Munich. With effect from 1 November, Franciscus van Meel will assume the position as chairman of the board of BMW M GmbH. He succeeds Markus Flasch, who, after three years at the helm of the BMW Group subsidiary responsible for particularly sporty automobiles, will be changing to the Overall Vehicle Development division. Flasch will assume the position within the BMW Group as head of the production lines Rolls-Royce, BMW luxury and upper class, in future also including the BMW midrange production line. During his term of office in the executive board of BMW M GmbH, the company rose to become the world’s leading provider of performance and high-performance-automobiles.

For Franciscus van Meel it is a return to the chief executive position at the top of BMW M GmbH. Between 2015 and 2018, he had already led the company, which bears the status of an independent automobile manufacturer. In the meantime, van Meel has also been, inter alia, responsible for the Rolls-Royce product line as well as for the BMW luxury and upper class. Under his leadership, the BMW Group’s new technology flagship, the BMW iX, was brought to series-production readiness. Van Meel also headed development of the forthcoming purely electrically powered model variants. With this experience in hand, he brings along the ideal prerequisites to also shape the next stages already commenced on the way to electrification at the BMW M GmbH. The first highlight of van Meel’s second term of office has already been fixed: 2022 will witness the celebrations marking the 50th anniversary of the company - originally founded as BMW Motorsport GmbH - during which many new high-performance automobiles will be presented. These will also include the first BMW M3 Touring, which is already in an advanced stage of its series development process.

During the past three years, BMW M GmbH has been influenced by an unparalleled model offensive. The list of innovations with which BMW M GmbH was able to achieve new record sales figures and assume market leadership ahead of competitors included the extended range of performance automobiles and new versions of the model series BMW M3 and BMW M4, which represent the core of the BMW M brand, as well as the absolute top-of-the-range models in their segment, the BMW M2 CS and the BMW M5 CS. The latest new model, the purely electrically-powered BMW M automobile, the BMW i4 M50, will be available in South Africa in the first quarter of 2022. 

At the same time, the BMW M company’s commitment as a car manufacturer and in motorsport was recently again more closely interlinked. This was accompanied by the realignment of motorsport activities, new and particularly attractive customer sport offerings and the decision on BMW’s comeback in international prototype racing, which has been planned for 2023.

Munich. With yet another new sales record, the BMW M GmbH continued to grow also in the 2020 fiscal year. Despite the effects of the Corona pandemic on the market, it was possible to increase the number of BMW M automobiles sold by 6% to 144,218 units. Thanks to this result, the subsidiary company of the BMW Group with the status of an independent company has significantly strengthened its market leadership within the competitive environment first gained in 2019. “The fact that we were able to conclude this exceptionally challenging year with yet a further record is great validation of our consistent growth strategy,” says Markus Flasch, chairman of the board of the BMW M GmbH. “We can be particularly proud of the fact that we were able not only to defend our market dominance as the most successful provider of performance and high-performances automobiles, but also to have even expanded it.”

The further increase in sales figures was due, inter alia, to the successful market launch of the models BMW X5 M and BMW X6 M. With V8 power units delivering up to 460 kW, BMW M automobiles from the Sports Activity Vehicle and Sports Activity Coupe segment offer a particularly characteristic high-performance experience. Likewise, the special edition model BMW M2 CS, which serves as the basis for a new competition vehicle from BMW Motorsport, has also received a positive response. In the high-performance model sector alone, it was possible to increase the number of worldwide deliveries by 4% vs. the year 2019.

Moreover, it was predominantly the performance automobiles developed for the new BMW 3 Series and the new BMW 4 Series that helped boost the sales of the BMW M GmbH so decisively. With powerful straight six-cylinder petrol and diesel power plants, specific suspension tuning and stand-alone design features, the top-of-the-range offer for the BMW 3 Series Sedan, the BMW 3 Series Touring and the BMW 4 Series Coupe also guarantees that characteristic M experience in the premium mid-range segment, coupled with unrestricted suitability for everyday use and long distances.

Growing demand in all relevant markets.

Technology transferred from motor racing, precisely coordinated features in the areas of drive systems, suspension, aerodynamics, interior design and operation as well as the resulting authentic character of BMW M automobiles, create a fascination, which continued in 2020 to captivate an increasing number of performance-oriented customers throughout the world. For example, in the USA, the most important market for BMW M automobiles, as well as in China, new records were achieved. In both Russia and Korea, it was possible to increase sales by more than 60 percent, and in Italy by 47 percent. And in the UK, too, the number of vehicles delivered exceeded our expectations. “We notice a steadily growing demand in all relevant markets for BMW M automobiles,” explains Thomas Felbermair, head of Sales and Marketing at BMW M GmbH. “Because of this and thanks to the engagement of our strong dealer network, we have been outstandingly successful in coping with the challenges posed by the pandemic.”

Ready to go: BMW M5 CS, BMW M3 Sedan and BMW M4 Coupe.

Looking towards the future, the initial focus shifts to the world premiere of the BMW M5 CS, which will take place in January 2021. A special edition of the BMW M5 will then be available for the first time – with outstanding performance and exclusive motorsport characteristics. Following that, the main focus will be on the market launch of the new BMW M3 Sedan starting in March 2021 and the new BMW M4 Coupe. The two high-performance automobiles represent the essence of that unmistakable M feeling. Immediately after their world premiere, the new model generation aroused keen interest around the globe.

In future, the wishes of the M Community will be fulfilled by extraordinary diversity: Each variant with classic manual shift will be complemented by a Competition model featuring an 8-speed M Steptronic transmission with Drivelogic. Moreover, in the summer of 2021, the four-wheel drive system M xDrive will be added for the first time to the drive portfolio for the BMW M3 and the BMW M4. And the BMW M4 Convertible will also be launched in time for the warm season. On the other hand, the first BMW M3 Touring is still undergoing the series development process.

A glance into the future: continued growth, new M feeling through electrification, and an anniversary. 

“It is remarkable that it was possible to achieve the new sales record even before the launch of our most important models,” says Markus Flasch. “The new BMW M3 and BMW M4 generation offers us the promise of dynamic growth in 2021 as well.” Moreover, he now also looks forward to presenting a completely new manifestation of the distinctive M feeling. Electrification will provide the basis for this. During the year 2021, the BMW M GmbH will be presenting an electrically powered performance automobile for the first time.

With this setting of agenda with which the “Power of Choice” strategy has been realised within the model range of the BMW M GmbH, and an exceptionally strong product range, the company is heading full of optimism for the forthcoming anniversary year. 2022 will be the year in which the BMW M GmbH celebrates 50 years of its existence. Markus Flasch has already announced “a year full of surprises”: “If I mention the keyword special edition models, it should be clear what our customers can look forward to during the anniversary year.”

• The new BMW M2 CS is the first exclusive and limited-run special-edition model created by BMW M GmbH for the premium compact class. It is positioned as a high-performance model above the BMW M2 Competition and will build on the success already achieved by the BMW M3 CS and BMW M4 CS.
• Immensely capable basis for the BMW M2 CS Racing model, BMW M Motorsport’s new entry point to amateur racing and the new Clubsport segment (available from 2020).
• New carbon fibre-reinforced plastic (CFRP) construction for the bonnet cuts its weight by 50 per cent; eye-catching central air vent increases downforce and improves engine cooling; roof made from CFRP.
• New front splitter, Gurney spoiler lip on the boot lid and rear diffuser in exposed carbon fibre.
• Six-cylinder in-line petrol engine with M TwinPower Turbo technology and 3.0-litre displacement develops 331 kW in the BMW M2 CS – i.e. 29 kW more than in the BMW M2 Competition; peak torque is 550 Nm.
• Acceleration from 0 – 100 km/h in 4.0 seconds (with manual gearbox: 4.2 seconds); electronically governed top speed with standard M Driver’s Package: 280 km/h.
• Six-speed manual gearbox fitted as standard for the first time in a BMW CS model, seven-speed M double-clutch transmission (M DCT) available as an option.
• Standard specification includes Adaptive M suspension with Comfort, Sport and Sport+ modes, plus M Sport brakes with red-painted callipers; M Carbon ceramic brakes are optional; Active M Differential and M Dynamic Mode (can be selected as required).
• Lightweight 19-inch Y-spoke forged wheels in a high-gloss black or optionally a matt gold colour shade; shod with specially adapted Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2 tyres.
• Dual-branch exhaust system enhances aesthetic and aural appeal, features two electrically controlled flaps and four stainless steel tailpipes bearing the M logo.
• Lightweight, bucket-style M Sport seats from the BMW M4 CS with integral head restraints featuring BMW M stripes; seat backrests in Merino leather / Alcantara and with red contrast stitching.
• M Sport steering wheel with Alcantara covering and a red centre marker as an option.
• Exclusive Misano Blue metallic paint finish.
• The new BMW M2 CS will be available in South Africa from the second quarter of 2020.

Munich. An eye-catching digital campaign presents the BMW M2 Competition (combined fuel consumption: 10.0 – 9.8 l/100 km [9.2-9.0]; combined CO2 emissions: 227 – 224 g/km [209-206]*) as a record breaker with very unusual tools: a high-power laser and a precision blade. The impressive films will be shown in BMW and BMW M social media channels.

Highlight clip "Laser":

The BMW M2 Competition is out to break records. To deliver on this promise, the BMW M2 is drawing inspiration from world records set by humans. At first glance, these appear to have nothing to do with cars: cutting through more than 87 straw mats with a blade within a minute and popping over 63 balloons in 60 seconds with a laser beam.

Uwe Dreher, head of Brand Communications BMW, BMW i, BMW M: "The BMW M2 Competition showcases BMW M genes in their purest form. It is an exceptional car with outstanding dynamic performance, presence and handling. With our digital campaign, we capture the heart of our target audience right where they live and inform themselves: in social media. We provide the BMW M2 Competition with the perfect stage to demonstrate its qualities in impressive style."

For these spectacular challenges – attempted for the first time worldwide – a slightly modified BMW M2 Competition was brought to Cape Town. It comes with the same technology as the series-production vehicle, plus the additional features required for attempting the records: a high-energy laser installed into the front of the vehicle and a blade attached to the rear.

Following meticulous planning and testing, the course was set out and everything was ready: Rolled-up bamboo mats were arranged in semi-circles so that they could be cut by the blade on a drift; the balloons were set up in long straight lines angled sharply towards each other for quick turns. Fans will instantly recognise the shape of the letter M, the most powerful letter in the world.

Behind the scenes:

Technically, the BMW M2 Competition already has everything it takes to be a genuine record-breaker: At its core is a new engine based on the power unit used in the BMW M3 and BMW M4. The inline six-cylinder engine with M TwinPower Turbo Technology produces 410 horsepower and accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in 4.4 seconds.  For the first time, BMW M2 drivers will be able to use two selector switches in the central console to directly adjust various characteristics and settings for the engine, steering and Drivelogic functions, if M DCT is available. Optically, the BMW M2 Competition also shows its most expressive side: The revised front apron with a bigger, redesigned high-gloss black BMW kidney grille and the exclusive new Hockenheim Silver metallic finish give the BMW M2 Competition an even stronger presence.

“This is a very tricky bit of driving, it is virtually impossible,” says stunt coordinator Marc Higgins, talking about the set-up. “The demands on the BMW M2 Competition are immense. Every drift has to be performed with absolute precision; there is no room for error. A strong presence and agility naturally help a lot.”

“This challenge is now reaching its finale, after months of preparation. The driver is an expert in his field, but he needs the car to respond precisely to the slightest feedback from him. If the car does not respond, we will not break this record,” explained director Oison Tymon.

And the BMW M2 Competition kept its promises: Despite the complexity of the challenge, the high-performance sports car broke both records. After just a few attempts, 117 bamboo mats were cut and 79 balloons burst – both in precisely one minute.

To proof the authenticity of the stunts, real-time drone footage was captured of the BMW M2 Competition performing the stunts.

Proof:

The BMW M2 Competition’s record-breaking attempts are part of the “Same street. Different game.” launch campaign and fit the tonality of the campaign perfectly. The extroverted motifs also reference the world of gaming, with high scores and record-breaking runs. That makes sense: From the start of communications, millions of fans worldwide were able to experience the new BMW M2 Competition virtually, within just a few hours of its world premiere at the Beijing Motor Show, in the popular mobile racing game CSR Racing 2.

For media queries, please contact BMW Group South Africa's Group Communications Division as follows:

Edward Makwana,

Manager: Group Product Communications

Email: edward.makwana@bmw.co.za

Telephone: +27-12-522-2227

Mobile: +27-71-666-2227

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 and mobility services. The BMW Group production network comprises 30 production and assembly facilities in 14 countries; the company has a global sales network in more than 140 countries.

In 2017, the BMW Group sold over 2,463,500 passenger vehicles and more than 164,000 motorcycles worldwide. The profit before tax in the financial year 2017 was € 10.655 billion on revenues amounting to € 98.678 billion. As of 31 December 2017, the BMW Group had a workforce of 129,932 employees.

The success of the BMW Group has always been based on long-term thinking and responsible action. The company has therefore established ecological and social sustainability throughout the value chain, comprehensive product responsibility and a clear commitment to conserving resources as an integral part of its strategy.

www.bmwgroup.com

Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/BMWGroup

Twitter: http://twitter.com/BMWGroup

YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/BMWGroupview

Google+: http://googleplus.bmwgroup.com

Munich. M power on mobile: Millions of fans worldwide will be able to virtually drive the new BMW M2 Competition (combined fuel consumption with six-speed manual gearbox: 9.9 – 10.0 l/100 km; combined CO2 emissions: 225 – 228 g/km) in the popular CSR Racing 2 (CSR2) mobile racing game just a few hours after its world premiere at the Beijing Motor Show. The cooperation between BMW and Zynga will allow gamers to unlock and drive the compact high-performance car in different race modes – long before it hits real roads.

The CSR2 design team worked in tandem with BMW developers to bring every detail of the BMW M2 Competition to the game. From the new front apron and enlarged, redesigned BMW kidney grille in high-gloss black to the optional new M Sport bucket-style seats, to the new and exclusive Hockenheim Silver metallic exterior paint colour: Every detail of the unique BMW M2 Competition was meticulously recreated in the racing game. The best way to experience the design and new equipment options is by using CSR2’s latest feature: Augmented Reality Mode, which realistically inserts the model into its surroundings and allows it to be viewed from all sides.

“We’re excited to bring the ultimate driving experience of the BMW M2 Competition to CSR2 drivers across the globe, even before it hits real roads,” said Tobias Weber, head of Entertainment Marketing and International Product Placement for BMW. “Our development team worked in tandem with CSR2 to deliver players the fully-charged exhilaration of the BMW M2 Competition, digitally recreating its powerful engine, sleek design and unmatched ability just as it will appear on real-world roads.”

The BMW M2 Competition will soon become a favourite with the gaming community. The centrepiece is its new engine, based on the drive train from the BMW M3 and BMW M4. The twin-turbocharged straight-six engine with M TwinPower Turbo technology delivers 410 hp and takes the car from zero to 100 km/h in 4.2 seconds. For the first time, BMW M2 drivers will be able to use two selector switches in the central console to directly adjust various characteristics and settings for the engine, steering and Drivelogic functions, if M DCT is available.

“As the leading racing game on mobile, CSR2 is the perfect platform to introduce the BMW M2 Competition to car lovers around the world,” said Bernard Kim, President of Publishing for Zynga. “We’re proud to partner with BMW in reimagining how leading auto manufacturers introduce their new vehicles to global audiences by giving our players the ability to experience the BMW M2 Competition during its global unveil.” 

Since the launch of the first in-game BMW car model in CSR2:

• Players have competed in over 1.88 billion in-game BMW races
• On average, there are over three million in-game BMW races every day
• CSR2 players own over 85 million in-game BMW cars with over 26.5 million CSR2 players owning their own in-game BMW

CSR2 is available to download for free on the App Store for iPhone and iPad and Google Play. For more information about CSR2, visit the game's community channels on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and YouTube.

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 and mobility services. The BMW Group production network comprises 30 production and assembly facilities in 14 countries; the company has a global sales network in more than 140 countries.

In 2017, the BMW Group sold over 2,463,500 passenger vehicles and more than 164,000 motorcycles worldwide. The profit before tax in the financial year 2017 was € 10.655 billion on revenues amounting to € 98.678 billion. As of 31 December 2017, the BMW Group had a workforce of 129,932 employees.

The success of the BMW Group has always been based on long-term thinking and responsible action. The company has therefore established ecological and social sustainability throughout the value chain, comprehensive product responsibility and a clear commitment to conserving resources as an integral part of its strategy.

BMW Group websites:

www.bmwgroup.com

www.bmw.co.za

www.mini.co.za

www.bmwmotorrad.co.za

www.bmwdrivertraining.co.za

Social Media Pages:

Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/BMWGroup (BMW South Africa, BMW Motorrad SA, MINISouthAfrica)

Twitter: http://twitter.com/BMWGroup (@BMW_SA, @BMWMotorradSA and @MINISouthAfrica)

YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/BMWGroupview (BMW South Africa and BMW Motorrad SA

• New six-cylinder in-line engine with M TwinPower Turbo technology, based on the power unit from the BMW M3/M4, three-litre cubic capacity, 302 kW, peak torque of 550 Nm (combined fuel consumption with six-speed manual gearbox: 10,0 – 9,9 l/100 km; combined CO₂ emissions: 228 – 225 g/km*; combined with optional M Double Clutch Transmission (M DCT): 9,2 l/100 km; combined CO₂ emissions: 210 – 209 g/km)*.
• Sprint from 0 to 100 km/h: 4.2 s (with six-speed manual gearbox 4.4 s), top speed: 250 km/h (limited), 280 km/h with M Driver´s Package (limited).
• High-precision CFRP strut and bulkhead strut for increased front section rigidity.
• New cooling system, including new front skirt and larger, redesigned BMW kidney in high-gloss black.
• New dual exhaust system with two electrically-controlled flaps.
• New, optional M Sport brakes with brake calipers painted grey.
• New optional M Sport bucket seat with integrated headrests and illuminated M2 badge at shoulder height.
• Selector switches for immediate access to various engine and steering characteristics, as well as DCT settings via Drivelogic.
• Exclusive new metallic Hockenheim Silver paint.
• The BMW M2 Competition replaces its predecessor, the BMW M2 Coupé.
• The BMW M2 Competition will be available in South Africa from September 2018. Pricing will be communicated in due course.

Munich. Racing technology and an expressive, high performance-oriented design help the BMW M2 (combined fuel consumption: 8.5 l/100 km; combined CO2 emissions: 199 g/km) achieve its exceptional position within the premium compact segment. The exclusive BMW M2 Coupe Edition Black Shadow emphasises the compact high-powered sports car’s performance characteristics with precisely harmonized design features. The edition model will be available to order from April 2018.

The BMW M2 fascinates with precise handling and compelling forward thrust. The car’s 272 kW straight six-cylinder engine, classic rear-wheel drive and suspension technology developed and tuned on the basis of many years of motor racing expertise, has aroused worldwide enthusiasm amongst sport drivers. With the optional 7-speed M dual clutch transmission with Drivelogic, the BMW M2 sprints from a standstill to 100 km/h in just 4.3 seconds.

Within a very short time, the BMW M2 has become a bestseller, whilst also capturing new target groups. With more than 12,000 units sold worldwide during its first full production year, the BMW M2 advanced to become BMW M’s most successful model in 2017.

The BMW M2 Coupe Edition Black Shadow boasts selected design features that further accentuate the top athlete’s powerful appearance. The edition model is exclusively available in the exterior colour Sapphire Black metallic. Furthermore, 19-inch, black matt forged light alloys with a Y-spoke design and mixed tyres impressively underline the compact coupe’s looks.

These features are complemented by exterior mirrors in a carbon finish, the decorative grille for the M kidney and trim bars for the side panels in high-gloss black. With a rear diffuser in a carbon finish and black-chrome trims for the typical M double tailpipes, which are likewise integrated on both sides into the rear apron, the BMW M2 Coupe Edition Black Shadow sets additional race-inspired accents.

The edition model will be available to order from April 2018 and at dealer floors from June 2018.Only 20 units will be available in South Africa.

• BMW 750Li Design Pure Excellence wins First Class of The Year Award.
• BMW M2 Coupe wins Performance Car of the Year Award.
• Certificate of Excellence awarded to BMW South Africa for excellence in after-sales service, resale value, sales processes and general ownership satisfaction.

Midrand. BMW South Africa was yesterday awarded with a number of accolades at the 2016/2017 Cars.co.za Consumer Awards powered by Wesbank, one of South Africa’s leading provider of vehicle and asset finance. The awards were held at Vodaworld in Midrand. The BMW 750Li with the Design Pure Excellence package was awarded the First Class of the Year Award while the BMW M2 Coupe was awarded the Performance Car of the Year. A certificate of excellence was also awarded to BMW South Africa for excellence in after-sales service, resale value, sales processes and general ownership satisfaction.

In order to have been eligible for the First Class of the Year category, contenders had to meet the following criteria: a list price of more than R1 million at the time of semi-finalist voting (September 1 2016). The most important judging factors were: powertrain technology, luxury features, brand prestige and exclusivity, design and quality appeal, driving dynamics, ride comfort and overall refinement.

In terms of eligibility for the Performance Car of the Year category, contenders had to meet the following criteria: a list price of between R600 000 and R1 000 000 at the time of semi-finalist voting (September 1 2016) to ensure that the category isn’t dominated by exorbitantly expensive exotic cars. The most important judging factors were: driving engagement, handling, sensory appeal and standard features.

The progression of luxury: The BMW 7 Series

Launched in South Africa in January 2016, the BMW 7 Series has redefined what an exclusive, luxurious driving experience looks like in contemporary, pioneering form. Ground-breaking technologies in the areas of lightweight design, powertrains, chassis, operating systems, intelligent connectivity and interior ambience underline its mission to bring together unbeatable driving pleasure and long-distance comfort in a luxury sedan.

Key factors in enhancing dynamics, efficiency, comfort and safety while on the move are the use of carbon-fibre-reinforced plastic (CFRP) in the body structure, engines from the BMW Group’s new generation of power units, the plug-in hybrid system in the new BMW 740e, the Executive Drive Pro active chassis system, the Driving Experience Control switch with ADAPTIVE mode and BMW Laserlight. Maximising well-being in the rear compartment, meanwhile, are the Executive Lounge feature with massage function and Vitality Programme, the Sky Lounge Panorama glass roof, the Welcome Light Carpet, the Ambient highlight and a smartphone holder with inductive charging station. Standout innovations in operating system and driver assistance technology include the extension of the iDrive system to include a touch display and BMW gesture control, as well as Touch Command, the new BMW Head-Up Display, crossing traffic warning, the steering and lane control assistant, active side collision protection, Surround View with 3D View and the Remote Control Parking system.

The BMW 750Li features a V8 unit that has undergone extensive redevelopment, boasting a displacement of 4.4 litres and BMW TwinPower Turbo technology with the turbochargers located in the V-shaped space between the banks of cylinders in proven fashion. It is equipped with TwinScroll turbochargers featuring flow-separated, bank-specific exhaust manifolds made from thin-wall castings. Together with an increase in the compression ratio from 10.0 to 10.5 and the variability in the gas-exchange cycle brought about by the VALVETRONIC and Double-VANOS technology, this has resulted in a major improvement in engine efficiency. The optimised cooling concept with separate flows through the cylinder heads and cylinder barrels combines with a coolant pump whose map-controlled throughput can be restricted to as little as 10 per cent to warm up the engine faster and cut energy consumption. This is also the first time that the intake manifold has been partially integrated into the cylinder head in a production car, thereby allowing flow resistance to be decreased, flow volume to be increased and the exterior packaging dimensions to be reduced. As a result of all these modifications, the efficiency factor of the 330 kW eight-cylinder engine has been greatly improved, which in turn means a significant reduction in fuel consumption and emissions.

High-performance sports machine with intoxicating performance: The BMW M2 Coupe.

With its high-performance six-cylinder in-line engine, rear-wheel-drive agility, lightweight aluminium M Sport suspension and extrovert styling, the BMW M2 Coupe has all the ingredients to deliver the last word in driving pleasure.

Characteristic M design .

A single glance is all it takes to pick the new BMW M2 Coupe out as a member of the BMW M family, with its styling also keen to demonstrate its dynamic attributes. Inspired by models from the history of BMW in motor racing, the M2 Coupe makes no secret of its extraordinary performance potential. The low front apron with large air intakes, muscular flanks with characteristic M gills, 19-inch aluminium wheels in familiar M double-spoke design and low, wide rear with M-specific twin-tailpipe exhaust system all play impressive roles here. The Alcantara of the door cards and centre console together with porous carbon fibre creates an ambience of rare quality and heady sporting ambition further underlined by blue contrast stitching and M embossing on selected details. Sports seats, an M sports steering wheel and an M gearshift lever ensure BMW M2 drivers are in perfect command of their car it at all times.

Explosive performance . The newly developed, three-litre six-cylinder in-line engine in the BMW M2 deploys cutting-edge M TwinPower Turbo technology to develop 272 kW at 6,500 rpm (fuel consumption combined: 8.5 l/100 km; CO2 emissions combined: 199 g/km) and, in so doing, lays down a marker in the high-performance compact sports car segment. The same applies to power delivery. Peak torque of 465 Nm can be increased to as much as 500 Nm in short bursts under overboost. All of which enables the BMW M2 Coupe with optional seven-speed M Double Clutch Transmission (M DCT) and Launch Control to accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in just 4.3 seconds. Top speed is electronically limited to 250 km/h. Yet, with its M DCT transmission, fuel consumption of just 7.9 litres per 100 km and CO2 emissions of just 185 g/km, the car is also keen to emphasise its outstanding efficiency.

Motor sport expertise. With the lightweight aluminium front and rear axles from the BMW M3/M4 models, forged 19-inch aluminium wheels with mixed-size tyres, M Servotronic steering with two settings and suitably effective M compound brakes, the BMW M2 Coupe has raised the bar once again in the compact high-performance sports car segment when it comes to driving dynamics. The electronically controlled Active M Differential, which optimises traction and directional stability, also plays a significant role here. And even greater driving pleasure is on the cards when the Dynamic Stability Control system’s M Dynamic Mode (MDM) is activated. MDM allows wheel slip and therefore moderate, controlled drifts on the track.

About the Cars.co.za Consumer Awards

Established to be one of the most prestigious, credible and influential awards programme in the South African motor industry, the second iteration of Cars.co.za Consumer Awards was distinguished by two significant factors: it was backed by the biggest provider of vehicle finance in South Africa and, in conjunction with the 13 judges’ scores, the findings of the Cars.co.za’s Owner Satisfaction Survey (in association with Lightstone Consumer) had a substantial (50%) weighting on the final results, excluding the Brand of the Year award, which was based entirely on the Survey data.

Cars.co.za’s awards programme has a multi-faceted judging process, based on inputs from seven members of the experienced editorial team and six respected guest jurors drawn from specialist fields. The combined jury allocated scores to the three finalists in each category based on their assessments from two test days (on which available vehicles were compared back-to-back).

Once the judges’ scores were tallied and audited, the brand-specific data from the Cars.co.za Owner Satisfaction Survey, which incorporates feedback from thousands of South African new vehicle owners, based on their experiences of their vehicles (must be less than five years old and serviced through franchised outlets), was factored in for the purpose of calculating of the final results.

The prestigious Brand of the Year award, however, was determined solely by brands’ ratings in the Cars.co.za’s Owner Satisfaction Survey (in association with Lightstone Consumer), which was compiled from thousands of surveys completed between September 2015 and December 2016. Consumers rated the brands in terms of: after-sales service, overall ownership experience and sales processes of its dealerships. Changes in market share were also factored into the final standings.

For more information on the Cars.co.za Consumer Awards, visit www.carsawards.co.za

For media queries on this press release, please contact BMW Group South Africa’s Group Communications Division as follows:

Edward Makwana

Manager: Group Product Communications

BMW Group South Africa

Tel: +27-12-522-2227

Mobile: +27-71-666-2227

E-Mail: edward.makwana@bmw.co.za

The BMW Group

With its three brands BMW, MINI and Rolls-Royce, the BMW Group is the world’s leading premium manufacturer of automobiles and motorcycles and also provides premium financial and mobility services. As a global company, the BMW Group operates 31 production and assembly facilities in 14 countries and has a global sales network in more than 140 countries.

In 2016, the BMW Group sold approximately 2.367 million cars and 145,000 motorcycles worldwide. The profit before tax for the financial year 2015 was approximately € 9.22 billion on revenues amounting to € 92.18 billion. As of 31 December 2015, the BMW Group had a workforce of 122,244 employees.

The success of the BMW Group has always been based on long-term thinking and responsible action. The company has therefore established ecological and social sustainability throughout the value chain, comprehensive product responsibility and a clear commitment to conserving resources as an integral part of its strategy.

Website: www.bmwgroup.com / www.bmw.co.za

Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/BMWGroup (BMW South Africa)

Twitter: http://twitter.com/BMWGroup (@BMW_SA)

YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/BMWGroupview (@BMWSouthAfrica)

Google+: http://googleplus.bmwgroup.com

Munich. To coincide with the market launch on 16 April, BMW released its “digital-first” campaign for the new BMW M2 Coupé. Stars of the campaign “Eyes on Gigi” are the new BMW M2 Coupé and American supermodel Gigi Hadid, who is appearing in front of the camera for an automobile brand for the first time.

The dynamic performance and agility of the first-ever BMW M2 Coupé and the sensuous beauty and elegance of Gigi Hadid inspired renowned film producer and screenplay author Marc Forster, who directed films such as “James Bond – Quantum of Solace”, “Monster’s Ball” and “World War Z”, to create a highly unusual spot.

Eyes on Gigi.

The exciting film, which will initially be released exclusively on YouTube and Facebook from 14 April, invites viewers to play a very different kind of “shell game”: The film starts with supermodel Gigi Hadid climbing into one of three parked BMW M2 Coupés; from then on, the viewer tries to keep track of Gigi and her BMW M2 Coupé.
Within a short space of time, two more BMW M2 Coupés join in and a fast-paced vehicle choreography begins – making the task virtually impossible.
At the end of the drive, all five M2 Coupés come to a halt and the viewer has to identify which car Gigi Hadid is in.

The spectacular one-shot stunt – captured in a single uncut tracking shot – was filmed at an airfield in California’s Mojave Desert under the direction of Oscar-winning cameraman Mauro Fiore (“Avatar”, “The Equalizer”).

The interactive resolution of the game takes place on the campaign microsite EyesOnGigi.com, where the viewer can also follow the fast-paced vehicle choreography from a 360-degree perspective.

“Eyes on Gigi” is the first time the top model from Los Angeles has officially worked with an automobile brand. “We are delighted to win Gigi Hadid as the face of our global campaign for the new BMW M2 Coupé,” commented Uwe Dreher, head of International Brand Communications BMW, BMW i and BMW M. “Gigi and the M2 are the perfect match: Both are strong personalities with fascinating charisma.”
Hadid was immediately impressed: “BMW is such an iconic brand. The fact that I get to be the face of this campaign is definitely a career highlight for me. The M2 is such a cool, fun car.”

Campaign adopts “digital-first” approach for the first time.

The digital spot kicks off an integrated campaign for global rollout through TV, digital, social media and CRM channels, starting 14 April. The “digital-first” approach preferred for the first time for “Eyes on Gigi” also benefits from Hadid’s strong social media presence. With 16.1 million subscribers on Instagram, nearly 1.9 million followers on Twitter and aprox. 2.6 million fans on Facebook, Hadid is extremely successful in this area.
If the player picks the right BMW M2 Coupé, the campaign’s sophisticated digital architecture leads into the digital BMW M2 Coupé showroom of the BMW sales company in the player’s country.

Hadid liked the unusual campaign idea: “When they came to me with this concept, I loved it, and was honoured to be a part of it. I had a blast working on this project.”

To guarantee the new “fan of the brand” continued driving fun over, BMW will provide the top model with her own BMW M2 Coupé for six months.

Agencies responsible:

KBS (New York) / Serviceplan (Hamburg)

If you have any questions, please contact:

BMW Group South Africa Corporate Communications

Edward Makwana

Manager: Group Product Communications

BMW Group South Africa

Tel: +27-12-522-2227

Email: edward.makwana@bmw.co.za

Mobile: +27-71-666-2227

 The BMW Group

With its three brands BMW, MINI and Rolls-Royce, the BMW Group is the world’s leading premium manufacturer of automobiles and motorcycles and also provides premium financial and mobility services. As a global company, the BMW Group operates 30 production and assembly facilities in 14 countries and has a global sales network in more than 140 countries.

In 2015, the BMW Group sold approximately 2.247 million cars and nearly 137,000 motorcycles worldwide. The profit before tax for the financial year 2015 was approximately € 9.22 billion on revenues amounting to € 92.18 billion. As of 31 December 2015, the BMW Group had a workforce of 122,244 employees.

The success of the BMW Group has always been based on long-term thinking and responsible action. The company has therefore established ecological and social sustainability throughout the value chain, comprehensive product responsibility and a clear commitment to conserving resources as an integral part of its strategy.

www.bmwgroup.com

Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/BMWGroup

Twitter: http://twitter.com/BMWGroup

YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/BMWGroupview

Google+: http://googleplus.bmwgroup.com

A compact high-performance BMW sports car was already causing heads to turn and hearts to flutter over 40 years ago. Indeed, the BMW 2002 turbo perfectly encapsulated BMW’s resolution to deliver outstanding dynamics, exceptional agility and optimum car control. As if to demonstrate in similarly resounding style that this commitment is alive and well, BMW M GmbH can now unveil the new BMW M2. With its high-performance six-cylinder in-line engine, rear-wheel-drive agility, lightweight aluminium M Sport suspension and extrovert styling, the new BMW M2 Coupe has all the ingredients to deliver the last word in driving pleasure.

Characteristic M design.
A single glance is all it takes to pick the new BMW M2 Coupe out as a member of the BMW M family, with its styling also keen to demonstrate its dynamic attributes. Inspired by models from the history of BMW in motor racing, the new M2 Coupe makes no secret of its extraordinary performance potential. The low front apron with large air intakes, muscular flanks with characteristic M gills, 19-inch aluminium wheels in familiar M double-spoke design and low, wide rear with M-specific twin-tailpipe exhaust system all play impressive roles here. The time-honoured character of BMW M cars is also present and correct in the design of the interior. The Alcantara of the door cards and centre console together with porous carbon fibre creates an ambience of rare quality and heady sporting ambition further underlined by blue contrast stitching and M embossing on selected details. Sports seats, an M sports steering wheel and an M gearshift lever ensure BMW M2 drivers are in perfect command of their car it at all times.

Explosive performance.
The newly developed, three-litre six-cylinder in-line engine in the new BMW M2 deploys cutting-edge M TwinPower Turbo technology to develop 272 kW at 6,500 rpm (fuel consumption combined: 8.5 l/100 km; CO2 emissions combined: 199 g/km)* and, in so doing, lays down a marker in the high-performance compact sports car segment. The same applies to power delivery. Peak torque of 465 Nm can be increased to as much as 500 Nm in short bursts under overboost. All of which enables the new BMW M2 Coupe with optional seven-speed M Double Clutch Transmission (M DCT) and Launch Control to accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in just 4.3 seconds. Top speed is electronically limited to 250 km/h. Yet, with its M DCT transmission, fuel consumption of just 7.9 litres* per 100 km and CO2 emissions of just 185 g/km*, the car is also keen to emphasise its outstanding efficiency.

Motor sport expertise.
With the lightweight aluminium front and rear axles from the BMW M3/M4 models, forged 19-inch aluminium wheels with mixed-size tyres, M Servotronic steering with two settings and suitably effective M compound brakes, the new BMW M2 Coupe has raised the bar once again in the compact high-performance sports car segment when it comes to driving dynamics. The electronically controlled Active M Differential, which optimises traction and directional stability, also plays a significant role here. And even greater driving pleasure is on the cards when the Dynamic Stability Control system’s M Dynamic Mode (MDM) is activated. MDM allows wheel slip and therefore moderate, controlled drifts on the track.

Intelligent connectivity when you want it.
The new BMW M2 Coupe comes with an extensive list of standard equipment in keeping with its performance-focused set-up. The seven-speed M Double Clutch Transmission (M DCT) with Drivelogic, available as an option, changes gears with extraordinary speed but no interruption in the flow of power. A wide selection of driver assistance systems and mobility services from BMW ConnectedDrive is also available. The ConnectedDrive Services provide the basis for extensive vehicle connectivity, and this option also enables the use of innovative apps, which are integrated seamlessly into the car using BMW ConnectedDrive technology. For example, the GoPro app allows the driver to record fast laps of the track with a dashboard-mounted action camera, using the iDrive Controller and Control Display. Meanwhile, the driver’s individual style at the wheel can be analysed as desired with the M Laptimer app. Information on speeds and braking points can be shared easily via e-mail or Facebook.

From powerful stock.
The new BMW M2 Coupe is not only the direct heir to the successful BMW 1 Series M Coupe, but also – in its underlying philosophy – a descendant of the original E30 BMW M3 and the BMW 2002 turbo. The latter caused a sensation over 40 years ago, embodying the commitment of what is now BMW M GmbH to outstanding dynamics, unbeatable agility and optimal car control.

More information in the attached press kit.