German Technical Inspection Association (TÜV), to accompany the series launch. The report, including the underlying calculation methodology, will be publicly available. In this way, the BMW Group provides transparency regarding the raw materials used and CO₂e emissions across the vehicle’s entire lifecycle.

If you have any questions, please contact:

BMW Group Corporate Communications

Dr. Cornelia Bovensiepen, Head of Communications Product Sustainability

Telephone: +49 151 601 94935

Email: Cornelia.Bovensiepen@bmw.de

Media website: https://newsroom.bmwgroup.com/global/en

Email: presse@bmwgroup.com

The BMW Group

With its four brands, BMW, MINI, Rolls-Royce and BMW Motorrad, the BMW Group is the world’s leading premium manufacturer of automobiles and motorcycles and also provides premium financial services. The BMW Group production network comprises over 30 production sites worldwide; the company has a global sales network in more than 140 countries.

In 2025, the BMW Group sold 2.46 million passenger vehicles and more than 202,500 motorcycles worldwide. Profit before tax in the financial year 2025 was €10.2 billion on revenues amounting to €133.5 billion. As of 31 December 2025, the BMW Group had a workforce of 154,540 employees.

The economic success of the BMW Group has always been based on long-term thinking and responsible action. Sustainability is a key element of the BMW Group’s corporate strategy and covers all products – from the supply chain through production to the end of their useful life. 

www.bmwgroup.com

LinkedIn: http://www.linkedin.com/company/bmw-group/

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/bmwgroup

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bmwgroup

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/bmwgroup

Munich/Spartanburg (USA). The new BMW X5 has entered the finishing straight in its development programme. The fifth generation of the Sports Activity Vehicle (SAV) is now completing final calibration drives around its production base at BMW Group Plant Spartanburg in the USA. The new BMW X5 will be the first BMW production model to be introduced onto the market with a choice of five different drive system technologies. The first fully electric BMW iX5 will be making its debut, and this will be followed in 2028 by the arrival of the first ever hydrogen-powered BMW to go into series production – the BMW iX5 Hydrogen. Also available will be petrol and diesel variants with 48V mild hybrid technology, and plug‑in hybrid models. Media representatives from various countries took the chance to sample the BMW X5 40 xDrive (294 kW/400 hp), BMW X5 50e xDrive plug-in hybrid (360 kW/490 hp) and BMW iX5 60 xDrive (425 kW/578 hp) in the concluding test drives before the start of production.

The fully electric BMW iX5: world premiere with new Gen6 eDrive technology.

The first battery-electric BMW iX5 is based on the sixth generation of BMW eDrive technology, which features a new high-voltage battery concept with cylindrical cells and 800V technology. With its usable energy content of 144 kWh in the USA and 141 kWh in the EU (net), the BMW iX5 60 xDrive boasts the largest high-voltage battery to be fitted in an all-electric BMW model to date. Propulsive power is provided by one electric motor at the front axle and another at the rear, working in tandem with BMW xDrive electric all-wheel drive.

The BMW iX5 Hydrogen: hydrogen-powered production model from BMW due in 2028 with innovative Flat Storage system.
The first ever hydrogen-powered BMW production model, the BMW iX5 Hydrogen, will hit the roads in 2028. Its powertrain comprises a fuel cell system, the new BMW Hydrogen Flat Storage system and an innovative high-voltage battery. The third generation of the fuel cell system forms the basis for a particularly compact design as well as high power and efficiency. The flat tank system consists of seven high-pressure tanks made of a carbon-fibre reinforced composite, which are connected with one another in parallel. These are integrated into a robust metal frame. This layout makes exceptionally efficient use of the space the system takes up in the vehicle; no room is lost inside the cabin. Another benefit is that models with fuel cell technology can be built on the same production line as other drive system types.

Pure driving pleasure thanks to the Heart of Joy.
The new BMW X5 will offer a new-dimension driving experience courtesy of technology from the Neue Klasse – the Heart of Joy featuring the BMW Dynamic Performance Control driving stack developed fully in-house. This high-performance control unit acts ten times faster than previous systems, meaning it is able to make adjustments to the powertrain, brakes, steering sub-functions, charging and recuperation in a matter of milliseconds. The result is remarkable agility, poise and precision. In the BMW iX5 and BMW iX5 Hydrogen, this technology also impresses with extremely smooth stopping manoeuvres while also increasing efficiency by recovering more energy under deceleration with regenerative braking. In combustion-engined or plug-in hybrid models, the latest digital and highly interconnected driving dynamics systems ensure the car always makes optimum use of the available traction and delivers composed handling at all times. These systems include the standard-fitted tenth-generation transverse dynamics management system and near-actuator wheel slip limitation, both supported by precisely tuned chassis components.

The wheels – larger rims with diameters of up to 23 inches can now be specified – and the standard mixed-size tyres further enhance comfort, stability and dynamism. The new BMW X5 comes as standard with adaptive suspension whose dampers are controlled electronically for each individual wheel, plus almost 50:50 weight distribution. The dampers can be continuously adjusted, enabling everything from a very comfortable ride through to sporty, dynamic handling. Adaptive Chassis Control Professional, which is available as an option for the all‑electric BMW iX5 and the plug-in hybrid models, maximises dynamic prowess. It includes two-axle air suspension with electronically controlled dampers, Integral Active Steering and active roll stabilisation.

Next-generation driver assistance systems.
The new BMW X5 features innovative SAE Level 2 driver assistance systems and active safety functions from the Neue Klasse technology clusters. Customers can therefore look forward to significant upgrades and extended functionality, as well as BMW Symbiotic Drive. One example of these innovations is the optional Motorway and City Assistant, which includes Entry-2-Exit assistance on motorways and Address‑2‑Address assistance in urban areas. The advanced Level 2 driver assistance systems from BMW are meticulously designed for seamless interaction between assistance tech and human driving habits. The aim here is not to attain the highest possible level of automation in every situation, but to provide a safe driver assistance experience that offers maximum benefit and remains controllable at all times. As a result, the driver always stays involved as human and artificial intelligence interact. With driver assistance systems active, this means the driver can accelerate, steer and brake as required, without instantly deactivating the assistance system in the process. The straightforward operating logic and clear displays of BMW Panoramic iDrive ensure that assisted driving is intuitive and controllable at all times, enabling safe use of the highest SAE Level 2 automation.

The symbiotic interaction between driver and vehicle can also be experienced with active safety functions that work unobtrusively in the background as silent companions. A good example is the Lane Keeping Assistant, which detects t. The driver’s intention based on steering behaviour and where they are looking. The system only assists with warnings and steering inputs when the driver really is drifting out of their lane unintentionally or an impending collision is detected. Other safety functions include automated evasive manoeuvring within the car’s own lane, Lane Change Warning, Side Collision Warning with steering intervention when there is a risk of a lateral collision, plus Crossing Traffic Warning and automatic braking when turning into a road or exiting a parking space.

* As this is a development-phase prototype, the figures given are provisional. Energy consumption information as per WLTP is not yet available.

Munich. The BMW M Concept Neue Klasse celebrates its world premiere at the 24 Hours of Le Mans. It showcases the new BMW M design language and sets a clear signal for the brand’s all-electric future. The future BMW M product portfolio combines expressive design, high performance and innovative materials.

The vehicle builds a bridge between its history and motorsport.
It is instantly recognisable as a high-performance automobile. BMW M thus remains true to its guiding principle: “Born on the racetrack. Made for the streets.”

“The new BMW M design language forms the expressive spearhead of the Neue Klasse – determined and purposeful,” says Oliver Heilmer, Head of Design BMW Compact Class, Neue Klasse and BMW M. “At BMW M, form consistently follows function. Every detail serves performance. This project is truly special to me because it carries the BMW M character into a new era.”

Form, function and motorsport references in the exterior design.
Powerful proportions, precise lines and a muscular shoulder section with wide wheel arches define the unmistakable BMW M character.

Numerous M-specific design measures optimise aerodynamics – including the reinterpreted M aero exterior mirrors in the colours of BMW M.

A distinctive air outlet shapes the V-shaped front bonnet. It supports the cooling of the electric drivetrain.

A forward-facing shark nose and a light signature with depth effect characterise the front end. Headlights and kidney grille form a single unit. The new M Yellow Lights create a focused view of the road. The yellow light icons are set to become a new signature feature of future BMW M automobiles and reference GT racing cars as well as the BMW M Hybrid V8.

The front apron of the BMW M Concept Neue Klasse adopts a trimaran-style bumper, inspired by the form of high-speed sailing boats. The three-part design underlines the vehicle’s technical appearance. It also provides structural support for the front splitter – an aerodynamic element at the lower edge of the front end.

Another new lighting accent for future BMW M automobiles are the three-dimensional Track Lights located in the outer sections of the front apron.

Track Lights and trimaran design also shape the rear apron of the BMW M Concept Neue Klasse. The Track Lights frame the trimaran element above the floating diffuser. A striking ducktail spoiler improves aerodynamics, increases downforce at the rear axle and at the same time sets a striking accent within the clean surface design of the rear end.

Natural fibre elements are used in both the exterior and interior of the BMW M Concept Neue Klasse – for example in the front splitter, the bonnet air outlet and the diffuser. For the first time, natural fibre is not only used in its pure form but also in a refined finish with M branding in the roof graphic.

The newly developed Monza Red metallic paint finish and the red-and-blue coded centre-lock wheels strengthen the visual link to BMW M and motorsport.

Driver-focused cockpit for an intense BMW M experience.
The interior of the BMW M Concept Neue Klasse is reduced and consistently geared towards the driving experience in a next-generation all-electric BMW M.

Four newly developed bucket seats provide secure support even in highly dynamic driving situations and integrate structural elements made from natural fibre materials. The seat upholstery in Bathurst Blue and Berry Red picks up the BMW M colours in a two-tone Merino leather finish. Red five-point belts emphasise the sporty character.

For the first time in a BMW M vehicle, high-quality black nubuck leather is used. It can be found on the steering wheel, the door panels and the roll bar.

The floating dashboard is finished in black knit material and features M-specific hexagonal backlighting.

Red accents on the M gear selector, the shift paddles on the M steering wheel and in the digital displays add targeted sporty highlights in the cockpit and put performance centre stage.

High performance and BMW M driving experience in a new dimension.
The BMW M Concept Neue Klasse represents the next chapter in the M-typical blend of dynamics, agility and precision. The innovative BMW M eDrive drive concept with four electric motors and BMW M Dynamic Performance Control elevates driving experience and racetrack capability to a new level.

“Even in the new all-electric era, we continue the M-typical tradition of transferring both technological innovations and defining design features directly from motorsport into series production,” says Franciscus van Meel, Chairman of the Board of Management of BMW M GmbH.

BMW M eDrive is based on the Neue Klasse’s Gen6 technology and was developed specifically for all-electric BMW M automobiles. The drivetrain concept combines four electric motors with the central control software BMW M Dynamic Performance Control in the high-performance computer Heart of Joy. Thanks to the integrated, wheel-specific control of the drivetrain and braking systems, BMW M eDrive opens up new potential for driving dynamics and driving safety. It enables high recuperation performance, optimal traction right up to the limit and particularly direct response.

The 800-volt technology and the high-voltage battery with an energy content of more than 100 kWh create the conditions for long-range capability. A BMW M-specific optimised version of sixth-generation cylindrical cells provides particularly high output when delivering energy to the electric motors and during charging. The housing of the high-voltage battery is structurally integrated with both the front and rear axle, thereby additionally contributing to driving dynamics.

Isle of Man. Peter Hickman (GBR) has already celebrated eleven victories with BMW Motorrad Motorsport at the Isle of Man Tourist Trophy. However, a serious injury temporarily halted his progress and forced him to miss the 2025 edition of the legendary road race. Now, “Hicky” has made an impressive comeback: in the two 1000cc races held at this year’s Isle of Man TT, he guided his #10 BMW M 1000 RR of 8TEN Racing to second place on both occasions.

Preparation for this year’s Isle of Man TT proved challenging for 8TEN Racing, BMW Motorrad Motorsport’s Official Team UK. For Hickman, the event was an important benchmark following his injury layoff. His teammate Davey Todd (GBR), who had claimed three Isle of Man victories aboard the BMW M 1000 RR over the previous two years, suffered an injury earlier this year and was not cleared to race. Instead, he took on the role of television commentator and analyst throughout the event.

Race week began with the Superbike TT, contested over six laps of the famous Mountain Course. Hickman quickly demonstrated that he was back to his best, while the team delivered excellent pit-stop performances. The reward was a hard-fought and well-deserved second-place finish on the podium.

After that, the previously favourable weather conditions deteriorated. Fog and rain repeatedly caused delays and cancellations. The two Superstock races, in which BMW road racers are traditionally among the leading favourites, could not be held this year. As a result, only the prestigious Senior TT remained on the schedule, taking place late on Saturday afternoon. The race was red-flagged during the second lap following a serious accident involving BMW road racer Erno Kostamo (FIN).

Later, due to the poor weather forecast, race officials decided not to restart the Senior TT. Consequently, the standings after the opening lap were declared the final result, with Hickman once again finishing second behind Dean Harrison (GBR / Honda), who had also won the Superbike TT.

In addition to Kostamo’s crash in the Senior TT, several other serious accidents in different classes cast a shadow over this year’s Isle of Man TT. The entire BMW Motorrad Motorsport family’s thoughts are with the family and loved ones of Daniel Ingham, who tragically lost his life, and we wish Erno and all others who were injured a speedy recovery.

Reactions after the 2026 Isle of Man Tourist Trophy.

Sven Blusch, Head of BMW Motorrad Motorsport: “What I take away from this year’s TT is that. Pete is back. After some very difficult times, he rediscovered his confidence over the course of these two weeks and did an incredibly good job. For him, it was crucial to complete the full six laps of the opening Superbike TT race to assess where his fitness level stood. He was not yet at 100 percent, but he improved with every lap and was then able to demonstrate in the Senior TT that he is well on his way to making a complete return. You could see it in his body language on the bike: the old Pete is back. For Davey, it was a very difficult fortnight. As he continues his recovery and was not cleared to compete at this year’s TT due to his injury not yet being fully healed, he did everything he could to support the commentary team on site. However, he and Pete are now fully focused on 2027. Both riders know one thing: TT 2027 starts today. Our full focus will be on preparing as thoroughly as possible for next year’s event with both riders and the team. Congratulations to Dean Harrison and Honda, who delivered an outstanding performance – we are looking forward to a great battle in 2027! At the same time, it was great for us to see so many private BMW riders on the starting grid once again. It underlines the importance and strength of our brand in road racing. It would have been interesting to see how the competition would have unfolded in the Superstock races, but as is so often the case on the Isle of Man, the weather proved to be a major challenge. Unfortunately, this year’s event was overshadowed by several serious accidents. We would like to express our condolences to the family of Daniel Ingham and hope for a speedy recovery for all those who were injured.”

Peter Hickman, 8TEN Racing: “It’s been a really unusual race week, but overall for me, including two podiums in two races with the BMW M 1000 RR, I couldn’t have asked for much more than that. It was more than I ever expected. Obviously I’m still not 100% yet, as we all know, but I’m really, really happy with how the two weeks have gone. 8TEN Racing and BMW have done a fantastic job. In fact, I didn’t touch one click on the Superbike for two weeks – the bike was just that good. I’m more than happy with that, coming back after missing all of last year so I look forward to the TT 2027.”

BMW Motorrad presents the BMW M 1000 RR Limited Edition Isle of Man TT.

It was the major highlight at the start of this year’s Isle of Man TT: With the BMW M 1000 RR Limited Edition Isle of Man TT, BMW Motorrad introduces a special model limited to 115 units to mark the 115th running of the legendary road race in 2026. The edition is based on the BMW M 1000 RR M Competition and combines exclusive TT design elements with carefully selected equipment features and collector attributes.

With this edition limited to 115 units, BMW Motorrad pays tribute to one of the most historic and demanding road races in the world. Key features include the British Racing Green Uni Matte paint finish, selected Mountain Course graphics, and sequential numbering with a certificate of authenticity.

Note to editors:

You can find all results of this year’s Isle of Man TT here on the official website.

Munich / San Francisco, April 29, 2026 –BMW i Ventures today launched its third fund, putting $300 million behind a clear premise: that AI will fundamentally reshape how the automotive industry operates and creates value across its entire ecosystem. Fully backed by the BMW Group, Fund III will focus on physical AI, agentic AI, industrial software, manufacturing technologies, supply chain technologies and advanced materials. The fund will invest across North America and Europe, from Seed through Series B. The launch brings BMW i Ventures’ total capital under management to $1.1 billion.

“With BMW i Ventures, we are investing in technologies that will shape the future of our industry. Our corporate venture capital activities play a key role in our innovation strategy, complementing our internal R&D and building strategic partnerships across the entire automotive value chain”, said Oliver Zipse, CEO of BMW Group. “BMW i Ventures is launching the third fund at the perfect time: AI has shown its tremendous potential to transform products, operations, and entire value chains. Through BMW i Ventures and Fund III, we are best prepared to leverage these opportunities: We can anticipate shifts early, act quickly and efficiently on innovations, and remain at the forefront of our industry.”

AI as Operating Layer of the Automotive World

BMW i Ventures will focus on agentic AI, AI-native enterprise applications that automate complex workflows in industrial environments, and physical AI that enables robots and autonomous machines to perceive, plan and act safely in the real world. As AI unlocks step-function improvements in productivity, decision-making and speed of execution, the fund will back innovations across the automotive value chain in automation, engineering, and manufacturing, from highly specific production optimization to platforms that enable connected and intelligent operations across industrial networks.

“With Fund III, we’re backing the founders who are turning AI into an industrial advantage, on the factory floor, in logistics networks and across global supply chains,” said Marcus Behrendt, Managing Partner at BMW i Ventures. “The new fund sharpens our focus for a world where AI-native software, robotics, and materials innovation will define the next generation of suppliers.”

“AI is quickly becoming part of the operating system of the modern enterprise,” added Kasper Sage, Managing Partner at BMW i Ventures. “We’re particularly interested in AI that can execute workflows end-to-end, driving real ROI through autonomous systems. That’s where productivity gains have real business impact.”

Advanced Materials and Circular Supply Chains

For BMW i Ventures, circularity remains a core investment pillar that supports industrial resilience and helps reduce exposure to constrained or geopolitically sensitive supply chains for critical materials. Fund III will continue to back next-generation materials innovations and technologies designed to advance circular industrial systems across product design, manufacturing processes, and supply chains. This includes technologies that support recycling and recovery of critical materials, circular manufacturing processes, and new materials that combine performance improvements with more efficient resource use.

“Circularity is not only about reducing emissions, it’s about securing access to raw materials and reducing exposure to constrained supply chains,” said Behrendt. “The new fund’s focus on AI expands the toolkit for sustainability rather than replacing it.”

Building on More Than a Decade of Experience

Since 2011, BMW i Ventures has invested in more than 90 companies and realized more than 30 exits. This track record includes successes like GaN Systems (acquired by Infineon for $830 million) and 11 portfolio companies that have gone public, such as Kodiak, Chargepoint, and Xometry. Active portfolio highlights include Skylo, a specialist in satellite connectivity; Embotech, a provider of autonomous driving solutions for industrial logistics; Tekion, an AI-native automotive retail platform; Rive, an interactive UI design and animation engine; and Synera, an AI agent platform for engineering.

Long-Term Commitment to Venture Investing

Through BMW i Ventures, the BMW Group gains early access to strategically relevant innovations while building insight into emerging trends and disruptions across global technology ecosystems. This helps strengthen BMW’s long-term competitiveness and supports the integration of new technologies into future vehicles, production systems, and digital services.

BMW i Ventures’ first fund has already returned significant capital, with positive DPI (Distributed to Paid-In capital), and Fund II is nearing the end of its initial investment period with over 30 portfolio companies. Fund III builds on the first two funds and is structured to lead investment rounds while maintaining its footprint in the United States and Europe. The new fund has the capacity to back AI-native companies as early as the seed stage, reflecting how quickly AI-first companies can now be built and scaled. Operating with the independence and speed of a traditional venture firm, BMW i Ventures is structured to identify and back emerging technologies well before they reach the mainstream.

About BMW i Ventures
BMW i Ventures is the independent venture capital fund of the BMW Group, based in Silicon Valley and Munich. BMW i Ventures invests in companies that are shaping the future of the automotive industry, manufacturing, and the supply chain, focusing on physical AI, agentic AI, AI-native enterprise and industrial software. BMW i Ventures invests in startups in all phases across North America and Europe, from seed to growth stage, with an emphasis on Series A and B. Since 2011, BMW i Ventures has invested in more than 90 companies, including GaN Systems, Kodiak, Chargepoint, Xometry, Skylo, Embotech, Tekion, Rive and Synera. The firm's total capital under management is $1.1 billion.

For more information, visit www.bmwiventures.com

BMW Group Corporate Communications

Dr Britta Ullrich, Finance Communications

Telephone: +49 89 382-18364

Email: britta.ullrich@bmwgroup.com

Media Contact BMW i Ventures
PIABO PR GmbH
Janice Sommer
Senior VC Communications Consultant
Telefon: +49 172 417 9441
E-Mail: bmwiventures@piabo.net

Munich/Shenyang. BMW Brilliance’s Shenyang Production Base reached another significant milestone with the official roll-off of its 7 millionth vehicle. This achievement not only reflects the BMW Group’s long-standing commitment to the Chinese market and its continued investment in Shenyang, but also marks a new phase in intelligent manufacturing, local innovation, and future production capabilities.

“For more than 30 years, we have been deeply rooted in China. The seven-millionth BMW vehicle from our plant in Shenyang is a significant milestone in this success story: it demonstrates the strength of our local production – and it reflects the high level of expertise, the great dedication, and the exceptional commitment of our Chinese team,” says Raymond Wittmann, Member of the Board of Management of BMW AG, Production.

“With the start of local production of the Neue Klasse later this year, we are opening the next chapter and starting a new era for BMW in China.”

“Seven million vehicles are far more than just a number — they represent seven million times that Chinese customers have chosen and trusted BMW. Beyond excellent products, we have also built in Shenyang a future-proof production system, strong local competences, and an exceptional team whose expertise drives our innovation and success in China. Building on this strong foundation, we are accelerating into a new era through innovation, deeper localization, and intelligent manufacturing, opening the next chapter of BMW’s development in China.” said Ms. Birgit Boehm, President and CEO of BMW Brilliance Automotive Ltd.

The milestone vehicle that rolled off the line is the BMW 3 Series Horse Edition. It not only showcases BMW’s agility in responding to the Chinese market but also highlights the outstanding cross-functional collaboration across R&D, purchasing, and manufacturing at the Shenyang Production Base, as well as its ability to deliver stable, high-quality output in a highly competitive market environment.

Deeply Rooted in China: Building a New Benchmark for BMW iFACTORY

From the roll-off of the first locally produced BMW vehicle in 2003 to today’s 7 millionth milestone, BMW has established a comprehensive system in China covering complete vehicle and powertrain manufacturing, localized R&D, and a localized supply chain, making it one of BMW’s most important production and innovation hubs worldwide.

The vision of the BMW iFACTORY serves as a powerful guiding principle for the BMW production worldwide. BMW’s long-term commitment to Liaoning Province and Shenyang continues to translate into a future-oriented, high-quality production system and strong local innovation capabilities, further strengthening the company’s long-term development foundation in China.

Digitalization and AI Driving the Next Level of Smart Manufacturing

As a key practice hub for BMW’s global intelligent manufacturing, digitalization and AI technologies have been widely integrated across all production processes at the Shenyang Production Base. Through intelligent applications, the base continuously enhances production efficiency, quality management, and operational coordination, achieving more efficient, stable, and high-quality manufacturing operations.

This development direction is also highly aligned with China’s ongoing efforts to advance new industrialization and foster new quality productive forces. Leveraging its Shenyang Production Base, the BMW Group continues to drive the deep integration of intelligent manufacturing, digitalization and sustainability, setting a benchmark for high-quality development in the premium automotive manufacturing sector while also contributing to local supply chain upgrading and the cultivation of highly skilled talent. This demonstrates BMW’s long-term confidence in China and its continued commitment to supporting the high-quality development of China’s manufacturing industry.

Building Core Capabilities for the Neue Klasse, Accelerating Toward New Era

BMW Shenyang Production Base continues to promote employee upskilling and capability transformation, fostering a professional workforce tailored to the future of the automotive industry. This provides sustained support for new technologies, new products, and new production models, while continuously contributing “China experience” to the BMW global production network.

At the same time, centered around the local production of the Neue Klasse models, BMW Shenyang Production Base is comprehensively advancing upgrades in its production system, digital architecture, and supply chain collaboration capabilities. Leveraging a higher level of flexible manufacturing, AI-powered quality management, and a highly connected digital production network, the Shenyang Production Base is laying a solid foundation for the local production of Neue Klasse models while further strengthening BMW’s overall competitiveness in electrification, digitalization, and sustainability — continuing to lead the future of premium automotive manufacturing.

Munich / Paris.  The BMW Group and Mistral AI are partnering to advance the use of AI in crash simulation. The aim is to improve quality, accuracy and speed in complex engineering tasks. The collaboration marks a first step towards scaling domain-specific AI across further areas of vehicle development and the BMW Group value chain.   

Munich. MINI and Paul Smith bring together what defines both brands: iconic form, meticulous detailing, and the freedom to reinterpret classic design with unexpected twists. The MINI Paul Smith Edition translates the designer’s signature style into a distinctive edition for the MINI Cooper family—recognisable through characteristic accents both inside and out. The edition is now readily available for the MINI Cooper 3‑Door (electric and petrol), the MINI Cooper 5‑Door, and the MINI Cooper Convertible.

Details with a British twist

Three exterior colours are available for the edition, including two exclusives. Statement Grey reinterprets the 1959 Mini Austin Seven shade in a contemporary way - a clean grey with a subtle blue hue. Inspired White echoes the beloved beige of the classic Mini in a modern tone. Completing the palette is Midnight Black Metallic, an elegant black from the current MINI colour range.

Defining the look are striking contrasts between body, roof, and accent colours, combined with the signature Paul Smith stripes. Door mirrors, the radiator grille surround, and wheel hub caps stand out across all models in Nottingham Green - a nod to the British designer’s hometown.

For the hard-top models, two edition-specific roof finishes are available: Nottingham Green or a more understated black with matte and gloss tone-on-tone striping.

Inside, the MINI Paul Smith Edition pairs British understatement with creative details. Vescin/knit upholstery in Nightshade Blue meets black knitted surfaces with subtle tone-on-tone stripes. A “Hello” projection when opening the door, the “Every day is a new beginning” inscription on the door sill, and the signature stripe textile element on the 6 o’clock spoke of the sport steering wheel add distinctive touches. A hand-drawn “Rabbit” graphic on the floor mat completes the characteristically British sense of humour.

Key highlights of the MINI Paul Smith Edition

• Available for the MINI Cooper 3‑Door (electric and combustion), MINI Cooper 5‑Door, and MINI Cooper Convertible
• Exclusive exterior colours: Statement Grey, Inspired White, or Midnight Black Metallic
• Roof options: Nottingham Green with signature stripe on the driver’s side, or Jet Black with tone-on-tone striping
• Nottingham Green as accent colour (mirrors, grille surround, hub caps)
• Distinctive details such as the “Hello” light projection, "Rabbit"-graphic on the floor mat, and “Every day is a new beginning” on the door sill
• Three exclusive Paul Smith backgrounds in Personal Mode for the circular display

In case of queries, please contact:

Corporate Communications

Franziska Liebert, Spokesperson MINI
Phone: +49-89-382-28030
E-mail: franziska.liebert@mini.com

Micaela Sandstede, Head of Communications MINI
Phone: +49-176-601-61611
E-mail: micaela.sandstede@bmw.de

Munich. With the BMW M 1000 RR Limited Edition Isle of Man TT, BMW Motorrad introduces a special model limited to 115 units to mark the 115th running of the Isle of Man Tourist Trophy in 2026. The edition is based on the BMW M 1000 RR M Competition and combines exclusive TT design elements with carefully selected equipment features and collector attributes.

Markus Flasch, CEO of BMW Motorrad: “Racing is part of BMW Motorrad’s DNA. The BMW M 1000 RR Limited Edition Isle of Man TT is therefore the logical evolution of a special model based on the BMW M 1000 RR. This model bridges our successful 
TT heritage and our M models, and is a strong expression of racing DNA, technical precision and exclusivity.”

With this edition limited to 115 units, BMW Motorrad pays tribute to one of the most historic and demanding road races in the world. Key features include the British Racing Green Uni Matt paint finish, selected Mountain Course graphics, and sequential numbering with a certificate of authenticity.

Design: distinctive, precise and authentic

The design of the Limited Edition is consistently aligned with TT DNA: British Racing Green Uni Matt meets specific TT graphics featuring selected sections of the TT Mountain Course – left-hand turns on the left, right-hand turns on the right fairing side. A carbon airbox cover with TT course and TT logo, further carefully placed details, and a seat in Alcantara finish underscore the motorsport character. The aluminium tank with graphic accents completes the premium appearance.

Equipment of the Limited Edition

The special edition is based on the BMW M 1000 RR with M Competition package (without pillion package). In addition, it features exclusive edition-specific elements:

• Milled numbering on the top yoke
• Certificate of authenticity
• British Racing Green Uni Matt paint finish including specific TT graphics:
  • selected left-hand turns on the left fairing side
  • selected right-hand turns on the right fairing side
• Aluminium tank painted in Satin Chrome including tapes
• Black Alcantara seat
• Matt-finish M carbon airbox cover, complemented by Mountain Course graphic and TT logo
• M Race Cover Kit
• Black swingarm
• TT branding and lettering on the rear frame
• Rear workstand
• Assembly stand mounting
• M motorcycle mat (250 x 105 cm) with M logo and TT logo 

The BMW M 1000 RR Limited Edition Isle of Man TT is aimed at customers who combine uncompromising performance with a clear focus on exclusivity and collector value.

Homage to the Isle of Man Tourist Trophy

For decades, the Tourist Trophy has stood for outstanding rider skill, maximum precision and exceptional technical performance. BMW Motorrad has a close connection to this history – from Georg Meier’s legendary TT victory in 1939 to current successes on the 
S 1000 RR and M 1000 RR. The Limited Edition takes up this heritage and translates it into a distinctive, exclusive production model.

BMW Motorrad and the TT: historical milestones

In 1939, Georg Meier won the Senior TT on the BMW RS 255 Kompressor. In 1976, another major TT success followed: Helmut Dähne, together with Hans-Otto Butenuth, won the 1,000 cc Production class on the BMW R 90 S. In the modern era,
BMW Motorrad has continued this tradition on the Mountain Course with the S 1000 RR and later the M 1000 RR.

Successes since 2014

Since the introduction of the RR models in the modern TT era, BMW Motorrad has repeatedly demonstrated its competitiveness on the Mountain Course. Michael Dunlop achieved a breakthrough in the 1,000 cc class on the BMW S 1000 RR in 2014. 
Peter Hickman shaped the more recent period of success with multiple victories, including a hat-trick in 2022 in the Superbike, Superstock and Senior TT races on 
BMW motorcycles. In 2025, Davey Todd further underlined the performance of the 
BMW M 1000 RR with a Superbike victory and additional strong results in the 1,000 cc classes. A particularly striking testament to current performance is the overall all-time lap record on the TT Mountain Course set in 2023: 16:36.115 minutes with an average speed of 136.358 mph (approx. 219.4 km/h), achieved by Peter Hickman on a
BMW M 1000 RR in Superstock specification.

Limitation and availability

The M 1000 RR Limited Edition Isle of Man TT will be produced in a strictly limited run of 115 units, further emphasizing its exclusive collector character.


You will find press material on BMW motorcycles and BMW Motorrad rider equipment in the BMW Group PressClub at https://newsroom.bmwgroup.com/global/en.

Richmond Hill, ON.  BMW M is marking the close of the M3’s sixth generation with a special, limited-edition model built for maximum driver involvement. The 2027 BMW M3 CS Handschalter pairs the lightweight construction and track-ready chassis tuning of BMW CS models with the added engagement of a 6-speed manual transmission and rear-wheel drive.

Targeted use of carbon fibre reinforced plastic, forged alloy wheels, a titanium exhaust, and standard M Carbon Bucket Seats reduce weight by nearly 34 kg compared to a standard M3 (when the optional M Carbon Ceramic brakes are fitted). Model-specific chassis hardware and calibration sharpen steering, suspension, and overall responses, while a 6mm reduction in ride height helps deliver a planted, track-capable stance. Power comes from a 473-hp M TwinPower Turbo inline-6, paired exclusively with a precise 6-speed manual transmission and rear-wheel drive for an unmistakably direct connection between driver and machine.

The 2027 BMW M3 CS Handschalter will be built starting in July in very limited numbers, with 40 units planned for the Canadian market, and deliveries expected to commence in the fall. The base MSRP will be $132,500 CAD.

Track-honed chassis technology for road or circuit, with a choice of high-performance, track, or ultra-track tires.

The chassis technology in the BMW M3 CS Handschalter has been tuned in consideration of the drivetrain’s unique performance characteristics and the vehicle’s weight distribution. Additionally, the tuning of the M Servotronic steering and the electronic control settings for chassis, engine, and gearbox are all specific to the Handschalter.

The specially tuned axle kinematics and unique wheel camber settings are engineered to optimize steering precision, transmission of lateral control forces when cornering, spring and damping response, and wheel location. New springs and a new rear axle link lower the M3 CS Handschalter by 6mm compared to the standard M3. Shock absorbers previously found on the ultra-high performance M4 CSL and special auxiliary springs round out the M3 CS Handschalter’s chassis dynamics package.

M Compound brakes are standard on the M3 CS Handschalter. Drivers may opt for lightweight M Carbon Ceramic brakes with calipers in either red or gold. Also standard are forged alloy wheels Style 927M finished in Gold Bronze or Matte Black. The wheels may be fitted with high performance or track-oriented tires measuring 275/35ZR19 at the front and 285/30ZR20 at the rear. Ultra track tires are also optionally available.

Lightweight, carbon fibre-enhanced construction for sharper responses; standard M Front End Strut Brace boosts front-end rigidity.

Reducing weight through the targeted use of carbon fibre reinforced plastic (CFRP) both inside and out is of key importance to the performance and overall driving dynamics of the M3 CS Handschalter. BMW M uses this strong, lightweight material for the roof panel, hood, front splitter, front air intakes, M exterior mirror caps, rear diffuser, and rear spoiler. The centre console and interior trim are also made from CFRP. The standard M Carbon Bucket Seats reduce weight in the cabin while providing exceptional comfort on the road and support in high-performance driving.

In addition, the titanium rear silencer shaves more than 3.5 kg off the weight of the exhaust system fitted to the M3 CS Handschalter. In total, the various lightweight design measures save about 19 kg compared to the base BMW M3 with the 6-speed manual. Adding the optional M Carbon Ceramic brakes saves another 14 kg over the standard M Compound brakes.

The included M Front End Strut Brace increases chassis rigidity for even greater handling precision. The cast aluminum elements connecting the spring strut towers to the front end feature a weight-optimized geometry that has been precisely calibrated to the forces applied in various driving situations.

CS-exclusive design details sharpen the look – and underscore its track-bred intent.

The 2027 BMW M3 CS Handschalter adheres to the aggressive design template established by BMW CS models that have come before. Exposed carbon fibre surfaces for the roof, the two channels running the length of the hood, the front splitter, front air intakes, M exterior mirror caps, rear spoiler, and rear diffuser combine with side skirts and M gills in high-gloss black.

The Handschalter sports the signature CS frameless BMW kidney grille with pared-back styling, red contour lines, and an “M3 CS” badge on the upper of the two horizontal grille bars.

The angular daytime running light elements illuminate in yellow rather than white during the unlock sequence as well as while driving with the low or high beams active, evoking the look of GT racing cars.

Four exterior finishes complete the M3 CS Handschalter’s bold presence. Isle of Man Green Metallic and Black Sapphire Metallic are offered at no charge, while two BMW Individual paints drawn from 40 years of M3 history – Imola Red II and Techno Violet Metallic – are optionally available.

The M Carbon Bucket Seats are dressed in Black Full Merino Leather with Mugello Red Accents and Contrast Stitching, an exclusive to BMW CS and CSL models. The M3 CS also comes standard with a heated M Alcantara Steering Wheel, which is regularly unavailable in the Canadian market.

Standard M Drive Pro with M Traction Control and M Laptimer – ready for serious track work.

Also fitted as standard in the BMW M3 CS Handschalter is M Drive Pro. M Drive Pro bundles together the M Drift Analyzer and M Laptimer functions for assessing and recording driving skills and performance at the track and includes M Traction Control, offering ten stages of intervention sensitivity: the ideal tools for pushing the Handschalter hard on closed circuits.

The M Mode button on the centre console can be used to set the level of intervention from various driver assistance systems as well as the content shown in the information display, with a choice of ROAD, SPORT, and TRACK settings.

M TwinPower Turbo inline-6 power, engineered with track-proven Motorsport DNA.

Under the lightweight CFRP hood of the 2027 BMW M3 CS Handschalter is the high-revving S58 inline 6-cylinder engine with M TwinPower Turbo technology. This 3.0-liter unit also forms the basis of the engine that powered the BMW M4 GT3 Evo to victory in its class at the Rolex 24 at Daytona this year. Its crankcase has a sleeveless, closed-deck construction and is extremely rigid, making it suitable for very high combustion pressures. The forged lightweight crankshaft aids power build-up with its high torsional resistance and allows for high revs. The cylinder head has a 3D-printed core, allowing the coolant ducts to be routed in an optimum arrangement for temperature management that would be impossible to achieve using conventional metal casting methods. The oil supply system is designed to handle the specific challenges of track use, as is the cooling system.

The engine in the M3 CS Handschalter produces 473 hp at 6,250 RPM and 406 lb-ft of torque between 2,630 and 6,130 RPM. This ensures the Handschalter can accelerate from 0-100 km/h in 4.2 seconds. With a 1-foot rollout, the time drops to 3.9 seconds. Acceleration continues strongly all the way to a top speed of 290 km/h with the standard M Driver’s Package.

Everyday comfort and convenience – without dialing back the performance edge.

Despite its focus on delivering an uncompromised high-performance driving experience, the BMW M3 CS Handschalter doesn’t forsake everyday utility or the comfort and safety of drivers and passengers. The list of standard equipment includes Comfort Access, dual-zone Automatic Climate Control, Harman Kardon Surround Sound System, Automatic Trunk, Head-Up Display including Video Augmented Reality Navigation, Park Distance Control, Front Collision Warning, Lane Departure Warning, and the Speed Limit Assist. The standard M Carbon Bucket Seats are heated and electrically adjustable.

-30-

BMW Group in Canada

BMW Group Canada, based in Richmond Hill, Ontario, is a wholly owned subsidiary of BMW AG and is responsible for the distribution of BMW luxury performance automobiles, Sports Activity Vehicles, Motorcycles, and MINI.  BMW Group Financial Services Canada is a division of BMW Group Canada and offers retail financing and leasing programs and protection products on new and pre-owned BMW and MINI automobiles, as well as retail financing for new and pre-owned BMW Motorcycles. A total network of 51 BMW automobile retail centres, 26 BMW motorcycle retailers, and 31 MINI retailers represents the BMW Group across the country.

For more information, please contact:

Marc Belcourt
Director, Corporate Communications
BMW Group Canada
marc.belcourt@bmwgroup.ca                                            

Jean-Francois Taylor
Product and Technology Manager, Corporate Communications
BMW Group Canada
jean-francois.taylor@bmwgroup.ca

Munich/Dresden. BMW and SOLARWATT are further expanding their collaboration in the field of smart energy and home charging solutions.

With the launch of the first models in the Neue Klasse, the BMW iX3 and the BMW i3, BMW is beginning the rollout of its bidirectional charging technology.

Following Germany’s first commercial Vehicle-to-Grid (V2G) offering - available since March 2026 - the next logical step for Vehicle-to-Home (V2H) is now being taken: BMW iX3 and BMW i3 customers can now make even more extensive use of this new technology in their vehicles.

With the increasing electrification of mobility and customer households, new opportunities are emerging for holistic energy optimization and the integration of both ecosystems.

As part of this, BMW and SOLARWATT are optimizing the integration of the electric vehicle into the customer’s household. To this end, the SOLARWATT Manager home energy management system (HEMS) will serve as the link between both ecosystems in the future.

The SOLARWATT HEMS handles the central and intelligent control and optimization of energy flows in the household via coordinated and communicating components. This efficiently optimizes the generation, storage, and consumption of energy.

The electric vehicle is seamlessly integrated into the interaction between the photovoltaic system (PV system), home storage, and consumers in the home as an additional storage unit.

This home network integration is made possible by combining BMW Neue Klasse models with the bidirectional BMW Wallbox Professional, which not only charges the vehicle but can also feed energy back into the home when needed.

The market launch for the integration of bidirectional BMW vehicles into SOLARWATT’s new HEMS for Vehicle-to-Home (V2H) applications is planned for late 2026 in Germany, Austria and the Netherlands.

BMW and SOLARWATT have been collaborating in the field of electromobility since 2013. In 2021, the two partners also launched a home storage system featuring a battery module that incorporates components also used in the BMW Group’s electric vehicles. Since 2025, the successor model, SOLARWATT Battery vision, has been available, with its housing and design created by BMW Designworks USA.

Smart Connectivity: Energy Management and Home Network Integration in perfect harmony

Since the launch of the Neue Klasse, BMW has relied on Vehicle-to-Home (V2H) technology as a gateway to bidirectional charging, the use of solar energy, and the reduction of energy costs.

The offering is now being expanded to include home network integration for optimal energy management. This marks a significant advancement for V2H applications. The intelligent interaction of all components (BMW electric vehicle, BMW Wallbox Professional, HEMS from SOLARWATT, home storage, and other consumers) creates a holistic system that not only optimizes self-consumption but also takes the flexibility and efficiency of the home energy supply to a new level.

Homeowners control their settings via the My BMW App and the SOLARWATT Home app. With the V2H option, the electric car serves as additional storage for surplus solar power generated by the PV system. In addition to optimizing the interaction of all components, the SOLARWATT Manager allows for the integration of dynamic electricity rates and the incorporation of solar forecasts to further optimize charging and discharging processes, further reduce energy costs, and increase self-sufficiency.

The SOLARWATT Manager is designed to be open: In addition to SOLARWATT's product range, home storage systems from other brands can also be integrated. This creates a flexible home energy system that can be expanded in stages.

Overall Optimization: Electric Car Complements Home Battery Storage

“Drivers of a Neue Klasse electric car like the BMW iX3 can use the additional storage to make even more efficient use of self-generated solar power, increase self-consumption, and thus reduce their reliance on expensive grid electricity. For many homeowners, the prospect of expanding an existing home battery storage system with an electric car is highly attractive. This significantly increases the benefits of one’s own PV system, lowers electricity costs, and makes the home even less dependent on purchasing electricity from the grid,” says SOLARWATT CPO Peter Bachmann.

“At the same time, bidirectional charging holds enormous potential for the energy transition, as the batteries of electric vehicles collectively form a massive storage reserve. If this flexibility is intelligently integrated into energy markets and households, it can help relieve the strain on power grids, better integrate renewable energy, and make additional storage capacity available quickly and cost-effectively,” says Marcus Krieg, Vice President New Business at the BMW Group.

Market Launch and Future Strategic Direction

Following the next public milestone at Intersolar (The Smarter E), the focus is on the phased implementation of the next project milestones leading up to the market launch at the end of this year.

BMW and SOLARWATT consistently place the customer and their entire ecosystem at the center of their efforts. The partners aim to enable seamless and reliable interaction between all components in the home and in the vehicle. In doing so, they create a consistent, integrated customer experience and strengthen their position as leading companies in the field of connected vehicle and home usage.

Munich/Cernobbio. BMW Motorrad presents the Vision K18, a vision bike that offers a confident outlook on a new expression of performance, luxury and dynamism. The Vision bike will be unveiled to the public for the first time in the exclusive setting of the Concorso d’Eleganza Villa d’Este on Lake Como.

Conceived as a one-off vision bike, the BMW Motorrad Vision K18 stands for uncompromising passion, confident long-distance performance and outstanding visual presence. Long-distance travel is reimagined as a sensual experience: emotion is central, performance is the key – and is staged with all the senses. The Vision K18 embodies BMW Motorrad’s ambition to combine technical excellence with emotional appeal, making performance not only measurable but also visibly tangible. At the same time, it positions the inline six-cylinder as part of BMW DNA and sends a clear signal of pioneering spirit: greater radicality and sharper character down to the finest detail – as inspiration for future series-production solutions.

At the heart of the concept is a traditional 1,800 cm³ inline six-cylinder engine which, as both a design and technical centerpiece, shapes the entire appearance – and at the same time was the starting point for the vision. As an iconic BMW power unit that has stood for authority, smooth running and character for decades, it provided the impetus to rethink the vehicle from the ground up and to celebrate the drivetrain as a visible feature: technology is deliberately revealed, proportions subordinate themselves to the engine, and performance becomes directly tangible as a piece of engineering. The strikingly elongated silhouette follows this logic, and its flyline takes cues from high-speed aircraft such as the Concorde – for an appearance that conveys dynamism even at a standstill.

BMW Motorrad’s current six-cylinder models are positioned in the touring segment – built for confidence and comfort on long journeys. Accordingly, the design follows a sculptural, elongated formal language inspired by long-haul aviation: expansive base bodies – as seen on iconic high-speed aircraft – form a clear, calm foundation from which technically necessary components deliberately “break out” in contrast. Large body surfaces meet complex, openly displayed technology with graphically precise cut-outs and openings. Distinct inline-six references reinforce this principle: six intakes, six tailpipes and six LED headlights cite the exceptional engine architecture in a visual way. Hand-formed body parts as well as a hydraulically lowerable suspension underscore the exclusive, visionary character.

The aspiration for quality and emotion results from the interplay of craftsmanship and high-tech: parts of the aluminum bodywork are painstakingly formed by hand (“planished”), including a seamless side panel more than two meters long that appears as if cast from a single piece. Contrasting materials such as aluminum and forged carbon, along with special surfaces and processes – for example, structures created by flame spraying – set deliberate accents; the resulting bright, metallic look is intended as a reminiscence of classic Formula 1 exhaust headers. Visible technical highlights such as the striking intake, the hydraulically lowerable suspension and an actively cooled headlight make the engineering character of the vision immediately tangible. For the team, one of the key challenges was the precise coordination between highly complex technical components and elements crafted with masterful workmanship.

A central element of the MW Motorrad Vision K18 is the visual guiding idea “The Heat of Speed”. A deliberately employed heat-haze effect makes the power of the inline six-cylinder visible and translates performance into an emotionally tangible image. The chosen stage is intentionally a runway setting, reflecting both the aviation inspiration as well as the theme of confident high speed and long-distance capability.

With the Vision K18, BMW Motorrad delivers a powerful emotional statement. It is an expression of attitude, design expertise and a passion for extraordinary engine concepts – Full Force Forward. This guiding motif translates forward momentum into proportion and line: a downward overall gesture like an aircraft taking off, an arrow-shaped silhouette, and a presence reminiscent of a sprinter in the starting blocks. Radically executed proportions make the ambition visible in every detail: swapping the positions of the airbox and the tank enables a maximally flat rear line. In contrast, there is a very wide tail section that, framed in carbon, accommodates six tailpipes. The front also reflects power with its staged intake – air is routed through six tubes to the central air filter.

Markus Flasch, CEO BMW Motorrad: “With the BMW Motorrad Vision K18, we show how we interpret performance, luxury and emotion in a new, very confident way. For us, the inline six-cylinder is far more than an engine – it is a statement. The Vision K18 translates this power into a sculptural form that makes dynamism and speed tangible even at a standstill. This bike stands for our passion to redefine the boundaries of design and performance repeatedly.”

Disclaimer.
The vehicles shown may be modified and fitted with third-party accessories and/or proprietary parts that are not manufactured, distributed or tested by BMW. BMW accepts no liability for the modifications (including the fitting, characteristics and use of the accessories shown). NOTE: Modification of series production vehicles (including the fitting and use of third-party and self-made parts) can impair riding characteristics! Riding our vehicles in modified condition is at your own risk.


You will find press material on BMW motorcycles and BMW Motorrad rider equipment in the BMW Group PressClub at https://newsroom.bmwgroup.com/global/en.

Munich. Continuity and experience at the helm of the Group: At the end of today, Oliver Zipse will hand over the position of Chairman of the Board of Management of BMW AG to Dr.-Ing. Milan Nedeljković. Zipse is concluding his tenure on the Board of Management as planned after a total of 35 years with the company.

The entire Supervisory Board of the company expresses its sincere gratitude to Oliver Zipse for his outstanding contributions to the BMW Group. During his tenure, he strategically realigned the company and successfully guided the BMW Group through global crises such as the COVID-19 pandemic.

“Through his strategic leadership and long-standing commitment, Oliver Zipse has shaped the development of the BMW Group. His name will be closely associated with the NEUE KLASSE, as BMW’s central future-oriented project,” says Supervisory Board Chairman Dr. Nicolas Peter. “Oliver Zipse has always taken a clear stance, even in the face of external resistance, thereby keeping the company strategically on course during volatile times.”

“For more than 35 years, the BMW Group has been my professional home. I am leaving with a deep sense of gratitude: for the trust that was placed in me, for the professional challenges that have taken me to various areas in the company; and above all, for an exceptional team that is shaping the mobility of the future with passion and a pioneering spirit. It has been a great honour for me to lead the BMW Group as Chairman of the Board of Management for seven years”, says Oliver Zipse, Chairman of the Board of Management of BMW AG.

His successor, Milan Nedeljković, has been a member of the Board of Management of BMW AG since 2019 and has been responsible for Production. The 57-year-old began his professional career with the company in 1993 as a trainee and has extensive international experience. Nedeljković held various management positions, including at the Oxford, Leipzig and Munich plants, as well as Head of Corporate Quality. His contract as Chairman of the Board of Management runs through 2031.

Dr. Nicolas Peter: “Milan Nedeljković impresses with entrepreneurial thinking and a consistent goal-oriented approach, as well as a clear focus and stringent execution of complex issues. He places great importance on the responsible use of resources, whether economic or ecological.”

Milan Nedeljković says: “With the NEUE KLASSE, we are bringing a generation of vehicles to the road that sets technological and emotional benchmarks. Our product momentum is outstanding. Together with our global footprint, this gives us a tailwind. In a dynamic environment, consistent and entrepreneurial action is required. Profitability and speed are crucial. I look forward to leading this extraordinary company into the future.”

Dr. Raymond Wittmann (47) will succeed him as Board Member for Production effective 14 May. He has been with the BMW Group since 2015 and has been responsible for Corporate Strategy and Development since 2024. Prior to this, he held several management positions in various corporate divisions.

“Raymond Wittmann combines strategic thinking with operational excellence and sound business management,” says Dr. Nicolas Peter. “With his broad, cross-divisional experience and international perspective, he possesses the key qualities required to lead the Production division.”

As part of today’s Annual General Meeting, the Supervisory Board will propose that Dr. Christian Bruch, Chairman of the Executive Board of Siemens Energy AG, be re-elected to the Supervisory Board for a term of four years. The term of office of Mr Heinrich Hiesinger, former Chairman of the Executive Board of ThyssenKrupp AG, will end with the close of today’s Annual General Meeting.

Following the 106th Annual General Meeting of BMW AG, a separate meeting of the preferred shareholders will be held today. It is to decide on the approval of converting all preferred shares into ordinary shares.

If you have any questions, please contact:

BMW Group Corporate Communications

Max-Morten Borgmann, head of Communications BMW Group, Finance, Sales

Telephone: +49 89 382-24118

Email: Max-Morten.Borgmann@bmwgroup.com

Dr. Dominic Stoiber, Communications BMW Group, Finance, Sales

Telephone: +49 151 601-51137

Email: Dominic.Stoiber@bmw.de

Lennart Wermke, Communications BMW Group Financial Services

Telephone: +49 151 601-98096

Email: Lennart.Wermke@bmwgroup.com

Media website: https://newsroom.bmwgroup.com/global/en

Email: presse@bmwgroup.com

The BMW Group

With its four brands, BMW, MINI, Rolls-Royce and BMW Motorrad, the BMW Group is the world’s leading premium manufacturer of automobiles and motorcycles and also provides premium financial services. The BMW Group production network comprises over 30 production sites worldwide; the company has a global sales network in more than 140 countries.

In 2025, the BMW Group sold 2.46 million passenger vehicles and more than 202,500 motorcycles worldwide. The profit before tax in the financial year 2025 was € 10.2 billion on revenues amounting to € 133,5 billion. As of 31 December 2025, the BMW Group had a workforce of 154,540 employees.

The economic success of the BMW Group has always been based on long-term thinking and responsible action. Sustainability is a key element of the BMW Group’s corporate strategy and covers all products – from the supply chain through production to the end of their useful life. 

www.bmwgroup.com

LinkedIn: http://www.linkedin.com/company/bmw-group/

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/bmwgroup

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bmwgroup

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/bmwgroup

Munich. With BMW M Ignite technology, a new engine technology patented by BMW in 2024 is set to enter series production. This new kind of pre-chamber ignition system for petrol engines will debut in the six-cylinder in-line units for the BMW M2, BMW M3 and BMW M4 from mid-2026. One of its standout benefits is a significant reduction in fuel consumption under high loads – during track use, in particular. This new engine innovation has its roots in motor sport, making it another example of the transfer of technology from the race track to the road. And it also plays a major role in meeting the stringent requirements of the Euro 7 standard.

The centrepiece of BMW M Ignite technology is the pre-chamber positioned within the cylinder head. It is connected with the cylinder’s main combustion chamber by overflow openings. The pre-chamber has its own spark plug and ignition coil, meaning the engine has two ignition systems.

At low and medium revs, the conventional spark plug in the main combustion chamber fires before the spark plug in the pre-chamber. But when the engine is operating under higher revs and loads, the pre-chamber ignition takes over the lead role, with part of the fuel-air mixture channelled through the openings into the pre-chamber also ignited there. The flames generated as a result exit the pre-chamber at around the speed of sound.

These ignition jets then ignite the mixture in the main combustion chamber above the piston at multiple points at the same time. The result is a significantly higher combustion speed. Meanwhile, the possible cause of uncontrolled combustion – i.e. “knocking” – is also countered effectively. An additional effect of this technology is a drop in the temperature of the exhaust gas.

Other new technical features alongside the pre-chamber ignition include a higher compression ratio and turbochargers with variable turbine geometry.

BMW M Ignite technology boosts the efficiency of the six-cylinder in-line engines dramatically, especially when the engine is being pushed to its limits. Under high loads, fuel consumption drops substantially. This is particularly beneficial for BMW M customers who drive their cars on race circuits – e.g. during track days: the fuel consumption reduction enabled by BMW M Ignite technology means they can keep lapping for longer on the same amount of fuel.

As well as these efficiency gains, BMW M Ignite technology also helps to meet the new European Euro 7 standard, which will come into force in November 2026. In this way, BMW M is ensuring the high-performance cars fitted with this technology will continue to meet European registration requirements in the future. The new engines therefore represent another instance of technology from racing cars making its way into series-production models.

All variants of the BMW M3 and BMW M4 will come with BMW M Ignite technology from July 2026. Production of the BMW M2 featuring this technology will get underway in August 2026. The displacement and power outputs of all the models with BMW M Ignite technology will be unchanged from those of the corresponding outgoing engines.

Richmond Hill, ON.  BMW Group Canada today announced Canadian pricing and confirmed the NRCan‑certified driving range for the all‑new, next‑generation 2027 BMW iX3, setting a new benchmark for everyday electric mobility. When sales begin in Canada, the 2027 BMW iX3 50 xDrive will carry a highly competitive starting price of $75,900 CAD and deliver driving range that underscores the vehicle’s efficiency leadership. The model’s EPA‑cycle range is confirmed at up to 698 km, significantly exceeding preliminary estimates of 650 km and positioning the iX3 as the most capable long‑range electric vehicle in its class.

The big story is the range - now confirmed well above early projections. This increase reflects BMW’s continued advances in electric powertrain efficiency, aerodynamics, and intelligent energy management. For Canadian drivers, the result is more real‑world flexibility: longer weekend getaways without intermediate charging, greater peace of mind during winter months, and fewer stops on intercity routes.

Key points:

• Canadian starting price: $75,900 CAD.
• Confirmed range: NRCan‑certified (EPA‑cycle) up to 698 km.
• Substantial improvement over preliminary 650 km estimate.
• Advanced sixth-generation BMW eDrive technology for high efficiency and performance.
• DC fast‑charging capability up to 400 kW designed for rapid top‑ups on the go.
• First vehicle to feature BMW’s new Panoramic iDrive, a pillar-to-pillar driver information screen at the base of the windshield.
• Spacious, premium interior with the latest BMW Operating System X and ConnectedDrive Services.
• Refined chassis tuning for hallmark BMW driving dynamics.

With its combination of long‑distance capability, cutting‑edge technology, and a compelling entry price, the 2027 BMW iX3 is poised to redefine expectations in the midsize electric SAV segment. The model’s range stands at the forefront of its competitive set and is only surpassed by vehicles in larger classes carrying substantially higher price tags - an achievement that underlines BMW’s commitment to accessible innovation.

“We are thrilled to offer Canadian customers more range, next-generation battery and electric motors and uncompromising BMW driving dynamics,” said Andrew Scott, President and CEO of BMW Group Canada. “Exceeding our preliminary range target while introducing advanced technologies at this price point is a testament to the progress of our electrification strategy.”

Product highlights
The new BMW iX3 showcases BMW’s latest EV innovations, combining performance and efficiency with hallmark driving dynamics. Highlights include powerful next‑generation electric motors that deliver instant torque and confident acceleration; a high‑capacity battery featuring sixth‑generation BMW battery cell technology designed for improved energy density, charging capability, and durability; and the latest “Heart of Joy” driving dynamics control unit that orchestrates powertrain, chassis, and traction control functions for a seamless, engaging drive. Together with a low‑drag silhouette, optimized thermal management, and advanced regenerative braking, these technologies enable its outstanding range while preserving the precise, connected feel that defines every BMW. Inside, BMW Panoramic iDrive introduces a new, pillar-to-pillar display concept that presents key driving information at a glance and helps keep the driver focused on the road.

Availability
Canadian market launch will take place in Fall 2026. Customers can reserve their BMW iX3 at www.bmw.ca or with their local BMW Retailer.

-30-

BMW Group in Canada
BMW Group Canada, based in Richmond Hill, Ontario, is a wholly owned subsidiary of BMW AG and is responsible for the distribution of BMW luxury performance automobiles, Sports Activity Vehicles, Motorcycles, and MINI.  BMW Group Financial Services Canada is a division of BMW Group Canada and offers retail financing and leasing programs and protection products on new and pre-owned BMW and MINI automobiles, as well as retail financing for new and pre-owned BMW Motorcycles. A total network of 51 BMW automobile retail centres, 26 BMW motorcycle retailers, and 31 MINI retailers represents the BMW Group across the country.

For more information, please contact: 

Marc Belcourt
Director, Corporate Communications
BMW Group Canada
marc.belcourt@bmwgroup.ca                                            

Jean-Francois Taylor
Product and Technology Manager, Corporate Communications
BMW Group Canada
jean-francois.taylor@bmwgroup.ca

Munich/Dingolfing. One out of two million: A BMW i5 M60 xDrive sedan in Tansanit Blue assembled at Plant Dingolfing is the two-millionth all-electric vehicle produced by the BMW Group. The anniversary vehicle is going to a customer in Spain.

BMW Group Plant Dingolfing: home to the most all-electric models

Plant Dingolfing began series production of all-electric automobiles in 2021 with the BMW iX. Today, it builds the widest range of BEV models within the BMW Group: the BMW iX, the BMW i5 sedan and touring, and the BMW i7. Since 2021, more than 320,000 all-electric vehicles have already been built at the Lower Bavarian site. This means that almost every sixth of the BMW Group’s total of two million BEVs comes from Dingolfing. In 2025, more than a quarter of the vehicles produced at Plant Dingolfing were all-electric.

Clear strategy with maximum flexibility

As part of the BMW iFACTORY, the BMW Group continues to pursue a technology-open approach in its plants: vehicles with different powertrains are flexibly produced in a mixed build on a single production line. For several years now, at least one all-electric model has been rolling off the line at every German BMW Group plant - e-mobility has become the new normal across the company’s production network. In doing so, the BMW Group is making a significant contribution to Germany being the world’s second-largest production location for electric cars today.

Munich. Josef Honeder will assume the position of Head of Development at BMW Motorrad on 1 June 2026. In this role, he will be responsible for the entire technical concept, engineering, testing and further development of technologies for all new motorcycle models of the brand. A mechanical engineering graduate, Josef Honeder is a highly experienced product development expert who has held various management positions within the BMW Group for more than 20 years, including responsibilities in the areas of overall vehicle development and powertrain.

Most recently, Josef Honeder was responsible for the development of powertrain and fuel supply systems.

With his appointment as Head of Development at BMW Motorrad, Josef Honeder is returning to a field closely linked to his long-standing and profound passion for two-wheeled vehicles. From 2011 to 2013, he already held responsibility for various development scopes at BMW Motorrad.

Thanks to his extensive development expertise, Josef Honeder is the ideal choice to continue the success story of BMW Motorrad.

Markus Flasch, CEO BMW Motorrad: “BMW Motorrad has demonstrated a unique product offensive in recent years. I am very pleased that we have been able to appoint an experienced development expert in Josef Honeder, who will enrich BMW Motorrad with his comprehensive knowledge across the entire field of vehicle development.”

Josef Honeder takes over from Christof Lischka, who was responsible for BMW Motorrad in recent years and oversaw the successful launch of numerous models. Christof Lischka has left the BMW Group at his own request.


You will find press material on BMW motorcycles in the BMW Group PressClub at https://newsroom.bmwgroup.com/global/en.

Munich. The BMW Group and BMW M Motorsport mourn the passing of Alessandro Zanardi. The racing driver, long-standing works driver and corporate ambassador passed away unexpectedly in Italy on 1st May, as confirmed by his family. “Alex” Zanardi was 59 years old. In these difficult hours, the thoughts of the BMW Group are with his wife Daniela, his son Niccol , and all his relatives and friends. “Alex” was a wonderful human being, an unwavering optimist and an inspiration to many people around the world. The company has lost a compelling humanitarian and representative; BMW M Motorsport has lost an ambitious and successful athlete from the family of its works drivers. 

Franciscus van Meel, CEO of BMW M GmbH, said: “Alex Zanardi was one of the most extraordinary people I have ever had the privilege of meeting. His courage, his zest for life, his positive energy and his passion for motorsport deeply impressed and touched all of us at BMW M. Alex was far more than an outstanding athlete and ambassador for our brand. He was a true member of our BMW M Motorsport family. Together with BMW M Motorsport, Alex wrote a very special story. He showed what is possible when talent, determination, trust and technical expertise come together. His achievements in the race car were impressive, but the impact he had as a person was even greater. With his unwavering attitude and optimism, he inspired people all over the world. We are losing a wonderful human being, a great fighter and a friend. Our thoughts are with his wife Daniela, his son Niccol  and his family. We will miss Alex very much, and at BMW M we will always keep a special place for him in our history and in our hearts.”

Zanardi was born in Bologna on 23rd October 1966. After competing in Formula 1, where he contested 41 Grands Prix, he moved to the American CART series and became Champ Car champion in 1997 and 1998. In a dramatic racing accident at the Lausitzring on 15th September 2001, he lost both legs and had to be resuscitated several times. But Zanardi never gave up and, in 2005, made his comeback as a BMW Motorsport works driver in the World Touring Car Championship (WTCC) as a double amputee –  a comeback he crowned with victory at Oschersleben on 29th August 2005. He also contested several 24-hour races for BMW Motorsport, competed in the Blancpain Sprint Series in 2014, and made guest appearances in the DTM.

Alongside his motor racing career, Zanardi also began a new sporting career and once again demonstrated what is possible in life with dedication, willpower and ambition. In handcycling, he won two gold medals at the 2012 Paralympic Games in London. Four years later, at the Paralympic Games in Rio de Janeiro, he again won two gold medals and one silver medal in handcycling. He also completed several long-distance triathlons, including the legendary Ironman in Hawaii. In 2007, he finished fourth in the New York Marathon. Through his “Bimbingamba” foundation, Zanardi supported children and young people who had suffered amputations and did not have access to adequate care. Through “Obiettivo 3”, he helped to involve athletes with disabilities being introduced to sport.

After another serious accident during a handcycling competition near Pienza on 19th June 2020, Alex Zanardi withdrew from the public eye. Lovingly cared for by his family, he moved between hospital, rehabilitation and his home in Padua. Alex Zanardi once said: “You want to climb the mountain because it’s there and you know you can do it.” Now, the ultimate survivor has embarked on his final journey. Ciao, Alex!

Munich. When BMW Motorrad launched its first BMW helmet in 1975, it marked the beginning of a success story. At the time, visor technology was comparatively simple. The first System Helmet followed in 1981, featuring a flip-up and removable chin section. This technical concept has been continuously refined and perfected by BMW Motorrad over the decades and is now presented in its eighth generation with the System 8 and 
System 8 Carbon helmets.

A historical retrospective summarizes the highlights of the past 50 years:

1. BMW Full-Face Helmet – the “Römer-Helmet“
In May 1975, BMW, in cooperation with Römer, introduced a lightweight and safe full‑face helmet made of glass‑fibre‑reinforced plastic. With a weight of just 1,400 grams, the helmet featured a double‑secured fastening system and a high‑quality leather interior.

Key features included a removable, draught-deflecting chin guard, clear and sun visors, and a large field of vision. Reflective elements enhanced visibility in road traffic, contributing to increased rider safety.

This helmet marked the starting point for BMW’s ongoing commitment to safety, comfort and visibility and laid the foundation for the continuous development of modern 
BMW motorcycle helmets.

2. BMW System Helmet I
The BMW System Helmet introduced in 1981 combined high levels of protection with low weight and excellent wearing comfort. It featured a robust glass‑fibre shell and effective impact absorption. Its aerodynamic design ensured a stable fit and reduced wind noise, while the visor could be operated with one hand and offered a wide field of vision.

A standout feature was the removable chin section, allowing the helmet to be quickly converted into various off‑road configurations. Independent tests confirmed its outstanding quality. A modern helmet concept that successfully combined safety, comfort and versatility.

3. BMW System Helmet II
The new BMW system helmet introduced in 1985 represented a further development of its successful predecessor, offering enhanced comfort and improved aerodynamics. The helmet shell, chin section and visor mechanism were optimised in the wind tunnel and featured a ribbed structure designed to reduce air turbulence and wind noise. The revised chin section profile reduced lift and aerodynamic drag, improving riding stability.

The robust yet lightweight glass‑fibre‑reinforced plastic shell, combined with an energy‑absorbing inner liner, continued to provide a high level of protection. Additional comfort was ensured by leather padding in the contact areas and a secure chin strap with push‑button fastener. The visor could be operated with one hand, was scratch‑resistant, wind‑tight and lockable in multiple positions. Tinted and “self‑healing” Sekurit visors as well as a practical sun visor were available as optional accessories. A particular innovation was the BMW air‑channel system, which ensured an effective supply of fresh air without draughts, prevented visor fogging and guaranteed optimal ventilation even at low speeds or in urban traffic.

4. BMW System Helmet III
Introduced in 1989, the BMW System Helmet III represented a further optimised evolution of its predecessor, offering increased safety in compliance with ECE 22‑03, improved aerodynamics and reduced wind noise. The redesigned chin section provided enhanced cheek protection, while the ventilation system ensured individually adjustable fresh‑air supply, even with the visor closed. The visor was scratch‑resistant, featured an anti‑fog coating and could be locked in six positions. The chin bar could be opened by push‑button and tilted up by 100 degrees – continuing to offer excellent suitability for riders wearing glasses and making the helmet easy to put on and take off. A wide range of accessories further underlined its versatility.

5. BMW System Helmet 4
Presented in 1997, the BMW System Helmet 4 represented the next evolution featuring a lightweight yet exceptionally durable helmet shell made of a composite of glass fibre, Kevlar and carbon. The three‑dimensionally shaped visor provided distortion‑free visibility, was scratch‑resistant and featured an anti‑fog coating.

Wind‑tunnel‑tested aerodynamics significantly reduced wind noise, while the ventilation system ensured a constant supply of fresh air – even with the visor closed. The flip‑up chin section, operated with  one hand, continued to make putting on and removing the helmet particularly easy. As with its predecessors, the helmet could be quickly converted from a full‑face to an open‑face configuration.

A wide range of accessories and a high degree of flexibility made the BMW System Helmet 4 especially comfortable and safe.

6. BMW System Helmet 4 EVO
The BMW System Helmet 4 EVO, introduced in 2001, was the first BMW helmet to meet the new ECE 22‑05 safety standard, including testing of the chin section. It featured an improved ventilation system with larger air outlets and a visor with a new anti‑fog coating, ensuring clear visibility in all weather conditions. The visor locking system included a narrow “city position” gap, significantly reducing noise levels. The removable interior lining, made of Coolmax and velvet materials, offered a high level of wearing comfort and allowed for easy cleaning. Aerodynamic performance was additionally enhanced by a redesigned spoiler with a double trailing edge, reducing yaw and pitching moments at high speeds and thereby reducing strain on the rider’s head. Like its predecessor, the helmet could be quickly converted from a full‑face to an open‑face or off‑road configuration and featured a practical flip‑up chin section. New colour options completed the offering.

7. BMW System Helmet 4 Elite
Presented in 2001, the BMW System Helmet 4 Elite stood out for its particularly lightweight yet high-strength helmet shell made of carbon fibre and Kevlar, reducing overall weight by approximately 180 grams. The interior featured Schoeller ComfortTemp material, which uses microscopic capsules to absorb and release heat as required, helping to balance temperature fluctuations and enhance wearing comfort.

The helmet shell was finished in carbon black, while the flip-up chin section was designed in white aluminium with a yellow “Carbon“ lettering. As with previous models, the helmet could be quickly and  easily converted into an open-face helmet. Additional features included interchangeable cheek and neck pads as well as preparation for the installation of an intercom system.

The BMW System Helmet 4 Elite combined state-of-the-art materials, high levels of safety, significantly reduced weight and individual comfort with proven versatility.

8. BMW System Helmet 5
Introduced in 2005, the BMW System Helmet 5 represented an advanced generation of flip‑up helmets, featuring a lightweight yet high‑strength shell made of a glass‑fibre, carbon and Kevlar laminate. With a noise level of just 86 dB(A) at 100 km/h, it ranked among the quietest helmets in its class. A key innovation was the integrated Bluetooth communication system (WCS 1), enabling wireless rider‑to‑rider communication – even at speeds exceeding 150 km/h.

Aerodynamics were optimised to ensure stability in the airflow and minimal resistance during head movements. Impact absorption further improved by a segmented EPS inner shell designed to respond individually to different load levels. The chin section could be opened and closed easily using a one‑handed Bowden‑cable mechanism.

The ventilation system was fully adjustable, featuring closable visor ventilation, multiple head ventilation stages and effective exhaust outlets. A special neck strap ensured a secure fit and prevented helmet rotation. The interior, made of breathable and removable Coolmax material, further enhanced wearing comfort.

9. BMW System Helmet 6
Introduced in 2009, the BMW System Helmet 6 represented a lightweight and comfortable further development of BMW flip‑up helmets, with a weight ranging from 1,570 to 
1,670 grams. For the first time, it featured a continuously adjustable integrated sun visor, as well as an innovative four‑joint mechanism that ensured a slim  appearance even when open. The helmet shell made of glass‑fibre‑reinforced plastic, combined with a segmented EPS inner shell, provided excellent impact absorption.

The three‑dimensionally curved, scratch‑resistant outer visor offered 100% UV protection, while the dual‑pane visor with a hydrophilic inner surface delivered highly effective anti‑fog performance. Ventilation was ensured by a large top intake and a rear negative‑pressure exhaust, providing efficient climate control.

With a noise level of just 86 dB(A) at 100 km/h, the helmet ranked among the quietest flip‑up helmets of its time. A ratchet buckle on the chin strap, combined with integrated neck straps further enhanced safety. The removable Alcantara and Coolmax interior lining was washable and available in various sizes. The helmet was prepared for optional 
BMW communication systems and offered in a range of colours and designs.

10. BMW System Helmet 6 Evo
In 2013, the BMW System Helmet 6 EVO was regarded as one of the safest and most comfortable flip‑up helmets on the market. It featured an integrated, continuously adjustable sun visor with 100% UV protection, which could also be operated while wearing gloves. Thanks to the four‑joint mechanism, the sporty design remained slim and visually appealing even when the helmet was open.

Aerodynamically, the helmet remained stable in the airflow and generated only minimal rotational forces during head movements. With a noise level of between 84 and 86 dB(A) at 100 km/h, it ranked among the quietest flip‑up helmets in its segment. The lightweight shell made of glass‑fibre‑reinforced plastic, combined with a multi‑part EPS inner shell, ensured excellent impact absorption.

The removable interior lining made of synthetic leather and DuPont Coolmax enhanced wearing comfort. The ventilation system was effective and easy to adjust, featuring forehead and rear ventilation as well as visor ventilation. The ratchet buckle on the chin strap combined the advantages of double‑D and plug‑in fasteners, while integrated neck straps prevented helmet rotation in the event of an accident.

The helmet was prepared for BMW communication systems and was available in multiple colours and sizes.

11. BMW System Helmet 7 Carbon
The BMW System Helmet 7 Carbon was unveiled to the public in October 2016 and launched on the market for the 2017 motorcycle season. A key innovation was the full‑carbon helmet shell, which made the helmet significantly lighter while further enhancing safety.

In 2021, the model was further developed into the BMW System Helmet 7 Carbon EVO, featuring, among other improvements, optimisations to aerodynamics and the visor mechanism.

The removable chin section allowed the helmet to be converted into an open‑face configuration. In addition, the helmet was specifically prepared for integration with the BMW Motorrad communication system.

12. BMW System Helmet 8
As the successor to the System Helmet 7 Carbon EVO, the BMW System Helmet 8 is part of the BMW Motorrad Clothing Collection 2026.

The eighth‑generation BMW System Helmet 8 Carbon, certified to ECE 22‑06 standards, offers outstanding protection with minimal weight thanks to its helmet shell made from a carbon‑aramid‑glass‑fibre composite. A more attractively priced alternative is the BMW System Helmet 8, which features the same equipment and ECE 22‑06 certification but uses a glass‑fibre‑aramid  composite shell. Both helmets deliver excellent impact absorption values and outstanding overall safety performance. Thanks to two helmet shell sizes, they are only as large as necessary.

Maximum safety and comfort are ensured by a polystyrene inner shell with varying densities, while integrated neck straps provide a secure fit. High‑quality interior padding made from OEKO‑TEX® Standard 100 materials, together with an efficient head and visor ventilation system, ensures optimal functionality and comfort. In the BMW System Helmet 8 Carbon, the Multi‑Directional Impact Protection System (MIPS Integra TX®) further reduces rotational head movement in the event of an impact, thereby lowering the risk of injury.

Thanks to the multi‑joint mechanism, the new BMW Motorrad System Helmet 8 Carbon and System Helmet 8 remain highly compact even when flipped open and are approved for riding in the open position. Aerodynamics and aeroacoustics have been noticeably optimised for this purpose, while a large, highly effective spoiler provides additional support when riding with the helmet closed. Clear visibility is ensured by the dual‑pane visor with anti‑fog inner lens (Pinlock 200) and a scratch‑resistant coating on both sides of the outer visor.

Additional practical features include a central button for opening the chin section, a chin strap with ratchet buckle, and an integrated sun visor operated via a slider mechanism. For an even more intensive riding experience, the new BMW Motorrad System Helmet 8 Carbon and System Helmet 8 can be upgraded with the innovative BMW ConnectedRide COM P1 communication system. Optional visor kits (orange, clear, tinted, blue mirrored and silver mirrored) are available, along with a total of ten different graphics and color options. Market launch is planned for May 2026.


You will find press material on BMW motorcycles in the BMW Group PressClub at https://newsroom.bmwgroup.com/global/en.

Munich/Oxford. 2026 marks a major milestone for MINI: 25 years ago production of the modern MINI began under BMW Group, a quarter century defined by innovation, design and unmistakable British spirit! With its unique place in everyday life, from city streets to cinema screens, MINI has spent the past 25 years building on its legacy, combining heritage with modern innovation and driving fun, winning the hearts of millions of drivers worldwide.

Founded in 1959, Mini was born out of the visionary thinking of Sir Alec Issigonis, whose revolutionary small‑car concept responded to the challenges of its time by redefining how space, efficiency and driving enjoyment could be combined. With its compact dimensions, innovative front‑wheel‑drive layout and exceptional agility, the classic Mini quickly transcended its original purpose to become an automotive icon. Motorsport successes in the 1960s, most notably under the Cooper name, cemented MINI’s reputation as a car that delivered authentic driving fun far beyond its size.

Over the decades, Mini became deeply embedded in popular culture, embraced by artists, designers and drivers alike, and recognised worldwide as a unique expression of British character. A decisive new chapter began with the brand’s acquisition by BMW Group, which preserved Mini’s heritage while opening the door to a sustainable future. The first modern MINI, engineered by BMW Group, rolled off the line at Plant Oxford on 26^th April 2001, marking the start of a new chapter, blending its unmistakable design DNA and go‑kart feeling with modern technology, premium quality and contemporary relevance.

“Marking 25 years of the modern MINI is truly a milestone. Our unmistakable British roots, unique design, go-kart feeling and playful spirit have made MINI a global icon. For more than a quarter century, BMW Group’s expertise has contributed to MINI’s ongoing success. Thanks to our dedicated global MINI team, the brand continues to excite and inspire drivers for generations.” said Jean-Philippe Parain, Head of MINI.

The current model lineup is the most extensive and varied in the brand’s history, with five models, each reflecting its own unique character. Powertrain options include fully electric or highly efficient combustion engines.

Owning a MINI is so much more than simply travelling from A to B – it is a statement of individuality. With an impressive range of customization options, every MINI becomes a true reflection of its owner's unique tastes and character. From selecting paint colors to choosing upholstery and interior trims, each MINI can be finely tailored to personal preferences. Over the past 25 years, a host of options have been offered — among them, the famous bonnet stripes and the distinctive multi-tone roof stand out. Thanks to innovative techniques at the Oxford factory, the striking three-color roof design provides a visual highlight. Special editions have strengthened MINI’s image internationally and set new trends. In 2026, MINI pays tribute to British design and playful elegance with the MINI Paul Smith Edition.

In 2025, MINI recorded global sales of 288,290 vehicles. Battery electric vehicles comprised more than one third of worldwide deliveries and even surpassed 50% in markets like the Netherlands, Turkey, Sweden, and China. The sub-brand John Cooper Works reached an all-time high with 25,630 units sold, representing 8.9% of the total MINI volume.

Since joining the BMW Group, MINI has experienced a remarkable evolution, continuously developing yet remaining faithful to its heritage. BMW’s expertise has been actively integrated into MINI for more than 25 years, introducing advancements such as enhanced user interfaces, innovative assistant features and improved safety systems. The latest generations of the MINI family impressively demonstrate the safety commitment: numerous 5-star ratings in the Euro NCAP crash test confirm the high level of protection offered.

MINI manufacturing in British BMW Group Plants

Over the past 25 years, modern MINI production has evolved across four model generations, spanning a range of body styles including the original 3-door, 5-door, Roadster, Coupe, Clubman, Clubvan and Convertible. In total, 4,671,664 MINIs have now been built in Britain since 2001.

MINI’s modern era has been powered by its UK production heartland. At the centre of that story are two UK manufacturing hubs: Plant Oxford, the home of MINI production, and BMW Group Plant Swindon, where thousands of precision-engineered body panels are crafted every day.

Together, these two sites represent one of the UK’s most significant automotive manufacturing hubs, with a workforce of more than 3,000 highly skilled people producing around 800 MINIs a day. At Plant Oxford, a new MINI drives off the production line every 78 seconds.

Plants Oxford and Swindon have been at the heart of their communities for a very long time – 113 and 70 years respectively. The wider production story took another important step in 2006 when BMW Group Plant Hams Hall in North Warwickshire began producing engines for the MINI, with more than 4.6 million engines produced for the Oxford-built models.

Markus Grüneisl, CEO, BMW (UK) Manufacturing Ltd said “This 25-year milestone is a proud moment for MINI and for everyone involved in its production here in the UK. From the very beginning, our plants in Oxford and Swindon have been at the heart of MINI’s global success, combining exceptional craftsmanship with innovation. Above all, it is our people – their creativity, expertise and pride in what they do – that continue to make MINI so special.”

66+ years of vibrant automotive history – a look back at the milestones of MINI:

In case of queries, please contact:
Corporate Communications

Franziska Liebert, Spokesperson MINI
Phone: +49-89-382-28030
E-Mail: franziska.liebert@mini.com

Micaela Sandstede, Head of Communications MINI
Phone: +49-176-601-61611
E-mail: micaela.sandstede@bmw.de

Richmond Hill, ON.  Developed with passion and designed to perfection, the BMW 7 Series has established itself as an innovation leader and technological pioneer around the world since it first launched in 1977. Each generation has brought fresh momentum to its era – from groundbreaking safety functions and revolutionary operating concepts to digital worlds that set new standards. This forward-looking approach has been a hallmark characteristic of the BMW 7 Series for nearly 50 years.

The 2027 BMW 7 Series represents the most extensive model update ever undertaken by BMW. The new BMW 7 Series – now in its seventh generation – marks a tremendous leap forwards once again. As the flagship series of the BMW range and a brand figurehead, the new BMW 7 Series spearheads the introduction of technologies from the Neue Klasse into existing models. This step also marks the beginning of a technology rollout spanning generations and drivetrain variants from which all future BMW cars will benefit.

The 2027 BMW 7 Series debuts with a fully electric model - the i7 60 xDrive. It will be joined by the plug-in hybrid 750e xDrive in the first quarter of 2027 and, later, a V8-powered M Performance model.

Production at BMW Group Plant Dingolfing.

All models and drivetrain variants of the new BMW 7 Series will be built on a single production line at BMW Group Plant Dingolfing. The tradition-rich location in Lower Bavaria combines the customary BMW passion for flawless engineering with skilled craftsmanship like no other.

The new 2027 BMW 7 Series celebrates its world premiere on April 22, 2026, with concurrent unveilings in Beijing at Auto China 2026 and at a special event at Grand Central Terminal in the heart of New York City. The start of production and worldwide market launch will follow just a few months later, from July 2026.

The new face of BMW luxury-class models. Specific interpretation of the new BMW design language for the luxury segment. Monolithic appearance makes the new BMW 7 Series visually distinctive and easy to differentiate, as do the new BMW Iconic Exterior Illumination and minimalist crystal headlights.

With the Neue Klasse, BMW has adopted a new and distinctive approach to front-end design that will provide a clear identity and high recognition factor across all the brand’s models. The new BMW 7 Series embodies the specific interpretation of this new design language for the luxury segment. By combining its established qualities – sportiness and dynamism, luxury and comfort – with Neue Klasse design principles, it fits seamlessly into its lineage and, at the same time, provides a clear look ahead to the appearance of upcoming BMW models. Its distinct front-end design is reserved exclusively for the BMW luxury-class.

The front-end centres around the updated illuminated BMW kidney grille, the new two-section headlights and the newly designed BMW badge. The horizontal, minimalist light signature of the daytime driving light icons – crystal headlights can be specified as an option – and the eye-catching kidney grille treatment do most to etch the car’s appearance into the memory. Generously sized surfaces in body colour surround all the design elements of the front end and showcase them to maximum effect. In this way, the monolithic design lends every new BMW 7 Series model even greater visual impact.

The BMW Iconic Exterior Illumination kidney grille with new, horizontal graphic is also the defining element of the front-end design in its updated form. It is slimmer and more vertical in proportion than on the previous model, brings a typical BMW luxury-class flavor to the Neue Klasse design language and gives the kidney grille an even more majestic aura. Technical functions like the radar, camera, sensors, and washer nozzles are integrated into the kidney grille essentially out of sight, enabling an uncluttered and expansive design.

Where the BMW kidney grille and hood meet, we find the newly designed BMW badge, which is now larger and has a matte finish. It is set like a jewel into a valley between two new character lines, which stretch powerfully over the hood. The headlights have a new design and lend the front end a sophisticated, technical aura. The light functions are divided into two separate sections, as before.

The visual focus is on the extremely slim and precisely designed upper light elements, which comprise the daytime driving lights, side marker lights, and turn indicators. The optional BMW Crystal Headlights contain 12 crystal glass elements per light, their diamond cut reflecting the light in a multitude of facets to generate a unique, exclusive look. Indeed, the evolved crystal structure creates a unique aesthetic and brings the front end of the car to life with its elegant sparkling when sunshine hits. During the start-up animation, when the daytime driving lights are switched on and after dark, LED units backlight the crystals and combine with the kidney grille’s contour lighting to create an unmistakable light signature.

The low-beam and high-beam headlights are positioned in the lower section of the headlight units. This section is significantly smaller than on the predecessor car, now only uses one light source, and is arranged vertically and almost invisibly near the air curtains at the outer edges of the body. These lights only become visible when switched on, and the design helps to create a neat and serene, monolithic front-end impression. The Adaptive LED Headlights including cornering light come as standard in the new BMW 7 Series.

Special welcome and goodbye animations and dynamic light carpet. The new welcome and goodbye animations bring a seamless, personalized experience to vehicle access and accompany the passengers from when they approach the car before a journey to when they walk away.

The new BMW 7 Series provides a “welcome” as standard, with a choreographed combination of light effects and projections. Customers can choose an animation from the RELAXED, BALANCED, and EXCITED modes. At the end of a journey, the car produces a similarly well-orchestrated goodbye animation.

A new element of the animation is the optional Ceremonial Light Carpet. Here, LED lights with more than 194,000 pixels – embedded in the door sills – project a dynamic graphic light pattern onto the ground near the door that varies in nature according to the animation mode selected.

Making a statement: side view with clear, reduced surfaces, character line and high-quality details.

The monolithic design of the new BMW 7 Series continues in the car’s flanks. Here, the new design language is revealed in features including a character line extending from the front apron over the door sills and into the rear. This fine detail, precise and sophisticated in its execution, gives the sedan even greater stylistic appeal. The new line lends the BMW 7 Series an almost boat-tail-like character from a rear three-quarter view and imbues it with extra visual length and elegance.

The newly designed door handles on the BMW 7 Series are integrated flush to the doors in classical handle recesses, enhancing the clean and reduced exterior look. The door handle trim is finished in either Satin Aluminum or, if the M Sport package is chosen, high-gloss black. Opening both side doors on one side reveals a prominent “7” embossed into the B-pillar.

Rear end with newly designed lights and reduced surfaces.

The rear of the new BMW 7 Series replicates the clear and reduced design applied elsewhere. The completely newly designed rear lights are a key element here. They extend far into the rear end, their slim, elongated form underscoring the broad, sporting stance of the new BMW 7 Series. Inside the rear light units, chrome strips help create a high-quality visual effect and a precise light pattern. Their smoked glass look brings cutting-edge elegance to the lights, even when they are off.

All technological components, such as the unlocking function for the trunk lid, the rear-view camera, and the camera washer nozzle, are integrated almost out of sight into the black area of the lights. This allows the surfaces and lights of the rear end to be presented to optimum effect. As at the front, the new BMW badge at the rear end is integrated into a slight recess and framed like a jewel by the surfaces between the rear lights.

Reduced forms and clean surfaces mark the design of the rear apron, which appears as if cut from a single mould. A diffuser-like form creates a modern, technical impression.

Optional M Sport Package and M Sport Pro Package further set the 7 Series apart.

The optional M Sport Package and M Sport Package Pro allow customers to add further sporting accents to any variant of the new BMW 7 Series. Both options include the M Aerodynamics Package, which in turn brings model-specific M Sport exterior design. The M-specific geometry of the front and rear bumpers – a large proportion of which are finished in black – plus prominent air intakes, large air curtains and the rear diffuser are all also included, as are M-specific side skirts, window surrounds, mirror bases, and door handle trim finished in high-gloss black (satin aluminum may also be specified). Other features include 21-inch M aerodynamic wheels, M Sport brakes with callipers in Dark Blue Metallic, door sill strips bearing the BMW M badge, and a special welcome and goodbye animations complete with an M-specific dynamic light carpet.

Offering even greater dynamism and exclusivity is the M Sport Pro Package, which adds further sporting details and equipment to the M Sport Package. It includes a dark BMW M kidney grille, 21-inch M aerodynamic wheels and Black Exterior Contents, which include BMW kidney grille surround and darkened rear lights. With BMW Crystal Headlights specified, M Sport Pro Package adds Shadowline Lights and special darkened crystals.. The M Sport Package Professional also includes a black M rear spoiler, M steering wheel, and an M Sport braking system with black-painted calipers.

Cutting-edge technology meets skilled craftsmanship: BMW Individual Dual-Finish is a world first.

The new BMW Individual Dual-Finish paint concept is genuinely unique. In this complex process, a matte paint finish in the lower area of the vehicle is paired with a manually applied metallic finish in the upper section of the body. Together with the Coach Line – likewise drawn by hand – this creates a discreet but supremely elegant look.

More than any other aspect, the transition between the two paint finishes reveals the striking quality of this BMW innovation and the skilled craftsmanship of the employees who apply it. Metallic and matte paint differ significantly in their composition, but with BMW Individual Dual-Finish there is no noticeable transition point where the two finishes meet.

BMW Individual Dual-Finish paintwork represents the pinnacle of what is currently possible in painting techniques. Experts have spent two-and-a-half years developing this innovative technology, which can only be used at BMW Group Plant Dingolfing and is only available for the BMW 7 Series. More than 20 specially trained employees are involved in a complex process in which the car is prepared manually for each of the 12 steps in the painting process. Among the tasks they carry out are taping the car by hand and sanding down the body to prepare it for the manual painting process. These jobs alone account for nearly half of the work time. Each car ordered with a BMW Individual Dual-Finish will spend more than 75 hours – i.e. over three full days – in the paint shop. This is almost six times longer than for a conventional paint finish.

The reimagined interior features BMW Panoramic iDrive and the debut of a front passenger display – the BMW Passenger Display.

The integration of Neue Klasse technologies – in the form of the display and operating system BMW Panoramic iDrive with BMW Operating System X – opens up a new dimension in BMW-typical driver orientation and new possibilities when it comes to tailoring the design of the BMW 7 Series interior to personal preferences.

The new instrument panel provides the stage for the “floating” Central Display in free-cut design, which is fitted in an ideal ergonomic position next to the steering wheel.

Next to it is the new front-passenger display, another important and design-defining element. The BMW Passenger Display makes its debut in the new BMW 7 Series and is fitted as standard in every 7 Series model.

The BMW Panoramic Vision – with a projection surface extending across the full width of the windscreen, from A-pillar to A-pillar – and the new multifunction steering wheel also make a significant contribution to the cutting-edge interior of the new BMW 7 Series.

From private cinema lounge to mobile workstation, the upgraded BMW Theatre Screen sets new standards all over again.

One of the highlights of the options list for the new BMW 7 Series is the BMW Theatre Screen. Its 31.3-inch touchscreen with 8K resolution and optional Bowers & Wilkins Diamond Surround Sound System with Dolby Atmos support transforms the rear compartment of the new BMW 7 Series into an exclusive cinema lounge. The new integrated camera allows passengers to make Zoom video calls easily, as if in a mobile office. And an HDMI connection turns the BMW Theatre Screen into an expanded computer display.

Just deploying the BMW Theatre Screen is an experience. The process is accompanied by a sound animation – and the sunshades for the side windows, rear window, and the Panoramic Glass Sunroof are closed and the ambient lighting in the rear compartment is dimmed at the same time. Passengers can effortlessly adapt the positioning of the BMW Theatre Screen to their requirements. The updated BMW Touch Command digital control screens in the rear doors are used not only to move the screen forward and back with ease, but also to adjust the viewing angle. Adding the finishing touches to the BMW Theatre Screen experience is the immersive sound of the Bowers & Wilkins speakers and Dolby Atmos support.

Immersive light experience with new ambient light strip and new light elements.

The new lighting concept inside the BMW 7 Series greets the driver with a harmonious, immersive experience adapted to personal preferences. The welcome animation that unfolds outside the car continues seamlessly to the interior in a neatly composed overall choreography of illumination, sound elements and personalized settings.

An array of light elements generates soft, evenly spread, and diffuse illumination with a wrap-around effect; the sophisticated, modern design creating a pleasant and exclusive ambience inside the car.

An important part of the animation and a central element of the interior design is the new ambient light strip, which reaches across the full width of the cockpit. In daylight it illuminates with a delicate alabaster structure, whereas in darkness it produces a moderately dynamic light effect. The colour and brightness of the light respond to the time of day and – like all the light elements – can be adjusted to personal preferences via the My Modes Personal.

The second style-defining design feature in the new BMW 7 Series are the new light elements integrated seamlessly into the backs of the front seats at head-restraint height. These vertically arranged lights extend the immersive light mood elegantly into the rear compartment.

Finally, there is the optional Sky Lounge Panoramic Glass Sunroof. More than 40 LED lights illuminate a graphic structure extending throughout the interior. The pattern replicates elements of the quilting on the seat surfaces. The colour world of the light effects takes its cues from the activated My Modes, and can also be selected independently.

Speaker covers in the rear doors that are illuminated from the inside, new additional reading lights in the rear compartment and other illumination elements round off the lighting concept.

Bowers & Wilkins sound systems and Dolby Atmos support deliver a high level of listening pleasure. Acoustics have been enhanced.

The new BMW 7 Series is fitted with the Bowers & Wilkins Surround Sound System as standard. It features a seven-band equalizer and up to 18 speakers with attractive metal covers. Its amplifier output is up to 575 watts.

The optional Bowers & Wilkins Diamond Surround Sound System delivers genuinely high-end audio. Up to 36 speakers and an amplifier output of up to 1,925 watts perfectly showcase every sound and set the standard in the 7 Series’ segment. The fully active audio system brings a seven-band equalizer and seven carefully crafted sound profiles. Additional surround speakers are integrated into the head restraints of both the front seats and the two outer rear seats. And the sound system also has a 4D audio function, which uses exciters in the front and rear seat backrests to improve perception of bass frequencies, even at low volumes.

Audiophile drivers and passengers in vehicles specified with the Bowers & Wilkins Diamond Surround Sound System will be pleased to find their 7 Series now also offer a rich and varied audio experience in Dolby Atmos quality. Dolby Atmos creates a three-dimensional soundscape for compatible audio formats and allows sound objects to be moved around freely within the cabin. The new BMW 7 Series therefore provides a new and immersive audio experience when streaming films or music.

The further improved interior acoustics of the BMW 7 Series create the ideal environment in which to enjoy the ultimate in audio pleasure. As well as side windows with flush-fitting seals, standard-fit acoustic glazing, an elastic steering gear mounting fitted on the front axle subframe, an additional model-specific motor mount in the BMW i7 and tires containing internal foam absorbers that provide integrated soundproofing (depending on option or package chosen), the 7 Series also features exterior mirror caps that benefit from additional aeroacoustic optimization and improved door insulation.

High-quality materials, classic appointments, and innovative details maximize comfort. Owners can adapt the interior design to their own personal tastes.

The meticulous selection, crafting, and presentation of surfaces, textures and details are key to creating an interior that exudes quality and exclusivity. This devotion to detail can be seen in many different aspects of the new BMW 7 Series interior.

The instrument panel and centre console come as standard with Oak Mirror Finish Fine-Wood Trim with Grey Metallic Highlights. Optional alternatives include Limewood Open-Pored Wood Trim, BMW Individual Ash Flowing Grey Open-Pored Trim and, for the first time, Alcantara interior trim in coordinating interior colours. With this option, the trim strips for the centre console come in Piano Black. The optional M Carbon Trim brings a particularly sporting ambience to vehicles specified with the M Sport or M Sport Pro Packages.

The uncluttered design of the instrument panel continues into the door panel trim. Catching the eye here is the new control panel that groups together frequently used functions elegantly and practically. The controls for the seat backrest, forward/back position, and seat height adjustment are made from crystal glass, providing not only exceptional quality of workmanship for customers to enjoy but also superb look and feel.

BMW Glass controls can also be found in the newly designed centre console – for the start/stop button, gear selector lever, and volume control button. The integrated cup holder is illuminated, while the integrated smartphone tray offering inductive charging with up to 15 watts of power is trimmed in soft Alcantara and has a magnetic holder that keeps mobile phones securely in place. If the driver leaves their mobile phone behind in the smartphone tray, an alert in the goodbye screen reminds them.

New, fully electric slot-type air vents are integrated almost invisibly into the instrument panel – a design solution that feeds into the clean and uncluttered interior look overall. The airflow can be controlled intuitively and precisely via the Central Display.

Customers can choose from a host of appointments and colour combinations to bring a personal touch to the design of their car’s interior. All the elements of the interior are stylishly coordinated.

The new BMW 7 Series is equipped as standard with Merino Leather – available in Black, Mocha, Smoke White, or Tartufo with elaborate quilting. An Alcantara roofliner is also optionally available.

 The optional Merino Leather with Exclusive Contents, available in Black, Mocha, Smoke White, Tartufo, two-tone Caramel/Atlas Grey and new Adelaide Grey, takes the feeling of wellbeing on board the BMW 7 Series to another level. The Alcantara roofliner comes in Black when the leather shades Black, Mocha or Adelaide Grey are specified, while Smoke White,Tartufo and Caramel/Atlas Grey combine with a roofliner in Atlas Grey.

Exceptional quality and an extremely cozy atmosphere are promised by the Merino Leather/Cashmere Wool in the colour combinations Smoke White/Atlas Grey or Black/Dark Grey. The neatly coordinated colours contrast between the leather in the upper section of the seats and the cashmere-rich cloth in the lower section, plus elaborate quilting and fine perforation create a unique impression – both visually and tactily. Their intricate, symmetrically embroidered pattern makes these seats a beautifully eye-catching feature of the interior. The exclusive cashmere wool material combination is also available for the centre armrest and neck cushions. Smoke White/Atlas Grey equips an Alcantara roofliner in Atlas Grey, while Black/Dark Grey can be combined with an Alcantara roofliner in either Black or Ivory White.

First-class seating comfort: standard comfort seats and optional Executive Lounge for the rear compartment.

Standard specification for the BMW 7 Series includes multifunction seats with extensive electric adjustment, as well as seat heating, armrest heating and lumbar support for the driver and front passenger. The seat position can be adjusted easily using the newly designed control panels in the door trim and via the Central Display. The standard multifunction seats also come with active seat ventilation, while a massage function with nine programs and three levels of intensity can be optioned. The rear seats are adjusted using the BMW Touch Command digital control panels in the door trim.

Offering exceptional seating comfort, the Executive Lounge Seating comprises an integrated leg rest for the area behind the front-passenger seat and a quilted and heated centre armrest with high-quality glass insert and integrated, Alcantara-trimmed smartphone tray for wireless device charging. Coordinated adjustment of the angle of the backrest and backrest’s upper section, the forward/backward position of the seat, and the seat angle allows an extraordinarily comfortable reclining position with a torso angle of up to 43°.

The design principle for the leg rest is unique, with its calf support fixed directly to the seat surface without a gap. The front-passenger seat can be moved fully forward and its backrest tilted forward as far as it will go to enable the ideal seating position and legroom for the rear passenger behind it. The adjusting mechanism has been optimized to allow the driver to see in the passenger-side exterior mirror.

Ergonomic and intuitive steering wheels with a new design and new operating philosophy.

Three new steering wheel designs in up to three colours combine eye-catching design with excellent ergonomics and high-quality materials. The new steering wheel with slightly flattened design and vertical spoke is an integral element of the BMW Panoramic iDrive display and operating concept. The multifunction steering wheel with haptic feedback follows the shy-tech principle whereby the controls for the driver assistance functions – if fitted – are illuminated.

Updated automatic doors with Soft Close mechanism offer outstanding ease of use.

The optional automatic doors have been optimized for the updated BMW 7 Series. A button for opening and closing the doors is located in a new, more ergonomically optimal position on the inside of each door handle. A single touch of the newly designed handles set flush into the body is all that is required; the doors will open and close reliably even if the user is wearing gloves or the door handles are iced over. There is also a corresponding button on the inside of each door. A host of other options for using the doors are also available, e.g. the My BMW App, voice commands or the simplified menu structure of BMW Panoramic iDrive with BMW Operating System X.

The new Soft Close mechanism is particularly user friendly, closing the doors smoothly and underscoring the luxurious ambience of the new BMW 7 Series each time the customer gets in and out. An integral servo mode allows the doors to be opened and closed manually with little effort. Plus, the automatic doors now work using radar sensors. These are integrated almost out of sight in the side skirts, front end and rear of the car, and allow the doors to be opened and closed more quickly than was previously possible. The sensors also identify possible obstacles with a high level of precision, which makes the integral collision protection even more effective. The radar sensors detect not only obstacles near the doors but also road users approaching the car, which significantly lowers the risk of collision.

New digital interior mirror.

Another new feature available for the BMW 7 Series is the optional digital interior mirror, which enables the driver to use the conventional visual mirror or a digital mirror function, as they prefer or the situation demands. The digital variant uses a camera – integrated elegantly into the parcel shelf – that shows the view behind the car in the mirror. This technology is especially helpful when using the BMW Theatre Screen, for example. The digital interior mirror will be offered from November 2026.

BMW Panoramic iDrive featuring BMW Operating System X – complete driver orientation, BMW-style.

The visionary BMW Panoramic iDrive system represents the latest generation of the BMW display and operating concept. Centred on the interaction between user and car, it redefines vehicle operation, the display of information and driver orientation. By intelligently linking displays, controls, and software, it creates a fully integrated system that is intuitive, convenient and ergonomic to use and provides the driver with the relevant information at all times.

At the system’s heart is the BMW Panoramic Vision, which employs newly developed technology to project content across the entire width of the lower area of the windscreen. The content shown here is always visible and forms the visual basis of the entire display and operating concept. Driving-related information is displayed in a clearly structured form on the left-hand side in the driver’s field of vision, without restricting their view of the road ahead. The content in the central and right-hand areas of the display can be personalized and is visible to all passengers.

The BMW 3D Head Up Display integrated above the BMW Panoramic Vision projects selected content directly into the driver’s line of sight and purely for their benefit. This display enables highly precise spatial perception – with navigation instructions, for example, or information from the driver assistance systems. The content shown in the BMW 3D Head-Up Display and the BMW Panoramic Vision is perfectly coordinated, with the two complementing each other to create a consistent, clearly structured display experience.

The 17.9-inch Central Display in free-cut design is integrated into BMW Panoramic iDrive as another essential control element. It features sophisticated matrix backlight technology for brilliant graphics and excellent readability in all light conditions. The special free-cut design allows for optimal ergonomic positioning and combines with the improved menu structure featuring QuickSelect to ensure convenient, simple and intuitive touch control.

There is a menu on the Central Display containing widgets that can be moved to the BMW Panoramic Vision by drag and drop. Up to six widgets can be freely arranged in this way to enable quick access to frequently used functions. Further widget content and submenus can be displayed in the BMW Panoramic Vision using the newly developed multifunction steering wheel.

The multifunction steering wheel employs the shy-tech philosophy, meaning its controls are only illuminated when required. The controls for driving assistance and parking functions are located on the left side, while those for infotainment functions, such as phone calls or the media player, can be found on the right. These functions can be operated via a specially designed control panel that provides haptic feedback, allowing the driver to control key functions safely and accurately without taking their eyes off the road.

BMW Panoramic iDrive is underpinned by the BMW Operating System X software. This serves as an intelligent platform for the display and operating system and is designed explicitly for a software-defined vehicle (SDV) approach. The architecture is based on the Android Open Source Project (AOSP) and offers excellent update and upgrade capabilities. This means that the system stays up to date for a long time and allows the continuous addition of new functions and digital services. BMW Operating System X meticulously manages all interaction elements and ensures information is consistently presented in a context-sensitive manner that suits the situation at hand.

One of the system’s key features is its wide-ranging customizability. Content, widgets and displays are individually configurable, allowing them to be adapted to personal preferences. Users can select colours, display schemes and background images to create a personalized digital experience. They will also be able to set their own pictures as the background image for the Central Display using the My BMW App. The appearance of the user interface design colours across all displays automatically adjusts to the selected image. Drivers have a wealth of options for tailoring the user interface design as they wish in Personal mode, enabling even greater customization of displays, interactions, and vehicle-related settings. Further My Modes, such as SPORT, EFFICIENT and SILENT, add to the range of personal setups available to customers.

The BMW ID opens the door to the customizable driving experience with BMW Operating System X. Up to seven different users can sign in with their BMW ID, allowing them to enjoy every drive to the fullest with their individual settings. Before setting off, a message greeting the driver by name – together with their personal profile picture if desired – will automatically appear in the Central Display.

The interplay between the BMW Panoramic Vision, BMW 3D Head-Up Display, Central Display, and multifunction steering wheel – all controlled by BMW Operating System X – creates a consistent, clearly structured display and operating concept. Physical and digital controls combine to deliver a seamless user experience that is designed specifically for driver orientation and ergonomics. In the process, the “hands on the wheel, eyes on the road” principle is reinterpreted and elevated to a more advanced technological level.

BMW Intelligent Personal Assistant, enhanced by Amazon’s Alexa+ AI technology.

The multimodal operating logic of BMW Panoramic iDrive combines touch, haptic and voice-based interactions. The enhanced BMW Intelligent Personal Assistant plays a key role here, enabling numerous vehicle functions, navigation destination entry and media content to be controlled using natural language, without the need for defined voice commands.

The self-learning assistant turns the vehicle into an intelligent digital companion. The voice assistant can be summoned in the usual way with the prompt “Hey BMW” or the push of a button on the steering wheel’s right-hand control panel. The BMW Intelligent Personal Assistant can help to control the windows, air conditioning, seating comfort, phone calls, in-car entertainment and far more besides. It can also be used to call up a large number of function menus or operate certain apps.

The addition of Amazon’s Alexa+ AI technology to the BMW Intelligent Personal Assistant increases the range of functions even further. The integration of Amazon Alexa+ into the BMW Intelligent Personal Assistant marks a technological leap forward focused on adding value for the customer. The AI technology used is a large language model (LLM), a type of generative AI that “understands” language and is capable of formulating its own responses. This results in more dialogue-based verbal interaction, enabling intuitive and intelligent exchanges, access to external knowledge bases, cloud-based services and media content, as well as control of vehicle functions. Linking the BMW Intelligent Personal Assistant to an Amazon account allows the user to search for and stream music, listen to the latest news and access a wide range of other content effortlessly. Availability will be gradually expanded, starting with the German and US markets.

At the driver’s request, the BMW Intelligent Personal Assistant is also able to offer proactive suggestions based on usage patterns and other factors. BMW Operating System X further expands this intelligent capability by taking far more contexts into account, e.g. based on the driving situation, environmental analysis or interior sensing.

A highlight of the new BMW 7 Series interior: standard-fitted BMW Passenger Display takes entertainment for the front passenger to the next level.

The BMW Passenger Display, which is making its debut in the new BMW 7 Series and will be fitted as standard, is a first for the BMW brand. Together with the Central Display, it forms a defining element of the display and operating philosophy in the new BMW 7 Series. Measuring 14.6 inches, it offers the same sophisticated technology as the Central Display.

The BMW Passenger Display has been specifically designed to provide entertainment for the front passenger during the journey. The full HD display allows easy and intuitive multi-touch operation. The screen seems to merge seamlessly into the Central Display with free-cut design. It gives the front passenger full access to the wide range of BMW Entertainment options, including video streaming and TV programs, gaming, music and much more besides. Log-in with a BMW ID is not required. BMW Digital Premium includes the necessary data allowance and is available on all the car’s displays. An integrated shield function ensures the driver can stay focused on the task of driving at all times. The interior camera detects any driver distraction while on the move and automatically dims the display.

If there is no front passenger in the car, the BMW Passenger Display will automatically switch to a reduced mode and blend harmoniously into the other displays inside the BMW. Here, the display background is adjusted to suit the active My Mode and the ambient lighting.

Extensive upgrade for the unrivalled BMW Theatre Screen – 8K streaming, gaming, Zoom video calls.

The BMW 7 Series update also includes a far-reaching upgrade for the BMW Theatre Screen. The entire surface of the 31.3-inch 8K touchscreen, together with all its functions, can now be operated by touch. And the occupants in the rear can now also access the BMW video streaming platform and use numerous additional popular entertainment and information apps. The apps are easily downloaded via the BMW ConnectedDrive Store. A wide range of video games is also available via AirConsole.

The connectivity provided by BMW Digital Premium – 4 years of service are included as standard – is all that is required to download and use the apps. Devices such as headphones and game controllers can be paired via Bluetooth. There is also an HDMI port in the centre console e.g. for plugging in a TV streaming stick or laptop.

The BMW Theatre Screen additionally comes with a new built-in camera, making it simple to make video calls via Zoom from the rear seats.

Modern, powerful software and electronics architecture for future-proof vehicle functions.

The new BMW 7 Series benefits from the completely new E/E architecture developed for the Neue Klasse as the basis for a “software-defined vehicle” (SDV). This makes the vehicle more intelligent and efficient overall, with greater capabilities. The centralized high-performance computers together boast 20 times more processing power than the current generation of models. This means the vehicle is prepared for upcoming software and function updates, including interactive AI features. The zonal wiring harness architecture reduces harness weight by around 30 percent while saving around 2,000 feet of wiring. As well as enabling shorter, thinner wiring, it uses digital smart eFuses for intelligent power distribution and makes a significant contribution to improving the vehicle’s overall energy efficiency.

The new electronics architecture underpins a more advanced software architecture that will keep all future BMW models fully up to date via software updates. In view of the wealth of digital functions in a software-defined vehicle, it is crucial that functions can be continuously refined on stable software platforms instead of always having to be newly developed. That is what we have achieved with the new BMW model generation, starting with the Neue Klasse.

Top-class in-car entertainment – greatly enhanced entertainment offering, including apps from popular third-party providers.

BMW Operating System X offers customers more in-car entertainment options than ever before. The convenience of using the extensive app, video, and gaming portfolio – with unlimited data – provided with the BMW Digital Premium package is included for four years as standard. A single connection per car is all that’s required, and this is then available to enjoy entertainment offerings on the Central Display, BMW Passenger Display and BMW Theatre Screen.

Customers are also able to access the Video app (powered by TiVo™), which provides an ever-expanding range of content, such as news and live/on demand streaming platforms. Videos can be streamed on the Central Display, BMW Passenger Display and BMW Theatre Screen when the vehicle is stationary. This functionality remains available to use on the BMW Passenger Display and BMW Theatre Screen while on the move. By signing in with existing accounts, customers can resume movies or series from the exact point they left off at home.

The AirConsole app provided by BMW Operating System X offers great entertainment for all passengers – with world-famous classics that have been specially adapted for the in-car gaming experience, such as UNO® Car Party!. Hot Wheels: Xtreme Overdrive™ from Mattel is a new highlight in the extensive AirConsole gaming library. With AirConsole, players can use their smartphones as controllers, allowing all passengers to play with or against each other.

Customers can obtain further games and apps for in-car entertainment from the BMW ConnectedDrive Store. Selected games can now also be controlled with the Bluetooth controllers for standard games consoles. The BMW ConnectedDrive Store already features a total of over 60 apps worldwide. Categories include music & audio, entertainment, gaming, news, and travel & local – and the choice will continue to grow.

BMW Digital Premium: the flexible, complete package for entertainment, security functions and extended navigation features.

The BMW Digital Premium package includes the Security Assistant, which comprises a host of useful functions to give the customer greater peace of mind. Attempted thefts and parking bumps will trigger push notifications in the My BMW App, for instance. And in the event of an accident, the BMW Drive Recorder instantly makes exterior footage of what happened available in the car, and this footage can then be exported to a mobile phone. The anti-theft and parking collision recorder also makes automatic video recordings. The optional Remote Inside and Remote 3D View functions additionally allow customers to take a glance inside their car and check its immediate vicinity using the My BMW App.

In addition, BMW Digital Premium expands the range of navigation functions within BMW Maps. Additional real-time traffic information, satellite views, 3D building models and proactive tips assist with accurate and anticipatory route planning. Information on parking facilities and points of interest is also presented in greater detail. Precise and realistic visualisation of traffic lanes facilitates navigation guidance when dealing with complex road layouts in cities.

The data required for entertainment functions is included with BMW Digital Premium, meaning there is no need for customers to provide a data connection by using a smartphone as a hotspot or signing in to a Wi-Fi network. This connection can be used with the Central Display, BMW Passenger Display and BMW Theatre Screen. What’s more, the 5G-ready vehicle telematics system ensures the best possible streaming speed at all times. In the new BMW 7 Series, the features of BMW Digital Premium are included free of charge for four years. Once this period has expired, the package can be extended on a monthly or annual basis via the BMW ConnectedDrive Store. New features and services can be added over time to provide an always up-to-date, connected and future-ready digital user experience.

Effortless smartphone integration using Apple CarPlay and Android Auto as standard.

Wireless use of Apple CarPlay and Android Auto is also included as standard. Any available metadata for media titles or route guidance instructions that are active in the current mode is shown to the driver in the BMW Panoramic Vision and BMW 3D Head-Up Display in an intelligently presented form. The QuickSelect widgets continue to be available in the Central Display’s home screen, while the content projected from the smartphone is embedded alongside them so that it fits into the display’s shape. Once linked, the Apple CarPlay / Android Auto icon will be added to the menu bar, allowing the projected content to be displayed in full-screen mode.

The new BMW i7 60 xDrive.

The BMW i7 captures the range’s forward-looking premium character with particular flair and now offers an even more effortless drive. More comfortable throttle response, for example, allows even more sensitive control over this luxury sedan, which offers driving pleasure, passenger comfort and a luxurious ambience without compromise – and with zero local emissions. The BMW i7 comes with two sound-isolated electric motors. These provide compellingly instantaneous and virtually silent power delivery along with supreme traction and directional stability thanks to the standard all-wheel drive. The new driving sounds, sound effects and acoustic signals of BMW HypersonX add another layer to the all-encompassing experience in the BMW i7 60 xDrive.

The BMW i7 60 xDrive produces a combined maximum output of 536 hp and maximum system torque of 549 lb-ft. This allows the BMW i7 60 xDrive to accelerate to 100 km/h from standstill in about 4.8 seconds onto an electronically limited top speed of 240 km/h.

New high-voltage battery: improved range – partly thanks to the increase in usable energy content to as much as 115.5 kWh enabled by sixth-generation BMW eDrive cylindrical cells.

The high-voltage battery in the new all-electric BMW i7 now features the new cylindrical cell from the sixth generation of BMW eDrive technology, which made its debut in the BMW iX3 – the first representative of the Neue Klasse. Compared to the previous Gen5 prismatic cells, the volumetric energy density of the cylindrical cells is 20 percent higher. Combined with increased drive system efficiency, they are a key enabler of longer ranges and faster charging. As a result, the new BMW i7 60 xDrive is now able to offer customers an estimated range up to 560 km.

The updated i7 is fitted with a new high-voltage battery housing with the same external dimensions as before and with the Gen6 cylindrical cells integrated in a modular arrangement. This solution is unique within the BMW Group’s all-electric portfolio. The high voltage battery’s usable energy content has increased by more than ten percent to a maximum of 115.5 kWh (net).

Thanks to a variety of BMW EfficientDynamics measures, such as the use of silicon carbide semiconductor components for the power electronics (SiC inverters) and friction optimized wheel bearings, overall vehicle efficiency has also been increased by up to seven percent.

Electric motors based on the principle of an electrically excited synchronous motor.

Along with the new high-voltage battery with the latest Gen6 cylindrical cells and the overhauled charging technology, the updated BMW eDrive technology aboard the BMW i7 also comprises the highly integrated drive units at the front and rear axles, These have been optimized through the integration of an SiC inverter and bring together the electric motor, power electronics and transmission within a single, compact housing.

The electric motors in the BMW i7 work according to the principle of an electrically excited synchronous motor, where it is a precisely controllable electrical feed that sets the rotor in motion rather than fixed permanent magnets. This allows the use of critical rare earth metals (required for magnetic components) to be avoided altogether in the manufacture of the rotor.

Adaptive recuperation takes traffic lights into account and can automatically brake the car to a stop.

The BMW i7 boasts a sophisticated system of adaptive recuperation control with the ability to automatically decelerate to a standstill in response to vehicles in front or at traffic lights. This significantly improves driving comfort at near-stationary speeds. Adaptive recuperation generally allows the intensity of brake energy regeneration during overrun and braking to be automatically optimized for the traffic situation, as detected using data from the navigation system and the driver assistance systems’ sensors. When approaching a junction, for example, the level of recuperation can be increased (also possible if route guidance isn’t activated), thereby feeding energy back into the high-voltage battery while harnessing the deceleration effect.

On the open road, on the other hand, the coasting function can take over, allowing the car to “freewheel” with no drive power whenever the driver eases off the accelerator.

In addition to adaptive recuperation, the driver can also choose a high, medium or low brake energy regeneration setting for all driving situations. Driving position B automatically activates the highest recuperation setting, which also produces the distinctive one-pedal feeling. The range horizon clearly illustrates the impact of driving style on the high-voltage battery’s charge level.

The charging experience in the new BMW i7: user friendly, intelligent and efficient with a significantly increased charging rate and standard NACS charge port.

With its electric current strength of up to 630 amps and a significant increase in the maximum charging rate from 195 to 240 kW, the new BMW i7 can now be charged from 10 to 80 percent in just 29 minutes at certain fast charging stations.

Every electrified BMW i7 will be fitted as standard with an NACS charge port, enabling access to the nationwide Supercharger network, as well as adapters for charging at stations with other types of connectors.

Charging-optimized route planning and predictive thermal management for faster DC charging.

The BMW i7 features many innovations for convenient, fast charging on the go, such as charging-optimized routes planned according to individual criteria with automatic battery preparation for faster DC charging, or user-friendly charging stops with Shell Recharge and Plug & Charge integrated within the My BMW App for automatic authentication at charging stations.

The BMW i7 is able to store customised charging settings for multiple individual charging points. If the vehicle returns to a charging point, it will automatically apply the previous settings.

The BMW Maps navigation system calculates a charging-optimized route complete with charging stops if the entered destination is beyond the current range. The driver sets a preferred minimum charge level for when the vehicle reaches both charging points and the final destination, and determines which charging station operators to give preference to. With the help of AI, the system uses past charging cycles to, for example, ascertain the charging power that can realistically be expected, susceptibility to faults and the exact location data of individual charging stations – and then incorporates the optimal charging station into the route planning. To offer customers complete transparency, they are also given information on current occupancy, the number of charging points and connector types. The vehicle and My BMW App synchronize up-to-date information during the journey, allowing passengers to check the route and adapt it if necessary. The availability of places to eat and drink, play areas, restrooms, and shopping facilities near the charging station is also indicated.

Battery preparation preconditions the high-voltage battery to the ideal temperature prior to charging at a DC charging station, thereby increasing the charging rate as soon as the car is plugged in and shortening charging time. When navigating to a DC charging station using BMW Maps, the BMW i7 automatically adjusts the battery to the temperature required. Alternatively, customers are able to activate this function manually via the Central Display or My BMW App. The battery’s current temperature status and the time remaining for battery preparation can be checked at any time by going to Vehicle Status in the BMW i7 or via the My BMW App.

The new BMW 750e xDrive PHEV: coming in 2027.

The plug-in hybrid model, the BMW 750e xDrive, also offers a dynamic driving experience. In this model, the six cylinder in-line engine provides 308 hp and is paired with a 194-hp electric motor integrated into the transmission. This enables the hybrid system to achieve a combined output of 483 hp. Peak torque is 516 lb-ft. The new BMW 750e xDrive requires only about 4.8 seconds for the sprint to 100 km/h from rest. Top speed is electronically limited to 250 km/h, or 140 km/h when driving on all-electric power.

Production of the BMW 750e xDrive is expected to begin in the fourth quarter of 2026.

BMW Symbiotic Drive keeps the driver involved at all times in the interplay of human and artificial intelligence.

The advanced Level 2 driver assistance systems from BMW are designed down to the smallest detail for seamless interaction between assistance and human driving habits. The aim here is not the highest possible level of automation in every situation, but a safe driver assistance experience that offers maximum benefit and remains controllable at all times. As a result, the driver always stays involved in the interplay between human and artificial intelligence. When driver assistance is active, for instance, the driver can accelerate, steer and brake as required, without instantly deactivating the assistance system in the process. The clear operating logic and displays in BMW Panoramic iDrive ensure assisted driving is intuitive and controllable at all times, enabling the safe use of the highest SAE Level 2 automation. The symbiotic interaction between driver and vehicle can also be experienced with active safety functions that work unobtrusively in the background as silent companions, such as the Lane Keeping Assistant. The driver’s intention is determined based on steering behavior and eye tracking, meaning that the system only assists with warnings and steering inputs when the driver is unintentionally drifting out of their lane or an impending collision is detected.

Thanks to BMW Symbiotic Drive, active safety functions will only intervene when danger is detected if the driver is distracted or does not have the situation under control. Safety features include the Lane Keeping Assistant with active lane return, automatic evasion maneuvers within the car’s own lane, Active Blind Spot Detection and Side Collision Protection when there is a risk of a lateral collision, plus Frontal Cross-Traffic Alert with Brake Intervention when turning into a road or exiting a parking space. The Forward Collision Mitigation with Evasion Assistant is also effective in helping prevent frontal collisions using maximum braking power if necessary, and also now does so in response to wildlife crossing the road. Added to which, the exit warning function delays doors being opened, e.g. when there is a cyclist approaching.

Parking has never been so easy – with activation of the new standard Automatic Park Assistant directly from the steering wheel, AI-supported parking space detection and manoeuvre planning.

The standard Parking Assistant Professional package is capable of semi-automated parking, while the redesigned visualization of the surrounding area makes the selection of detected parking spaces even more intuitive. Automated parking maneuvers are carried out more swiftly and smoothly. Parking Assistant Professional provides a 360° all-round view with the option of switching between curb, 3D and car wash views. The Manoeuvre Assistant is able to record and then perform recurring maneuvers (covering a distance of up to 200 metres). Parking Assistant Professional also provides extensive options for carrying out parking and stored manoeuvres remotely from up to six metres away using the My BMW smartphone app. All driver and parking assistance functions can also be activated digitally from the BMW ConnectedDrive Store at a later stage.

Adaptive Chassis Control Professional with Integral Active Steering and active roll stabilisation for maximum ride comfort and handling precision.

The Adaptive Chassis Control Professional available as an option for selected models offers customers another way of maximising not just the ride comfort of the BMW 7 Series but also its agility and steering precision. This adds an active roll stabilization feature that uses a 48V electric motor positioned in the centre of the vehicle and active anti-roll bars to smooth out – exceptionally quickly and precisely – the lateral forces inducing body roll through dynamically taken corners. Adaptive Chassis Control Professional improves agility, directional accuracy and handling precision, and also enables highly dynamic steering response thanks to its ability to stabilise body roll more effectively. As a result, the driver enjoys extremely precise reactions from the steering and particularly fleet-footed performance. The potential for lateral acceleration and dynamic handling is also increased with Adaptive Chassis Control Professional, due to the optimum distribution of roll moment as a function of the driving state and the resulting balance between the contact forces at the front and rear wheels.

Active roll stabilization also increases comfort when driving in a straight line by decoupling the fixed connection between each axle’s wheels provided by a conventional anti-roll bar. As a result, suppression of body vibrations is also improved when driving straight ahead or at low levels of lateral acceleration: since the adaptive two-axle air suspension with self-levelling function maintains the full range of spring travel even when the vehicle is heavily laden, the addition of active roll stabilization makes it possible to activate a softer air spring setting and increase ride comfort. The amount of body roll caused by surface imperfections on one side of the vehicle is reduced thanks to the decoupled anti-roll bars. This has the effect of decreasing the lateral acceleration forces and the obtrusive side-to-side head movements they can cause.

As well as reducing rolling movements caused by bumps in the road on one side of the car, the Active Roll Comfort function fitted in the latest BMW 7 Series goes further still by actively adjusting the body height on the corresponding side of the vehicle at the same time.

The BMW Digital Key Plus: far more than just a key.

The BMW Digital Key Plus is becoming the preferred form of vehicle access. Here, smartphones and smartwatches from all leading manufacturers can be easily set up to work as a vehicle key. Ultra-wideband (UWB) and Bluetooth technology are used to enable the smartphone and vehicle to communicate with one another at close range. The UWB technology allows the user’s location to be pinpointed extremely precisely while also ensuring the highest possible level of vehicle access security (certified according to the Car Connectivity Consortium standard). Customers are able to share the digital key with others easily and securely using a messaging app, while setting individual roles and rights at the same time. It also enables the use of additional functions via the customer’s smartphone wallet, such as remote operation of the trunk lid.

A welcome sequence – featuring visual effects to accompany the customer as they move from the outside of the vehicle into its interior – begins when the customer approaches their car with the BMW Digital Key Plus. The welcome varies depending on the car’s specification. From approaching the car to pulling away in it, the driver can simply leave their smartphone in their pocket the entire time.

In addition to the BMW Digital Key Plus, the driver is also able to use the high-quality physical key to open and lock the vehicle at any time.

-30-

BMW Group in Canada

BMW Group Canada, based in Richmond Hill, Ontario, is a wholly owned subsidiary of BMW AG and is responsible for the distribution of BMW luxury performance automobiles, Sports Activity Vehicles, Motorcycles, and MINI.  BMW Group Financial Services Canada is a division of BMW Group Canada and offers retail financing and leasing programs and protection products on new and pre-owned BMW and MINI automobiles, as well as retail financing for new and pre-owned BMW Motorcycles. A total network of 51 BMW automobile retail centres, 26 BMW motorcycle retailers, and 31 MINI retailers represents the BMW Group across the country.

For more information, please contact:

Marc Belcourt

Director, Corporate Communications

BMW Group Canada

marc.belcourt@bmwgroup.ca                                               

Jean-Francois Taylor

Product and Technology Manager, Corporate Communications

BMW Group Canada

jean-francois.taylor@bmwgroup.ca

Munich. In line with its sustainability strategy, the BMW Group is once again systematically leveraging product sustainability innovations in the new BMW 7 Series. This is evident, for example, in the use of a new battery cell technology and a higher percentage of secondary material in the wheel rims. These measures represent a targeted further development, applying proven sustainability approaches to another BMW model.

Sixth-generation (Gen6) battery cells in the new BMW i7: Measures to reduce CO₂e in core component.
Essential levers for reducing supply chain CO₂e emissions include increased use of secondary materials and renewable energies, in combination with selected product and process innovations.
Gen6 battery cells for the BMW i7’s high-voltage battery are manufactured exclusively using energy from renewable sources. The same applies to production of the necessary anode and cathode active material. Cell production also relies in part on secondary raw materials for the lithium, cobalt and nickel required. This reduces the overall supply chain CO₂e footprint of the Gen6 battery cell in the new BMW i7 60 xDrive by approximately 33 percent compared to the previous Gen5 cell used in the BMW i7 to date.

Aluminium wheels with high percentage of secondary raw materials.
From 2026, selected rim designs for the BMW i7 will be available with 70 percent secondary aluminium. Electrolysis of the remaining primary aluminium, as well as wheel rim production, is carried out in part using renewable energy. All components with a high percentage of secondary raw materials meet the BMW Group’s same strict quality standards, while also contributing to resource efficiency.

Enhanced efficiency during use phase.
With its EfficientDynamics technology package, the BMW Group optimises vehicle efficiency across all relevant subsystems during the use phase. This includes aerodynamics, lightweight construction, rolling resistance and overall energy management. EfficientDynamics has been used by the BMW Group across all drive technologies since 2007.

Production at BMW Group Plant Dingolfing.
All model variants of the new BMW 7 Series Sedan are produced at BMW Group Plant Dingolfing. The facility in Lower Bavaria, the Group’s primary plant for BMW luxury cars, increasingly relies on renewable energy for electricity and heating. 100 percent of its external electricity comes from renewable sources, some of which is also generated directly on site. In late 2025, an approximately 100,000-square-metre rooftop photovoltaic system with an output of almost 11 MWp was commissioned at the facility. In addition, a biomass heating plant went on-stream late last year to ensure that locally-produced heat is partially supplied from renewable energy sources.

In line with BMW Group’s sustainable development goals.
The BMW Group’s commitment to the Paris Climate Agreement and to reaching “net zero” no later than 2050 is an integral part of its holistic 360° approach to sustainability, which is anchored in its corporate strategy. The BMW Group has set itself ambitious science-based CO₂e targets for the coming years and intends to reduce its CO₂e emissions by a total of at least 40 million tonnes from 2019 levels by 2030.

Transparency through BMW Vehicle Footprint.
The BMW Group has published its vehicles’ Product Carbon Footprint, as validated by the German Technical Inspection Association (TÜV), in the so-called Vehicle Footprint for several years. This report is publicly available here for all drive trains of the new BMW 7 Series from the start of production and can also be accessed in the My BMW app. In this way, the BMW Group creates transparency around the percentage of secondary materials and CO₂e emissions throughout the vehicle’s lifecycle.

Munich/Graz. MINI and Austrian design studio Vagabund present a new creative collaboration: two unique one-off vehicles based on the MINI Countryman, both of which set a powerful statement for adventure spirit, community culture and festival lifestyle.

“A long-standing tradition and core value of the MINI brand is individual vehicle customization. Together with Vagabund, MINI continues this approach and demonstrates how a creative reinterpretation of the MINI Countryman – inspired by festival culture and music – can be brought to life through an engaged community,” says Jean‑Philippe Parain, Head of MINI.

MINI x Vagabund: The Duo
Vagabund successfully adds a distinctive design layer to the MINI Countryman that authentically expresses individuality, design philosophy and community spirit. MINI deliberately provides the platform – Vagabund contributes their creative signature. The result: two charismatic vehicles that reinterpret the versatility and openness of the MINI Countryman in an entirely new way.

“For us, design does not begin with the object, but with the idea behind it – and it only ends when that idea becomes tangible. The MINI x Vagabund one-offs translate a clear concept into an experiential statement. Two distinctive characters, united by MINI Countryman DNA, create a composition full of tension – making design visible as an emotional experience,” explains Paul Brauchart, Co-Founder and Head of Creative Vagabund.

Holger Hampf, Head of MINI Design: “MINI Design stands for vehicles with strong character that people enjoy driving and living with—true to the motto: lifestyle meets function and fun. Through our collaboration with Vagabund on these two vehicles, we were able to once again showcase our attention to detail and technical craftsmanship in a striking way.”

With a sophisticated sound system, graphic accents and a bold colour concept, the two vehicles themselves become moving sound stages. The vehicle finished in Melting Silver features sand-coloured & white body exterior details: playful, graphic and light. The Midnight Black example stands in deliberate contrast – monochrome black, precise and technical. It is this contrast that enhances their perception and creates an overall impression that only becomes fully apparent when both vehicles are experienced together.

Bodywork & proportions
Distinctively reworked wheel arches create a visually wider stance and give the vehicles a further striking appearance. A front bumper attachment ensures a harmonious connection between the wings and the original front apron. Front and rear bumpers are colour-coordinated with the additional body modifications, with the radiator grille being revised accordingly. Along the side sills, sits prominently integrated VAGABUND lettering as a three-dimensional element.
The raised ride height further emphasizes the off-road character of the two MINI Countryman S ALL4 models. In addition, 20‑inch wheels are fitted, showcasing intentionally closed-off 3D‑printed wheel cover designs, which gives the wheels a muscular appearance and creates a clear visual association with loudspeakers.

The roof rack consists of three laser-cut and folded aluminium plates, complemented by an integrated stainless-steel mesh as an open surface. This construction visually references the design language of speaker covers, creating a connection between roof, side profile and overall vehicle design – turning the roof rack into an integral design element.

The vehicle as a sound system
The rear side windows have been removed and replaced by a specially-developed sound system designed specifically for outdoor sound projection, with community events in mind. At its heart is a newly developed loudspeaker housing made from cast polymer granite – a material that offers ideal conditions for precise and unadulterated sound reproduction.

Tweeters and mid-range speakers are integrated directly into the bodywork, while additional subwoofers in the rear deliver a powerful punch when the tailgate is opened. Each vehicle functions as an independent sound system – however together, both MINI Countryman show cars form a mobile stage, creating an immersive audio experience.

On the opposite side of the vehicle, a special detail can be found: an iconic Walkman integrated into a 3D‑printed housing. With a characteristic MINI sense of humour; this creates a deliberate counterpoint to the open external sound system – a personal, decelerated feeling. The combination of analogue nostalgia and contemporary construction underlines the experimental character of the entire concept.

MINI Individualization by Vagabund
Through Vagabund, the MINI Countryman becomes a moving platform for encounters and cultural exchange. The vehicles create community moments where people come together and enable experiences that go beyond the thrill of driving.

Vagabund is renowned for its expertise in rethinking existing products via visual transformations. The two one-off vehicles demonstrate how creative power lies in form, function and attention to detail. MINI and Vagabund share this approach: individuality instead of convention, craftsmanship instead of overbearing aesthetics, community instead of distance.

The MINI x Vagabund collaboration shows how MINI carries its historic commitment to individualization into the future: bold design interpretations, culture-driven themes (such as music), cultural leaders and community, combined with a high level of craftsmanship. The result is inspiring one-off examples that showcase the MINI Countryman in new and elevated ways. MINI will present one of the two one-off vehicles to the public for the first time at Auto China 2026 in Beijing. Following its premiere at the motor show, the models will be brought closer to people live and in action across a wide range of platforms – staying true to the community-driven approach.

C02 emissions:
The described vehicles are show cars that are not available for sale.

In case of queries, please contact:
Corporate Communications

Julian Kisch, Press Spokesperson, Product Communications MINI
Phone: +49-151-601-38072
E-mail: julian.kisch@mini.com

Micaela Sandstede, Head of Communications MINI
Phone: +49-176-601-61611
E-mail: micaela.sandstede@bmw.de

Michaela Martinus, Spokesperson MINI Design
Phone: +49-160-96313773
E-Mail: michaela.martinus@bmw.de

Munich. Driven by very strong customer interest in the first Neue Klasse model, the BMW iX3*, the BMW Group recorded a significant increase in incoming orders for fully-electric vehicles in Europe in the first quarter of 2026. From January to March, new BEV orders rose by around 40% year-on-year. The BMW Group also reported higher orders across all drivetrain technologies in the region compared to the previous year. 

“We are seeing exceptionally strong demand for the new BMW iX3. With well over 50,000 new orders since ordering opened in Europe, customer interest in the BMW iX3 is exceeding our high expectations. More than half of the BMW X3s ordered are already fully electric,” said Jochen Goller, member of the Board of Management of BMW AG responsible for Customer, Brands, Sales. “The strong demand for the BMW iX3 underlines the quantum leap in technology we are making with the Neue Klasse. We are also receiving extremely positive feedback on the recently revealed second model of the Neue Klasse, the BMW i3,” Goller added.

Across all drivetrain technologies, the BMW Group delivered a total of 565,748 BMW, MINI and Rolls-Royce vehicles to customers in the first quarter of this year (-3.5%). Demand for models with internal combustion engines remained slightly above the high level of the previous year. The BMW Group achieved significant sales growth in its domestic market of Germany, with 68,022 units delivered (+10.7%). In China, BMW Group sales outperformed the overall strong market decline.

The first BMW iX3s were delivered to customers in Europe in March. Although the ramp-up of the first Neue Klasse model has only just begun, sales of fully-electric vehicles in Europe in the first quarter of 2026 already exceeded the high level recorded in the same period of last year. In the first quarter, the BMW Group delivered 87,458 fully-electric vehicles to customers worldwide (-20.1%). In the US, the discontinuation of BEV incentives impacted the entire market. At the same time, demand for BMW models with internal combustion engines increased. In an overall challenging market environment, the BMW Group was able to hold its ground well and is confident that the attractive, technology-neutral product portfolio as well as the worldwide availability of the Neue Klasse models will generate an increasingly positive momentum.

The BMW brand delivered a total of 496,050 vehicles to customers worldwide in the first quarter (-4.6%). Following last year’s all-time high, BMW M GmbH sales for the first three months of the year totalled 47,544 units (-5.9%). For the fifth consecutive quarter, MINI increased its global sales year-on-year. With 68,427 units delivered, the brand recorded growth of +5.9%. In the Europe sales region, MINI achieved a significant increase in BEV sales. The Rolls-Royce brand delivered 1,271 vehicles to customers in the first quarter (-8.0%). During the same period, BMW Motorrad sold 42,735 motorcycles and scooters (-4.2%).

BMW Group sales Q1 2026 at a glance

¹BEVs and PHEVs                                                                                   

BMW & MINI sales in the regions/markets

²Provisional registration figures

³Asia-Pacific, Eastern Europe, Middle East, Africa

The delivery figures reported in this press release are provisional and may change up until the BMW Group Report 2026 is published. Notes on how delivery figures are prepared can be found in the BMW Group Report 2025 on p. 429.

BMW Group Corporate Communications

Dr Sina Unger, Communications Sales

Telephone: +49 89 382-47564

Email: sina.unger@bmwgroup.com

Carolin Bachmann, Communications Sales

Telephone: +49 89 382-38801

Email: carolin.bachmann@bmwgroup.com  

Max-Morten Borgmann, head of Communications BMW Group, Finance, Sales

Telephone: +49 89 382-24118

Email: max-morten.borgmann@bmwgroup.com

Media website: https://newsroom.bmwgroup.com/global/en

Email: presse@bmwgroup.com

The BMW Group

With its four brands, BMW, MINI, Rolls-Royce and BMW Motorrad, the BMW Group is the world’s leading premium manufacturer of automobiles and motorcycles and also provides premium financial services. The BMW Group production network comprises over 30 production sites worldwide; the company has a global sales network in more than 140 countries.

In 2025, the BMW Group sold 2.46 million passenger vehicles and more than 202,500 motorcycles worldwide. The profit before tax in the financial year 2025 was € 10.2 billion on revenues amounting to € 133,5 billion. As of 31 December 2025, the BMW Group had a workforce of 154,540 employees.

The economic success of the BMW Group has always been based on long-term thinking and responsible action. Sustainability is a key element of the BMW Group’s corporate strategy and covers all products – from the supply chain through production to the end of their useful life. 

www.bmwgroup.com

LinkedIn: http://www.linkedin.com/company/bmw-group/

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/bmwgroup

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bmwgroup

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/bmwgroup

Munich. The BMW Group is adopting a new and innovative hydrogen tank technology for the BMW iX5 Hydrogen. The new arrangement and size of the tanks enables a higher range of up to 750 km (up to 385 miles)*. The new BMW Hydrogen Flat Storage system offers the added advantage of making exceptionally efficient use of the space it occupies in the vehicle and is compatible with the Gen6 high-voltage battery, meaning that no room is lost inside the cabin. Models with fuel cell technology can therefore be built on the same production line as those with other drive system types. The 700 bar high-pressure hydrogen tanks additionally benefit from the mechanical protection provided by the vehicle structure, further increasing safety.

“Our new storage concept allows us to fit the hydrogen drive system into the new X5 precisely and in a way that saves space,” says Dr Joachim Post, Member of the Board of Management of BMW AG responsible for Development. “Think of it as installation Tetris: every customer gets the drive system best suited to their needs and a true BMW X5 with no compromises. This is technology openness and the art of engineering just the way we developers love them!”

Smart storage, more range.
The new flat tank system consists of seven high-pressure tanks made of carbon-fibre reinforced composite, which are connected with one another in parallel and integrated into a robust metal frame. What makes the design special is that, instead of individual pressure vessels, there are several chambers connected to form an enclosed unit. This unit is controlled by a central main valve. In this way, the optimised storage concept enables the BMW iX5 Hydrogen to achieve a greater range. This development alone accounts for several patent applications filed by the BMW Group. The system is able to store at least seven kilograms of hydrogen in total and can be filled from empty in under five minutes. As is customary for BMW hydrogen models, refuelling is safe, clean and fast. 

Experience hallmark BMW driving pleasure, refuel faster, drive further.
The BMW Hydrogen Flat Storage technology forms part of the powertrain. It combines with the fuel cell system and an innovative high-voltage battery to deliver the driving pleasure for which BMW is renowned. Here, the new BMW iX5 Hydrogen also benefits from the new Heart of Joy drivetrain and chassis control software, as well as BMW Dynamic Performance Control. It is also equipped with latest-generation Gen3 fuel cell technology, which is more efficient and powerful than any preceding generation. 

Flexible production to meet customer requirements. 
Thanks to the smart and highly flexible architecture of the new BMW X5, five different drive system variants of the model can be built to suit customer requirements: from battery-electric systems and plug-in hybrids through highly efficient conventional drive systems to hydrogen fuel cell technology.
Synergies in production are optimised. Uniform geometrical specifications for energy storage systems and drive components reduce technical complexity and lower production costs. At the same time, the flexible platform increases manufacturing robustness, facilitates the integration of new technologies and maximises scalability. It paves the way for widespread introduction of the BMW iX5 Hydrogen into the BMW Group’s production network in 2028.

BMW Hydrogen strategy 
A technology-open approach and a diverse product portfolio continue to be key success factors for the BMW Group. By integrating fuel cell technology into the new BMW X5 series, the company is strategically expanding its production line-up and making the advantages of hydrogen available to its customers. Hydrogen enables electric driving with a long range and fast refuelling, diversifies energy sources and reduces dependence on a single infrastructure or chain of raw materials.

Through the "HyPowerDrive" project the development of the powertrain and the tank system of the BMW iX5 Hydrogen is funded by the Federal Ministry of Transport (BMV) within the framework of the IPCEI Hy2Move. The federal government is providing funding of EUR 191 million. In addition, the project is (co-)financed by the state of Bavaria with a total of EUR 82 million. The funding is implemented by the Project Management Jülich (PtJ) and coordinated by NOW GmbH.

Richmond Hill, ON.  BMW Group Canada today announced a major expansion of public charging access and simplicity for BMW and MINI electric vehicle drivers, unveiling the availability of Shell Recharge within the My BMW and MINI apps across Canada, alongside compatibility and availability of charging on the North American Charging Standard (NACS) Tesla Supercharger network. Together, these enhancements dramatically improve day-to-day convenience, streamline trip planning and payment, and leverage North America’s most extensive fast-charging infrastructure - reflecting BMW’s commitment to making EV ownership as effortless as possible.

One account, more stations, simpler charging.

Shell Recharge is now integrated into the My BMW and MINI apps, aggregating many of Canada’s leading Charge Point Operators (CPOs) under a single account. With Shell Recharge, drivers can locate, activate, stop, and pay for charging sessions right in the app - no juggling multiple cards or apps. As of March 2026, Shell Recharge supports charging with major Canadian networks including Shell Recharge, FLO, ChargePoint, Circuit électrique, BC Hydro, EV Connect Canada, and more, with compatible Tesla Superchargers being added today. Access across the United States is also supported.

eRoute trip planning in the My BMW and MINI apps recommends compatible stations along the route and enables drivers to send the itinerary directly to the vehicle for seamless navigation and charging stops.

Expanding access with Tesla Superchargers and NACS.

Starting in 2026, all-new BMW models in Canada, such as the upcoming iX3 and i3, will be factory-equipped with a built-in NACS port, enabling direct access to Tesla Superchargers.

Existing BMW and MINI models with CCS ports must only use the approved Lectron Vortex Plus NACS-to-CCS DC adapter to charge at NACS stations. Once the availability of the adapter is added in-app (Charging > Adapters > Add Adapter > “NACS (DC)”), compatible NACS locations will be unlocked and appear in search results and routing.

Integration with Shell Recharge allows BMW and MINI drivers to start a Supercharger session through the My BMW/MINI app. Drivers will see in-app which stations are compatible, whether an adapter is required, and where Magic Dock Superchargers (with CCS) are available.

Built for confidence: speed, coverage, and clarity.

Superchargers commonly provide 250–325 kW DC fast charging (station and vehicle dependent). BMW vehicles automatically manage charging speed for optimal performance based on state of charge and temperature. Pricing, including any site-specific fees, is handled seamlessly via Shell Recharge and appears in the app’s Charge History.

BMW Remote Software Upgrades (RSU) will enable NACS compatibility features across most current BMW and MINI BEVs. With the exception of the original BMW i3 (I01) and MINI Cooper SE (F56), all BEV models will be Supercharger-compatible once software prerequisites are met. The NACS RSU will roll out by model; customers will be notified in the app and vehicle as updates become available.

How it works: effortless charging in a few steps.

• Set up Shell Recharge in the My BMW or MINI app: open the Charging tile, select More…, then choose Shell Recharge under Services, accept terms, add payment, and you’re ready.
• Start a charge on site: open the Charging tile and tap “Charge here” - the app uses GPS to identify the station, you select the plug, agree and begin charging, and can stop the session from the app as well.
• Enable Plug & Charge where supported: enroll in Shell Recharge; after enrollment, a Plug & Charge contract is sent to the vehicle (up to 24 hours). In iDrive: Apps > Charging > Plug & Charge > toggle ON. The Goodbye screen will indicate when a Plug & Charge station is detected.
• Using a NACS adapter (for CCS vehicles): attach the adapter firmly to the connector, plug into the vehicle, and wait for charging to initiate (up to 1 minute). The vehicle’s indicator will flash blue once charging begins. To disconnect, stop the session in-app or at the vehicle, then press the adapter release buttons to remove.

BMW: a trusted legacy, now supercharged for the EV era.
For over a century, BMW has engineered premium vehicles that deliver joy in every journey. Today, that same commitment powers our approach to electrification: connecting customers to the best infrastructure with the most intuitive digital experience. By unifying a broad network of Canadian and U.S. charging providers through Shell Recharge - and by enabling access to NACS Superchargers - BMW is making public charging more available, more transparent, and more convenient than ever before.

Availability.

Shell Recharge integration in the My BMW and MINI apps was introduced across Canada in March 2026.

From today, Supercharger access is now available via Shell Recharge and Plug & Charge, as vehicles receive their necessary software updates. The My BMW and MINI apps, as well as in-vehicle notifications, will inform customers when access is ready for their specific model.

The approved Lectron Vortex Plus adapter can be purchased via the manufacturer, also listed in the My BMW and MINI apps. Warranty is provided by Lectron.

For more information, visit www.bmw.ca.

-30-

BMW Group in Canada

BMW Group Canada, based in Richmond Hill, Ontario, is a wholly owned subsidiary of BMW AG and is responsible for the distribution of BMW luxury performance automobiles, Sports Activity Vehicles, Motorcycles, and MINI.  BMW Group Financial Services Canada is a division of BMW Group Canada and offers retail financing and leasing programs and protection products on new and pre-owned BMW and MINI automobiles, as well as retail financing for new and pre-owned BMW Motorcycles. A total network of 51 BMW automobile retail centres, 26 BMW motorcycle retailers, and 31 MINI retailers represents the BMW Group across the country.

For more information, please contact: 

Marc Belcourt
Director, Corporate Communications
BMW Group Canada
marc.belcourt@bmwgroup.ca 

Jean-Francois Taylor
Product and Technology Manager, Corporate Communications
BMW Group Canada
jean-francois.taylor@bmwgroup.ca

Munich / Zagreb. The BMW Group is cooperating with Rimac Technology (Croatia) on the new all-electric BMW i7.

The aim of the joint project is to bring the Gen6 technology developed by BMW for an innovative high-voltage storage system for more range and higher charging speed to the new all-electric BMW 7 Series Sedan.

The sixth generation of BMW eDrive technology (Gen6) is finding its way into the BMW brand's top-of-the-range all-electric model in the form of its 4695 lithium-ion cylindrical cell. The cell is characterised, among other things, by a 20 percent higher volumetric energy density compared to the prismatic cells of the Gen5.

The high-voltage battery, which combines Gen6 cell technology with the established Gen5 module design, enables the new BMW i7 to achieve a significantly increased range.

BMW i7 customers can also charge much faster thanks to the newly developed technology. The charging capacity is increased and the charging time reduced accordingly.

The new BMW i7 will celebrate its world premiere on April 22^nd  at Auto China 2026 in Beijing.

"We are quickly rolling out the technologies of the Neue Klasse across our entire model portfolio - including, of course, in our all-electric luxury sedan. The teams of both companies have developed a tailor-made solution for the new BMW i7," says Dr. Thomas Engelhardt, Senior VP Development High-Voltage Storage and Charging at the BMW Group. "The excellent collaboration with Rimac Technology is a good example of European innovative strength."

The high-voltage battery is manufactured on state-of-the-art equipment at Rimac Technology in Croatia and delivered ready for assembly at BMW Group Plant Dingolfing, the world's only production facility for the BMW 7 Series.

Mate Rimac, Founder and President of Rimac Group, CEO and CTO Bugatti Rimac says: “BMW has always been known for pushing engineering to the highest level, which made this collaboration especially exciting for us.
Together, we developed a high-voltage battery system that unlocks the full potential of the new cylindrical cells in record time, delivering significant improvements in energy, range, and charging performance.
We are proud to now see this system being produced at scale at our new Rimac Campus.”

Rimac Technology is a Tier 1 supplier belonging to the Rimac Group that specialises in electrification in the automotive sector with innovative products. The portfolio is defined by high-voltage battery systems, e-axles as well as electronics and software solutions that are developed and produced in-house. This makes it possible to offer solutions that combine advanced technology with a high degree of customisation. The long-term partnership with the BMW Group demonstrates the company's transformation from a niche supplier for super sports cars to a Tier 1 supplier for high-volume vehicle projects.

Additional photos of the new BMW F 450 GS - Shot on site at the International Media Launch in Sicily, March 2026.

Richmond Hill, ON. BMW Group Canada (BMW and MINI brands combined) released its first quarter results today, reporting sales of 6,696 vehicles, of which 9.8% were electrified. 

“Thanks to our retailers for persevering through a quarter that was challenging to both the industry and to our brands,” said Andrew Scott, president and CEO, BMW Group Canada.  “We have a lot to look forward to in 2026, not least of which is the arrival of the BMW iX3. This first Neue Klasse model has just been named World Car of the Year – beating out competitors of all powertrain formats – and World Electric Vehicle.  Already an award winner, the BMW iX3 is sure to resonate with Canadians.”

BMW Group.

_{Table 1: New Vehicle Sales BMW Group Canada, Q1 2026.}  

BMW.

• Sports Activity Vehicles were big sellers in the first quarter.  Key contributors in this segment were the BMW X3 and the BMW X7, up +56.8% and +33.7% respectively versus Q1 2025.
• Growth was also seen in BMW 3 Series sales, with the perennial favourite up nearly 99% year-over-year. 
• After a year-over-year increase of nearly 14%, Canada becomes the number one market globally in terms of BMW M share as a percentage of overall sales. 
• The BMW i4 – a multi-award-winning all-electric sedan – led the brand’s all-electric sales, followed by the BMW iX – the brand’s all-electric Sports Activity Vehicle.
• The first vehicle of the Neue Klasse, the BMW iX3, was named “World Car of the Year” and “World Electric Vehicle” for 2026 by an international jury of nearly 100 automotive journalists. 
• The design premiere for the second vehicle of the Neue Klasse, the BMW i3, took place in mid-March. The i3 is the first battery-electric BMW 3 Series, an icon that has stood for sporty driving pleasure for five decades.

_{Table 2: BMW Canada New Vehicle Sales, Q1 2026.}

MINI.

• The MINI Countryman continues to drive sales, increasing +11.4% over the first quarter of 2025.
• The MINI 1965 Victory Edition modernizes the technology, performance and agility of the Mini Cooper S that won the 1965 Monte Carlo Rally.  Now on sale, the special model is limited to 45 units in the Canadian market.

_{Table 3: MINI Canada New Vehicle Sales, Q1 2026.}

BMW Motorrad.  

• Top selling models in the first quarter were the S 1000 RR, R 1300 RT, R 1300 GSA, R 1300 GS and the G 310 R.
• BMW Motorrad retailers are currently kicking off a program that welcomes fans of two-wheeled mobility out from winter hiding. Season Start events will take place at retailers across Canada, giving riders the chance to connect with like-minded adventurers and explore the latest in German motorcycle engineering.  Events began March 31st and run until April 29th. Details can be found here.

_{Table 4: BMW Motorrad New Motorcycle Sales, Q1 2026}.

Retail.Next: A New Premium Design Identity for BMW Retailers.

BMW retailers across Canada are investing in the future of the brand by undertaking significant renovations that enhance the customer experience in their facilities.  Retail.Next is an outstanding new retail design concept that includes a stunning transformation of the physical showroom as well as the introduction of new digital tools and processes that create an exceptional customer experience.  Open spaces and a warm and inviting environment are paired with new digital technologies that integrate seamlessly into the environment to support customers in their purchase journey.  Aspirational, innovative, and digitalized; that is Retail.Next defined. 

To date, seven retailers have completed the transformation, with BMW Brossard in Quebec and BMW Toronto in Ontario being the most recent to welcome customers into their spectacular new retail environments.  Pfaff BMW in Ontario and Auto West BMW in British Columbia will be the next to open in the second quarter of 2026.

-30-

New York/Munich. An international jury of 98 motoring journalists has awarded the BMW iX3 not one but two titles. The first Neue Klasse model was named the 2026 “World Car of the Year”, beating out competitors across all powertrain categories. In addition, the BMW iX3 won the 2026 “World Electric Vehicle” accolade. During extensive test drives, the model impressed the jury with its outstanding performance and driving dynamics, as well as its standout technology features. For the BMW Group, this marks the tenth and eleventh title wins at the prestigious World Car Awards. Earlier, on 26 February, Oliver Zipse, Chairman of the Board of Management of BMW AG, was named “World Car Person of the Year” for 2026.   

The BMW iX3 is the first Neue Klasse model. It was presented at the IAA Mobility 2025. An instant success, it has established a new design language and set standards for driving dynamics and performance. An estimated range of up to 650 kilometres (EPA), battery charging at up to 400 kW and an energy consumption of just 17.9–15.1 kWh/100 km (WLTP) demonstrate the outstanding abilities of the new BMW iX3. The new BMW Panoramic iDrive brings innovation to the interior. The high-performance control unit Heart of Joy and BMW Dynamic Performance Control take driving pleasure to an entirely new level. Plenty of compelling reasons for the expert jury at the World Car Awards to declare the BMW iX3 the 2026 “World Car of the Year” – and thus the standout new vehicle on the international automotive markets – following extensive test drives. On top of that, the model won the 2026 “World Electric Vehicle” title. The awards were announced at the 2026 New York International Auto Show (1–12 April 2026).

The success of the BMW iX3 is based on the independent assessment of 98 journalists from 33 countries. They gave their detailed evaluations after test driving the various vehicles involved in the competition. The organisers of the World Car Awards collected and documented this data, which formed the basis for the final verdict. The BMW iX3 beat out 57 high-class contenders to take the “World Car of the Year” title. A total of 43 vehicles were in the running for the title of “World Electric Vehicle”.

Mike Reichelt, Head of Neue Klasse BMW, says: “We are happy with this fantastic accolade for the BMW iX3, the first representative of our Neue Klasse. The BMW iX3 marks the beginning of a new era at BMW – in terms of design language, range, charging capacity as well as driver assistance – and BMW Panoramic iDrive. Above all, the BMW iX3 represents the next generation of Sheer Driving Pleasure powered by the Heart of Joy. The innovations from the Neue Klasse will benefit our entire product portfolio.”

The BMW iX3 represents the technological quantum leap of the Neue Klasse.
As the first Neue Klasse model, the BMW iX3 brings a new era of driving pleasure to the road. The completely new design language of the fully electric Sports Activity Vehicle (SAV) makes for a distinctive appearance. The interior is defined by the new BMW Panoramic iDrive infotainment system. It is based on BMW Operating System X, which ensures excellent update and upgrade capability as well as context-sensitive, situationally aware control of all display and operating elements. The BMW Panoramic iDrive combines four key elements to form a unique display and operating system. The BMW Panoramic Vision is a newly developed information projection from A-pillar to A-pillar in the lower part of the windscreen with permanently visible, clearly structured information displays. It is complemented by the 17.9-inch, Free-Cut Design Central Display with high-resolution matrix backlight technology for intuitive touch control. The other two elements are the optional BMW 3D Head-Up Display and the multifunction steering wheel with Shy Tech controls.

The BMW iX3 50 xDrive is powered by two electric motors that together deliver 463 hp and 476 lb-ft of torque. It accelerates from zero to 100 km/h in 4.9 seconds and has a top speed of 210 km/h. At the heart of the new electronics and software architecture are four superbrain high-performance computers. Each is assigned a core function in the BMW iX3. The Heart of Joy manages driving dynamics, with additional computers controlling automated driving and parking, infotainment and essential and comfort functions. These superbrains offer up to 20 times higher computing power compared to previous BMW models. The Heart of Joy and the BMW Dynamic Performance Control software developed in-house deliver a confident and precise driving experience, perfect traction, efficient recuperation and – thanks to precise control of the electric motors – the smoothest stopping process in BMW history.

The sixth-generation BMW eDrive technology comprises a new drive with a fundamentally new high-voltage battery concept and 800-volt technology. It enables significantly longer ranges, faster charging at up to 400 kW and support for bidirectional charging functions. The high-voltage battery in the BMW iX3 50 xDrive now provides 108.7 kWh of usable energy, enabling a range of up to 650 kilometres on the EPA cycle. At a DC fast charger, energy for up to 372 kilometres of range¹ can be added to the battery in 10 minutes.

Oliver Zipse named “World Car Person of the Year”.

The development of the Neue Klasse is inextricably linked to Oliver Zipse. As Chairman of the Board of Management of BMW AG from 2019, he guided the company through a period of profound changes and strategic transformation. This is when the groundwork was laid for the Neue Klasse models, marking the extraordinary transformation of the BMW brand. The jury explained: “Under his leadership, BMW has pursued a technology-open approach to electrification, digitalisation and sustainability, while maintaining a strong focus on brand identity and profitability. Zipse’s steady, engineering-led leadership has helped shape BMW’s direction in a rapidly evolving global automotive landscape.”

The jury members provide more than 413 million readers with information about automobiles.
The World Car Awards are presented annually, based on the verdicts of an international jury. The awards were created in 2003 to recognise outstanding innovations and new products from around the world. Over more than 20 years, they have firmly established themselves as a complement to national and regional awards. The jury members’ test results help more than 413 million readers worldwide with their purchasing decisions, making the award one of the most coveted accolades in the international automotive industry.

Vehicles eligible for “World Car of the Year” must be produced in volumes of at least 10,000 units/year. They must also be priced below the luxury-car level in their primary markets. Models eligible for “World Electric Vehicle” must be produced in volumes of at least 5,000 units/year. Another requirement is that a vehicle must have been on sale in at least two major markets – China, Europe, India, Japan, Korea, Latin America, USA – on at least two separate continents within the period 1 January 2025 to 30 March 2026. In addition to the “World Car of the Year” and “World Electric Vehicle” titles, this year’s event features awards in a further four categories.

Tenth and eleventh World Car Award wins for the BMW Group.
Prior to this year, the BMW Group had already won nine titles at the World Car Awards since the event was launched. The BMW 3 Series win of the “World Car of the Year” award in 2006 was a particular highlight. The two titles won by the Bavarian premium carmaker in 2026 see the new BMW iX3 add to the latest string of awards won by BMW models. Other recent events where the first Neue Klasse model scored successes were the “Best Cars” awards of German “auto motor und sport” magazine and the “Car of the Year Awards 2026” of British “What Car?” magazine. In addition, the BMW iX3 was named “Car of the Year” in several other countries and received the “Golden Steering Wheel” award for “Best Innovation” from “Auto Bild” and “Bild am Sonntag,” both published by Axel Springer Verlag (Germany).

Munich/Cernobbio. From May 15 to 17, 2026, BMW Group Classic is organizing the legendary Concorso d'Eleganza Villa d'Este in cooperation with the luxury hotel Villa d'Este.

Around 50 of the most spectacular automobiles of their time will compete for the coveted trophies in the following competition classes, first and foremost the "Trofeo BMW Group – Best of Show", with which the top-class jury will select the overall winner of the Concorso d'Eleganza.

Class A            Automotive Tailoring: The Decade of Opulence, 1924-1934

Class B            Future Couture: Dressed For Speed, 1935–1939

Class C            Viva Villa d’Este: Extravagant 1950s Style

Class D           “The Top Goes Down, The Price Goes Up”: Selling Sunshine

Class E           They Earned Their Names: Enzo’s Endurance Legends

Class F            Every Scratch Tells A Story: Ageing Gracefully Without Restoration

Class G           From Carnaby Street To The Autostrada: The Swinging GT Driver

Class H           The Pace Race: The Supercar Comes of Age

Once again, spectacular concept cars from various manufacturers will be awarded prizes in their own traditional class.

The Concorso d'Eleganza parade on the terrace of the Villa d'Este luxury hotel will take place as usual on Saturday. In addition to the main prize "Trofeo BMW Group - Best of Show", all participants will compete with their vehicles for the respective class victories, the "Coppa d'Oro" audience award, presented by the Villa d'Este, and numerous other prizes, such as the "Trofeo del Presidente", which will be awarded by the Head of BMW Group Classic and President of the Concorso d'Eleganza Villa d'Este, Helmut Käs.

Jonas Kaufmann, star tenor and BMW Group Classic brand ambassador, will once again present the "Trofeo Il Canto del Motore" for the best engine sound, chosen by the jury.

The "Trofeo BMW Group - Best of Show" winner will be presented with a special timepiece from A. Lange &  Söhne: the unique 1815 CHRONOGRAPH in 18-carat white gold with a solid red gold dial and the hand-engraved red gold dial and the hand-engraved coat of arms of the Concorso d'Eleganza Villa d'Este on the hinged back. A. Lange & Söhne has been a loyal companion of the Concorso d'Eleganza Villa d’Este for 15 years. This long-standing partnership will be honored accordingly during the event.

Broad Arrow Auctions, driven by Hagerty (NYSE: HGTY), returns as the official auction partner of BMW AG for the prestigious Concorso d’Eleganza Villa d’Este, presenting over 70 of the world’s most desirable collector cars for sale on 16-17 May 2026, with preview days taking place from Friday 15 May.

Early highlights for this premier collector car auction feature technological and design marvels of motoring history, including a 1929 Bugatti Type 43 Roadster by Eugène Matthys, a stunning 1926 Bugatti Type 37 Grand Prix and modern-era supercar heroes such as a 1990 Ferrari F40 and an iconic 2011 BMW M3 GTS. Full details of the sale, including available lots, can be found under https://www.broadarrowauctions.com/events .

BMW Group Classic would like to thank its partners and sponsors A. Lange & Söhne, Broad Arrow Auctions, Vranken Pommery Monopole and Schedoni Modena for their support.

Helmut Käs, Head of BMW Group Classic and President of the Concorso d'Eleganza Villa d'Este: 

"We can hardly wait for the event to start, the excitement grows every year as the Concorso d'Eleganza Villa d'Este draws closer. I can already promise that the field of participants at the Concorso will be spectacular. I am grateful to have a reliable partner at my side in the luxury hotel Villa d'Este, which together with the BMW Group sets new standards in organization year after year. I would also like to thank the loyal sponsors of the Concorso d'Eleganza Villa d'Este."

Davide Bertilaccio, CEO Villa d’Este S.p.A: 

“In partnership with BMW Group Classic, we are proud to create an atmosphere where excellence comes naturally, where history continues to inspire innovation, and where every guest becomes part of a truly timeless and extraordinary experience. This is made possible thanks to the commitment and dedication of the Villa d’Este team, in close collaboration with the BMW team, as well as their meticulous attention to detail, which makes this event truly memorable. As the event draws closer, we are delighted to present to our guests the latest edition of the Concorso d’Eleganza Villa d’Este. More than a tribute to a distinguished tradition, it represents one of the most prestigious and longest-running Concours events in the world, a living celebration of craftsmanship, passion and cultural heritage.”

Tickets for "Amici & Automobili - Wheels & Weisswürscht" and the "Concorso d’Eleganza Villa d’Este Public Day - Il Festival" can be purchased here:

https://www.concorsodeleganzavilladeste.com/blocks/tickets-packages  

Stay informed on these channels:

Concorso d'Eleganza Villa d'Este App for iOS and Android (please download the latest version)

Concorso d'Eleganza Villa d'Este website: https://www.concorsodeleganzavilladeste.com/   

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/concorsodeleganza_vde/

BMW Group Classic Media Server für Downloads:

https://bmwgroupclassic-downloads.com/Events/2026/

Munich/Wackersdorf. The BMW Group is relocating its Recycling and Dismantling Centre (RDC) from Unterschleißheim to the company’s Wackersdorf site, with a significant expansion. At the new location, a technologically state-of-the-art competence centre for circularity is being built, advancing vehicle dismantling and recycling expertise for the future. Commissioning is scheduled for early 2029.

“The circular economy is a key element of the BMW Group’s corporate strategy,” says Jörg Lederbauer, Vice-President Circular Economy, Spare Parts Supply High Voltage Battery and Electric Powertrain at the BMW Group. “Our new competence centre in Wackersdorf will be a core component of our circular value chain and will help make the mobility of the future more resource efficient. We want to find the best way to keep materials in the cycle, ensuring that resources retain their value for further use in the long term. This will also reduce our dependence on primary raw materials. At the same time, the use of high-quality secondary materials will continue to significantly lower our vehicles’ carbon footprint.”

For more than 30 years, at its current location in Unterschleißheim, near Munich, the BMW Group Recycling and Dismantling Centre (RDC) has developed methods aimed at achieving significant advances in the recycling of parts and the recovery of materials, and has tested them in practice. The insights gained by the RDC into the recyclability of components and materials, in line with Design for Circularity principles, are already incorporated into product development at the BMW Group. These insights also feed into the cooperation with PreZero, which the BMW Group recently entered into in order to leverage the strategic and economic potential of the circular economy in end‑of‑life vehicle recycling. 

The recycling industry’s global network also benefits from the work of the RDC. Around 3,000 businesses in 32 countries rely on a shared recycling database for information on how recyclable components can be disassembled cost-effectively and valuable materials efficiently recovered.

At the future site, process, material and technology development will be even more closely integrated with vehicle recycling operations. The new scope of activities at the Competence Centre Circularity includes the recycling of hydrogen vehicles, automation of dismantling processes and development of expertise in innovative shredding and sorting technologies.

The BMW Group sees Wackersdorf as the ideal new location for the Competence Centre Circularity, with BMW Group Plant Wackersdorf having embodied flexibility for decades: Housing cockpit production, the Rolls-Royce door and flap production centre, parts supply for overseas plants and the battery testing centre, the site has wide-ranging expertise and is firmly established within the BMW Group network.

“In recent years, the company has set a decisive course for the future of the Wackersdorf location. Throughout this process, the entire plant team has consistently demonstrated flexibility. Building the competence centre for circularity here provides our site with a broader foundation. In this way, we are tapping into an attractive, future-oriented area of activity,” says Stefan Betz, head of BMW Group Plant Wackersdorf.

“The company is systematically continuing its successful transformation. Establishing the new Competence Centre Circularity here represents an important strategic decision by the company in favour of the Wackersdorf location – and, above all, its employees. As employee representatives, we also supported this,” says André Mandl, Works Council Chairman for BMW Group Plants Regensburg and Wackersdorf.

“In Wackersdorf, BMW has been a strong partner by our side for many decades. We are delighted that the BMW Group is reaffirming its commitment to the location with this move. It sends a clear signal for our site and for sustainable future technologies,” says Thomas Falter, Mayor of Wackersdorf.

“The cutting-edge Competence Centre Circularity will make a major contribution to regional value creation and further development of the circular economy,” adds Thomas Ebeling, District Administrator of Schwandorf District. “In combination with the trechnology transfer centre planned for Wackersdorf by the Regensburg University of Applied Sciences and the University of Applied Sciences Amberg Weiden, close integration of business and academia on the circular economy will now also be possible. In this way, we are strengthening the region.”

Following the location decision, the detailed planning phase for the Competence Centre Circularity at the new site can now begin. The existing RDC in Unterschleißheim will remain fully operational until the relocation. The BMW Group will provide further information on the next steps in due course.

Asheville. The sun is shining. The foliage gleams in shades of yellow, red, and orange. Right in the middle, the MINI John Cooper Works in the exterior colour Ocean Wave Green. A picturesque scene, typical of the Great Smoky Mountains on the border between the US states of North Carolina and Tennessee. If it weren’t for the “Tail of the Dragon.” The US-129 is the most dangerous road in the USA: 17.7 kilometres long, with 318 bends. Every single one is a challenge for both man and machine.

The Tail of the Dragon repeatedly reveals its relentless side, effortlessly shaking off overconfident drivers. At the "Tree of Shame," located at the start of this perilous stretch of tarmac in the "Deals Gap" car park, hang the relics of mobile overestimation: bodywork parts, mirrors, wheel trims, and motorcycle fuel tanks. A challenge perfectly suited for the MINI John Cooper Works and its motorsport DNA, which is embodied in the legendary go-kart feeling.

This is also emphasized by the parameters of the high-performance model, designed for uncompromising agility. Weighing 1,330 kilograms, the MINI JCW combines firm body control with noticeable lightness. The direct steering, responsive brake pedal feel, balanced axle load distribution with short overhangs, and low centre of gravity form a dynamic unit, which reveals its full potential in demanding bends. Thus, this dangerous stretch of tarmac becomes a place of concentrated, maximum driving pleasure.

The powerful four-cylinder TwinPower Turbo petrol engine with two litres of displacement delivers 170 kW/231 hp and a maximum torque of 380 Newton metres. The MINI John Cooper Works accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in 6.1 seconds. 18-inch wheels in the JCW Lap Spoke two-tone design with sports tyres ensure maximum traction even in challenging driving situations. The frequency-selective dampers with a special JCW application harmoniously resolve the demanding conflict between dynamics and comfort. The sports braking system, with 17-inch brake discs at the front and 16-inch discs at the rear, provides reliable deceleration when approaching corners.

The camber angle at the front axle is increased by 30 arc minutes (0° 30') compared to the MINI Cooper C and MINI Cooper S, allowing for higher cornering speeds. Fast gear changes of the dual-clutch sport automatic transmission enable clean acceleration out of tight bends. In the MINI John Cooper Works models, this is further refined by the manual use of the two shift paddles. JCW sports seats guarantee secure lateral support even on demanding road sections. Thanks to the exclusive "John Cooper Works" driving mode with live displays of torque, G-forces, and current engine output, drivers always have all relevant data in view.

The clearly designed cockpit is structured by the JCW sports steering wheel, the high-resolution OLED display, and the MINI-typical toggle switch strip. The central instrument, with a premium glass surface and a diameter of 240 millimetres, constantly provides all relevant vehicle data and can be conveniently operated by both driver and front passenger. The interior also exudes sportiness in every fibre. The knitted surface of the dashboard, with its black and red pattern, recalls the motorsport heritage of the MINI John Cooper Works. The standard Harman Kardon sound system further intensifies the driving experience.

The exterior emphasizes the sporting ambitions of the MINI John Cooper Works. The Ocean Wave Green paintwork, paired with the black roof and black mirror caps, makes the MINI a head-turner in any environment. The John Cooper Works bodykit, with aerodynamically optimised components such as the front splitter, rear spoiler, and rear diffuser, not only gives the MINI John Cooper Works a dynamic appearance but also generates downforce and further enhances driving dynamics. MINI LED headlights with horizontal JCW-specific daytime running lights ensure a distinctive presence. The rear view is characterised by the aerodynamically shaped rear spoiler and the black rear diffuser. The centrally positioned tailpipe further emphasises the character of this agile powerhouse.

In case of queries, please contact:
Corporate Communications

Julian Kisch, Press Spokesperson, Product Communications MINI
Phone: +49-151-601-38072
E-mail: julian.kisch@mini.com

Micaela Sandstede, Head of Communications MINI
Phone: +49-176-601-61611
E-mail: micaela.sandstede@bmw.de

From the management summary of the study: "The transformation of the entire transport sector towards fossil-free energy sources is a challenge that cannot be met by the electrification of drive systems alone.

It is therefore essential to realise the CO2 reduction potential of all energy sources.

In addition to hydrogen, for example, the focus here is primarily on liquid fuels that can be integrated into the supply infrastructure without technical modifications.

Renewable fuels - so-called Carbon Neutral Fuels, CNF for short - is a collective term that includes all fuels that have a lower CO2 value compared to fossil fuels. This study analyses the substitution potential of advanced, renewable fuels from biological feedstocks compared to fossil fuels in all sectors of the EU.

Based on current scientific literature and various scenarios, this study analyses the availability of advanced feedstocks, the conversion to renewable fuels and the development of fuel demand in road transport in the European Union for the target years 2030, 2035 and 2040."

The full study can be found as a pdf attached to this press release.

Please find attached additional photo material of the BMW i3 design premiere with Oliver Zipse, Chairman of the Board of Management of BMW AG, and Adrian van Hooydonk, Head of BMW Group Design

Richmond Hill, ON.  The BMW 3 Series is the essence of the BMW brand. For five decades, this icon has stood for sporty driving pleasure, unmistakably attractive design and consistent progress. A legacy to which every generation of the BMW 3 Series is committed. The new, fully electric BMW i3 enhances the familiar character of the BMW 3 Series with additional, unique features. 

As the next model in the Neue Klasse, it represents a technological quantum leap into a new era. The first battery-electric BMW 3 Series launches as the BMW i3 50 xDrive, which has an electric motor on both the front and rear axles. The combined system power output is 463 hp[1] while maximum torque is 476 ft-lb. The highly efficient sixth-generation BMW eDrive technology, together with the new BMW Panoramic iDrive and Heart of Joy, delivers driving pleasure on a level never experienced before. With BMW Symbiotic Drive, the assisted driving experience is also entering a new era. The BMW i3 also stands for a modern interpretation of the hallmark design features of a BMW Sedan.

As a representative of the new design language, the new BMW i3 is immediately recognizable as a BMW 3 Series – assured, dynamic, and intelligent. The hallmark BMW sporty silhouette proportions are reflected in the new 2.5-box design. Notable features are the long wheelbase, the greenhouse that slopes towards the rear and the short overhangs. The four-eyed face is familiar, yet still new. The BMW grille and twin headlights merge into an innovative light signature, creating a powerful and expressive unit. The rear end, featuring horizontal rear lights, further highlights precision and technological progress. The boldly flared wheel arches emphasise the sporty, wide stance of the new BMW i3.

Sportiness and driving pleasure are invariably embedded in the DNA of the BMW 3 Series. The new BMW i3 maximizes the capabilities of the all-new EV architecture, offering impressively precise, effortless, and assured handling. The Heart of Joy high-performance computer shapes the BMW i3 driving experience, with responses that are ten times faster than in previous systems. Together with three other high-performance supercomputers, the Heart of Joy forms the centrepiece of the new software and electronics architecture.

The new BMW i3 stands out for its excellent suitability for long journeys. Its estimated range is up to 700 kilometres (according to preliminary BMW AG tests based on the EPA’s test procedure standards). DC charging capacities of up to 400 kW also drastically reduce charging times. Sixth-generation BMW eDrive technology provides the prerequisites for this rapid progress. It comprises highly efficient electric motors, 800-volt technology, and new high-voltage batteries with new cylindrical cells. The cell-to-pack design enables high energy densities at pack level and a flatter high-voltage battery. The BMW i3 also features the bidirectional charging functions Vehicle-to-Load, Vehicle-to-Home and, at a later stage in Canada, Vehicle-to-Grid charging functions.

The BMW i3 will be manufactured at the BMW Group plant in Munich, which is the home plant of BMW. The plant in Milbertshofen, in the north of Munich, has been producing premium vehicles for more than a hundred years. Over the last four years, the plant has seen significant modernization: Alongside a new body shop, a cutting-edge vehicle assembly area and logistics space has been constructed. The new buildings are in their final stages of expansion. Production of the new BMW i3 for the Canadian market will start at the end of 2026 and deliveries are expected in the first half of 2027.

Design. The core of the brand reinterpreted: modern, timeless, and unmistakeable.

In line with BMW's new design language that debuted with the iX3, the i3 embodies a contemporary take on the distinctive design elements synonymous with the BMW brand. At the same time, the BMW i3 combines future-oriented dynamics with the hallmark proportions of a sporty BMW sedan. The DNA of the BMW 3 Series, which has been successful for decades, is immediately apparent in its modern 2.5-box design.

Precise lines and striking surfaces characterize the clear, reduced external appearance of the BMW i3. The modern interior has a sporty and inviting design. Advanced digitalization shapes the user experience just as fundamentally as the hallmark BMW driver orientation.

2.5-box design with distinctive surfaces, long wheelbase and short overhangs.

The outline of the new BMW i3 maintains the classic, sporty proportions typical of BMW. With a modern 2.5-box design, the i3 is unmistakably identifiable as a BMW. 

The appearance is defined by the long wheelbase, the striking surfaces, and the short overhangs. The look of the design is both modern and dynamic. Short overhangs and powerfully shaped wheel arches emphasize the sporty stance. A distinctive design feature is the greenhouse, set back from the main structure. In combination with the flared wheel arches, this creates a powerfully athletic shoulder surface. The precise character line, positioned low on the body surface, brings the BMW i3's visual centre of gravity closer to the road. 

Concealed window seals ensure a direct, harmonious transition between the glass surfaces and the bodywork. When the BMW Digital Key Plus or physical key fob are near, the flush-mounted door handles automatically extend. 

Familiar, yet new: The front of the BMW 3 Series – a symbiosis of geometry and light.

The front end of the new BMW i3 presents the face of the Neue Klasse in a distinctive, modern form. The iconic BMW grille and twin headlights seamlessly integrate with the front sensors, creating a unified visual element that exemplifies the harmony of geometry and light. With meticulous precision, they effectively highlight the broad design of the vehicle. 

The light signature, arranged horizontally, spans nearly the whole front. Two daytime driving lights on the left and right with integrated turn indicator function create a new, modern look for the hallmark BMW four-eye face. The optional BMW Iconic Exterior Illumination further enhances the visual depth effect of the BMW grille. Precise contour lighting emphasizes the attractive look.

Occupying its spot in the "valley" of the sculptured hood, the redesigned BMW roundel sits above the grille. The front is dynamically inclined towards the road in a shark-nose design, thus emphasizing the overall sporty character.

BMW Iconic Exterior Illumination for customizable lighting effects.

The new BMW i3 comes to life with its light animation as soon as the driver approaches the vehicle. The Welcome Light Animation begins on the exterior of the vehicle and continues in the interior. The Welcome and Goodbye Animations vary depending on the equipment level. The optional BMW Iconic Exterior Illumination offers three impressive lighting animations. Balanced, Relaxed and Excited are available. Customers can individualise the Welcome Light Animation of their BMW i3 to their personal taste.

Powerful rear, horizontal light signature.

Similar to the front of the vehicle, the rear of the new BMW i3 features a contemporary and dynamic design language. The athletic shoulders with strongly inset greenhouse are a characteristic feature of the rear end. The prominently flared wheel arches emphasize the width of the sedan and its broad stance on the road. Located at the lower rear, a diffuser element emphasises the dynamic qualities of the BMW i3.

Strongly horizontally aligned rear lights feature a new three-dimensional light signature and extend far into the prominent shoulders. Two light elements per side reinterpret the familiar L-shaped BMW rear lights in a new, abstract form. At the same time, they underscore the width and the distinctive character of the BMW i3. The BMW roundel is again located in the "valley" between the rear lights. 

Expressive: New Le Castellet Blue metallic paint finish. 

A total of eleven different exterior colours will be available at the market launch of the new BMW i3. The new metallic colour Le Castellet Blue is exclusive to the range. Solid, frozen, and metallic finishes are also available. 

Interior: An inviting experience space – driver-oriented, digital, and modern. 

The interior of the BMW i3 brings the design language of the Neue Klasse to life with clear intensity. The interior design is dynamic, airy, and modern and stands for optimal driver orientation, redesigned user interaction, and a harmonious interplay of geometry, light, and sound. Digital and real content merge through the coordinated design of the ambient light and the graphics on the central display and the BMW Panoramic Vision.

The Free-Cut Design Central Display is angled slightly towards the driver. The lines of the instrument panel flow horizontally on both sides into the dynamically designed door panels. This creates an enveloping wrap-around effect for the passengers, which continues throughout the interior. The standard Panoramic Roof with Climate Glass, in combination with the large window areas, creates a feeling of space flooded with light.

Driver orientation: Precise and intuitive.

The BMW Panoramic Vision and the optional BMW 3D Head-Up Display project driving-relevant information directly into the driver's line of sight. This eliminates the need for cockpit displays behind the steering wheel, which is now completely redesigned. For the first time in a BMW 3 Series, it has a centre spoke in the upper section. In addition to distinctive thumb rests for improved ergonomics, it has multifunction buttons for intuitive operation. This follows the hallmark BMW principle of "Hands on the Wheel, Eyes on the Road". An M Steering Wheel with a flattened, dynamic design and spokes at the four and eight o'clock positions will also be available.

The Free-Cut Design Central Display equipped with matrix backlight technology is also positioned right next to the steering wheel, angled towards the driver for even more direct driver orientation.

The BMW i3 offers customers comprehensive options for personalization in the areas of lighting, sound, displays and drives via My Modes. 

Multifunction Seats. 

The new BMW i3 comes with sporty and elegant seats that provide a high level of comfort and secure lateral support. Multifunction Seats are available as an option.

The BMW i3 features electrically operated door latches front and rear. The centre console between the driver and passenger seats includes a storage area with inductive charging function, the gear selector, and physical buttons for parking brake and hazard warning lights. 

Choice of numerous interior designs. 

The BMW i3 features precisely coordinated interior designs with its selection of materials and hues. The standard Veganza upholstery is available in Agave Green, Digital White, Castanea, and Black. Black Merino Leather from BMW Individual can also be optioned.

Sporty style with the M Sport Package. 

The M Sport Package is available as an option for the new BMW i3. Among other things, it includes the M Aerodynamics Package, Dark Blue M Sport Brakes, a Sport Steering Wheel, and exterior mirror projection with M logo.

Display and operating system, digital user experience. Modern digital technology meets hallmark BMW driver orientation.

For decades, BMW vehicles have been regarded as leaders in intuitive operation and exceptional ergonomics. This also applies to the latest BMW Panoramic iDrive display and operating system with BMW Operating System X in the new BMW i3. The entire system adheres to one principle: the right information, in the right place, at the right time. It is controlled by ergonomically optimized analog and digital control elements. Many of the BMW i3's innovations in the area of display and control technology are protected by patent applications.

BMW Panoramic Vision: Focus on driver orientation.

At the heart of the display and operating system is the BMW Panoramic Vision. This is a newly developed type of display in which information is projected onto a specially coated area in the lower part of the windscreen that stretches from A-pillar to A-pillar. The content shown in this area is always visible and forms the visual basis of the entire display and operating concept. Key driving information is displayed on the left-hand side, clearly structured and in the driver’s line of sight, without restricting their view of the road ahead. The contents shown in the central and right-hand areas of the display can be personalized and are visible to all occupants.

BMW 3D Head-Up Display: Animations enable spatial perception.

The optional BMW 3D Head-Up Display integrated above the BMW Panoramic Vision projects selected content directly into the driver’s line of sight for their exclusive benefit. This display enables particularly precise spatial perception – for example in the case of navigation instructions, or information from the driver assistance system. The contents of the BMW 3D Head-Up Display and the BMW Panoramic Vision are perfectly coordinated and complement each other, for a consistent, clearly structured display experience.

Free-Cut Design Central Display. 

The 17.9-inch Central Display in Free-Cut Design is integrated into the BMW Panoramic iDrive as a further essential control element. It features advanced matrix backlight technology with a resolution of 3,340 x 1,440 pixels, for a brilliant display that is easy to read in all lighting conditions. The specific shape in the Free-Cut Design allows for ergonomically optimal positioning, and thanks to advanced menu structure with QuickSelect, it offers comfortable, simple and intuitive operation via touch. There is a menu on the Central Display containing widgets that can be moved to the BMW Panoramic Vision by drag and drop. Up to six widgets can be freely arranged in this way to enable quick access to frequently used functions. Using the multifunction steering wheel, further contents and submenus of the widgets can be displayed in the BMW Panoramic Vision.

New multifunction steering wheel with Shy Tech operating elements. 

The multifunction steering wheel employs the Shy Tech philosophy, meaning buttons are only illuminated when the corresponding functions are available. The controls for driving assistance and parking functions are located on the left side, while controls for infotainment functions such as telephone or media player are on the right. These functions can be operated via a special control panel that provides haptic feedback. This enables drivers to control key functions safely and accurately without needing to take their eyes off the road. The keys’ logical arrangement supports intuitive use and contributes significantly to the overall ergonomic design of the system.

Customizability as a key feature of the system. 

Contents, widgets and displays are individually configurable, allowing them to be adapted to personal preferences. Users can select colours, display schemes, and background images to create a personalized digital experience. There is a wealth of options enabling users to customise the user interface design in Personal Mode in line with their own preferences, enabling advanced individualization of displays, interactions and vehicle-related settings. Further My Modes such as Sport, Efficient and Silent add to the range of personal setups available to customers. 

The BMW ID opens the door to the customizable driving experience with BMW Panoramic iDrive. Up to seven different individuals can sign in to the vehicle with their BMW ID, allowing them to enjoy every drive to the fullest with their individual settings. The personalization process begins with initial registration in the vehicle, which is done by scanning a QR code in the Central Display using a smartphone. The personal BMW ID is then added to the car and the user is guided through the main steps of initial setup, which can also be started prior to vehicle handover via the My BMW App if desired. At the same time, the vehicle is automatically stored in the My BMW App along with the corresponding profile. All personal vehicle settings, such as the configuration of the BMW Panoramic Vision, media favorites, recent destinations, seat settings with entry and exit configuration, and much more, are now automatically available for every journey provided the profile has been linked to a BMW Digital Key Plus or physical key. Before setting off, a message greeting the customer by name will automatically appear in the Central Display – along with their personal profile picture, if desired.

The BMW Intelligent Personal Assistant.

The multimodal operating logic of BMW Panoramic iDrive combines touch, haptic and voice-based interactions. A key role is played by the BMW Intelligent Personal Assistant, the operating concept in the new BMW i3. It enables the control of numerous vehicle functions, navigation destinations and media contents using natural language, without the need for defined voice commands. The self-learning voice assistant can be activated in the usual way with the prompt “Hey BMW” or by pressing a button on the steering wheel’s right-hand control panel. Following initial setup, the BMW Intelligent Personal Assistant is positioned in the centre of the BMW Panoramic Vision by default and is always able to react appropriately to the specific context. If desired, the BMW Intelligent Personal Assistant can make proactive suggestions based on usage behavior and more. This intelligence is further enhanced by the BMW Operating System X, which considers significantly more contexts, such as driving situations, environmental analysis, and interior recognition.

The AI technology used is a Large Language Model (LLM), a generative AI that understands language and is capable of formulating its own responses. This makes for more dialogue-oriented voice interactions; it enables intuitive and intelligent exchanges and supports access to external knowledge bases, cloud-based services and media contents as well as the control of vehicle functions. Linking the BMW Intelligent Personal Assistant to an Amazon account allows the user to search for and stream music, access the latest news, and use a wide range of other content with ease.

The interplay between BMW Panoramic Vision, optional BMW 3D Head-Up Display, Central Display, and multifunction steering wheel – controlled by BMW Operating System X – creates a consistent, clearly structured display and operating concept. Physical and digital operating elements combine to create a unified user experience that is consistently designed with driver orientation and ergonomics in mind.

The BMW Digital Key Plus becomes the preferred vehicle key. 

This means that smartphones and smartwatches from all leading manufacturers (incl. Apple, Samsung, Google) can be easily set up to work as a vehicle key. Ultra-wideband (UWB) and Bluetooth technology are used to enable smartphone and vehicle to communicate with one another at close range. The UWB technology allows the user’s location to be pinpointed extremely precisely while also ensuring the highest possible vehicle access security (certified according to the Car Connectivity Consortium’s standard).

The BMW Digital Key Plus has further benefits to offer in addition to highly convenient vehicle access. Customers can share the digital key with others easily and securely using a messaging app, while defining individual roles and rights at the same time. It also enables the use of additional functions via the smartphone wallet, such as remote operation of the trunk lid.

BMW Operating System X with high update and upgrade capability.

The BMW Panoramic iDrive software is based on BMW Operating System X. It serves as an intelligent platform for the display and operating system and is consistently designed for a software-defined vehicle approach. The architecture is based on the Android Open-Source Project (AOSP) and offers a high level of update and upgrade capability. As a result, the system remains up-to-date in the long term and can be continuously expanded with new functions and digital services. The BMW Operating System X meticulously manages all aspects of interaction and guarantees that information is consistently presented in a context-sensitive manner aligned with the situation.

Superbrain high-performance computers and new architecture. Compute faster and update more flexibly.

At the heart of the new architecture are four superbrain high-performance computers. Each is assigned a core function in the new BMW i3: The Heart of Joy primarily manages driving dynamics, while separate computers are dedicated to automated driving and parking, infotainment, and essential and comfort functions like vehicle access and climate control. They offer up to 20 times higher computing power compared to previous BMW models.

Electronics in four zones: More efficiency, less weight. 

The four-zone electrical architecture reduces the complexity of the cable harnesses. In addition, the new BMW i3 uses Smart eFuses instead of classic fuses. This intelligent and flexible power protection combined with the zonal architecture enables shorter and thinner cables, saves weight, reduces energy consumption thanks to intelligent power distribution and increases overall vehicle efficiency. 

Over-the-air updates allow for continuous improvements. 

The new BMW i3 will continue to receive new functions, optimized performance, or AI-supported features via software updates long after purchase. With its superbrains, zonal electronics architecture and smart software, the new BMW i3 combines classic driving pleasure with digital intelligence, creating a unique symbiosis between human and machine. Future BMW models will feature an increasing number of electronics and software architecture developed for the Neue Klasse.

Driving experience.  Heart of Joy and BMW Symbiotic Drive for a new dimension of driving pleasure and the joy of assisted driving.

The new BMW i3 brings sportiness, precise handling, and long-distance comfort into the age of the Neue Klasse and make full use of previously unattainable potentials of electromobility. The Heart of Joy defines the brand-new driving experience – delivering greater accuracy, improved assurance, and heightened agility. In combination with the advanced suspension technology of the BMW i3, this creates a completely new dimension of driving pleasure. Multiple driving and parking assistance systems, which operate in synergy and securely with the driver while maintaining the unique BMW character, provide increased safety and convenience for everyday driving.

Heart of Joy: Ten times faster than previous systems. 

As one of four superbrains, the Heart of Joy, together with the BMW Dynamic Performance Control driving stack, forms the high-performance control unit of the BMW i3. Control systems in vehicles have a long tradition at BMW. It began back in 1979 with the first use of an Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) in the BMW 7 Series. 

The Heart of Joy controls drive, brakes, some steering functions, and recuperation. It works at a new level and responds ten times faster than previous systems. The result is exceptionally effortless and assured handling. This allows the BMW i3 to navigate corners precisely and with a light touch for maximum accuracy. The Heart of Joy reduces the number of necessary control interventions. The resulting cornering behavior is more consistent and predictable, which contributes to an even greater feeling of safety.

Soft-Stop: The smoothest stopping process in BMW history.

The electric motors' precise control ensures the new BMW i3 decelerates smoothly without any jerks or braking noise. Soft-Stop ensures an unparalleled stopping process. 

In everyday driving, the recuperation brake takes over almost all braking operations in the BMW i3. The conventional brakes are only used during very sporty driving or emergency braking.

Suspension: Sporty and comfortable. Optional Adaptive M Suspension.

The new BMW i3 is distinguished by its hallmark high driving dynamics paired with long-distance comfort. It takes advantage of the architecture, which is uniformly designed for electric mobility. The new, flat high-voltage battery enables a low centre of gravity. As standard, the BMW i3 has a suspension with stroke-dependent shock absorbers. In addition to the two-joint spring strut front axle, it features a new five-link rear axle. Front and rear anti-roll bars with highly preloaded bearings are used for even more dynamic handling. Adaptive M Suspension will also be available on the i3.

BMW Symbiotic Drive ensures seamless interaction between the driver and the driver assistance systems. 

The optional Level 2+ driver assistance systems in the BMW i3 are designed for seamless interaction between assistance and driver inputs. The aim is not attaining the highest possible level of automation in every situation, but a safe driver assistance experience that offers maximum benefit and is always controllable. As a result, the driver always remains involved in an interplay of human and artificial intelligence. This allows acceleration, steering, or braking even when driver assistance is engaged, without instantly causing a deactivation of the assistance system. The clear operating logic and displays in the BMW Panoramic iDrive ensure that assisted driving behavior is intuitive and can be influenced at any time. The symbiotic interplay of driver and vehicle can also be experienced with active safety functions such as Lane Departure Warning. The driver's intent is inferred from steering inputs and the direction of vision, so that the system assists with warning and steering intervention only when the driver unintentionally drifts off his own lane or an impending collision is detected.

Drive and battery. Technological quantum leap: Sixth-generation electric drive with round cell high-voltage battery.

The sixth generation of BMW eDrive technology comprises a new drive with a fundamentally new high-voltage battery concept and 800-volt technology. The new development called Gen6 offers significantly longer ranges, even faster charging, up to 400 kW DC charging capacity and bidirectional charging functionality.

In addition to advanced, highly efficient electric motors, it includes fundamentally new high-voltage batteries with cylindrical cells. Compared to Gen5, the range is increased by 30 percent. The new BMW i3 has a projected range of up to 700 kilometres (estimated range according to preliminary BMW AG tests based on the EPA’s test procedure standards) while charging speeds are 30 percent faster. 

The new cylindrical cells used in the high-voltage battery have a diameter of 46 millimetres and a height of 95 millimetres. They have a 20 percent increase in volumetric energy density compared to the prismatic cells used in Gen5. 

Cell-to-pack design enables high energy density at pack level. 

The cells are integrated directly into the high-voltage battery without modular construction or structural elements. This cell-to-pack design enables high energy densities at pack level and saves weight and costs. 

In addition, the combination of cell design and cell-to-pack construction paves the way for the flat design of the Gen6 high-voltage battery. This is an in-house development and – starting with the cell and ending with integration into the vehicle – the result of BMW’s expertise in battery technology built up since 2008.

Pack-to-open-body construction allows for flat design. 

Thanks to the pack-to-open body concept, the battery housing in the new BMW i3 also functions as a structural component. The chassis has an open floor, which is closed by installing the high-voltage battery. The housing cover thus assumes the function of the vehicle underbody. 

The omission of this usual underbody saves weight and, combined with the high-voltage battery design, paves the way for the flat and aerodynamically efficient design of the BMW i3. Another advantage: The torsional rigidity of the body also benefits from the pack-to-open-body construction, which has a positive effect on driving dynamics. 

Energy Master: The highly intelligent control centre. 

The electrical and electronic components for the high-voltage battery can be found in the Energy Master positioned on top of the high-voltage battery. The Energy Master, developed in-house by BMW, provides electricity to the electric motors and the vehicle electrical system. It is also the interface for all data from the high-voltage battery. It ensures intelligent, efficient, and safe battery operation.

Two highly efficient electric motors with EESM and ASM technology.

The BMW i3 50 xDrive has an electric motor on the front and rear axles. Together, they provide a system output of 463 hp and 476 lb-ft of torque.

An electrically excited synchronous motor (EESM) designed for the 800-volt architecture is integrated into the rear axle, the primary drive axle. This EESM forms the centrepiece of the Gen6 drive technology of the Neue Klasse. It is based on a stator, which generates a rotating magnetic field by means of three-phase alternating current, and a rotor, which has electrically excited electromagnets. This design makes the EESM fundamentally different from motors with permanent magnets, as the magnetic field in the rotor can be flexibly regulated. This ability makes it possible to reduce the magnetic field at low load and thus avoid losses. On the other hand, particularly strong magnetic fields can be generated under high load. This results in high torque and constant power output up to maximum motor speed.

The entire system is controlled by an inverter, which converts the direct current of the battery into the required alternating current and at the same time ensures that the rotor is excited as well as all control and monitoring processes. As a result, EESM is always operated at optimum efficiency. Its technology distinctly sets it apart as a unique selling point in the competitive landscape. Its efficiency and performance development are among its most important advantages.

The EESM in the BMW i3 50 xDrive is supplemented by an asynchronous motor (ASM) on the front axle. The ASM works on the induction principle and is a compact and lightweight addition to the EESM. The ASM differs fundamentally in its rotor design: Instead of magnets or electrical excitation, the rotor consists of aluminium rods that are connected via short-circuit rings. The necessary torque is generated by induced currents that occur when there is a difference in speed – known as slip – between the stator field and the rotor. The ASM is particularly robust and resistant to heat and its compact, sustainable construction uses only iron and aluminium. The combination of both types of motors enables a technological quantum leap: Together, they reduce energy losses by 40 percent, reduce the weight of the drive system by 10 percent, and reduce manufacturing costs by 20 percent compared to the already powerful previous generation.

The EESM of the new BMW i3 is manufactured at the BMW Group plant in Steyr in Upper Austria, and the high-voltage battery at the BMW Group plant in Debrecen in Hungary. The BMW Group's Landshut plant is contributing the Energy Master. 

BMW Charging. Revolutionary advances in range and charging speed combined with innovative charging solutions.

As a further innovation, the new BMW i3 will have bidirectional charging functions. The energy stored in the battery can thus be used not only for the drive and the electrical consumers in the vehicle, but also for the following applications:

Vehicle-to-Load (V2L): This turns the new BMW i3 into a mobile power bank that provides electricity directly from the high-voltage battery. For example, to operate an electric barbecue on a weekend trip or to charge the battery of an e-bike with up to 3.7 kW. 

Vehicle-to-Home (V2H): Bidirectional charging turns the BMW i3 into a home energy storage system: In conjunction with the BMW Wallbox Professional, V2H allows the vehicle to function as a back up emergency power supply in the event of an outage. The ability to use the i3 as a storage unit for solar energy generated by home-fitted photovoltaic systems will become available in the future.

Vehicle-to-Grid (V2G): Available at a later stage in Canada, V2G will allow the BMW i3 to be integrated into the public power grid and feed energy from the vehicle's high-voltage battery back into the system.

Simple, convenient, digital: Charging becomes an experience.

The BMW i3 features many innovations for convenient and fast charging on the go. This includes, for example, the route optimized for charging planned according to individual criteria with automatic battery preparation for faster DC charging. Or the convenient charging stop with an intelligent charging flap that opens automatically and Plug & Charge for automatic payment authentication at select charging stations.

Route planning optimized for charging: The BMW Maps navigation system calculates a route optimized for charging, including charging stops, if the destination is outside the current range.

The driver determines the charging status at which charging stations and the destination should preferably be reached and which charging station providers should be preferred. By using AI, the system learns from past charging processes, for example, the realistically expected charging power, the susceptibility to faults or the exact location data of individual charging stations and includes the optimal charging station in the planning of the route. Customers receive dynamic charging information including the number of charging stations, charging availability and plug types. The expected duration and costs of charging stops are shown in advance.  Charging station reviews and nearby amenities such as  restaurants, playgrounds, restrooms, or shopping facilities  are also shown.

Battery preparation for faster DC charging: The battery preparation ensures that the high-voltage battery is brought to the optimal temperature before a charging process at a DC charging station. This increases charging capacity immediately after plugging in and shortens the charging time. When the driver actively routes to a DC charging station with BMW Maps, the BMW i3 automatically conditions (heats or cools) its battery. Alternatively, the function can be activated manually via the Central Display or the My BMW App. The current status of the battery temperature and the time remaining for battery preparation can be viewed at any time in the BMW i3 vehicle status and in the My BMW App.

Intelligent charging flap: The charging port is located on the rear right side of the new BMW i3While it’s possible to open the charging flap manually, it is no longer necessary as it will open automatically when the customer’s charging request is detected.. One of the triggers for opening is AI-supported: If the customer walks towards a known or learned charging point, the movement path reveals the charging intention, whereupon the flap opens. If no charging cable is connected, the charging flap closes automatically – as it does after the charging process is complete or when the vehicle is ready to drive.

NACS charge port standard: The new BMW i3 will be fitted as standard with a NACS (North American Charging Standard) charging port. This will provide i3 owners access to the vast Supercharger network, while a CCS (Combined Charging System) adapter allows access to other providers from coast to coast, thus ensuring that i3 owners are never far from a provider no matter where their journey takes them.

Sustainability in the product.  Holistic concept for conserving resources and reducing CO ₂ e emissions.

As with the BMW iX3, BMW is also taking a holistic approach to sustainability with the new BMW i3. The focus is on decarbonization along the entire life cycle – from product development, supply chain to production and use phase. 

The BMW i3 is thus making a contribution to achieving the CO₂e goals that the company has set for 2030, 2035 and 2050.

The CO₂e advantage is already apparent after 1–2 years of use. Depending on the drive variant, annual mileage, and source of the electricity used for charging, the new BMW i3 50 xDrive achieves a CO₂e benefit over a comparable model with an internal combustion engine1 after just 1–2 years of use.

Decarbonization in the supply chain.

A key starting point for reducing CO₂e emissions is targeted decarbonization along the supply chain. Renewable energy, increased use of secondary materials, and product and process innovations contribute to a significant reduction in emissions in the supply chain of all drive variants.

The result of this consistent approach can be proven by the emissions reductions achieved: CO₂e emissions in the supply chain were reduced by around 33 percent even during the product development of the BMW i3.

Innovative materials and technologies in construction.

The "Design for Circularity" principle is also systematically applied in the new BMW i3. This approach entails an enhanced utilization of secondary materials, strategic selection of materials, and the optimization of dismantling capabilities. 

In the front bumper of the BMW i3, 30 percent recycled plastic is used in the trim. In addition, the variety of materials in the entire bumper without attachments has been reduced from 15 to 7 materials compared to its predecessor (BMW 3 Series). Thanks to the extensive use of a plastic especially suitable for recycling, the proportion of recyclable plastics was increased from approximately 46 percent in the predecessor model to approximately 85 percent. This creates the basis for the recovery of high-quality recycled plastics from the vehicle.

Use of secondary materials in the new BMW i3.

The new BMW i3 consists of a total of around 30 percent of secondary materials: The proportion of secondary materials in the aluminium cast components of the new BMW i3 swivel bearings and hub carriers is 80 percent; the cast aluminium rims consist of 70 percent secondary aluminium. The housing of the Gen6 motor also consists of approximately two-thirds recycled aluminium.

The Gen6 battery cells of the BMW i3 high-voltage battery pack use a proportion of secondary materials for cobalt, lithium and nickel. Energy from renewable sources is also used in the production of anode and cathode material as well as in cell production. Compared to a previous Gen5 cell in the BMW i4, the CO₂e footprint in the cell supply chain was reduced by around 33 percent per Wh. Another example of the innovative use of materials and secondary materials is the engine compartment cover and the storage compartment under the hood of the BMW i3. The base material consists of 30 percent recycled marine plastic. This is post-consumer material made from used fishing nets and ropes. The starting material of the yarn for the textile of the headliner and the A-pillar in the BMW i3 consists of 100 percent recycled material.

In line with the sustainability goals of the BMW Group.

BMW’s commitment to the Paris Climate Agreement and to Net Zero by 2050 at the latest is an integral part of the holistic 360° sustainability approach, which is anchored in the corporate strategy. The company has set itself ambitious, scientifically derived CO₂e targets for the coming years. For example, BMW intends to reduce its CO₂e emissions by a total of at least 40 million tons of CO₂e in 2030 and by around 60 million tons of CO₂e by 2035. This means an additional reduction of around 20 million tons of CO₂e in addition to the existing 2030 target.

-30-

BMW Group in Canada

BMW Group Canada, based in Richmond Hill, Ontario, is a wholly owned subsidiary of BMW AG and is responsible for the distribution of BMW luxury performance automobiles, Sports Activity Vehicles, Motorcycles, and MINI.  BMW Group Financial Services Canada is a division of BMW Group Canada and offers retail financing and leasing programs and protection products on new and pre-owned BMW and MINI automobiles, as well as retail financing for new and pre-owned BMW Motorcycles. A total network of 51 BMW automobile retail centres, 26 BMW motorcycle retailers, and 31 MINI retailers represents the BMW Group across the country.

For more information, please contact:

Marc Belcourt

Director, Corporate Communications

BMW Group Canada

marc.belcourt@bmwgroup.ca                                               

Jean-Francois Taylor

Product and Technology Manager, Corporate Communications

BMW Group Canada

jean-francois.taylor@bmwgroup.ca

Munich. Please find the satellite and streaming details of the BMW Group Keynote as follows:

18 March 2026.

11:00 - 11:40 A.M. CET – Design Premiere of the new BMW i3. LIVE

Technical data TV satellite transmission:

Contact SNG: +49 (0) 179-5079009 (Torsten Jobmann)
Contact on site : +49 151 23456 889 (Tom Forster)

Live Stream available at:

https://www.live.bmwgroup.com/en/live-streaming/ and

on BMW Group YouTube: https://b.mw/IuTd3

Munich. With the new BMW i3, the BMW Group is reaffirming its holistic approach to product sustainability – shining a light on a relevant dimension of product development that has been less visible up until now: health and well-being in the passenger compartment. To address this aspect of vehicle development, interior air quality, material selection and olfactory perception are systematically studied and evaluated at the company’s own odour laboratory.

Holistic product sustainability as a guiding principle.
The BMW Group considers sustainability throughout a vehicle's entire lifecycle – from raw material extraction through the supply chain and production all the way to the use phase and recycling. This 360° approach combines product sustainability, technological innovation and long-term company success. Health and well-being are embedded into product development and systematically integrated into processes and standards.

Interior air quality and its impact on health.
Vehicle interior air quality is an important factor for health and well-being inside the vehicle. Emissions from materials, as well as influences such as temperature and humidity directly impact vehicle occupants. When selecting materials for the vehicle interior, the BMW Group therefore pays close attention to avoiding emissions that could be detrimental to health. For more than 25 years, the company has relied on its own testing methods to measure and evaluate emissions and scent profiles in the vehicle interior. The latest findings from toxicology, health and sensory research are continuously applied to in-house standards that the BMW Group also actively shares in international standardisation and specialised bodies.
The aim is to ensure the interior has a scent that is authentic, discreet and high-end, reinforcing the brand's premium promise. The use of artificial fragrances is deliberately avoided.

Scent as a subconscious dimension.
The BMW Group deliberately addresses on scent in the vehicle interior, as this has a significant influence on the occupants’ health and well-being.
Scents act directly on the limbic system, evoking emotions and memories, and contributing to the subjective feeling of safety. A pleasant and subtle scent is therefore part of the premium experience and an expression of the brand's aspirations.
By minimising harmful emissions and selecting high-quality materials, the BMW Group acknowledges its responsibility for the health of its customers. Managing scent is therefore part of a holistic approach to sustainability across the entire lifecycle.

Inside the BMW Group scent laboratory.
At the BMW Group scent laboratory, materials, components and complete vehicle interiors are tested under realistic conditions. The analysis relies on the integration of modern measurement technologies and the trained sensory evaluation of BMW Group experts. Humans remain central to this process. This approach ensures compliance with legal requirements and adherence to internal quality standards. Scent is viewed as part of a multi-sensory, holistic experience. What matters most is not the individual component, but the interaction of all materials in the vehicle interior, which determines the overall olfactory experience.

Health and well-being as elements of product sustainability.
The new BMW i3 embodies an aspiration that applies to the entire BMW Group brand portfolio: In addition to a consistent decarbonisation strategy throughout the vehicle lifecycle, the model relies on a high percentage of secondary materials and innovative material concepts for the interior.
“Health and well-being are an integral part of product sustainability for us. Environmental factors and a growing health awareness are changing how we perceive our living spaces – including our cars. Our customers expect products that are designed to take their health and well-being into account. That is why interior air quality is a key product feature in our holistic approach to sustainability,” according to Nils Hesse, Vice President Product Sustainability at the BMW Group.

Munich. In the BMW i3, as with the BMW iX3, the BMW Group applies a 360° approach to sustainability. At its core is decarbonisation throughout the entire vehicle lifecycle – from product development through the supply chain and production to the end of the use phase. In this way, the second Neue Klasse model also contributes to achieving the ambitious, overarching CO₂e targets the company has set itself.

CO₂e benefits already after 1-2 years of use.
Depending on the drive train variant, annual mileage and source of the electricity used for charging, the new BMW i3 50xDrive already achieves a CO₂e advantage over a comparable model with an internal combustion engine after one to two years of use[1].

Decarbonisation in the supply chain.
Targeted decarbonisation is a key starting point for reducing CO₂e emissions throughout the supply chain. The use of renewable energies, the increasing share of secondary material, and product and process innovations – for example, in the Gen6 cell and high-voltage battery – contribute to a significant emissions reduction across the entire supply chain.
The results of this systematic approach are demonstrated by the emission reductions achieved: Specific measures during product development of the BMW i3 lowered supply chain CO₂e emissions by about a third.[2]

Innovative materials and technologies for interior and exterior.
The “Design for Circularity” principle is also systematically applied in the new BMW i3. The concept incorporates gradually increased use of secondary materials, targeted reduction of material selection and optimised dismantling capability.
For example, the BMW i3 uses 30 percent recycled plastic in its front bumper trim. At the same time, the number of different materials used for the entire bumper, excluding mounted parts, was reduced from 15 to 7, compared to the predecessor model (seventh-generation BMW 3 Series). Due to the high use of a plastic particularly suitable for recycling, the proportion of recyclable plastic was increased from approximately 46 percent in the predecessor to about 85 percent[3]. This enables the recovery of high-quality plastic recyclates from the vehicle.
Another example of how the “Design for Circularity” principle is implemented in the new BMW i3 is the Econeer seat covers offered as part of the “Essential” equipment line, which are made from a recyclable textile composite. The basic material for the upper fabric is 100-percent recycled PET. The use of recycled PET granulate – as the base material for the polyester yarn required – significantly reduces CO₂e emissions and water consumption during manufacturing compared to primary material. The dismantling capability of the seat cover has also been improved to facilitate a material-specific separation at the end of the lifecycle.

Use of secondary materials in the new BMW i3.
The new BMW i3 consists of approx. 30 percent secondary materials in total[4]^: These include cast aluminium components, such front and rear knuckle, with 80 percent secondary material content, and cast aluminium wheel rims with 70 percent secondary aluminium.The housing for the rear electric motor, produced at BMW Plant Landshut, comprises up to two-thirds secondary aluminium. A portion of the energy used in production comes from renewable sources.
In the Gen6 battery cells of the BMW i3 high‑voltage battery, secondary materials are partially used for cobalt, lithium and nickel. Energy from renewable sources is used in manufacturing the anode and cathode materials, as well as for cell production. In comparison to the previous model’s Gen5 cell, CO₂e emissions were reduced by approx. 33 percent per watt hour.
Further examples of the innovative use of engineering and secondary materials include the engine compartment cover and the storage compartment under the BMW i3's bonnet. The starting material for these consists of 30 percent recycled maritime plastic – post-consumer material from used fishing nets and ropes – while the base material for the yarn used in the textiles for the headliner, A-pillar and parcel shelf consists entirely of recycled material.

Enhanced efficiency during use phase.
With the EfficientDynamics technology package, vehicle efficiency is optimised across all subsystems during the use phase.
This encompasses aerodynamics, lightweight construction, rolling resistance and overall energy management, for example. Efficientynamics has been employed by the BMW Group since 2007, across all drive technologies.

BMW Group Plant Munich undergoes extensive modernisation.
BMW Group Plant Munich is the BMW Group’s main plant.For more than a century, the plant has been producing premium mobility in Munich’s Milbertshofen district. Over the past four years, the site has been completely modernised: In addition to a new body shop, a state-of-the-art vehicle assembly was also built, including logistics areas. The new facilities are now in the final stages of construction. Production of the new BMW i3 will get underway here in 2026. Just one year later, the Munich location will transition its production portfolio to exclusively fully-electric vehicles for the Neue Klasse. As the BMW Group’s oldest automobile production site, the plant sources 100 percent of its external electricity requirements from renewable energy.

In line with BMW Group’s sustainable development goals.
The BMW Group’s commitment to the Paris Climate Agreement and to reaching “net zero” no later than 2050 is an integral part of its holistic 360° approach to sustainability, which is anchored in its corporate strategy. The company has set itself ambitious science-based CO₂e targets for the coming years. The BMW Group intends to reduce its CO₂e emissions by a total of at least 40 million tonnes from 2019 levels by 2030.

Transparency through Product Carbon Footprint .
The BMW Group has published its vehicles’ Product Carbon Footprint, as validated by the German Technical Inspection Association (TÜV), for many years in the so-called Vehicle Footprint. This report is publicly available here for all drive trains of the new BMW 3 Series from the Start of Production and can also be accessed in the My BMW app. In this way, the BMW Group creates transparency around the percentage of secondary materials and CO₂e emissions across the vehicles’ entire lifecycle.

Attached please find the BMW Group Report 2025.

The BMW Group Annual Conference will be held on 12 March 2026 at 08:00 am (CET).
The event will be broadcast on our website https://www.bmwgroup.com/en/investor-relations/company-reports.html.

The online version of the BMW Group Report 2025 can be explored here: https://www.bmwgroup.com/en/report/2025/index.html

Munich. Consistency and resilience: The BMW Group maintained its course in 2025, despite substantial headwinds. Thanks to its attractive model line-up across all drive technologies, its growing and globally balanced business model and disciplined cost management, the BMW Group once again achieved Group earnings before tax of over € 10 billion. Despite significant additional tariff headwinds, the company reported a stable Group EBT margin of 7.7%
(2024: 7.7%). As in the previous year, Group net profit totalled more than € 7 billion, laying the foundation for a proposed dividend payment in line with the 2024 figure.

“Strategic vision, strong operating performance and high reliability have always been hallmarks of the BMW Group. We set our course for the company’s future success early on, relying on three strong pillars: our technology-neutral approach, our extensive global footprint and our inspiring brands and products,” said Oliver Zipse, Chairman of the Board of Management of BMW AG. “Over the past years, we have adopted the right strategic positioning. We are benefiting from that today: In a challenging environment, we do not need to change direction but can maintain our course and continue implementing our strategy systematically.”

Technology-neutral approach as key success factor in global competition

The diversity of its product range remains a key success factor for the BMW Group: With a broad drive train portfolio spanning internal combustion engines, plug-in hybrids, battery-electric drive trains and, from 2028, hydrogen fuel cells, the company is laying the foundation to meet globally diverse requirements and customer needs, both today and in the future.

At the same time, this approach is also key to effective CO₂ reduction: In 2025, the company slightly overfulfilled the ambitious targets of the European Union (EU 27+2), with fleet emissions of 90 grams per kilometre – without relying on instruments such as pooling or temporal staggering. This underlines once again how a technology-neutral approach and climate protection go hand in hand at the BMW Group.

Battery-electric vehicles (BEVs) remain growth driver for BMW Group

In financial year 2025, the BMW Group increased its BEV sales worldwide to 442,056 units (+3.6%), representing 17.9% of its total sales. This means that one in six BMW Group vehicles sold was fully electric. At MINI, the percentage was even higher, with one in three vehicles already fully electric.

Plug-in hybrids (PHEVs) also remain an essential component of the technology-neutral approach and the electrification of the model range: In total, the BMW Group delivered 642,071 electrified vehicles, including plug-in hybrids (PHEVs and BEVs) in 2025, meaning that one in four vehicles was electrified. In Europe, the proportion was even higher, where 40 percent of BMW Group vehicles were either fully electric or plug-in hybrids.

2026 electrification milestone: Two million BEVs delivered to customers

In 2025, the BMW Group reached two major electrification milestones since the debut of the BMW i3 and BMW i8 in 2013: In June, the 1.5-millionth fully-electric vehicle was handed over to its new owner. This was followed in August by the three-millionth electrified vehicle. The next milestone will come this year, with the two-millionth fully-electric vehicle.

“With our wide range of electrified vehicles, we have secured ourselves a strong competitive position. We remain true to our role as pioneers and continue to expand our BEV line-up: By the end of this year, we will offer our customers 20 fully-electric cars,” said Zipse.

Strong brands and attractive product line-up with diverse drive train portfolio

With 2,463,681 premium vehicles delivered to customers in financial year 2025, BMW Group sales reached the same high level as in 2024 (2024: 2,450,854 units; +0.5%). Thanks to its globally balanced footprint, the company was able to offset its decline in sales in China (-12.5%) with gains in other regions, reporting solid growth in Europe (+7.3%) and the Americas (+5.6%).

The main growth drivers included the BMW 5 Series, with sales up by more than a quarter, and the compact BMW X2, which rose by 33%. For the 14th consecutive year, BMW M GmbH deliveries reached a new all-time sales high of 213,449 units (2024: 206,587 units; +3.3%), with the BMW M2 Coupé* and the M3* family as the best-selling models. For the first time, one in ten BMWs delivered was a BMW M model. On the fully-electric side, the BMW i5*, BMW iX2* and BMW iX1* models all saw significant growth.

In 2025, the top-selling model in the rapidly growing MINI family, with a total of 288,278 deliveries (2024: 244,925 units; +17.7%), was the MINI Countryman*. The MINI Aceman*, the new MINI Convertible* and the fully-electric MINI Cooper* models led the MINI brand to significant growth. With more than 105,000 BEVs delivered to customers, fully-electric vehicles accounted for over 36% of sales.

The Rolls-Royce luxury brand matched the level of the previous year, with 5,664 deliveries (2024: 5,712 units; -0.8%). The Rolls-Royce Cullinan and fully-electric Spectre models were the most in demand.

BMW Group meets 2025 targets

As projected, the BMW Group achieved its business objectives for 2025. Thanks to its attractive line-up, the BMW Group reported revenues of € 133,453 million for the full year (2024: € 142,380 million; -6.3%; adjusted for currency translation
effects: -3.9%). This reflects the intense competition in the automotive sector, particularly in China. Furthermore, negative currency translation effects, primarily from the US dollar, Korean won and Chinese renminbi, also had an impact.

Lower R&D spending and capital expenditure as planned

As previously announced, the BMW Group’s investments in the future have declined from their peak: Research and development spending totalled € 8,319 million in 2025 – a moderate decrease from the previous year (2024: €9,078 million; -8.4%). Expenditure for research and development is largely focused on digitalisation and electrification of the vehicle fleet across all model series. It also includes spending for the development of NEUE KLASSE models, such as the BMW iX3* and the successor models to the BMW X5 and BMW 7 Series. The R&D ratio for the full year decreased to 6.2% (2024: 6.4%). As planned, capital expenditure for the full year also declined significantly to € 7,237 million (2024: € 9,056 million; -20.1%), with a capex ratio of 5.4%.

The BMW Group was also able to reduce sales and administrative expenses in line with forecasts, lowering costs by 6.1% to € 10,606 million (2024: € 11,296 million).

“Our disciplined active cost management strengthened our performance in 2025: Compared with the previous year, as promised, we were able to streamline our cost structures in line with planning, by reducing R&D expenditure, sales and administrative expenses as well as manufacturing and material costs. A total reduction in expenses of € 2.5 billion has benefited our profitability. We will continue systematically lowering costs this year, in line with our planning," said Walter Mertl, member of the Board of Management responsible for Finance.

Group EBT margin in line with previous year

In 2025, despite significant tariff headwinds, the BMW Group once again achieved Group earnings before tax (EBT) of more than € 10 billion (€ 10,236 million; 2024: € 10,971 million; -6.7%). The Group EBT margin of 7.7% (2024: 7.7%) was on a par with the previous year. Group net profit once again exceeded € 7 billion, at € 7,451 million (2024: € 7,678 million; -3.0%).

Automotive EBIT margin within target range of 5 to 7%

Automotive Segment earnings before financial result (EBIT) totalled € 6,259 million (2024: € 7,893 million; -20.7%). The EBIT margin of 5.3% (2024: 6.3%) was within the target range of 5 to 7%, as forecast in March 2025. Excluding depreciation and amortisation for BBA assets from the purchase price allocation, the EBIT margin was 6.4%. As forecast, the additional impact of tariffs in 2025 lowered the margin by approx. 1.5 percentage points. 

The Automotive Segment’s free cash flow for the full year totalled € 3,240 million (2024: € 4,852 million). Cash inflows from operating activities decreased year-on-year, partially offsetting the lower investment activity. Due to the reduction in inventories, working capital also had a positive effect on the segment’s cash inflows. The segment’s free cash flow is projected to exceed € 4.5 billion in 2026.

The Financial Services Segment reported a slight increase in the number of new credit financing and leasing contracts in 2025. This was primarily driven by positive business development in Europe and an improvement in the Chinese competitive environment in the second half of the year, after local banks substantially reduced their commission rates for brokering of financial and insurance products to retail customers.

As a consequence, the segment’s volume of new business also increased slightly, despite negative currency translation effects, reaching € 65,818 million for the full year (2024: € 64,519 million/+2.0%). The penetration rate, the percentage of new BMW Group vehicles leased or financed by the Financial Services Segment, climbed to 46.6% duringthe reporting year (2024: 42.6%/+4.0 percentage points).

Segment profit before tax (PBT) for the full year 2025 amounted to
€ 2,401 million (2024: € 2,538 million/-5.4%). The decrease was primarily due to lower income from the sale of lease returns and a tax arrears payment required as a result of a revised operational tax assessment relating to previous years.

Dividend payout and payout ratio in line with previous year

The BMW Group ensures that its shareholders consistently benefit from the company’s success. Its sustainable dividend policy offers shareholders a reliable return on investment.

“In 2025, the BMW Group achieved a stable EBT margin of 7.7%, with pre-tax earnings once again exceeding € 10 billion. Thanks to a stable year-on-year profit attributable to shareholders of BMW AG, we are proposing a total dividend payment of € 2,672 billion, comparable to the previous year, with a stable payout ratio of 36.6%,” said Mertl.

The payout ratio is thus at the high end of the target range of 30-40% of net profit attributable to the shareholders of BMW AG.

The Annual General Meeting in May 2025 authorised the Board of Management to buy back up to 10% of BMW AG’s share capital over the next five years. Based on this new authorisation, the Board of Management approved a third share repurchase programme with a volume of up to € 2 billion,to be completed no later than 30 April 2027. By December 2025, the first tranche of shares, with a value of € 750 million, had been repurchased.

As of 31 December 2025, BMW AG held 8,682,146 shares, with a nominal value of
€ 8,682,146. This is equivalent to 1.41% of the share capital as of 31 December 2025.

At this year’s Annual General Meeting on 13 May 2026, the Board of Management and Supervisory Board will propose a dividend of € 4. 40 per share of common stock (2024: € 4.30) and € 4.42 per share of preferred stock (2024: € 4.32). Furthermore, at a separate meeting of preferred shareholders held on same day, the Board of Management and Supervisory Board will propose the 1:1 conversion of all shares of preferred stock into common stock with voting rights, without any additional payment obligation.

NEUE KLASSE ramp-up begins in 2026

During the current financial year, the ramp-up of the NEUE KLASSE will gain speed, starting out with two models at the heart of the BMW brand: Since its world premiere at the International Motor Show (IAA) in September 2025, the fully-electric BMW iX3 has seen extremely strong demand – among pre-ordered fully-electric BMW vehicles in Europe, one in three orders is for a BMW iX3. Due to the high demand, the plant in Debrecen, Hungary, is already operating in two shifts. The second NEUE KLASSE model – the fully-electric BMW i3– will celebrate its design premiere next week in Munich.

“With the successful launch of the NEUE KLASSE, we demonstrated in 2025 that we are leading the BMW brand into the future, with new technology clusters and a fresh design language. The extraordinarily high demand for the first model, the BMW iX3, proves that pioneering spirit, innovation and courage deliver results,” said Zipse. “We will maintain the high pace of our innovation rollout as we introduce the technologies of the NEUE KLASSE across our entire portfolio: Between now and 2027, we will present more than 40 new or updated models. These will also include the BMW 3 Series and BMW X5: two all-new models in two of our key segments, offered with all drive train variants. In this way, we are ushering in a new era of technology neutrality at the BMW Group.”

Forecast for financial year 2026

The BMW Group anticipates the following developments during financial year 2026: Given the current economic outlook for 2026, the global automotive markets are expected to develop in a stable manner. The company anticipates growth potential overall for Europe and the USA. Based on the average sales volume of recent months, sales in China are expected to remain approximately at the previous year's level.
Globally, the company forecasts that deliveries will be on a par with the previous year and that fully-electric vehicles will account for the same share of sales as last year.

For financial year 2026, the BMW Group assumes that headwinds from higher tariffs will further impact the EBIT margin in the Automotive Segment by about 1.25 percentage points. Mitigation measures have already been considered.

Regarding forecast values: In addition to the aforementioned tariff-related burdens, the EBIT of the Automotive Segment will be impacted year‑on‑year by higher negative effects from currencies and raw materials, by rising depreciation and a significantly lower capitalization rate, as well as by overall lower revenues resulting from the declining used‑car market. In China, the price and product measures adopted to stabilize transaction prices will have a negative year‑on‑year effect, particularly in the first half of the year.
The planned cost reductions in capital expenditure, material and manufacturing costs, in research and development activities, as well as in selling and administrative expenses will partially offset these burdens.

The EBIT margin for the Automotive Segment is therefore forecast to be within the range of 4 to 6%. RoCE should be between 6 to 10%.

In the Financial Services Segment, RoE is projected to be between 13 to 16%. A further decline in the used car markets and lower income from the resale of end-of-lease vehicles compared to 2025 are anticipated.

In the Motorcycles Segment, deliveries are forecast to be on a par with the previous year, with an EBIT margin within the range of 4.0 to 6.0% and a RoCE of 10 to 14%.

In light of the forecast developments, a moderate decline in Group earnings before tax is expected for 2026.

The BMW Group’s actual business performance may deviate from these expectations – for example, due to changes in political and macroeconomic conditions.

Proposal for the election of a Supervisory Board member

The Supervisory Board will propose to the Annual General Meeting that Dr Christian Bruch, Chief Executive Officer of Siemens Energy AG, be newly elected to the Supervisory Board for a term of four years.

* * *

The BMW Group Report 2025 will be published on 12 March 2026 at 7:30 a.m. (CET) at https://www.bmwgroup.com/de/investor-relations/unternehmensberichte.html. The BMW Group Annual Conference taking place on 12 March 2026 as virtual event can be watched live in the internet from 8:00 a.m. (CET) at: https://www.live.bmwgroup.com/en/live-streaming/, followed by the livestream of the journalist Q+A at the Annual Conference from 9:00-10:00 a.m. From 11:00 a.m.-12:00 p.m. will follow the livestream of the Investor Relations Q+A with analysts at https://www.bmwgroup.com/en/investor-relations/annual-conferences.html.

GLOSSARY – explanatory comments on key performance indicators

Deliveries to customers

A new or used vehicle is recorded as a delivery once it is handed over to the end user (which also includes leaseholders under lease contracts with BMW Financial Services). In the US and Canada, end users also include (1) dealers when they designate a vehicle as a service loaner or demonstrator vehicle and (2) dealers and other third parties when they purchase a company vehicle at auction and dealers when they purchase company vehicles directly from the BMW Group. Deliveries may be made by BMW AG, one of its international subsidiaries, a BMW Group retail outlet, or independent third-party dealers. The vast majority of deliveries – and hence the reporting of deliveries to the BMW Group – is made by independent third-party dealers. Retail vehicle deliveries during a given reporting period do not correlate directly to the revenues that the BMW Group recognises in respect of that particular reporting period.

Payout ratio

The payout ratio is preliminary. Although the Board of Management and the Supervisory Board will propose a fixed dividend per share at the Annual General Meeting, the number of shares entitled to a dividend is expected to fall by the Annual General Meeting due to the ongoing share buy-back programme. Accordingly, the total amount to be distributed to shareholders is also still expected to change by 13 May.

EBIT

Profit before financial result. Profit before financial result comprises revenues less cost of sales, less selling and administrative expenses and plus/minus net other operating income and expenses.

EBIT margin

Profit/loss before financial result as a percentage of revenues.

EBT

EBIT plus financial result.

PHEV

Plug-in-hybrid electric vehicle - hybrid vehicle with petrol engine and electric drive.

If you have any questions, please contact:

BMW Group Corporate Communications

Dr Britta Ullrich, Finance Communications

Telephone: +49 89 382-18364

Email: britta.ullrich@bmwgroup.com

Sebastian Keßler, Communications BMW Group, Strategy

Telephone: +49 89 382-21616

Email: Sebastian.KE.Kessler@bmwgroup.com

Max-Morten Borgmann, head of Communications BMW Group, Finance, Sales

Telephone: +49 89 382-24118

Email: Max-Morten.Borgmann@bmwgroup.com

Media website: https://newsroom.bmwgroup.com/global/en

Email: presse@bmwgroup.com

The BMW Group

With its four brands, BMW, MINI, Rolls-Royce and BMW Motorrad, the BMW Group is the world’s leading premium manufacturer of automobiles and motorcycles and also provides premium financial services. The BMW Group production network comprises over 30 production sites worldwide; the company has a global sales network in more than 140 countries.

In 2025, the BMW Group sold 2.46 million passenger vehicles and more than 202,500 motorcycles worldwide. The profit before tax in the financial year 2025 was € 10.2 billion on revenues amounting to € 133,5 billion. As of 31 December 2025, the BMW Group had a workforce of 154,540 employees.

The economic success of the BMW Group has always been based on long-term thinking and responsible action. Sustainability is a key element of the BMW Group’s corporate strategy and covers all products – from the supply chain through production to the end of their useful life. 

www.bmwgroup.com

LinkedIn: http://www.linkedin.com/company/bmw-group/

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/bmwgroup

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bmwgroup

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/bmwgroup

Richmond Hill, ON.  BMW Canada is excited to announce the launch of the 2027 BMW M4 Coupe M Legacy Edition, a special commemorative model marking 40 years since the debut of the original high-performance coupe, known then as the M3 Coupe. This exclusive edition is offered on both the M4 Coupe and M4 Competition Coupe (M xDrive), designed specifically for Canadian enthusiasts who appreciate BMW M’s legendary blend of performance, innovation, and motorsport heritage.

A Legacy of performance and precision.

The BMW M4 continues the tradition of the M3 lineage as a high-performance sports coupe that delivers exhilarating driving dynamics with everyday usability. Powered by a 3.0-litre M TwinPower Turbo inline 6-cylinder engine, the M4 generates up to 523 horsepower (Competition variant), providing a thrilling and precise driving experience on both road and track.

Exclusive features of the M4 Coupe M Legacy Edition.

• Distinctive 826M style wheels in an exclusive gold bronze finish — a unique colour option previously only offered on CS models, now tailored to the 826M style wheel on this edition to enhance its striking presence.
• Black painted M graphics elegantly flow from the hood - featuring the iconic “M” in the design - across to the trunk lid. This factory-applied graphic package is a first for the Canadian market and adds a bold, dynamic touch that honours M’s racing heritage.
• M Alcantara steering wheel brings an authentic motorsport feel, previously reserved for special models such as the CS and CSL, now standard in this edition for enhanced driver engagement.
• Historic M paintwork options: Available in Laguna Seca Blue, Velvet Blue Metallic, and Imola Red II - each a celebrated colour from BMW M’s storied past, these BMW Individual Manufaktur paint finishes pay tribute to the vibrant palette of the historical M logo itself.
• Fully loaded with M Carbon Bucket Seats, Black Full Merino Leather, Nappa Leather Dashboard, Carbon Fibre Interior Trim, and M Driver’s Package.

Strong Canadian market for BMW M Models.

In 2025, Canada ranked as the number two global market for BMW M vehicles by share of sales and consistently ranks among the top markets every year, reflecting the country’s strong passion and appreciation for high-performance M models. The M4 Coupe M Legacy Edition celebrates this success and the deep connection Canadian drivers have with the BMW M brand. This limited-edition model is a tribute to the enthusiastic Canadian M community and BMW’s commitment to delivering exclusive, high-performance vehicles tailored to their tastes.

Availability and more information.

The 2027 BMW M4 Coupe M Legacy Edition is a Canadian-exclusive and limited to 40 units. Base prices for the M Legacy Edition are $115,500 CAD for the M4 Coupe and $124,500 CAD for the M4 Competition Coupe. These vehicles will be built in Germany as of June 2026 and will arrive at BMW retailers across Canada in Q3 2026. For detailed specifications, pricing, and ordering information, visit www.bmw.ca or contact your local BMW retailer.

-30-

BMW Group in Canada
BMW Group Canada, based in Richmond Hill, Ontario, is a wholly owned subsidiary of BMW AG and is responsible for the distribution of BMW luxury performance automobiles, Sports Activity Vehicles, Motorcycles, and MINI.  BMW Group Financial Services Canada is a division of BMW Group Canada and offers retail financing and leasing programs and protection products on new and pre-owned BMW and MINI automobiles, as well as retail financing for new and pre-owned BMW Motorcycles. A total network of 51 BMW automobile retail centres, 26 BMW motorcycle retailers, and 31 MINI retailers represents the BMW Group across the country.

For more information, please contact: 

Marc Belcourt
Director, Corporate Communications
BMW Group Canada
marc.belcourt@bmwgroup.ca                                               

Jean-Francois Taylor
Product and Technology Manager, Corporate Communications
BMW Group Canada
jean-francois.taylor@bmwgroup.ca

Richmond Hill, ON.  BMW Motorrad ADV-X returns in 2026 with an all-new format, inviting GS riders from across Canada to experience an adventure reimagined. From September 6–12, 2026, participants will traverse a predominantly off-road route from Calgary, Alberta to Kelowna, British Columbia, taking in some of the most dramatic backcountry terrain in the country.

Reengineered for 2026, ADV-X blends technical off-road riding with sweeping mountain passes, remote forest trails, and panoramic viewpoints that reward every kilometre earned. Riders will put their BMW GS motorcycles to the test across a dynamic mix of gravel roads, double-track, and single-track sections—building skills, confidence, and community along the way.

Highlights of the 2026 BMW Motorrad ADV-X include:

• All-new Calgary–Kelowna route: A curated, point-to-point backcountry adventure designed by expert guides for GS riders of varying skill levels.
• Guided riding experience: Riders are grouped and led by experienced instructors, with support from BMW Motorrad technicians throughout the event.
• All-inclusive experience: Six nights of accommodation, daily breakfast, lunch, dinner, and event programming are included.
• Fuel and support included: All required fuel and trailside technical support are provided as part of the registration.
• Motorcycle transportation: Transport for participants’ GS motorcycles is available from select BMW Motorrad retailers, making it easier for riders from across Canada to join the event.
• Optional pre-event training: A dedicated off-road training day, led by certified BMW Motorrad Off-Road Instructors from across Canada, is available for riders who wish to sharpen their skills before the adventure begins.

This announcement of the 2026 ADV‑X comes on the heels of a standout year for the BMW GS nameplate in Canada, marked by the successful launches of the R 1300 GS Adventure and R 12 G/S and continued growth of the GS rider community. These models have further strengthened BMW Motorrad’s position in the adventure segment, attracting new riders while deepening loyalty among long-time GS enthusiasts.

ADV‑X is a natural extension of this momentum—an immersive, real-world proving ground for BMW GS motorcycles and the riders who choose them. Designed to celebrate exploration, capability, and community, the program offers GS riders across Canada an opportunity to experience their bikes as they were meant to be ridden, while connecting with a passionate and rapidly growing GS community.

The BMW Motorrad ADV-X program is managed and hosted in partnership with Enduro Park Canada. For more information and registration details, please visit www.advx.ca.

-30-

BMW Group in Canada

BMW Group Canada, based in Richmond Hill, Ontario, is a wholly-owned subsidiary of BMW AG and is responsible for the distribution of BMW luxury performance automobiles, Sports Activity Vehicles, Motorcycles, and MINI.  BMW Group Financial Services Canada is a division of BMW Group Canada and offers retail financing and leasing programs and protection products on new and pre-owned BMW and MINI automobiles, as well as retail financing for new and pre-owned BMW Motorcycles. A total network of 51 BMW automobile retail centres, 26 BMW motorcycle retailers, and 31 MINI retailers represents the BMW Group across the country.

For more information, please contact:

Marc Belcourt

Director, Corporate Communications

BMW Group Canada

marc.belcourt@bmwgroup.ca                                     

Jean-Francois Taylor

Product and Technology Manager, Corporate Communications

BMW Group Canada

jean-francois.taylor@bmwgroup.ca

Pretoria. BMW Group Plant Rosslyn has reached a significant production milestone with the completion of its 100,000th fourth-generation BMW X3, marking an important moment for the South African manufacturing facility and the people behind its success.

The milestone reflects the collective effort of associates across the plant and the broader ecosystem of suppliers, logistics partners and dealerships that support vehicle production. Together, these teams contribute to delivering vehicles that meet BMW Group’s global standards for quality and performance.

The 100,000th vehicle produced is a Fire Red BMW X3 plug-in hybrid destined for Australia. BMW Group Plant Rosslyn is the only production facility globally manufacturing the BMW X3 plug-in hybrid for international markets, underscoring the plant’s strategic role within BMW Group’s global production network. Located north of Pretoria, BMW Group Plant Rosslyn continues to play an important role in South Africa’s automotive industry. Since the plant’s inception, more than 1.8 million vehicles have been produced at the facility, including the previous third-generation BMW X3.

Behind every vehicle produced at BMW Group Plant Rosslyn is a team of people. Production associates, technicians, engineers and support teams work together across multiple production stages to ensure each vehicle meets the high standards expected by customers.

“Producing 100,000 fourth-generation BMW X3 vehicles is a significant milestone for BMW Group Plant Rosslyn and a testament to the dedication and professionalism of our associates,” said Danny Bester, Director of BMW Group Plant Rosslyn. “Every vehicle that leaves this plant represents the skill, commitment and pride of the people who build it. It also reflects the trust that customers place in the BMW brand and in the quality delivered here in South Africa.”

The milestone also highlights the plant’s contribution to skills development and talent cultivation. Apprentices, trainees and graduate engineers gain hands-on experience in a real manufacturing environment, helping to develop the next generation of technical and engineering professionals in South Africa.

Each vehicle produced at BMW Group Plant Rosslyn moves through multiple production stations where associates focus on precision, teamwork and continuous improvement. For many employees, the milestone represents years of dedication and a shared commitment on the production floor.

While reaching this 100,000-vehicle milestone marks an important moment, work at the plant continues every day as teams remain focused on building vehicles with the same attention to quality, precision and care that defines the BMW brand.

ENDS

If you have any questions, please contact:

Corporate Communications
Angela Konert
Head of Business Communications

Phone: +27 71 666 2472
Email: Angela.Konert@bmw.co.za
https://newsroom.bmwgroup.com/global/en

  The BMW Group

With its four brands BMW, MINI, Rolls-Royce and BMW Motorrad, the BMW Group is the world’s leading premium manufacturer of automobiles and motorcycles and also provides premium financial services. The BMW Group production network comprises over 30 production sites worldwide; the company has a global sales network in more than 140 countries.

In 2024, the BMW Group sold over 2.45 million passenger vehicles and more than 210,000 motorcycles worldwide. The profit before tax in the financial year 2024 was € 11.0 billion on revenues amounting to € 142,4 billion. As of 31 December 2024, the BMW Group had a workforce of 159.104  employees.

The economic success of the BMW Group has always been based on long-term thinking and responsible action. Sustainability is a key element of the BMW Group’s corporate strategy and covers all products from the supply chain and production to the end of their useful life.

www.bmwgroup.com

LinkedIn: http://www.linkedin.com/company/bmw-group/

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/bmwgroup

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bmwgroup

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/bmwgroup

X: https://www.x.com/bmwgroup

Munich. The Supervisory Board of BMW AG has appointed Dr Raymond Wittmann (47) as a new member of the Board of Management at its meeting today. He will assume responsibility for Production when Milan Nedeljkovic takes over as Chairman of the Board of Management of BMW AG at the end of the Annual General Meeting on May 13.

Raymond Wittmann has been with the BMW Group since 2015 and has been responsible for Corporate Strategy and Corporate Development since 2024. Previously, he held several management positions in various divisions, including Head of Assembly at the Munich plant, CFO of the Americas sales region, and Project Manager for the establishment of the production site in San Luis Potosí (Mexico). Raymond Wittmann holds a PhD in aerospace engineering. Before joining the BMW Group, he worked as a partner at an international strategic consultancy.

“Raymond Wittmann combines strategic thinking with operational excellence and business responsibility. With his broad, cross-divisional experience and international perspective, he has the key qualities for leading the production division,” said Dr. Nicolas Peter, Chairman of the Supervisory Board of BMW AG. “Raymond Wittmann complements the future Board of Management team led by Milan Nedeljkovic with the right strengths and skills. The Supervisory Board is very confident that the Board of Management, in its new composition, will continue to drive the success of the BMW Group in the future.”

If you have any questions, please contact:

BMW Group Corporate Communications

Max-Morten Borgmann, Head of Corporate, Finance, and Sales Communications

Telephone: +49 89 382-24118

Email: Max-Morten.Borgmann@bmw.de

The BMW Group

With its four brands BMW, MINI, Rolls-Royce and BMW Motorrad, the BMW Group is the world’s leading premium manufacturer of automobiles and motorcycles and also provides premium financial services. The BMW Group production network comprises over 30 production sites worldwide; the company has a global sales network in more than 140 countries.

In 2024, the BMW Group sold over 2.45 million passenger vehicles and more than 210,000 motorcycles worldwide. The profit before tax in the financial year 2023 was € 17.1 billion on revenues amounting to € 155.5 billion. As of 31 December 2023, the BMW Group had a workforce of 154,950 employees.

The economic success of the BMW Group has always been based on long-term thinking and responsible action. Sustainability is a key element of the BMW Group’s corporate strategy and covers all products from the supply chain and production to the end of their useful life.

www.bmwgroup.com

Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/BMWGroup

Twitter: http://twitter.com/BMWGroup

YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/BMWGroupView

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bmwgroup

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/bmw-group/

Asheville. As a hub for outdoor activities and creatives, Asheville, with its nearly 100,000 inhabitants in the US state of North Carolina, provides the perfect stage for the largest model in the MINI family: the MINI JCW Countryman ALL4.

Thanks to an impressive power of 221 kW/300 hp, up to 400 Nm of torque and standard all-wheel drive, maximum driving fun and reliable traction on demanding mountain sections is guaranteed. With its 7-speed dual-clutch transmission and direct steering, the MINI JCW Countryman can be maneuvered confidently even through the tight switchbacks around Asheville.

Modern driver assistance systems allow for autonomous driving up to Level 2 and comfortable arrival on the highways of the US state on the US East Coast. A luggage capacity ranging from 450 to 1,460 litres offers plenty of space for any trip into the forests and mountains of North Carolina.

With this release, we provide new image material of the MINI JCW Countryman.

In case of queries, please contact:
Corporate Communications

Julian Kisch, Spokesperson MINI
Phone: +49-151-601-38072
E-Mail: julian.kisch@mini.com

Micaela Sandstede, Head of Communications MINI
Phone: +49-176-601-61611
E-mail micaela.sandstede@bmw.de

Richmond Hill, ON.  When the first ALPINA XB7 left final assembly at BMW Plant Spartanburg in South Carolina in 2020, it marked the very first time an ALPINA model had ever been completed outside of the ALPINA workshop in Buchloe, approximately one hour west of BMW's Munich headquarters. Today, we mark the close of XB7 production with the 2026 ALPINA XB7 MANUFAKTUR – a special model limited to 120 examples for North America, 12 of which are for the Canadian market. Embodying the MANUFAKTUR standard, the XB7 MANUFAKTUR brings together exclusive finishes, tailored details, and appointments never before offered on the XB7, alongside the hallmark ALPINA balance of maximum performance, supreme ride comfort, and signature driving dynamics.

Every ALPINA XB7 MANUFAKTUR will be assembled at BMW Plant Spartanburg in South Carolina, with production commencing in September 2026 and deliveries expected in the fourth quarter of 2026. While each vehicle comes fully-equipped, clients can select their paint finish and option a Trailer Tow Hitch and/or Compact Spare Tire.

MANUFAKTUR exterior: Frozen ALPINA Green, Frozen ALPINA Blue, and a new standard for the XB7.

The 2026 ALPINA XB7 MANUFAKTUR is offered exclusively in two paint finishes never before available on the XB7: Frozen ALPINA Green and Frozen ALPINA Blue. Both finishes are new to the XB7 while remaining clearly rooted in the ALPINA colour heritage — a deliberate choice that honors the model's lineage in its final production year. Setting off both finishes are exterior design elements finished in gloss black, including the standard 23-inch ALPINA CLASSIC forged 20-spoke wheels.

The full suite of exterior trim – grille, window surrounds, air breathers, front ALPINA logo, and rear tailpipe finishers – is presented in gloss black. A unique "XB7 MANUFAKTUR" badge at the rear identifies each example. Viewed in profile, the classic ALPINA Deco-Set appliqué runs the length of the vehicle in black, while a laser-etched "MANUFAKTUR" wordmark on each B-pillar marks the designation with characteristic restraint. The optional receiver hitch supports a towing capacity of up to 3,405 kg.

MANUFAKTUR interior: Tartufo Full Merino leather, heritage ALPINA embroidery, and a "1 of 120" plaque.

Across all 120 examples – regardless of exterior finish – the ALPINA XB7 MANUFAKTUR interior is upholstered in Tartufo Full Merino leather and trimmed in ALPINA Natural Walnut Anthracite. Each front headrest carries the heritage ALPINA script embroidered in green and blue, a detail that connects the XB7 MANUFAKTUR directly to the brand's five-decade tradition of individual expression. Black front floor mats feature silver ALPINA emblem pins; the trunk mat is embroidered with the "MANUFAKTUR" wordmark.

On the forward console lid, a silver "ALPINA XB7 MANUFAKTUR" plaque confirms each vehicle's place as "1 of 120" – a direct statement of the model's significance. The 8-speed ALPINA Switch-Tronic transmission is operable via column-mounted paddles finished in anodized black.

Standard appointments include second-row captain's chairs and a Bowers & Wilkins Diamond Surround Sound system. Each ALPINA XB7 MANUFAKTUR is also accompanied by two handmade ALPINA weekender bags – crafted in brown LAVALINA leather and trimmed with the ALPINA script in coordinating green and blue — designed in concert with the vehicle's interior palette rather than added to it.

631 hp bi-turbo V8, ALPINA-tuned chassis, and 0-100 in 4.2 seconds.

At the heart of every ALPINA XB7 MANUFAKTUR is the 4.4-litre bi-turbo V8, based on the BMW S68 engine and producing 631 hp and 590 lb-ft of torque. Paired with an 8-speed ALPINA Switch-Tronic transmission and integrated 48-volt starter-generator, the XB7 MANUFAKTUR reaches 0-100 km/h in 4.2 seconds while delivering the relaxed, effortless cruising refinement that defines the ALPINA driving experience.

The standard 2-axle air suspension features ALPINA-specific damper and kinematic tuning, allows a range of 80 mm of adjustable ride height. Below 30 km/h, ride height can be raised 40 mm for clearance; at higher speeds, it lowers automatically by 20 mm – or 40 mm in SPORT+ mode above 250 km/h – for a reduced centre of gravity and sharper dynamics. Active Roll Stabilization with electromechanical anti-roll bars and stiffer rear axle bushings minimise body roll without compromising the XB7 MANUFAKTUR's signature ride quality.

Integral Active Steering delivers direct response and rear-axle turning of up to 2.3° for both low-speed agility and high-speed stability. Three driver-selectable modes – COMFORT, SPORT, and SPORT+ — allow the XB7 MANUFAKTUR to be precisely tailored to any driving situation.

Deliveries of the 2026 ALPINA XB7 MANUFAKTUR are expected to begin in the fourth quarter of 2026.

-30- 
 

BMW Group in Canada

BMW Group Canada, based in Richmond Hill, Ontario, is a wholly owned subsidiary of BMW AG and is responsible for the distribution of BMW luxury performance automobiles, Sports Activity Vehicles, Motorcycles, and MINI.  BMW Group Financial Services Canada is a division of BMW Group Canada and offers retail financing and leasing programs and protection products on new and pre-owned BMW and MINI automobiles, as well as retail financing for new and pre-owned BMW Motorcycles. A total network of 51 BMW automobile retail centres, 26 BMW motorcycle retailers, and 31 MINI retailers represents the BMW Group across the country.

For more information, please contact:

Marc Belcourt

Director, Corporate Communications

BMW Group Canada

marc.belcourt@bmwgroup.ca                                               

Jean-Francois Taylor

Product and Technology Manager, Corporate Communications

BMW Group Canada

jean-francois.taylor@bmwgroup.ca