Midrand. Youth Month is more than a commemoration of our history – it is a celebration of the young people shaping South Africa’s future. BMW Group South Africa believes investing in youth through skills development, education and meaningful opportunities is essential to building a resilient and prosperous nation.

“South African youth are intelligent, determined and deeply passionate about making a meaningful impact,” says Tebogo Ramagoshi, Head of Corporate Social Responsibility at BMW Group South Africa. “When young people are given access to opportunities in fields such as engineering, visual arts, automotive technology and science, they don't just transform their own futures. They create pathways for others to follow and contribute to the growth and prosperity of their communities.”

Earlier this month, BMW Group South Africa hosted its Fifth Annual Youth Day Event at Soshanguve Engineering School of Specialisation in Gauteng. The event was attended by 1,200 learners and educators, as well as BMW Group South Africa employees, who participated in a range of interactive, career-focused experiences.

Learners were also given the opportunity to engage with representatives from the University of Pretoria, University of Johannesburg, Tshwane University of Technology, North West University, Tshwane North College, Nzalo Careers, UNISA, and the Automotive Industry Development Centre.

The Youth Day Event and BMW Group South Africa’s partnership with Soshanguve Engineering School of Specialisation embody the group’s efforts to support and empower young South Africans and drive socioeconomic transformation. These efforts include the group’s flagship initiative, the Youth Employment Service (YES) programme, which provides unemployed youth with a 12-month quality work experience across sectors within the group’s own operations.

Since 2022, BMW has created over 3,500 work experiences and also committed an additional 1,000 youth jobs in South Africa at the beginning of 2026. With the 2026 cohort, 102 individuals are gaining valuable job experience across BMW Group South Africa's four business entities. This initiative supports graduates entering the workplace, builds talent pipelines, and advances a technology-driven future.

In 2025, BMW Group South Africa launched the STEM for Youth Mentorship Programme in partnership with UNICEF South Africa. An expansion of the ‘BRIDGE. Educating young people for tomorrow, today’ partnership, which provides learners from disadvantaged schools in Pretoria North with access to resources, mentorship, and guidance within key industry fields. The programme aims to reach 50,000 young people between ages 15 and 21 nationwide, with 1,000 learners undergoing mentoring and job shadowing within 50 companies.

“With every young person that participates in our CSR initiatives, we make a positive impact on their lives as well as their families and surrounding communities. Critically, this is a not a means to just impart knowledge. It’s a means to ignite the spark of innovation, so we can empower and inspire change in the next generation of professionals,” Ramagoshi adds.

The recent Youth Day Event in Soshanguve, along with other programmes such as YES and STEM for Youth Mentorship Programme, are made possible through the power of collaboration, with each partner playing a vital role in turning this shared vision into reality.

Guided by a commitment to bring about change through partnership, BMW Group South Africa celebrates Youth Month and invites young people to explore build new skill sets, pursue careers in key industry fields, and contribute to the growth and prosperity of our nation.

END

If you have any questions, please contact:

BMW Group South Africa Corporate Communications

Angela Konert

Head of Business Communications

Phone: +27 71 666 2472

E-Mail: Angela.Konert@bmw.co.za

Internet: 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 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. 

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• Final calibration drives before production starts
• First fully electric BMW iX5 with sixth-generation BMW eDrive technology
• Largest high-voltage battery fitted in a BMW model
• Range of models now even broader: BMW X5 available with five drive system technologies for the first time
• Heart of Joy delivers pure driving pleasure: next-generation driver assistance systems

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.

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 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.

Pretoria. BMW Group South Africa is celebrating 20 years of the BMW IT Hub, a milestone that recognises two decades of investing in South African people, skills and digital capability. Established in 2006 as a specialised support unit, the hub is one of four business entities in South Africa and has transformed into a cornerstone of the BMW Group’s global digital ecosystem. Today, it stands as the largest BMW IT Hub outside of Germany, powered by more than 2,500 technology professionals managing everything from production line data to customer-facing platforms across more than 130 BMW locations worldwide.

A major player in the South African economy

This growth has fundamentally changed the IT Hub’s role within the local economy. Over the past years, it has created more than 2,000 new jobs through continued expansion, and in 2026, the hub is projected to contribute more than R4 billion to South Africa’s economy. As South Africa positions itself as a source of globally relevant technology talent, the BMW IT Hub continues to play a strategic role. It demonstrates what is possible when business, education and long‑term commitment to people come together.

Reflecting on this journey, Peter van Binsbergen, CEO of BMW Group South Africa, noted: “This 20-year milestone is a testament to the world-class talent we have right here in South Africa. The hub has evolved from a support centre into a global innovation powerhouse, and as we lean further into AI and data-driven mobility, our Pretoria team will be at the very heart of BMW Group’s digital future.”

Adding to this sentiment, Thorsten Achenbach, Director of the BMW IT Hub remarked: "This milestone reflects our commitment to transforming local potential into global innovation, ensuring South Africa remains a key architect of the BMW Group’s digital journey."

More than just code: A focus on talent

Beyond the balance sheets, the IT Hub has dedicated the last two decades to closing the digital skills gap. Coinciding with Youth Month, the facility is emphasising its outreach programmes and university partnerships, which have reached more than 40,000 individuals through mentorship and career exposure. The hub continues to invest in these initiatives to broaden digital access and connect young South Africans, including 134 Graduate Tech Academy (GTA) participants in 2026, with high-growth career pathways in media and technology.

The BMW IT Hub South Africa celebrates its 20th anniversary with strengthened partnerships across leading academic institutions, including the University of Pretoria and the University of Stellenbosch. Last year, on 15 and 16 October 2025, the inaugural University of Stellenbosch Colloquium showcased research and services developed by students participating in joint projects with the BMW IT Hub. In 2026, coinciding with this milestone anniversary, the Colloquium, in collaboration with the BMW IT Hub, is hosting a week-long innovation programme for students from different South African universities. This initiative aims to empower top students with hands-on skills and exposure to cutting-edge technologies, further cementing BMW Group’s commitment to fostering academic excellence and industry innovation.

Celebrating the milestone

To celebrate these achievements, BMW Group South Africa hosted an anniversary event at the IT Hub in Menlyn, Pretoria, bringing together government officials, industry and media partners, and academia. The proceedings were honoured by the presence of Gauteng Premier Panyaza Lesufi, underscoring the strong partnership between BMW Group South Africa and the provincial government in advancing digital skills and innovation. Some students from the Graduate Tech Academy were also in attendance, including members of the cohort of 134 students onboarded in January 2026, showcasing the future of the hub. The day included live showcases of South African-developed AI innovations, guided tours of the hub’s state-of-the-art facilities and a fireside discussion focused on the next generation of tech talent. The event served as both a reflection on 20 years of success and a commitment to continued investment in the region.

Twenty years after opening its doors in Pretoria, the BMW IT Hub South Africa continues to play an important role in the BMW Group’s global digital ecosystem. As the BMW Group accelerates its digital transformation, the BMW IT Hub remains firmly focused on the future. It continues to nurture talent, embrace new technologies and contribute to the Group’s global success.

END

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 will be available in South Africa for the MINI Cooper 3‑Door, the MINI Cooper 5‑Door, and the MINI Cooper Convertible from the fourth quarter of 2026.

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 in South Africa for the MINI Cooper S 3‑Door (petrol, only), MINI Cooper S 5‑Door, and MINI Cooper S Convertible. The MINI Cooper SE Paul Smith Edition will not be offered in South Africa. 
• 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

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. 

A limited number of the BMW M 1000 RR Limited Edition Isle of Man TT models will be introduced in South Africa in the third quarter of 2026. 

Markus Flasch, CEO of BMW Motorrad, said: “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 emphasising its exclusive collector character.

Midrand. BMW Group South Africa has concluded its participation in the Simola Hillclimb in Knysna for 2026, one of South Africa’s leading motorsport events and a globally recognised platform for performance and engineering excellence.

Since its inception in 2009, the Simola Hillclimb has established itself as a benchmark motorsport event. The 1.9-kilometre course continues to test the limits of driver skill and vehicle capability, attracting leading manufacturers, professional drivers and international attention.

BMW Group South Africa fielded a four-driver line-up comprising BMW Motorsport Works driver Jens Klingmann (BMW M5 Sedan), Cristiano Verolini (BMW M4 Coupé), Leyton Fourie (BMW M2 Coupé) and Ronaldo Verolini (MINI JCW). Fourie and Verolini claimed class honours in the A3 and A4 categories of the King of the Hill competition, respectively, with times of 45.931 seconds and 44.505 seconds.

The selection of high-performance BMW M models and a MINI JCW delivered strong performances across the weekend, demonstrating the precision, control and engineering excellence synonymous with the brands.

BMW Group South Africa CEO, Peter van Binsbergen says: “The Simola Hillclimb continues to be an important platform for BMW Group South Africa. It allows us to demonstrate what our vehicles are capable of in a highly competitive environment, while connecting with a passionate motorsport community.

“To secure two class wins this year is another strong result for the team. It reflects the capability of our performance vehicles, as well as the focus, discipline and collaboration behind the scenes to deliver performance at this level.”

The nature of Hillclimbing demands precision, control and trust between driver and machine. These attributes remain central to BMW’s engineering philosophy, where performance and innovation are continuously developed to deliver a premium driving experience.

Alongside BMW, MINI continues to contribute to this performance-driven ethos through its own unique expression of driving excitement and brand character.

Beyond competition, the Simola Hillclimb continues to play a role in positioning South Africa as a competitive destination for international motorsport, showcasing local capability and industry expertise.

BMW Group South Africa remains committed to supporting platforms that showcase performance, innovation and the continued development of the automotive sector.

Midrand. BMW Group South Africa is participating in the Simola Hillclimb in Knysna, one of South Africa’s leading motorsport events and a globally recognised platform for performance and engineering excellence.

Since its inception in 2009, the event has developed into a benchmark motorsport platform. A 1.9-kilometre public road is transformed into a competitive course that attracts leading manufacturers, professional drivers and international attention.

Events such as the Simola Hillclimb provide BMW Group South Africa with an opportunity to demonstrate its focus on performance, innovation and premium driving dynamics, while engaging with customers and enthusiasts in a high-performance environment.

BMW Group South Africa will field a four-driver line-up comprising Jens Klingmann, Cristiano Verolini, Leyton Fourie and Ronaldo Verolini.

The team will compete in a selection of high-performance BMW M models – the BMW M5 Sedan, BMW M4 Coupé and the BMW M2 Coupé RR Edition, which will enjoy its public debut at the event. Along with MINI’s JCW, each is engineered to deliver exceptional power, control and driving precision.

The vehicles will feature bespoke race liveries developed specifically for the 2026 Simola Hillclimb, reflecting BMW and MINI’s performance heritage and contemporary design language. Shell’s global partnership with BMW M is reflected in the branding on the BMW M5 Sedan, while DHL logos will be visible on the BMW M4 Coupé. For the second time running, bp and Castrol will sponsor the MINI JCW.

Peter van Binsbergen, BMW Group South Africa CEO, says:

"Events like the Simola Hillclimb are important to us because they reflect the same principles that guide us as a business, a commitment to performance, precision and continuous progress. Last year we came within reach of an overall win, and that experience has only sharpened our focus. This year, we're here to finish the job. Beyond the competition, this event creates a unique space to connect with customers and enthusiasts who share our passion for driving, and that energy is something we genuinely value."

The nature of Hillclimb racing demands precision, control and trust between driver and machine. These attributes align closely with BMW’s approach to engineering, where performance and innovation are continuously developed to deliver a premium driving experience.

The Simola Hillclimb also contributes to positioning South Africa as a competitive destination for international motorsport, highlighting local capability and industry expertise.

BMW Group South Africa remains committed to supporting platforms that showcase performance, innovation and the continued development of the automotive sector.

Midrand. In an age when flexing your creative muscles is as easy as taking your phone out of your pocket, people are exploring new frontiers, new ways to express themselves and capture the world around them. MINI South Africa has opened the door to a whole new world of creative innovation with its collaboration with local artist Shekhinah and her latest visual diary.

Titled “Spoonky” and featured on her 2025 hit album “Less Trouble”, the video makes use of MINI’s integrated vehicle technology to tell a story about irresistible love and the journey it encompasses.

Enabling this production is “Made by MINI”, a new creative platform that positions MINI and all its model derivatives as a tool for creating content and expressing oneself.

“Automotive technology is evolving and becoming more human-centred than ever. MINI has always been a brand that connects strongly to the individual and everything that makes them unique. We sought to enhance that connection through technology, and the result is a platform that’s made by MINI, for the MINI community, and one that speaks to the heart of everything we set out to achieve,” says Carmen Myles, Head of MINI South Africa.

As part of the platform, the latest generation of MINI vehicles is equipped with four high-definition exterior cameras and one “selfie” cockpit camera. The exterior cameras, located on front and rear bumpers and wing mirrors of the vehicle, are capable of capturing footage with 1620x1280 resolution at 30 FPS (frames per second), while the interior camera is located in the front overhead cluster.

Drivers can immediately access the footage captured on their MINI’s cameras on their smart devices via the MINI app, and from there can share the footage with their favourite contacts, groups, and social media platforms.

“It was quite something to see my music come to life in such a unique way. It makes you think about what’s possible when it comes to bringing your ideas and stories to life. And with MINI, those things can come to life wherever you are or wherever you’re heading to,” Shekhinah added.

The "Spoonky" visual diary was shot using the integrated cameras on the latest-generation MINI John Cooper Works Countryman ALL4, the brand’s largest and most versatile model that combines all-wheel-drive with a flexible and dynamic driving experience, and the MINI John Cooper Works, inspired by the iconic 3-door original of the 1960s. 

“Shooting a visual diary using MINIs speaks to not only the versatility of our model offering, but also to how MINI delivers an elevated mobility experience defined by technical advancements and out-of-the-box thinking. We look forward to the videos and content that MINI owners will produce and share using their vehicle cameras and capturing their creativity and individual flair in new and exciting ways,” Carmen Myles concludes.

“Spoonky” by Shekhinah featuring MINI, and the behind-the-scene footage showing how MINI’s integrated vehicle cameras were used, is now available to watch on all MINI platforms at the links: Facebook, YouTube, Instagram, and LinkedIn.

BMW M holds a special place in South Africa – not only as a performance icon, but as a market leader across both two and four wheels. For the first time, BMW South Africa and BMW Motorrad South Africa have teamed up to develop twin editions that show off their family connections. The collaboration sees both brands introduce special editions of their high-performance models, enhanced with additional M character, strong personalisation and offered only in South Africa.

The BMW M2 Coupé RR Edition and BMW M 1000 RR M2 Edition (along with the BMW S 1000 RR M2 Edition) are available to order exclusively in South Africa. The 10 BMW M2 Coupe RR Editions and BMW M 1000 RR / S 1000 RR M2 Editions are distinguished by black paintwork with striking red accents, alongside distinct BMW M branding (where applicable). 

The BMW S 1000 RR M2 Edition and BMW M 1000 RR M2 Edition

South Africa’s best-selling sports motorcycle, the BMW S 1000 RR gains distinct red accents to set it apart from standard S 1000 RRs. All units of the BMW S 1000 RR M2 Edition are finished in Black Storm Metallic with red accents on the front fairing and the passenger seat cover. It gains a tinted windscreen, M-embossed seat and red-accented Design Option Wheels.

Based on the pinnacle of BMW sports motorcycles, the M 1000 RR M2 Edition finished in Black Storm Metallic features red accents on its distinctive M carbon wheel rims, on the fuel tank, front fairings. The distinctive front M winglets bear the RR insignia in a striking red finish.

Both BMW S 1000 RR M2 Edition and BMW M 1000 RR M2 Editions see the distinctive RR logos on their front side fairings finished in bright red. Similarly, they are both offered with Akrapovič exhaust systems. Both are technically identical to the BMW S 1000 RR and BMW M 1000 RR models on which they are based.

Available immediately, the BMW S 1000 RR M2 Edition is R406,950.00, while the BMW M 1000 RR M2 Edition costs R882,100.00. For more information, please visit bmw-motorrad.co.za. 

BMW M2 Coupé RR Edition

Mechanically, the BMW M2 Coupé RR Edition is identical to the current BMW M2 Coupé with its signature 353-kW high-revving six-cylinder in-line petrol engine with M TwinPower Turbo technology.

It is, however, distinguished by its Black Sapphire Metallic paintwork, M Performance suspension (with red springs) lower by 20mm, and M Performance wheels with a Jet Black finish. Dimensions are 20-inch at the front axle, and 21-inch at the rear. Aerodynamic ability is bolstered by front and rear splitters painted black with red inserts. At the rear, two spoilers adorn the BMW M2 Coupé RR Edition: a roof spoiler finished in black, and a flowthrough boot spoiler finished in black with a red stripe as accent. A specially customised Akrapovič exhaust has been developed for this Edition.

In the cabin, the seats are black with red bolsters and red contrast stitching, inspired by the steering wheel’s red centre marker in the 12 o’clock position and two M buttons for selecting individually configured vehicle setups. Another distinguishing feature on all RR Editions is the standard sunroof, which is only available for this Edition.

Five six-speed manual, and five eight-speed M Steptronic transmission with Drivelogic units will be offered once the models become available in the fourth quarter of 2026. Final pricing will be determined at launch.  

For more information, and to register your interest, please visit bmw.co.za/RRedition.

Midrand. BMW Group South Africa, in collaboration with BMW Group headquarters in Munich and the United Nations Alliance of Civilizations (UNAOC), is advancing local awareness and participation for the Intercultural Innovation Hub (IIH) 2026, a global initiative that supports grassroots organisations driving social inclusion, intercultural dialogue and sustainable community development.

The Intercultural Innovation Hub represents the very best of what global collaboration can achieve when it is rooted in local impact. In South Africa, we have seen first-hand how this programme enables organisations to strengthen their capabilities, expand their reach and deepen their impact within communities.

The IIH is a long-standing partnership between the BMW Group and UNAOC. Each year, the programme identifies and supports outstanding non-profit organisations through a comprehensive package that includes financial grants, capacity-building, strategic mentorship from BMW Group experts, and access to international networks and visibility.

For the 2026 cycle, BMW Group South Africa is focused on increasing local participation by ensuring that organisations with strong community impact are aware of and able to access the opportunity. The initiative is particularly relevant in the South African context, where community-led solutions continue to play a critical role in addressing complex social challenges.

A strong example of the programme’s impact is Oasis Place, Reach for Your Dreams” a Cape Town-based organisation and previous IIH recipient, using street football to prevent youth from engaging in violent and criminal activities.

With more than 25 years of impact, Oasis Place “Reach for your Dreams” delivers holistic programmes for life-skills development, rehabilitation and reintegration. The organisation further uplifts youth by instilling them with values inherent to sports, such as team spirit, fair play, respect, and conflict management. The programme encourages participants to join street football events where social development life-skills are taught through the art of sport.

Involving people from different cultures and backgrounds, the aim of the initiative is to prevent youth from engaging in violent and criminal activities by supporting their reintegration into society and empowering them to lead positive and self-sufficient lives. Oasis further uplifts young people by instilling them with values inherent to sports, such as team spirit, fair play, respect, and conflict management.

Before the organisation was with the IIH programme, they had a reach of less than 421 participants but after the IIH programme they were able to double their impact and had a reach of more than 1 400 participants. To date, Its initiatives have reached approximately 3,495 participants across school, community and structured sports programmes, creating safe spaces and pathways for young people.

Reflecting on the impact of the IIH programme, Clifford Martinus, Founder of Oasis Place, says:

“The support we received through the Intercultural Innovation Hub has been transformative. It strengthened our capacity, expanded our reach and connected us to a global network that continues to open doors. More importantly, it reaffirmed that community-led solutions, when supported, can create real and lasting change.”

Beyond financial support, the IIH provides organisations with access to global expertise and networks, enabling them to scale sustainably and strengthen their long-term impact. For Oasis Place,Reach for Your Dream” this has translated into increased visibility, international collaboration opportunities and the ability to further develop programmes that directly serve communities.

The 2026 IIH cycle comes at a significant time, with South Africa continuing to position itself as a key market within the BMW Group’s global footprint and a hub for impactful corporate social responsibility initiatives. The local campaign will focus on telling authentic South African stories, showcasing real impact and encouraging more organisations to apply.

Applications for the Intercultural Innovation Hub 2026 are currently open. BMW Group South Africa encourages all eligible non-profit organisations working in social cohesion, youth development and community upliftment to apply and become part of a global network committed to building more inclusive and resilient societies.

• Entry deadline: 15 April 2026, 17:00 hrs EDT (New York)
• Entry portal:  www.interculturalinnovation.org/application-process
• Eligibility requirements:  www.interculturalinnovation.org/the-project/who-can-apply

ENDS

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. A range of up to 805 kilometres, 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 345 kW and 645 Nm 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 805 kilometres on the WLTP 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”.

Midrand. BMW Group South Africa hosted its annual Retailer of the Year Awards at the Four Seasons Hotel, The Westcliff in Johannesburg, celebrating the achievements of its national retail network and recognising the retailers who continue to deliver exceptional customer experiences across the country.

Held under the theme “A New Dimension”, the event highlighted the important role of BMW, MINI and BMW Motorrad retailers in strengthening the brands’ leadership position in the premium automotive segment while navigating an evolving and increasingly competitive market.

Opening the evening, Peter van Binsbergen, Chief Executive Officer of BMW Group South Africa, acknowledged the contribution of the retailer network to the company’s continued success.

“Our retail partners bring our strategy to life every day in showrooms and workshops across South Africa. They are the face of BMW, MINI and BMW Motorrad and the driving force behind the premium experiences our customers expect from our brands,” said van Binsbergen.

Based on 2026 Naamsa data, BMW South Africa achieved its highest-ever growth in the premium segment, holding a 46% market share. The locally produced BMW X3 remains a key contributor to this success. Manufactured at BMW Group Plant Rosslyn and exported to markets around the world, the BMW X3 continues to demonstrate the strength of South African manufacturing within BMW Group’s global production network.

At the same time, BMW Group continues to accelerate its transition toward sustainable mobility. Electrified vehicles remain a strategic priority, with BMW Group South Africa maintaining a leading position in the premium battery electric vehicle segment.

“As the automotive landscape evolves, our strategy remains clear,” said van Binsbergen. “We do not compete purely on price. We compete on engineering excellence, brand heritage, customer trust and exceptional retail experiences. Our retailers play a critical role in building the relationships that turn customers into lifelong fans of our brands.”

Recognising the importance of these relationships, BMW Group South Africa introduced a new award category at this year’s awards: the CEOs Award, which for this year focused in on turning customers into fans. The award celebrates individuals, teams or organisations that go beyond expectations to create memorable customer experiences that strengthen brand loyalty.

The inaugural recognition was awarded to the Gauteng Chapter of BMW Car Clubs Africa in acknowledgement of their long-standing contribution to the BMW enthusiast community and their role in bringing together passionate owners and fans of the brand.

The awards programme itself also saw an important update in 2025 with the introduction of the Best Retailer in Focus Models Award. This new category combines the previous high-performance BMW M and luxury awards into a single recognition, highlighting the importance of BMW’s high-performance and focus models within the product portfolio.

Retailer performance in this category is measured across the year, recognising results above target in both BMW M and luxury sales.

The winners of the 2025 Retailer of the Year Awards are as follows:

Retailer of the Year:

BMW Midrand (large), BMW Stellenbosch (small-medium), MINI Midrand, BMW Motorrad Montana

Best Retailer in Sales:

BMW Midrand (large), BMW Constantia (small-medium), MINI Cape Town City (large), BMW Motorrad East Rand

Best Retailer in Focus Model:

BMW Durban South

Financial Services Retailers of the Year:

BMW Midrand (large), BMW Durban City (small-medium), MINI Constantia, BMW Motorrad Mbombela

Best Retailer in Customer Support:

BMW Pinetown (large), BMW Richards Bay (small-medium), MINI Midrand, BMW Motorrad Stellenbosch

Best Retailer in Corporate Social Responsibility:

SMG

The annual Retailer of the Year Awards remain a cornerstone of BMW Group South Africa’s recognition programme, celebrating excellence across sales, customer experience and operational performance within the retailer network.

“As we look to the future, the automotive industry will continue to transform,” concluded van Binsbergen. “Electrification will accelerate, customer expectations will evolve and competition will intensify. But together with our retail partners, we will continue to explore new opportunities and strengthen BMW Group South Africa’s position in the premium segment.”

+++ Mexico prevails over India and China at the highlight of the biggest international tournament series for amateur golfers +++ 102 Eagles for EAGLES FOR EDUCATION and UNICEF* +++ Individual titles at Fancourt Resort go to India, Moldova and Singapore +++ Guest of honour Gary Player presents trophies +++

George. A unique week of golf at the Fancourt Resort (George, South Africa) and the victory of Team Mexico in the National Team Category ranking saw the 2025 season of the BMW Golf Cup end on a high note. At the World Final of the biggest international tournament series for amateur golfers, which BMW has been hosting since 1987, the national winners from 33 countries experienced a tournament that eclipses the standards of regular amateur events. Competitors and their guests enjoyed an international pro-standard tournament on breathtaking golf courses, captivating evening and supporting events, as well as warm exchanges with golfing enthusiasts from around the world.

At a tournament of this calibre, one of the most successful and influential figures in golf had to be in attendance in his home country. 18-time Major winner Gary Player eagerly embraced the opportunity to attend the World Final, host a golf clinic, and present the trophies at the closing gala dinner. And the 90-year-old was not the only guest of honour; Sweden’s Fanny Sunesson attended the World Final from day one to the close of play and not only wowed those taking part and their guests with her charms but also shared her inexhaustible wealth of experience as a former caddie to some of the world’s best golfers – such as Sir Nick Faldo (ENG) and Adam Scott (AUS).

EAGLES FOR EDUCATION: World finalists support UNICEF with 102 eagles.

With its EAGLES FOR EDUCATION initiative, the BMW Group once again supported the United Nations children’s charity UNICEF at the World Final. For each net eagle, 1,000 euros are being donated to the BMW Group’s collaboration with UNICEF, called “BRIDGE. Educating young people for tomorrow, today”. Over the three rounds of the tournament, the world finalists scored 102 net eagles. The focus of the collaboration is to bridge learning gaps within society and create learning and education opportunities in science, technology, engineering and maths (STEM).

The list of countries where the BMW Group and UNICEF are working together includes South Africa, Brazil, India, Mexico and Thailand – all countries which have BMW Group presence.

Quotes on BMW Golf Cup World Final.

Ilka Horstmeier (GER), Member of the Board of Management of BMW AG, People and Places: “Culture and sport inspire people around the world and strengthen social cohesion. The BMW Golf Cup is an integral part of BMW's extensive commitment to golf, which ranges from top-class sport to the promotion of young talent. The World Final in South Africa has brought people from all regions of the world together, friendships have been forged and, thanks to their outstanding performances, the participants have made a contribution to education and thus to the self-determined future of young people. In cooperation with UNICEF, the BMW Group is committed to STEM education in South Africa and four other countries. Thank you to the participants of the World Final for this great contribution.”

Peter van Binsbergen (RSA), CEO BMW Group South Africa: “The BMW Group and South Africa share more than 50 years of history. In 1973, the BMW Group plant became the first production site to be opened outside Germany. As a multi-faceted country with a passion for golf, it was a real honour and pleasure for us to host the World Final again and to play our part in this once-in-a-lifetime experience for our guests with the beauty and warmheartedness of South Africa. I am certain that they will return home with a wealth of unforgettable memories.“

Gary Player (RSA), 18-time Major winner: “The BMW Golf Cup celebrates the very best of our beautiful game: ambition and high-class competition, combined with mutual respect and a spirit of friendly collaboration. Which is why I was really looking forward to attending the World Final in my home country and meeting people from all over the world who love golf. With its strong commitment to equality in education, EAGLES FOR EDUCATION helps ensure that the weakest are not forgotten – the children. Helping them in every sense has always been something that meant a great deal to both me and my late wife Vivienne.”

Results.

As with the approximately 800 qualifying tournaments around the world, the World Final also featured three individual categories: Men 1 (up to HCP 12), Men 2 (HCP 13–28), and Women (HCP up to 28), each playing three rounds (Stableford, net). In addition, a national team ranking is created based on the combined net individual scores. In National Team Catergory, the team from Mexico prevailed with 298 net points, ahead of the teams from India (290) and China (289). In theWomen’s category, the title went to Singapore: Mei Zhen Wang (107) won ahead of Xiao Wang (CHN, 107) and Montserrat Bayardo (MEX, 101). In Men’s Category 1, India’s Vignesh Rangarao won with 104 net points, ahead of Yu Hsiang Chang (104) and Lei Pin Huang (101, both TPE). In Men’s Category 2, Veaceslav Secrieru (MOL, 107) took the win. Second place went to Kevin Huo (NZL, 106), and third place to Jose Abimael Hernández (MEX, 106).

See here for the full results: 
Leaderboard

The BMW Golfsport Engagement.

For almost four decades, BMW has played a leading role as a reliable partner of global golf – both at the amateur and professional levels. As title partner of prestigious golf events, BMW is active on four continents. Since 1989, the premium automobile manufacturer has hosted the iconic BMW International Open (DP World Tour) in its hometown of Munich, Germany. The BMW PGA Championship in London, UK – the flagship event of the DP World Tour – has, with BMW’s support since 2005, developed into a “Festival of Golf” and a highlight of the British sporting calendar. With the BMW Australian PGA Championship, held in Brisbane, Australia, the company supports another prestigious tournament, which is rich in tradition. In the USA, BMW has been the title partner of the BMW Championship since 2007. First played in 1899 as the Western Open, this tournament is now the penultimate playoff event of the PGA TOUR Playoffs and one of the most competitive golf tournaments worldwide. It has been named PGA TOUR Tournament of the Year six times.

On the world’s most important women’s tour, BMW has hosted the BMW Ladies Championship – the only LPGA Tour event in South Korea – since 2019. BMW has also been organizing the BMW Golf Cup since 1987, the largest international tournament series for amateur players, who can qualify for the international World Final at more than 800 qualifying tournaments worldwide. Since 2006, BMW has also been involved in the Ryder Cup, and most recently, the company has been a Worldwide Partner at the legendary team competition and the world’s most high-profile golf event for the third time.

EAGLES FOR EDUCATION – BMW Group’s social commitment in golf.

The BMW Group makes use of its international BMW title tournaments to fulfill its responsibility as a corporate citizen and to participate in solutions to social challenges. The focus is on the education and empowerment of children and young people. The BMW Group is convinced that education and equal opportunities for everyone are the key to a self-determined future for young people and an important pillar for the cohesion of our society. Through its EAGLES FOR EDUCATION initiative, the BMW Group actively supports this cause at numerous BMW title tournaments. True to its mission statement “Think globally, act locally”, the BMW Group works with strong local partners and supports their educational efforts with a donation for every eagle played.

At the BMW International Open (Germany), the BMW Group cooperates with the Philipp Lahm Foundation for Sport and Education; at the BMW PGA Championship (UK), the partner is the Golf Foundation. As part of the global amateur tournament series BMW Golf Cup, the BMW Group works with JOBLINGE in Germany and with UNICEF at the World Final. All tournament proceeds from the BMW Championship (USA) benefit the Evans Scholars Foundation.

www.philipp-lahm-stiftung.de
www.golf-foundation.org
www.joblinge.de
www.unicef.com
www.wgaesf.org

* UNICEF does not endorse any company brand, product or service.

Munich / Berlin. The partnership between the BMW Group and ESMT Berlin enters its fifth year. In 2026, the BMW Group Change Maker Fellowship will once again support future leaders who want to actively shape digital transformation. The fellowships are available for ESMT’s Full-time MBA and MSc programmes as well as the Global Online MBA.

For the upcoming academic year, eight fellowships will be awarded:

• two fellowships for the Full-time MBA (January 2027 intake)
• two fellowships for the MSc programmes (September 2026 intake)
• four fellowships for the Global Online MBA (October 2026 intake)

The initiative reflects the shared ambition of the BMW Group and ESMT Berlin to identify promising talent and prepare responsible leaders who drive positive change in business and society.

“We are proud to be entering the fifth year of our partnership with ESMT. Especially now, we need leaders who take responsibility and use technology and digitalisation to shape the future. Responsible leadership is deeply rooted at BMW – for us, responsibility means seeking solutions to societal challenges and bringing our people with us on that journey,” says Ilka Horstmeier, Member of the Board of Management of BMW AG, responsible for People and Real Estate, and Labour Relations Director. 

The BMW Group Change Maker Fellowship is aimed at candidates with a strong STEM background who want to complement their technical expertise with a management education. The programme combines technological know-how with leadership and business skills, preparing participants to take on responsibility in digital innovation and actively shape the future of the mobility ecosystem.

The BMW Group employs more than 10,000 IT and software experts worldwide and operates a global network of IT hubs in Germany, India, Portugal, Romania, Brazil, China, the United States, and South Africa. Reflecting this footprint, the 2026 Change Maker Fellowships are open to applicants from countries with BMW Group IT hubs.

ESMT President Jörg Rocholl says, “We thank BMW Group for its sustained partnership in advancing this initiative. Digital transformation and artificial intelligence are changing the capabilities required in leadership roles. The Change Maker Fellowship brings together technological backgrounds and management education to prepare participants for responsibility in this evolving environment.”

Who can apply?

The BMW Group Change Maker Fellowship is open to candidates with a strong quantitative or technology-focused background. Applicants must hold a bachelor’s degree in a related field or have current work experience in areas such as computer science, IT, automation, or digitalisation. They must also meet the admission requirements of the respective ESMT programme.

Applications are open exclusively to citizens or permanent residents of the following countries: Germany, India, Portugal, Romania, Brazil, China, the United States, and South Africa. Individuals with recognised refugee status in Germany are also eligible.

For the Full-time MBA and MSc programmes, applicants must not be older than 30 on September 1, 2026.

What inspires your digital future?

As part of the application process, candidates will be asked to answer the following question: “The BMW Group actively shapes the future of mobility: what aspect of a digital future fascinates you most, and why?”

More information about the fellowship and the application process is available here.

If you have any questions, please contact:

BMW Group South Africa 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

ESMT Press contact

Lennart Richter

Press Spokesperson

Phone: +49 160 552 139 3

lennart.richter@esmt.org

About ESMT Berlin

ESMT Berlin is a leading global business school with its campus in the heart of Berlin. Founded by 25 global companies, ESMT offers master, MBA, and PhD programs, as well as executive education on its campus in Berlin, in locations around the world, online, and in online blended format. Focusing on leadership, innovation, and analytics, its diverse faculty publishes outstanding research in top academic journals. Additionally, the international business school provides an interdisciplinary platform for discourse between politics, business, and academia. ESMT is a non-profit private institution of higher education with the right to grant PhDs and is accredited by AACSB, AMBA, EQUIS, and ZEvA. It is committed to diversity, equity, and inclusion across all its activities and communities. esmt.berlin

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

As South Africans prepare for the Easter holiday period, BMW Group South Africa is encouraging drivers to begin their journeys right with a complimentary pre-trip vehicle inspection at their nearest BMW or MINI retailer. Available for vehicles of any age, even those no longer covered by Motorplan, the inspections are designed to enhance peace of mind ahead of long-distance travel. The initiative reflects BMW Group South Africa’s Customer Support philosophy, ‘Relax. We Care.’: a commitment to proactive customer care, expert service, and ensuring every journey is as seamless as possible.

Support When It Matters Most
Unexpected situations can arise at any time, and the Easter period is no exception. BMW On Call and MINI Assist provides 24-hour roadside assistance and accident support, coordinating help whenever it is needed. Should the situation involve a flat tyre, a mechanical concern, or an accident, they ensure prompt assistance and, where necessary, towing to an authorised repair centre. During peak travel seasons, BMW On Call teams are out on the road, positioned along key national routes to keep BMW and MINI drivers moving.

Motorplan: Comprehensive Cover for BMW and MINI Owners
Underpinning that roadside confidence is BMW’s proprietary Motorplan, first introduced in South Africa in 1985. Motorplan provides peace of mind for five years or 100,000 kilometres, with BMW On Call or MINI Assist roadside assistance included as a standard feature. Cover extends across a wide range of essential service and maintenance requirements, including:
•    Repairs to major components
•    Scheduled maintenance aligned with Condition Based Servicing
•    Replacement of essential fluids, including engine oil and brake fluid, during servicing
•    Wear-and-tear components where applicable
•    Genuine BMW Parts fitted by trained BMW and MINI technicians
Motorplan coverage can be extended up to a total of seven years or 200,000 kilometres, ensuring continued protection well into ownership.

Quality You Can Count On
That peace of mind extends to the quality of the work itself. All servicing and repairs are carried out by trained BMW technicians using Genuine BMW Parts, ensuring every vehicle continues to meet the BMW Group’s standards for engineering, safety, and long-term value. Parts are supplied through BMW Group South Africa’s Regional Distribution Centre, with logistics systems in place to ensure reliable and timely delivery to retailers nationwide. Strict serial tracking and quality verification safeguard customers against counterfeit components.

Service with Proactive Care
Working quietly in the background is BMW or MINI Service with Proactive Care, an innovative customer service solution that delivers individual, pre-emptive support to BMW and MINI owners. Using vehicle sensors and the BMW Group’s ConnectedDrive system, it monitors a vehicle’s condition on an ongoing basis. When a potential service or maintenance requirement is detected, a preferred retailer may proactively contact the customer to assist with scheduling an appointment, helping to maintain reliability, optimise performance, and reduce the likelihood of unexpected repair costs.

Flexible Options Beyond Motorplan
For vehicles no longer covered by Motorplan, BMW Group South Africa offers Value Service options and My BMW Plans. These tailored service solutions provide competitive pricing while maintaining BMW Group quality standards, so customers can continue to enjoy expert care at every stage of their vehicle’s life.

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. 

The BMW 3 Series will be available in South Africa from the first quarter of 2027. 

As the second model in the Neue Klasse, it represents a technological quantum leap into a new era. The first all-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 345 kW¹, the maximum torque is 645 Nm.¹ 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 recognisable 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 radiator grille and twin headlights merge into an innovative light signature, creating a powerful and expressive unit. The rear end, featuring prominently horizontal rear lights, further highlights precision and technological progress. The prominently flared wheel arches emphasise the sporty, wide stance of the new BMW i3. The interior offers a high level of spaciousness and makes full use of all the possibilities of the vehicle concept, which is consistently geared towards electromobility. At the same time, the interior represents driver-oriented sportiness. The new BMW Panoramic iDrive not only defines the modern and inviting interior, but also ushers in a new level of hallmark BMW driver orientation.

Sportiness and driving pleasure are invariably embedded in the DNA of the BMW 3 Series. The new BMW i3 sets new standards. Maximising the unmatched capabilities of electromobility, it offers impressively precise, effortless, and assured handling. The Heart of Joy high-performance computer shapes the BMW i3 driving experience. Its responses are ten times faster than in previous systems. Together with three other superbrain high-performance computers, 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 range is up to 900 kilometres¹ (in accordance with the WLTP test cycle). DC charging capacities of up to 400 kW also drastically reduce charging times. The DC fast charger can recharge energy for up to 400 km¹ in 10 minutes (in accordance with ISO 12906 in the WLTP cycle). 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 round cells. The cell-to-pack design used 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 (optional AC charging Professional required), Vehicle-to-Home and Vehicle-to-Grid charging functions.

The BMW i3 is manufactured at the BMW Group plant in Munich, which is the home plant of the BMW Group. For more than a hundred years, the plant in Milbertshofen, in the north of Munich, has been producing premium vehicles. Over the last four years, the plant has seen significant modernisation: Alongside a new body shop, a cutting-edge vehicle assembly area incorporating logistics space has been constructed. The new buildings are in their final stages of expansion. Production of the new BMW i3 will start in these halls from August 2026. The first vehicles will be delivered from spring this year. One year later, the production portfolio will be switched to exclusively fully electric vehicles of the Neue Klasse. The plant conversion includes a large number of modernisation measures.

 _{¹ All data provisional. Please note: Since no binding WLTP values are currently available, these are provisional values. In addition, the actual values depend on various factors, such as load, driving style, route, weather, auxiliary consumers (including air conditioning), tyres, and the age of the battery.}

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.

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

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Munich / New York. Founded in 2011, the Intercultural Innovation Hub (IIH) is a joint initiative by the BMW Group and the United Nations Alliance of Civilisations (UNAOC), supported by Accenture. In 2026, the search is on again for projects worldwide that build inclusive societies and drive social change through intercultural innovation.

Global impact through social innovation

The Intercultural Innovation Hub is far more than a funding programme; it is a catalyst for growth and impact. Participating organisations receive hands-on mentoring and take part in an intensive capacity-building programme designed to strengthen and scale their strategies for addressing complex intercultural challenges.

Who is eligible to enter?

Non-profit organisations and social enterprises are eligible to take part. Focus areas include:

• Advancing gender equality
• Combatting xenophobia, hate speech and extremism
• Leveraging sport, art and culture as drivers of change
• Fostering inclusion of people with disabilities
• The responsible use of AI and new technologies to support these goals

Up to ten projects will be selected to receive funding and support.

What does the funding package include?

USD 20,000 in project funding to strengthen and expand initiatives.

A one-year capacity-building programme featuring international workshops, masterclasses and one-on-one mentoring from experts at Accenture, the UNAOC and the BMW Group.

Access to a global leadership platform and an international community dedicated to fostering inclusion and social cohesion worldwide.

Apply now!

Entry deadline: 15 April 2026, 17:00 hrs EDT (New York)

Entry portal: www.interculturalinnovation.org/application-process

Eligibility requirements: www.interculturalinnovation.org/the-project/who-can-apply

If you have any questions, please contact:

BMW Group Corporate Communications

Katharina Schalk, spokesperson, Corporate Citizenship

Email: katharina.schalk@bmwgroup.com

Tel: +49-151-601-51092

Milena Pighi, Head of Corporate Citizenship

Email: milena.pa.pighi@bmwgroup.com

Tel: +49-160-978-24316

Angela Konert, Head of Business Communications, BMW Group South Africa

Email: angela.konert@bmw.co.za

Tel: +27-716662472

United Nations Alliance of Civilizations (UNAOC)

Dana Podmolikova, Programme Management Specialist - Youth
Email: danap@unops.org  

Tel: +1 (212) 963-7149

Munich. BMW M Performance Parts have always made a clear statement about future-forward technology, sporty, dynamic looks and uncompromising quality. The entry-level vehicle to the world of high-performance BMW M automobiles, the BMW M2, will as of July 2026 benefit from the availability of an M Performance Track Kit that is specifically geared towards use on track days. The BMW M2 CS is the exclusive special model from BMW M in this class, marked by even sharper handling and unique design characteristics. Using the M Performance exhaust system, the looks and sound of this specific model can now be taken to a new level. 

M Performance Track Kit: road-legal top performance.
Track days are becoming an increasingly popular pastime for drivers with sporting ambitions. They relish the chance to enhance their performance on a closed track and to explore the dynamic capabilities of their BMW M. Track days are all about the thrill of driving, about vehicle control and the experience of performance. In addition, track days promote a sense of community by bringing like-minded people together to share their passion for motorsport and BMW M automobiles. To push the boundaries even further towards pro racing at these sporting events, an M Performance Track Kit will become available for the BMW M2. It enables the base vehicle to deliver even sharper handling and performance on the race track.

The M Performance Track Kit includes a manually adjustable front splitter that can be deployed for use on the track. It forms a single unit with the front diffuser. This feature is complemented by wheel arch diffusers, which are not adjustable, and a scoop under the upstream engine oil cooler. The front splitter/diffuser significantly increases downforce, with aero flicks adding even more grip. Added to this is a manually adjustable swan neck rear wing, as used on the BMW M4 GT4 and BMW M4 GT3 customer sport models. It features a unique “Race Mode” in which the rear wing is moved by 50 millimetres toward the rear, significantly increasing the wing’s aerodynamic effectiveness. The rear wing’s angle of attack can also be varied, with two settings available to maximise downforce on the rear axle depending on the characteristics of the track. Another eye-catching, unique feature is the brake light integrated into the rear wing.

Other elements include a threaded chassis with four-way adjustable rebound and compression damping, adjustable support bearings and the first special motorsport damper system to also be road-legal. In addition, the chassis can be lowered by up to 20 millimetres at the front and rear. The height adjustment is infinitely variable.

The Track Kit’s components were developed in collaboration with BMW M specialists, who can draw on expertise built up in the course of countless races and victories. All components were aerodynamically optimised in the BMW wind tunnel. Jörg Weidinger – who is both a record driver and BMW M test engineer responsible for chassis development – was in charge of overall fine-tuning. The components all interact in a unique way, especially when combined with the optional ultra-track tyres. It’s a truly special achievement that requires the exceptional know-how of a carmaker like BMW.

The M Performance Track Kit will be available to order from July 2026 and cost 23,500 euros (ex VAT) for South African enthusiasts. The kit will be available to order from BMW retailers and indicative prices exclude installation.

Acoustics and visuals: from the race track to the road.

The M Performance exhaust system for the new BMW M2 CS is now available as an additional, particularly appealing customisation option. Its optimised exhaust gas routing enhances the distinctive sound of the 390 kW six-cylinder in‑line engine with BMW M TwinPower Turbo technology. Setup provides access to several modes that fine-tune the exhaust system’s performance. All of them generate an exhilarating, exceptionally sporty engine sound. Visually, too, the new exhaust system reflects the expertise BMW M has gathered over five decades of motorsport involvement. The optional M Performance tailpipe trims are made of carbon and titanium, two materials that have proven themselves in motor racing. They lend the rear of the BMW M2 CS a distinctive, unmistakeable look. Motorsport affinity is also demonstrated by the consistent application of lightweight construction principles. The M Performance exhaust system is around 8 kilograms lighter than the standard component. 

Availability in South Africa of the M Performance exhaust system for the BMW M2 CS is subject to local homologation. 

Munich. Following its brand activation in early January 2026, BMW ALPINA is presenting itself as an exclusive new brand under the custodianship of the BMW Group. The brand embodies an exceptional balance of supreme ride comfort and high performance. The new badge design complements the recently revealed wordmark, collectively defining the brand’s contemporary iconography. BMW ALPINA automobiles will be manufactured in BMW Group plants that have been comprehensively enabled to meet the high standards expected of this new and exclusive brand.

Heritage: The new BMW ALPINA brand emblem reinterprets classic elements.
The new BMW ALPINA emblem honours the brand’s heritage while authentically evolving into the modern age. The new design features the same two significant elements as before – throttle body and crankshaft – central to the historic story of the brand. As with the already revealed wordmark, which encircles the badge, the elements within the badge benefit from clear and concise linework. A unique transparent execution emphasises the emblem’s modern silhouette, and reduced colouring enhances the contemporary look and feel. The new badge design conveys a precise and refined execution, perfectly suited to the exclusive positioning of BMW ALPINA.

Enhanced personalisation and high-value materials central to the brand’s modernisation.
BMW ALPINA automobiles will be manufactured in select BMW Group plants that have been comprehensively enabled to meet the high standards expected of this new and exclusive brand. These qualities allow for an extraordinary range of personalisation options, ensuring customers can create personal and distinctive automobiles, if desired. Continuity is assured with the sensitive modernisation of signature design elements such as the iconic exterior colour palette and 20-spoke alloy wheel design. Establishing yet another link between future and heritage, superior quality leather will come as standard in all BMW ALPINA interiors. Available in a comprehensive range of colours, these can be further complemented by a selection of desirable materials – ensuring future owners can curate everything from the smallest of details to the boldest of statements, defining their own, unique automobile.

Commitment to power and discretion.
Restraint, power and superior quality have always been hallmarks of the Alpina brand. BMW ALPINA is committed to authentically evolving these values, elevating them with heightened precision and modern sophistication. BMW ALPINA automobiles will combine exceptional high-speed performance with outstanding levels of comfort, focusing on long-distance journeying.

BMW Alpina is a maker of automobiles for connoisseurs who appreciate the exceptional.

Munich. BMW Group Plant Munich is entering the next phase, as the plant launches production of the first near-series test vehicles for the new BMW i3*. This marks the beginning of the final preparation phase for the start of series production in the second half of 2026.

“Production of pre-series vehicles is an important milestone for our plant,” says Peter Weber, Head of BMW Group Plant Munich. “For the first time, we have built a BMW i3 entirely at our plant – using state-of-the-art manufacturing technology and digitally connected processes. With production now close to series maturity, our logistics and production processes are performing under real-world conditions across all technologies: in our modernised press shop, the new body shop, the state-of-the-art paint shop and the new assembly area, as well as the innovative logistics structures. Over the coming months, we will apply the lessons learned from the ramp-up to further refine the processes for series production and ensure a smooth series launch.”

On the road to series production

Integration of new models begins with pre-series vehicles – a crucial step in gearing up for future series production.

What makes Plant Munich unique is that a team from the facility has so far worked alongside a team from the nearby pilot plant to assemble the first vehicles at the Research and Innovation Centre. With the completion of Plant Munich’s new manufacturing and logistics areas, vehicles now pass through all production steps on site. This means that all logistics processes, manufacturing equipment and operations must already run smoothly. Although quantities are still small, all parts are supplied via the designated material flows and processed on the production line. Every part and every production step is closely scrutinised. A particular focus is on the approval inspection for cutting-edge production equipment and tools, and on how these are digitally integrated with existing systems.

Running system tests for the future vehicle model helps identify further potential for optimisation. In the coming months, efforts will be directed towards refining processes, based on the insights gained.

Employee training – first virtually, then in the real world

During this phase, employees will also undergo intensive training: until recently, using augmented reality and now, on the new installations and machinery. Close cooperation across all areas of production will ensure operations are seamlessly integrated for a smooth and successful series launch.

Midrand. BMW Group South Africa today outlined its 2025 performance and strategic direction for the year ahead during its Start-of-Year Media Update, highlighting record premium segment leadership, strong local production and continued recognition across product excellence, people practices and corporate responsibility.

In 2025, the BMW brand achieved its highest-ever premium segment share locally, exceeding 46,15%, despite ongoing affordability pressures and intensifying competition in the South African automotive market (based on Naamsa data). This performance reflects the continued strength of BMW Group South Africa’s product portfolio, long-term customer value proposition and disciplined execution across the business.

Momentum was strong across all brands. MINI closed the year with a premium segment share of 5.67%. Combined, BMW and MINI captured 51.82% of the premium segment. Despite a challenging market, BMW Motorrad delivered a robust performance, maintaining a segment share above 39.3% (combined segment of >251cc).

Award-winning products, design leadership and portfolio strength

BMW Group South Africa’s strong commercial performance was reinforced by significant recognition across South Africa’s leading automotive awards programmes during 2025.

The locally produced BMW X3 was crowned South African Car of the Year, while also securing the Premium category award under the same programme. Further category wins included the BMW 5 Series Sedan in the Executive category, and the BMW M5, which claimed the Performance category, the Jurors’ Choice Award, and a third-place overall finish.

Additional recognition followed through the CAR Magazine Top 12 Best Buys Awards 2025, where the BMW 7 Series was named Luxury Car of the Year, and the BMW X3 secured the Premium Midsize SAV category. At the Cars.co.za Consumer Awards 2025, BMW Group South Africa’s portfolio was again strongly represented, with wins including MINI Countryman S ALL4 in the Premium Crossover category and BMW X3 30e xDrive M Sport in the Executive SUV category, among others.

Alongside awards recognition, 2025 also saw BMW Group South Africa place a deliberate spotlight on design, heritage and emotional brand connection through the introduction of BMW Homage Editions. These limited-edition models celebrated BMW’s design legacy while offering customers distinctive, locally relevant expressions of the brand’s identity.

This design focus was further reinforced through the BMW X3 20 Pure Design, which showcased a refined, pared-back aesthetic aligned with BMW’s global design language while resonating strongly with local customer preferences.

Local manufacturing anchoring global relevance

A cornerstone of BMW Group South Africa’s presence in South Africa remains BMW Group Plant Rosslyn, which produced more than 79,000 vehicles in 2025, supported by a full three-shift production schedule. This output reflects sustained global demand and the plant’s ability to maintain operational excellence amid supply-chain volatility and market uncertainty.

Danny Bester, Director of BMW Group Plant Rosslyn, said: “The plant’s 2025 performance reflects both operational discipline and long-term investment. Operating at this scale, while maintaining quality and efficiency, speaks to the capability, resilience and commitment of our Rosslyn team. Our focus remains on building a future-ready plant that can continue to serve global markets with confidence, underpinned by skills development and sustained investment in South Africa.”

The plant’s strategic role has been further strengthened by the production of the fourth-generation BMW X3, which entered production in late 2024. BMW Plant Rosslyn produces BMW X3 ICE and PHEV models interchangeably on a single flexible production line. This allows efficient switching between variants to meet global market demand for both conventional and electrified vehicles.

Recognition for people, transformation and societal contribution

Alongside its commercial and operational performance, BMW Group South Africa received continued recognition in 2025 for its people practices and organisational culture. The company was re-certified as a Top Employer, reflecting progress in digital enablement, employee development, workplace flexibility and the effective translation of employee feedback into meaningful action.

Additional recognition through platforms such as SAGEA and GradStar further reinforced BMW Group South Africa’s standing as an employer of choice, particularly in relation to youth development, graduate employability and early-career talent support.

In parallel, BMW Group South Africa and BMW Group Financial Services achieved Level 1 B-BBEE status in 2025, underscoring the Group’s ongoing commitment to transformation, accessibility and meaningful economic participation.

Premium leadership in a market in transition

South Africa’s automotive landscape continues to evolve rapidly, with increased competition from new entrants and growing consumer focus on affordability. Against this backdrop, BMW Group South Africa’s sustained leadership reflects the value of long-term investment, established manufacturing capability, strong dealer and service networks, and a proven ownership proposition.

Beyond the point of sales, the Group continues to differentiate itself through strong resale values, comprehensive aftersales support and a customer-centric ownership experience designed to deliver value and peace of mind throughout the vehicle lifecycle, under the motto ‘Relax. We care”.

Peter van Binsbergen, CEO of BMW Group South Africa, said: “Our 2025 performance reflects consistency across the business, from record segment leadership and strong production at Plant Rosslyn to award-winning products, distinctive design initiatives and recognised people practices. Together, these elements position BMW Group South Africa to compete effectively while continuing to invest in South Africa’s future.”

Continued momentum into 2026 and beyond

Looking ahead, BMW Group South Africa reaffirmed its focus on disciplined growth, continued innovation and sustained investment in local operations, aligned with the BMW Group’s broader strategy.

A key milestone outlined during the engagement is the planned introduction of the BMW iX3 to the South African market, marking a new chapter in BMW’s design, digitalisation and electrification journey. The rollout will further strengthen BMW Group South Africa’s premium positioning while offering customers access to the next generation of BMW technology and design.

With a resilient manufacturing base, a highly recognised product portfolio, strong people foundations and a clear innovation roadmap, BMW Group South Africa is well positioned to navigate an increasingly complex market while continuing to contribute meaningfully to South Africa’s automotive sector and broader economy.

As the world marks International Day of Education, BMW Group South Africa and UNICEF South Africa unite once more, not only to observe the day, but to highlight tangible, results-driven STEM programmes delivering real impact for South African youth. Aligned with the 2026 global theme, “Learning for Lasting Peace”, the partnership showcases the measurable outcomes of a long-term collaboration focused on closing South Africa’s critical STEM skills gap.

In 2026, the BMW Group South Africa and UNICEF South Africa partnership continues to demonstrate how sustained, structured investment in education can deliver real outcomes for young people, particularly those from disadvantaged communities. At a time when youth unemployment and digital skills shortages remain pressing national challenges, access to practical, technology-enabled learning environments is essential.

Through the BRIDGE: Educating young people for tomorrow, today programme, BMW Group South Africa supports Coding and Robotics education, educator training and learner development that moves beyond theory into hands-on, real-world application. South Africa served as the pilot market for BRIDGE, establishing a scalable model that shows how private–public collaboration can strengthen education systems and prepare learners for participation in a digital economy.

Tangible impact delivered through BRIDGE since 2023 to date:

South Africa impact

• 704 educators trained in South Africa in 2025
• 1,191 South African schools reached in 2025
• Over 190,000 South African children and adolescents supported in 2025
• 33,379 South African learners engaged weekly in 2025
• 12 Coding and Robotics Hubs established across all nine provinces
• National Coding and Robotics competitions reaching 375 learners, promoting innovation, critical thinking and problem-solving

Global impact

• More than 10,000 educators trained globally since inception
• Over 2,900 schools reached worldwide
• More than 330,000 learners supported globally

In 2025, UNICEF and BMW Group South Africa launched KwaZulu-Natal’s first Coding and Robotics Hub at KwaZamokuhle Special School in Estcourt, equipping the school with state-of-the-art technology and learning facilities that serve as a centre of excellence in STEM education for learners, educators and the wider community. Established through the global BRIDGE partnership, the hub expands access to 21st-century skills for learners from marginalised and rural backgrounds, including those with special needs, reinforcing the principle that every child deserves an opportunity to learn, thrive and reach their full potential.

“Preparing young people for the future means giving them access to technology, skills and real learning environments, not just theory,” said Tebogo Ramagoshi, Head of Corporate Social Responsibility at BMW Group South Africa. “Our collaboration with UNICEF South Africa demonstrates how long-term partnerships can deliver meaningful, measurable outcomes that support young people’s pathways into future careers.”

“Education is one of the most powerful tools we have to build peaceful, inclusive societies,” said Mr Johannes Wedenig, UNICEF South Africa Representative. “By working with partners such as BMW Group South Africa, we are able to reach children and young people who are furthest from opportunity, ensuring they gain the skills, confidence and support they need to participate fully in society. This partnership reflects UNICEF’s commitment to achieving results for every child, especially the most disadvantaged.”

Beyond the classroom, the partnership includes the STEM for Youth Mentorship Programme, offering 100 learners hands-on exposure to STEM careers within BMW Group South Africa’s working environment, including the BMW IT Hub South Africa and BMW Group Plant Rosslyn Training Academy.

Our broader commitment to youth development is further reflected in its community investment initiatives. In 2025, approximately R8 million was raised for youth-focused projects through the auction of the limited BMW Homage editions, reinforcing the Group’s belief in combining innovation, heritage and social impact.

Through sustained collaboration, targeted STEM investment and measurable results, BMW Group South Africa continues to contribute to education initiatives that empower young people, strengthen communities and support inclusive, long-term economic progress. These efforts reflect a long-term approach to education. One that equips young people not only for work, but for participation, dignity and peaceful coexistence in a rapidly changing world, so that every child has a fair chance at a better future.

Cape Town/Munich. As part of Julie Mehretu’s ongoing BMW Art Car project, the African Film and Media Arts Collective (AFMAC) was launched in April 2025 by the internationally renowned painter in collaboration with Emmy-nominated film producer Mehret Mandefro and the BMW Group. The initiative brings together artists and filmmakers from across Africa and the diaspora to explore new forms of creation and cultural dialogue in workshops led by internationally renowned artists.

From January 27–31, 2026, AFMAC will host its final workshop in Cape Town, following successful sessions in Lagos, Tangier, Nairobi, and Dakar. For this closing edition, London-based The Otolith Group—founded in 2002 by Anjalika Sagar and Kodwo Eshun—will lead the workshop. Known for their interdisciplinary approach spanning film, installation, and performance, their work investigates histories of science fiction and global cultural legacies. Through research-driven art, they aim to spark public dialogue and connect theory, practice, and exhibition. Titled African Cosmotechnics: Animation, Animism, Abstraction, Automotion, Automation, Aesthetics their workshop program brings artists, writers, theorists, animators, theatre-makers, and filmmakers together to approach animation not only as technique or as genre, but as a way of rethinking the relations between images, sounds, and voices. It is not intended as a technical workshop for producing animation but for rethinking what animation could, might, or should be.

AFMAC and its local partner in Cape Town, Chimurenga, offer a public screening of Infinity Minus Infinity with an ensuing art talk with The Otolith Group on January 31, 2026, at 7.30pm. The 2019 video work is an audiovisual performance combining dance, music, spoken word, and animation to reflect on how historical racism and colonialism continue to shape today’s social and environmental crises.

Chimurenga is a platform for African ideas and cultural production, founded by Ntone Edjabe in Cape Town in 2002. The aim of Chimurenga’s activities is not just to produce new knowledge, but to express the intensities of our world, to capture those forces, and to take action. Chimurenga publishes “Chimurenga Magazine”, the quarterly broadsheet “The Chronic”, and curates the Chimurenga Library—an evolving archive reimagining African knowledge systems.

Cape Town also hosts the project’s culmination: the exhibition “Scaling Intentions” at the Zeitz Museum of Contemporary Art Africa, from December 11, 2026 to August 15, 2027. Each AFMAC lead artist will present a film inspired by the respective workshop, shown alongside Julie Mehretu’s BMW Art Car #20, a BMW M Hybrid V8 first unveiled at the Centre Pompidou in 2024. The films are intended as an anthology of contemporary African film and media art making.

AFMAC’s mission is to foster sustainable artistic networks and strengthen creative communities across Africa. Through the workshops, participants explore cultural heritage, identity, and experimentation using archival African film and media materials. They are given the opportunity to develop their own creative approaches for new forms of media art for the future.

“The magic of bringing people together starts with us. AFMAC creates forums for conversations in small, critical masses and surfaces resources to take the next steps. We build on the work of our local cultural partners: They already created a grounded cultural infrastructure, showing that art is not just a nice-to-have but a must-have. The talent and cultural energy emerging from these cities is electric – culture cannot be gated, it will always find a way to be heard,“ says Mehret Mandefro, co-founder of AFMAC.

“At BMW Group South Africa, we see our role as more than mobility, it’s about creating space for connection, conversation and shared progress,” says Thilosh Moodally, Director of Government Affairs and Communications at BMW Group South Africa. “Through initiatives such as AFMAC, we’re proud to support creative communities that amplify African voices, encourage creative freedom and open up meaningful cultural exchange. It’s part of how we show up beyond our products, with people and art at the centre of this project, we ensure that we build more than just cars, we build communities”.

Get deeper insights into AFMAC on the website www.afmac.institute, via Instagram at @a.f.m.a.c. or tune into Julie Mehretu’s interview on CNN African Voices.

The BMW Group's Cultural Engagement, with exclusive updates and deeper

insights into its global initiatives can be followed on Instagram at @BMWGroupCulture.

African Film and Media Arts Collective – Past and future stations

April 2025: Lagos, Nigeria, in partnership with Angels & Muse

Lead artist: Coco Fusco

July 2025: Tangier, Morocco, in partnership with Cinematheque de Tanger

Lead artist: Zeresenay Berhane Mehari

October 2025: Nairobi, Kenya, in partnership with Docubox

Lead artists: Jim Chuchu and Wanuri Kahiu

December 2025: Dakar, Senegal, in partnership with Fanta Sy and Raw Material Company

Lead artist: Mati Diop

January 2026: Cape Town, South Africa, in partnership with Chimurenga 

Lead artist: The Otolith Group

11 December 2026 – 15 August 2027: Final exhibition at Zeitz Museum of Contemporary Art Africa (Zeitz MOCAA), Cape Town, South Africa

Biographies of the founders and Cape Town lead artists

Julie Mehretu is a world-renowned American artist, born in Addis Ababa in 1970. Mehretu’s practice in painting, drawing and printmaking engages the viewer in a dynamic visual articulation of contemporary experience. Notable accolades include the MacArthur Award, the US Department of State Medal of Arts Award, and, in 2025, she was awarded the rank of Officer of the Ordre des Arts et des Lettres by the French Ministry of Culture. Her work has been exhibited widely at museums, biennials and galleries around the globe. Mehretu is a member of the American Academy of Arts and Letters, the American Academy of Arts and Sciences, the National Academy of Design and the National Academy of Sciences in Ethiopia. She sits on the board of the Whitney Museum of American Art, is a trustee and alumna of the American Academy in Berlin, a Global Council Member at Zeitz MOCAA, and is co-founder and board member of Denniston Hill. Mehretu lives and works in New York City.

Mehret Mandefro is an Emmy-nominated producer, writer, and serial entrepreneur born in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. Her body of work explores hidden truths and spans documentary and fiction, film and television, art and science. She co-founded the multi-media production company Truth Aid Media and founded the research enterprise Truth Aid Impact, A51 Pictures in Ethiopia, as well as the Realness Institute in South Africa. She was formerly the Executive Producer of Kana Television in Ethiopia and is a member of the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Science.

The Otolith Group was founded in London in 2002 by curators and artists Anjalika Sagar, born 1968, and Kodwo Eshun, born 1967 both in London. The artist-led collective follows a research-based work that spans across moving images, audio, performance, and installations and engages with post-human discourses, building intergenerational and cross-cultural platforms.

Biographies of further lead artists

Jim Chuchu is a singer, songwriter, music producer, director, photographer, and visual artist. He helped establish the Nest Collective, a multidisciplinary art space and artists’ collective in Nairobi. His first short film “Homecoming” was featured at various film festivals from Durban to Locarno. Chuchu’s photography series “Pagans” was highlighted at Dak’Art 2014, the 11th edition of Africa’s longest running biennial of contemporary art.

Robin Coste Lewis, born in 1964 in Compton, California, is the author of “Voyage of the Sable Venus” (2015), which won the National Book Award for Poetry. The former poet laureate of Los Angeles, Lewis holds a PhD in Poetry and Visual Studies from the University of Southern California, an MFA in poetry from New York University, an MTS in Sanskrit and comparative religious literature from the Divinity School at Harvard University, and a BA from Hampshire College in post-colonial literature and creative writing. Her work has appeared in various journals and anthologies, including The New Yorker, The New York Times, The Paris Review, Transition, and The Massachusetts Review. Lewis has taught at Hampshire College, Hunter College, Wheaton College, and the NYU Low-Residency MFA in Paris. She is currently writer in residence at the University of Southern California.

Mati Diop is a French-Senegalese filmmaker born in Paris in 1982. With her first feature film, “Atlantics“ (2019), which won the Grand Prix at the Cannes Film Festival followed by “Dahomey“ (2024) awarded the Golden Bear at the Berlinale, (both shortlisted at the Oscars), she has established herself as one of the leading figures of international auteur cinema and a new wave in African and diasporic cinema.

Coco Fusco born in 1960 in New York City is a video and performance artist. With her multidisciplinary practice, Fusco explores the ways that intercultural dynamics affect the construction of the self and ideas about cultural otherness. Her work is in the collections of major museums worldwide and she received numerous awards.

Wanuri Kahiu is an award-winning filmmaker, speaker, and science fiction writer. Her film, “Rafiki,“ was the first Kenyan film to screen at Cannes, earning global recognition. Named one of TIME’s 100 Next in 2019, she is a cultural leader for the World Economic Forum and an advocate for freedom of expression. Through AFROBUBBLEGUM, Kahiu champions fun, fierce and frivolous African art. She directed “Washington Black” for Hulu/20th Century Fox, Netflix’s “Look Both Ways,” and is set to direct Disney’s “Once on This Island”.

Zeresenay Berhane Mehari, born in 1974, is an Ethiopian filmmaker and co-founder of A51 Pictures. He is notable as the director of the critically acclaimed films “Difret” (winner of Sundance and Berlinale Panorama Audience Awards) and “Sweetness in the Belly”. Apart from cinema, he co-founded and served as the Head of Original Content for Kana Television, the largest free-to-air, private satellite entertainment TV channel in Ethiopia.

Midrand. It’s easy to spot an adventurer: someone who lives for discovering new places, reaching new heights or pursuing new experiences. Adventurers stand out from the crowd, even more so when they’re on the move with the all-new MINI Countryman Rugged Edition.

Exclusive to the South African market, and limited to 100 units, the MINI Countryman Rugged Edition embodies the versatility and ‘can-do’ attitude that today’s adventurers expect from a Sports Activity Vehicle (SAV). Featuring unique design details and outdoor-oriented features, the variant celebrates individuality and exploration, reinforcing MINI South Africa’s commitment to offering a diverse range of premium, personality-driven mobility options.

Adventure-driven design

Central to the Rugged Edition’s visual presence are decorative bonnet stripes and a grille decal that reinforce the variant’s adventurous character. Inspired by the mountain-like decals on the MINI Countryman’s C-pillar badge, these graphics give the variant a more distinctive presence and signal a taste for adventure. Complementing the design is the addition of 18-inch Y-spoke wheels in Frozen Midnight Grey, fitted with all-terrain tyres for extra confidence on gravel or rough surfaces.

Inside, the MINI Countryman’s feature set is complemented by all-weather mats, ensuring drivers and passengers need not worry about bringing the elements into the car with them.

Owners also have the option to further customise their vehicle with two complimentary roof-mounted accessories from the MINI Original Accessories catalogue. Depending on their lifestyle and travel needs, owners can choose between a roof box for extra storage or a roof-mounted bicycle carrier for outdoor escapes.

The MINI Countryman Rugged Edition is available in four exterior colours, each expressing a unique identity for both the vehicle and its owner:

• Nanuq White
• Smokey Green
• Melting Silver
• Legend Grey

Built for exploration

The Rugged Edition leads the local rollout of the latest-generation MINI Countryman. Launched globally in 2023, the Countryman remains the largest member of the MINI family, standing taller and longer than its predecessor. The result is a model that offers increased interior space, enhanced practicality and a commanding road presence on both urban and off-road terrain.

Positioned as a premium compact SAV, the MINI Countryman Rugged Edition embodies MINI’s take on adventure-ready versatility, where design, technology and capability meet to deliver a truly distinctive driving experience.

The Rugged Edition is available in both MINI Countryman C and Countryman S engine variants, with two trim levels: Classic Trim (C and S) and Favoured Trim (S only).

Power and performance

The MINI Countryman C features a 1,499 cc three-cylinder petrol engine, developing 115 kW and 230 Nm of torque, capable of 0–100 km/h in nine seconds.

The more powerful MINI Countryman S, equipped with a 1,998 cc four-cylinder petrol engine and ALL4 all-wheel drive, produces 150 kW and 300 Nm of torque, sprinting from 0–100 km/h in just 7.4 seconds. Both engine variants are paired with a seven-speed automatic transmission for smooth, responsive performance.

The adventurer lives on

“The MINI Countryman has always embodied the spirit of adventure. It’s for those who see every trip as an opportunity to discover something new. With the Rugged Edition, we’re inviting more modern adventurers into the MINI family,” said Bhavyesh Lalla, Product Manager at MINI South Africa.

The MINI Countryman Rugged Edition is now available to order at buy.mini.co.za. To explore the full MINI Countryman range, visit www.mini.co.za.

Prices (incl. VAT and CO₂ tax):

• MINI Countryman C (Classic) Rugged Edition: R833,903.10
• MINI Countryman S (Classic) Rugged Edition: R953,928.30
• MINI Countryman S (Favoured) Rugged Edition: R989,938.30

Munich. BMW M’s high-performance vehicles will soon deliver the ‘Ultimate Driving Machine’ experience in electric form. From 2027, the BMW M Neue Klasse will usher in a new era in the high-performance vehicle segment and, for the first time, bring BMW M’s motto, “Born on the racetrack. Made for the streets. Core of a passionate community”, to life with a fully electric drivetrain. “The next generation of models are set to establish a new benchmark in the high-performance vehicle segment,” says Franciscus van Meel, Managing Director of BMW M GmbH. “With the latest generation of Neue Klasse technology, we are taking the BMW M driving experience to a new level and will inspire our customers with outstanding, racetrack-ready driving dynamics for everyday use.”

The future model generation embodies the DNA of the high-performance brand with authenticity and advances the distinct BMW M driving experience. The fully electric drivetrain redefines the brand’s dynamics, combining driving pleasure with racetrack capability in an unprecedented way. Long range, high charging performance thanks to 800-volt technology, and highly efficient energy recuperation make the BMW M Neue Klasse a versatile everyday companion. The newly developed architecture with centrally controlled individual wheel drive opens up a new dimension of driving dynamics and further increases the driving safety of all BMW M next-generation vehicles.

The significant gains in driving dynamics are also the result of the forward-looking central control and electronics architecture of the Neue Klasse. Four high-performance computers, known as “Superbrains,” unite computing power for driving dynamics (“Heart of Joy”), automated driving, infotainment, as well as basic and comfort functions. In addition to enhanced overall performance through accelerated data exchange, the next-generation BMW M models also benefit from faster updates and upgrades.

Innovative BMW M eDrive concept with fully integrated M Dynamic Performance Control.
The BMW M Neue Klasse has been developed from the ground up. At the core of the new architecture is BMW M eDrive, which is based on the BMW Gen6 technology of the Neue Klasse. Each wheel is driven by an electric motor. In combination with the M-specific control software of the ‘Heart of Joy’, the ‘BMW M Dynamic Performance Control’ unlocks completely new potentials in driving dynamics and safety for high-performance vehicles. Additionally, the system enables maximum recuperation and optimum traction right up to the limit, as well as a more direct response.

In all electric models of the BMW M Neue Klasse, two electric drive units on the front and rear axles, each with one electric motor per wheel, ensure driving performance expected from BMW M. Each of the four electric motors drives one wheel. This concept combines all the advantages of rear-wheel and all-wheel drive while enhancing driving dynamics on the road and racetrack. Additionally, the front axle can be completely decoupled. The result is BMW M’s renowned rear-wheel drive with its dynamic driving characteristics, enhanced efficiency, and increased range, for example, on longer motorway journeys. For the unmistakable BMW M driving experience and enhanced drivability, various predefined driving modes, simulated gear shifts, and a newly developed soundscape come into play. These are just a few examples of how BMW M channels pure emotion into the fully electric BMW M models, making it felt in every single drive.

The electric drive units of BMW M eDrive are characterised by high power density and are the most powerful drives BMW M has ever used. In both drive units, the electric motors are arranged in parallel, each delivering power to one gearbox per wheel. The drive units also integrate the inverter for controlling the electric motors and the oil supply. The system enables precise control of torque and power at each individual wheel, allowing for optimal traction, continuous torque distribution between the braking system and electric motors, as well as brake energy recuperation right up to the limit. The result is a driving experience in BMW M production vehicles that has never been achieved before.

Powerful high-voltage battery for high peak performance and faster charging.
The high-voltage battery, boasting over 100 kWh of usable energy as the powerhouse for the BMW M eDrive system, has also been specifically adapted to meet the demands of high-performance vehicles. The focus remains on compatibility with both road and racetrack use. This is achieved through a "Design to Power" approach, featuring a performance-optimised variant of the Gen6 cylindrical cell. Supporting this, the cooling system and the Energy Master — the highly intelligent control centre of the battery located outside the battery pack — have been optimised for higher power outputs. With BMW M specific solutions, the Gen6 high-voltage battery in the fully electric high-performance models delivers even greater peak and charging performance. Additionally, within the Gen6 technology, the Neue Klasse models offer the highest recuperation values. The high-voltage battery housing also serves as a structural component of the vehicle and is connected to the front and rear axles. The higher resulting stiffness in the overall vehicle also leads to improved driving dynamics.

Innovative lightweight design with first-time use of natural fibre elements.
Apart from innovations related to driving performance, high-tech will be also reflected by new and innovative materials. Lightweight construction has always played an important role in high-performance models. Therefore, BMW M will introduce for the very first-time natural fibre elements within the fully electric BMW M high-performance model line-up.

The brand gained significant experience in durability, production, and integration using natural fibre in motorsport since 2019. This material offers similar properties to carbon fibre but can be produced with around 40 per cent less CO₂e.

Munich. The BMW Group delivered a total of 2,463,715 vehicles to customers in 2025 – an increase of +0.5% year-on-year. This includes the delivery of 642,087 electrified vehicles, a growth of 8.3% over the previous year. The BMW Group also saw a slight increase in sales of fully-electric models, with 442,072 units delivered worldwide. In Europe, in particular, the BMW Group reported a significant growth of +28,2% in fully-electric vehicles. The company’s sales performance in 2025 demonstrates that the BMW Group’s technology-neutral approach and premium multi-brand strategy, with a broad product portfolio across all relevant segments, are receiving a positive response from customers. Subdued demand in China was offset by other sales regions.

“In 2025, in a challenging environment, the BMW Group sold more vehicles than in the previous year. Our electrified vehicles were in particularly high demand. Europe reported especially strong growth, with battery-electric vehicles accounting for about a quarter of total sales, and BEVs and PHEVs combined reaching a share of over 40% across the region. We remain fully on track to meet our EU CO₂ fleet target for 2025,” said Jochen Goller, member of the Board of Management of BMW AG responsible for Customer, Brands, Sales. “Especially in Europe, 2026 will be marked by the NEUE KLASSE. At the same time, we will be introducing several new models this year, such as the BMW X5, BMW 3 Series, and BMW 7 Series. In total, the BMW Group will launch more than 40 new and revised vehicles with various drive options by 2027, ” added Goller.

Electrified vehicles accounted for 26% of total BMW Group sales worldwide in 2025, with fully-electric vehicles representing around 18%.

The BMW brand delivered 2,169,761 vehicles to customers in the full year 2025 (-1.4%). Thanks to its attractive product portfolio across all technologies, the brand maintained its position as the global segment leader, with sales growth in Europe, the Americas and parts of Asia largely offsetting subdued demand in China. BMW M GmbH achieved a new all-time sales high, with a total of 213,457 vehicles delivered in the full year (+3.3%). The MINI brand enjoyed a strong 2025, delivering a total of 288,290 vehicles to customers – an increase of +17.7% over the previous year. Its fully-electric vehicles, in particular, are proving popular with customers worldwide. The British premium brand celebrated an important milestone, with the delivery of the 100,000th fully-electric MINI to its new owner. This means that more than one in three MINIs delivered in 2025 had a fully-electric drive train. The Rolls-Royce brand delivered 5,664 units to customers (-0.8%) in the full year. During the same period, BMW Motorrad sold 202.563 motorcycles and scooters (-3,7%).

BMW Group sales in Q4/YTD December 2025 at a glance

¹BEVs and PHEVs                                                                                  

BMW and MINI sales in the regions/markets

²Provisional registration figures

The delivery figures reported in this press release are provisional and may change up until the BMW Group Report 2025 is published. Notes on how delivery figures are prepared can be found in the BMW Group Report 2024 on p. 427.

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.

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Munich. The new BMW iX3 is in the spotlight at CES 2026. For the first time, the enhanced, AI-powered BMW Intelligent Personal Assistant with Alexa+ technology will be presented to the public. As the debut model for the Neue Klasse, the BMW iX3 showcases groundbreaking innovations that will shape the entire model range of the brand in the future. By 2027, the technologies of the Neue Klasse will be integrated into a total of 40 new models and model updates from BMW.

BMW Intelligent Personal Assistant expanded with Amazon Alexa+.
One year after the world premiere of the new BMW Panoramic iDrive with BMW Operating System X at CES 2025, visitors to this year’s CES can experience the revolutionary user-interaction concept firsthand in the BMW iX3. With a balanced combination of digital functions and physical elements, it elevates intuitive operation according to BMW’s guiding principle ‘Hands on the Wheel, Eyes on the Road’ to a new level of driver orientation. Built on the technological foundation of a software-defined vehicle, the customer experience in the BMW iX3 continues to evolve. For the first time, BMW presents the next generation AI-powered BMW Intelligent Personal Assistant. BMW is the first manufacturer to expand its voice assistant with the AI assistant Amazon Alexa+. This enables intuitive and intelligent interaction between passengers and the vehicle in a natural dialogue. The interaction includes the operation of vehicle functions as well as access to information and knowledge beyond the vehicle. For the first time, passengers can ask multiple questions in a single sentence—covering both your vehicle’s features and e.g. general knowledge topics.

The integration of Amazon Alexa+ into the BMW Intelligent Personal Assistant represents a technological leap forward that focuses on added value for the customer. The AI technology used in the BMW Intelligent Personal Assistant is a Large Language Model (LLM), a generative AI that understands language and is capable of formulating its own responses. Starting in the second half of 2026 at the latest, this further development will be gradually rolled out in Germany and the USA across all BMW models equipped with BMW Operating System 9 and X.

BMW iX3 transforms waiting time into entertainment: stream a movie, play a video game or make a video call.^[1]
The BMW booth at CES also focuses on the wide range of entertainment options in BMW Operating System X. It offers an extensive selection of apps, videos, and games. In addition to the popular streaming service Disney+, customers in the BMW iX3 have access to the Video App (powered by TiVo™). This app enables video streaming on the central display when the vehicle is stationary, with a continuously growing selection of content such as news, live, and on-demand streaming. The portfolio of the video streaming platform will continue to evolve.

The BMW ConnectedDrive Store will also soon include the YouTube Music app for the first time, joining the more than 85 apps worldwide in categories such as Music & Audio, Entertainment, Gaming, News, Travel & Local. YouTube Music gives customers access to an extensive catalog with over 300 million tracks, including the official studio recordings, remixes, live performances, and hard-to-find covers. Zoom now allows video calls on the iX3’s central display for the first time when the vehicle is stationary. As soon as the vehicle starts moving, the video transmission stops, and the conversation seamlessly continues via audio.

In-car gaming via AirConsole, as introduced for the first time with the BMW Operating System 8.5, is also available in the new BMW iX3, featuring world-renowned titles like UNO^®️ Car Party!
A new highlight in AirConsole’s extensive game library is Hot Wheels: Xtreme Overdrive™️ from Mattel, available exclusively to BMW customers. AirConsole allows users to use their own smartphones as controllers, so all passengers can play together or compete against each other. Additional games and apps for in-car entertainment can be accessed through the BMW ConnectedDrive Store. Selected games in the BMW iX3 can also be controlled using Bluetooth controllers from conventional gaming consoles.

Sixth-generation BMW eDrive technology: higher efficiency, more range, faster charging.
The sixth-generation BMW eDrive technology developed for the Neue Klasse comprises highly efficient electric motors, fundamentally new high-voltage batteries with cylindrical cells, and 800V technology. The BMW iX3 50 xDrive is powered by two electric motors, which together generate output of 345 kW and 645 Nm of torque. It accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in 4.9 seconds and reaches a top speed of 210 km/h. Its electric all-wheel-drive configuration consists of an extensively upgraded electrically excited synchronous motor (EESM) with particularly high levels of efficiency at the rear axle and, at the front axle, a new asynchronous motor (ASM) distinguished by its compact design and high cost efficiency. The combination of EESM and ASM is evidence of the BMW Group’s commitment to technological neutrality within electric mobility as well. The drive technology developed for the Neue Klasse reduces energy losses by 40 per cent compared with fifth-generation BMW eDrive technology, weight by 10 per cent and manufacturing costs by 20 per cent.

The new high-voltage battery concept with cylindrical cells for the Neue Klasse also achieves significant advances. The energy density on a cell level is 20 per cent higher than with fifth-generation BMW eDrive technology, and the new concept also paves the way for a 30 per cent increase in charging speed. The cylindrical cells are integrated directly into the high-voltage battery (“cell to pack”), which benefits energy density and cost efficiency. Added to which, the high-voltage battery is integrated into the vehicle architecture as a structural component to minimise weight (“pack to open body”). The high-voltage battery in the BMW iX3 50 xDrive has a usable energy content of 108.7 kWh, enabling a range of up to 805 kilometres in the WLTP cycle.

BMW Charging: short charging times, premiere for bidirectional charging.
The advances brought by sixth-generation BMW eDrive technology have a significant influence on the charging experience, too. A maximum charging rate of 400 kW enables users to fill their new BMW iX3 with enough energy at an 800V direct current (DC) rapid charging station to add up to 372 kilometres ^[2] of range in just ten minutes. The high-voltage battery can charge from 10 to 80 per cent capacity in 21 minutes. Thanks to the battery management tech with integrated switching matrix developed completely in-house by the BMW Group, the new BMW iX3 can also be charged from 400V DC stations. Upgrades to the battery preparation also help to shorten charging times. The new BMW iX3 50 xDrive can top up on alternating current (AC) at 11 kW as standard or 22 kW ^[3] as an option.

Extensive bidirectional charging functions ^[3] are also available for the new BMW iX3, meaning that it can be used as an energy supply source for a variety of applications. The Vehicle-to-Load (V2L) function turns the new BMW iX3 into a mobile powerbank, which can supply electric devices with power while on the move. Vehicle-to-Home (V2H) hands it the role of storage unit for solar energy generated by home-fitted photovoltaic systems. And customers can also hook their car up to the energy market via the Vehicle-to-Grid (V2G) application and earn some money in the process.

The selection of standard-fitted and optional charging accessories has been significantly expanded. For flexible charging during a journey, customers can make use of the new Multifunction Charger, which comes with several adapters for charging and discharging the high-voltage battery. The new BMW Wallbox Professional (DC) enables bidirectional charging at home or work. And BMW Charging offers the option of cost-optimised /solar-power-optimised home charging.

Heart of Joy: The Ultimate Driving Machine reaches a new level.
One of four superbrains in the electronics architecture of the Neue Klasse, the Heart of Joy looks after drivetrain and driving dynamics management. This high-performance control unit is responsible for the drivetrain, brakes, energy recuperation, and steering functions, and processes information up to ten times faster than conventional control units. In this way, the potential of electric mobility in terms of instantaneous power delivery, smooth power transfer, agility, stability, and efficiency is fully realised.

Together with the BMW Dynamic Performance Control software stack developed fully in-house, the Heart of Joy calculates all the driving dynamics parameters with a new level of speed and precision. The driver and passengers in the new BMW iX3 experience a uniquely harmonious and BMW-typical driving sensation whatever the situation. Every movement of the accelerator, brake pedal, and steering is executed directly and with assurance and precision. Supreme traction and – thanks to the unique Soft Stop function – the smoothest stopping process ever achieved by a BMW are among its other attributes. In addition, the efficiency of the new BMW iX3 is optimised by the integrated management of drivetrain, braking system, and energy recuperation. In everyday driving, 98% of braking manoeuvres are carried out using recuperation only, without application of the friction brakes. The only occasions these are called upon are under emergency braking and during extremely sporty driving.

“Superbrain of automated driving” for the driver assistance systems with of the next technology generation.
Another high-performance computer brings together all the automated driving and parking functions in the BMW iX3. With 20 times greater processing power than in the previous vehicle generation, the watercooled “superbrain of automated driving” enables a significant technological advance with the Neue Klasse in this area as well.

BMW Symbiotic Drive provides seamless support.
The BMW iX3 uses its Symbiotic Drive capability combined with driver assistance to create a completely new driving experience. Whenever the driver wants to accelerate, brake or steer, their inputs merge seamlessly and intuitively with AI-enabled software.The result is a whole new form of Sheer Driving Pleasure. For example, the automatic cruise control system is not deactivated with only a light press of the brake pedal; instead, it is only switched off when the driver brakes harder. In the same way, the lane control assistance remains active even after light steering inputs by the driver.

With the optional BMW Highway Assistant ^[4], drivers can take their hands off the steering wheel permanently at speeds of up to 130 km/h, while remaining attentive and ready to intervene. The system assists with vehicle guidance within the lane and can also perform automated lane changes when needed – a simple glance as confirmation by the driver is sufficient. With active BMW Maps route guidance, the system proactively suggests lane changes at highway interchanges and exits, which can be confirmed with a quick glance in the wing mirror. The Highway Assistant remains active while passing through interchanges and until the end of highway exits. This allows BMW iX3 drivers to enjoy Level 2 driver assistance without touching the steering wheel in even more situations.

The new Highway and City Assistant ^[4] also offers innovative functions for urban environments, such as stopping and automatically restarting at traffic lights. Additional driver assistance features for complex urban driving situations will be rolled out later via over-the-air software updates.

[1] Availability of individual apps and content depends on the country. Download and use of the apps require connectivity via BMW Digital Premium or a connection to a WiFi network or mobile smartphone hotspot. App-specific subscriptions are not included in BMW Digital Premium.
[2] The range added after 10 minutes of high-power charging was determined according to ISO12906 in the WLTP cycle. This figure, as well as charging performance, depends on vehicle equipment, charging and battery aging condition, battery temperature, individual driving profile, use of auxiliary consumers, ambient temperature, and the charging power provided at the charging station.
[3] Available from production period 3/2026.
[4] Availability depends on the country.

Munich. The transfer of the Alpina trademark rights on 1 January 2026 marks the launch of BMW ALPINA as an exclusive standalone brand under the BMW Group umbrella. The initial focus will be on brand activation. Key elements of the BMW ALPINA brand are its unique balance of maximum performance and superior ride comfort, combined with hallmark driving characteristics. This is complemented by an exclusive portfolio of bespoke options and custom materials along with unmistakeable details.

Tradition meets future.
Given the storied history of the brand, the BMW Group is aware of its tremendous responsibility and committed to making the new BMW ALPINA chapter one that meets the highest expectations. The new wordmark provides a first indication. It radiates clarity, calm and confidence. Positioned at the centre of the rear, it underlines the standalone character of the new exclusive brand and its independent personality within the BMW Group. It is consciously inspired by the brand’s asymmetrical wordmark from the 1970s. The elegant, contemporary design provides a link between history and future.

New direction for modern exclusivity.
BMW ALPINA vehicles are manufactured according to rigorous standards for materials selection and craftsmanship. They fulfil the most demanding expectations in terms of visuals, acoustics and feel. Moreover, buyers can choose from a remarkable portfolio of bespoke options. These ensure that every BMW ALPINA has its own, unmistakeable character. Each vehicle will be an exclusive object for connoisseurs in pursuit of the extraordinary, without compromises on performance, comfort and individuality.

www.bmwalpina.com

Munich. It is well known that there is no such thing as bad weather when riding a motorcycle, only unsuitable clothing. BMW Motorrad took this into account more than four decades ago and was the first motorcycle manufacturer in the world to present its first in-house rider equipment in 1978, in addition to the BMW Motorrad flip-up helmet introduced in 1976.

In the decades that followed, BMW Motorrad consistently implemented the maxim of making motorcycling as safe and comfortable as possible and at the same time fashionably attractive and stylish.

For the coming season, BMW Motorrad is once again offering numerous innovations and innovative solutions with the 2026 Clothing Collection.

Highlight: the new innovative BMW Motorrad System 8 Carbon and System 8 helmets for maximum safety and comfort.
The eighth-generation System 8 Carbon flip-up helmet offers optimum safety with minimum weight thanks to its helmet shell made of a carbon-aramide-fibreglass mix. The innovative MIPS Integra TX® (Multi-directional Impact Protection System) reduces the rotational movement of the head in the event of an impact and reduces the risk of injury.

The System 8 helmet variant is made from a glass fibre/aramid mix.

Both helmets offer best impact absorption values and an optimum safety performance. Thanks to two helmet shell sizes, they are also only as big as they actually need to be. The polystyrene inner construction with different densities ensures maximum safety and comfort, while integrated neck straps ensure a secure fit. The inner padding, certified to OEKO-TEX 100, and the efficient ventilation system for the head and visor offer best functionality and optimum comfort.

Thanks to the multi-joint mechanism of the chin section, the new   
BMW Motorrad System 8 Carbon and System 8 helmets are very compact even when open and can be ridden in that position thanks to the integrated chin section latch. When riding with the helmet closed, the extremely effective spoiler supports wearing comfort. The aerodynamics and aeroacoustics have also been noticeably optimized for this purpose. Thanks to Pinlock 120 XLT Max View®, the visor offers the best possible anti-fog protection in all weather conditions. Other practical features include the central button for opening the chin section and the chin strap with snap-in buckle. The infinitely adjustable sun visor and the specially developed visor mechanism with quick release offer the greatest possible ease of use.

For an even more intensive motorcycling experience, the new 
BMW Motorrad System 8 Carbon and System 8 helmets can be upgraded with the innovative BMW ConnectedRide communication system; the corresponding antennas and devices are integrated ex works in all System 8 helmets. Optional visor kits are also available (orange, clear, tinted, blue mirrored, silver mirrored). Cheek pads in different thicknesses are available to enable an even more individual fit. The System 8 helmet is available in five colors, while the System 8 Carbon helmet is also available in five decor variants. 

The Glandon AIR jacket in a sporty blouson cut is the perfect companion for summer rides. The focus here lies on the use of recycled materials or materials that can be returned to the cycle. The BMW logo and the BMW Motorrad emblem have therefore been embossed and are visual highlights. The combination of abrasion-resistant and air-permeable mesh fabric ensures safety and optimum ventilation at all times. The jacket is therefore an ideal companion, especially in very warm temperatures. The jacket with protection class AA has protectors on the elbows and shoulders as well as a back protector. Reflective prints on the sleeves provide extra safety at night. Elastic ribbed cuffs and hem ensure a high level of comfort while three outer pockets with zippers and two inner pockets (one of which is waterproof) provide space for utensils.

The waterproof, modern Soulor GORE-TEX boot offers protection and an innovative ventilation system for optimum comfort on long rides. The effective GORE-TEX FLOW SURROUND technology ensures a pleasant climate balance with ventilation channels in the sole. Thanks to the waterproof and breathable GORE-TEX membrane, the boot is ideal for all weather conditions. The non-slip, shock-absorbing and oil and fuel-resistant VIBRAM® sole with reinforced protection zones provides additional safety. The upper shoe is made from a sturdy 3D knitted fabric. The inside zipper makes it easy to put on and take off while the FREELOCK quick-release system enables an optimum fit. Ankle and shin protection as well as integrated reinforcements in the toe and gearshift area ensure safety and comfort.

The Allrounder Taunus GORE-TEX boot is a waterproof and breathable touring boot that offers a high level of comfort and reliable protection on motorcycle tours. Made from hard-wearing leather and equipped with a waterproof and breathable PTFE-free GORE-TEX membrane, it is ideal for all weather conditions. The OrthoLite insole ensures a high comfort level. The boot has ankle, shin and shift lever protection as well as a non-slip and oil-repellent rubber sole. The covered zipper and an additional Velcro fastener make them easy to put on and take off. The Taunus GORE-TEX Plus version of the boot offers a 6 cm higher standing height.

Adventure seekers will get their money's worth with the Adventure collection. For the coming motorcycle season, it once again offers valuable additions in the area of functional clothing. For example, the GS Coro GORE-TEX jacket (protection class AA), which impresses with its comfortable fit and excellent freedom of movement. Thanks to the GORE-TEX Z-Liner construction with GORE-TEX ePE membrane, it is waterproof, breathable and windproof (water column 28,000 mm). Removable protectors on the elbows and shoulders and a long back protector offer protection, while stretch inserts on the inside of the arms increase freedom of movement and comfort. Fall-prone areas on the elbows are reinforced with a gridded acrylic coating. In addition to the "2-way Climate System", effective air inlets ensure optimum ventilation. The interior is equipped with a 3D spacer fabric to ventilate the back protector area. A specially tailored women's cut with infinitely variable waist adjuster ensures the perfect silhouette, while press studs and Velcro fasteners at the cuffs allow the width of the sleeves to be adjusted. The width of the collar and jacket hem can be adjusted using press studs or an elasticated band. A short zipper and an all-round zipper allow the jacket, which is available in black and olive for men and women, to be worn with matching trousers.

The matching GS Coro GORE-TEX trousers, also available for men and women in black and olive, offer a comfortable fit and excellent freedom of movement. They are also waterproof, breathable and windproof. Removable protectors on the hips and knees offer additional protection and stretch inserts increase comfort.

The Reschen GORE-TEX gloves made from a leather/textile mix are the perfect match for this suit and are an indispensable companion for extended rides: the touring gloves provide superior protection against wind and weather and the breathable GORE-TEX X-TRAFIT membrane reliably keeps out water and cold. Leather reinforcements, highly abrasion-resistant SuperFabric® and a soft knuckle protector round off the robust overall package, while the goatskin leather palm, thumbs and index fingers with tactile leather for smartphone operation ensure a high level of comfort and ease of use. They are already available in the colour anthracite and will be available in the new colour olive in 2026.

The GS Tabernas GORE-TEX boot in black and olive was specially developed for off-road and on-road use. A modern enduro boot made of leather with plastic elements that offers a perfect balance of high comfort and optimum protection. Thanks to the PTFE-free GORE-TEX membrane, the boot is breathable and waterproof. The internal lacing system and two external buckles ensure stability and mobility. An oil and fuel-resistant VIBRAM® tread sole ensures optimum grip even on loose surfaces. Shin protection and shift lever protection ensure safety and comfort. The OrthoLite insole offers a high level of comfort and temperature-regulating properties. The iconic light design of the BMW R 1300 GS is taken up as a graphic in the shin guard and heel cap.

The waterproof GS Takyr GORE-TEX sneaker made from a 3D knitted fabric in black and blue combines functionality and comfort and is perfect for the road and outdoor activities. The breathable and waterproof PTFE-free GORE-TEX membrane defies all weathers. The stable, oil and fuel-resistant VIBRAM® Traction Lug sole offers lateral stability and optimum grip, even on loose ground. Thanks to the high-quality materials, the shoe not only offers protection from wind and weather, but also excellent cushioning and durability. The FREELOCK quick-release system ensures an optimum fit. The side zipper on the inside allows easy entry. A large TPU gearshift, toe and side protection offer comprehensive safety and comfort. The OrthoLite insole offers temperature-regulating properties.

The GS Rallye Carbon helmet offers state-of-the-art safety technology and is based on the design of the GS models. The innovative MIPS Integra TX® (Multi-directional Impact Protection System) reduces the rotational movement of the head in the event of an impact and reduces the risk of injury. Thanks to two helmet shell sizes, the M-Forge® carbon/aramid-fibre mix helmet shell is only as large as is actually necessary. The helmet is available in black and in the Tramontana, Trophy, Calama, Lima and Nasca designs.

The GS Rallye helmet is another ideal companion for on- and off-road adventures. An efficient ventilation system ensures optimum climate comfort. Here too, the helmet shell made of glass fibre-reinforced M-Forge® is available in two sizes and is therefore only as large as necessary. It is available in white, matt gray, black and neon yellow.

Both helmet variants offer impact absorption values and a safety performance at the highest level and very balanced aerodynamics on and off-road as well as a Pull Rescue system for removing the cheek pads before removing the helmet (in the event of an accident). The infinitely adjustable sun visor as well as the specially developed visor mechanism with quick release and the removable helmet shield with self-locking mechanism offer the greatest possible ease of use.

The Pinlock 120 XLT® inner lens ensures perfect anti-fog protection. The outer visor has a scratch-resistant coating. The chin section with dust filter has a removable flap for maximum air flow for off-road use. Both helmet models can be upgraded with the newly developed BMW Motorrad ConnectedRide communication system.

The GS Rallye GORE-TEX jacket (protection class AA) with a functional, quick-drying and breathable material blend is perfect for off-road and on-road use. The clever ventilation options on the chest, back, shoulders and arms as well as the AirVent insert in the front area as an additional ventilation option guarantee a high level of comfort in warm to moderate temperatures.

Thanks to the waterproof 3-layer laminate GORE-TEX outserts with a 28,000 mm water column (included with the blue colour - optionally available with the black colour of the jacket), the jacket offers outstanding performance even in bad weather. The integrated storm hood in the collar of the outserts keeps wind, weather and dirt out of the collar, while the soft fabric part acts as a storm hood under the helmet for additional warmth. The waterproof GORE-TEX outer material defies bad weather. A specially developed carrying system allows the jacket to be worn like a rucksack, leaving your hands free, which is convenient and comfortable for city tours or breaks. The jacket is available for men and women in blue/red and black. It is complemented by the optimally ventilated GS Rallye trousers – sold with or without an outsert (according to the colour logic of the jacket).

The GS Rallye gloves, made from a lightweight, breathable material mix in blue/red, are the ideal companion for all bikers who ride off-road in warm temperatures. The backhand is made of elastic textile in combination with goatskin for ideal comfort. The large knuckle protection is ideally prepared for the stresses and strains of off-road use while the kangaroo leather palm with reinforcements offers maximum grip. The summer glove with long cuff is also available in black and sand.

The GS Rallye GORE-TEX gloves, available in black, are also designed for off-road use. The goatskin leather palm provides best possible grip. A large knuckle shell made of hard plastic, lined with shock-absorbing foam, protects against impacts. The all-season gloves with a long cuff for road and off-road use are windproof, waterproof and breathable thanks to the GORE-TEX membrane and offer an optimum fit. The gloves are also available in anthracite/white.

The GS Trophy GORE-TEX jacket in blue/red has been uncompromisingly developed for sporty and active riding, even off the beaten track. The extremely lightweight, robust and highly elastic polyamide softshell technology with innovative ventilation options ensures a comfortable fit in high temperatures. Together with the supplied very robust 3-layer GORE-TEX laminate outer jacket (water column 28,000 mm) the GS Trophy GORE-TEX jacket is a comfortable companion even at low temperatures. As part of the Adventure collection, it features the iconic light design of the
BMW R 1300 GS as a graphic element. The outer jacket can also be worn seperately as an outdoor jacket. As an additional highlight the jacket features an integrated pocket for the Hydra TrinkPak for physically demanding rides. The GS Trophy GORE-TEX trousers in blue provide the perfect complement and have also been uncompromisingly developed for sporty and active riding. The extremely lightweight, robust and elastic softshell technology with innovative ventilation and the GORE-TEX outer shell ensure a pleasant climate.

Sporty, ambitious motorcyclists as well as racetrack cracks will find everything their biker heart desires in the Sport collection. For example, the Nitrous sneaker, a light and airy sneaker in BMW M Motorsport design made from a breathable 3D knitted fabric. It offers the best wearing comfort with very good impact absorption values. The comfortable, lightweight and oil- and fuel-resistant sole in a two-tone design with BMW Motorrad logo and "M" inlay makes it ideal for motorsport enthusiasts. The TPU-reinforced parts in particularly stressed areas, such as the toe and ankle, offer additional comfort and protection.

With the Urban Mobility collection, BMW Motorrad offers practical and stylish products that are ideal for everyday motorcycling, but are also absolutely suitable for everyday use off the bike. Be it a stroll through town, shopping or just sitting in a café.

Take the Tokyo GORE-TEX jacket in olive, for example. Thanks to the three-layer, windproof, waterproof and breathable GORE-TEX Pro 3-layer material (water column 28,000 mm), the AirVent ventilation system and the removable inner jacket, this comfortable parka in a streetwear look with a casual fit and dropped sleeves can be used all year round. The full-length front zipper offers a clever dual function: two waterproof outer pockets with the zipper open from the top and more legroom with the zipper open from the bottom. The Tokyo GORE-TEX jacket also features a detachable, adjustable hood and two inside pockets.

The lightweight and airy Ginza sneaker made from a breathable 3D knitted fabric in black, blue and brown are a perfect match. It combines a sporty look with optimum comfort in dry weather. Thanks to the robust, lightweight and oil- and fuel-resistant sole with BMW Motorrad inlay, TPU-reinforced surfaces in the gearshift and toe area and excellent cushioning properties, the modern, sporty sneaker is ideally suited to the demands of everyday motorcycling. Thanks to a side zipper they are also easy to put on.

With the Schwabing LTD Edition jacket , BMW Motorrad has reissued a classic in a limited edition. Each jacket is unique thanks to the embroidered serial number. The black jacket with the metal BMW emblem on the sleeve impresses with the highest material and manufacturing quality. Its premium, water-repellent and slightly elastic nubuck leather is hand-selected.  Ventilation options and two outside and three inside pockets maximize comfort and usability.

The Grand Racer helmet in the new colour matt black combines the charm of earlier motorcycle days with modern functionality. It not only goes along perfectly with the Schwabing LTD Edition jacket, but also with the BMW Motorrad Heritage models in general.

What sets it apart from other helmets in retro design is above all its pleasant aeroacoustics. High-quality materials and details made of brass and copper complete the classic look. Thanks to four different helmet shell sizes, the Premium Heritage helmet is only as big as absolutely necessary in each size. 

For further information on the BMW Motorrad Clothing Collection 2026 please go to: Clothing | BMW Motorrad or your nearest BMW Motorrad retailer. 

Munich. The BMW M Motorsport family is gaining reinforcement for the 2026 season. Jordan Pepper (RSA) will become a BMW M works driver and will compete in races next year in the BMW M4 GT3 EVO. The 29-year-old is the third South African driver in the line-up, following Sheldon and Kelvin van der Linde. Details about his racing programme will be announced at a later date.

Pepper boasts numerous successes in GT racing. In 2025, he triumphed at the 24 Hours of Spa-Francorchamps (BEL) and fought for the DTM title until the final race in his first full season. In the GT World Challenge Europe Sprint Cup, he finished second in the drivers’ standings, just behind the Team WRT duo of Kelvin van der Linde and Charles Weerts (BEL). He achieved the same result in the Endurance Cup in 2024. Further big successes to date include winning the GTD-PRO class at the IMSA finale Petit Le Mans in 2024, victory at the Bathurst 12 Hour in 2020, and becoming the GT World Challenge America champion in 2021. In 2014, he won the overall title in the Volkswagen Scirocco R Cup Germany.

Andreas Roos (Head of BMW M Motorsport): “In the coming season, we will once again undertake a very extensive racing programme with our BMW M4 GT3 EVO. Our goal is always to compete at the highest level in the best GT racing series in the world and fight for victories and titles. To achieve this, we need a driver line-up that is both large and of the highest quality. Jordan Pepper fits our requirements perfectly. Over the years, he has established himself as one of the top GT3 drivers. His performances, especially in the past two seasons, have been impressive. I am very pleased to welcome him to the BMW M Motorsport family and look forward to many shared successes in the future.”

Jordan Pepper: “It’s very exciting to begin a new chapter of my career with BMW M Motorsport. In South Africa, BMW is a very prestigious brand that I grew up with and always admired. My path into professional racing in Europe, however, took me through other manufacturers. Now I have the opportunity to drive for BMW M Motorsport, and I’m extremely excited about it. Over the years, I’ve seen how strong they are as competitors, and now I’m looking forward to driving the BMW M4 GT3 EVO for the first time. I know that adapting to a new car is always a challenge, and I’ll need to get used to the car over the winter but I generally like this type of car, as I’ve spent much of my career in similar cars. I can’t wait to work with all the great drivers at BMW M Motorsport – including, of course, Sheldon and Kelvin van der Linde. We’ve known each other since we were kids and are good friends. We’ve always dreamed of winning races together. Now we’re with the same manufacturer, and hopefully, we’ll get the chance to make that dream come true someday.”

Midrand . BMW South Africa proudly announces the introduction of the BMW X3 20 Pure Design, the new entry point to the local BMW X3 line-up.

Complementing the existing BMW X3 20d, BMW X3 30e and BMW X3 M50 xDrive offerings, the Rosslyn-built BMW X3 20 Pure Design showcases the mid-sized Sports Activity Vehicle’s (SAV) now-signature monolithic design paired with a cutting-edge four-cylinder petrol engine.

Positioned alongside the highly sought-after 20d variant, the 2.0-litre petrol engine (aided by 48V mild-hybrid technology) produces 148kW between 4,400 and 6,500 rpm, and 335Nm of torque from 1,500 – 4,000 rpm. The top speed is rated at 218km/h, and the average fuel consumption is 7.5 l/100km.

With a starting price of R1,107,760.40 (incl. VAT and CO₂ tax), the BMW X3 20 Pure Design is meticulously specified to deliver luxury, practicality and performance to the value-conscious customer. Building on the BMW X3 xLine specification, standard features include the BMW Iconic Glow kidney grille, 19-inch wheels with run-flat tyres, electric seats, comfort access, LED headlights, a panorama glass roof, and aluminium satin-finished accents that enhance the SAV’s confident presence.

Inside, drivers and passengers are greeted by a wraparound cabin design with electrically adjustable sport seats, black or espresso brown Veganza synthetic leather, and ambient interior lighting from the BMW Interaction Bar. Comfort, connectivity and confidence are guaranteed on every trip thanks to the curved touchscreen running BMW Operating System 9, wireless charging, Harman/Kardon surround sound, and driver assistance technologies such as Park Assist and Driving Assist. Practicality is further enhanced by a fully electrically operated tow hitch and a generous luggage capacity of 570 to 1,700 litres.

Tailored Ownership Solutions

BMW Financial Services South Africa supports the BMW X3 models with a range of tailored finance solutions and ownership packages designed to make driving a BMW as seamless as it is enjoyable. Customers benefit from flexible finance and lease options that can be customised to suit individual needs, whether prioritising lower monthly payments or shorter terms.

These solutions are complemented by BMW’s hallmark peace of mind offering, which includes a comprehensive Motorplan covering service and maintenance, a nationwide network of trustedretailers ensuring expert care wherever you are, and BMW On Call, providing 24-hour roadside assistance and support.

Together, these elements create an ownership experience that extends well beyond the showroom – ensuring that every BMW X3 customer enjoys not just premium driving, but also the confidence, convenience, and long-term value that have become synonymous with the BMW brand.

“The BMW X3 20 Pure Design is a strategic addition to our line-up: we want to ensure we have a petrol offer that is attractive alongside the dominant BMW X3 20d M Sport derivative to ensure we cater to a range of customers,” said Jean-Francois Bidard, Head of Product Management at BMW South Africa. 

“In the BMW X3 20 Pure Design, we are offering customers an opportunity to balance innovation, performance and luxury with broader accessibility. This new derivative reflects our ongoing commitment to evolving the Rosslyn-built BMW X3 portfolio, while responding to market demand in the premium segment.”

The introduction of the BMW X3 20 Pure Design marks an important step in expanding the Pure Design philosophy within South Africa. First introduced in the BMW 1 Series and 2 Series Gran Coupé, Pure Design resonates strongly with customers who value authentic BMW styling, advanced technology, and smart specification.

The BMW X3 20 Pure Design is now available at BMW retailers nationwide. For more information or to book a test drive, visit www.bmw.co.za

Midrand. With a car that honours one of South Africa's greatest sportsmen, BMW Group South Africa is spotlighting the exclusive potential of BMW Individual Manufaktur, a service that allows customers to transform their vehicle into a truly personal creation. This offering represents the highest expression of craftsmanship and individuality within the BMW portfolio.

BMW Individual Manufaktur gives clients the opportunity to co-create vehicles defined by their personality and taste, from tailored materials and one-off colours to luxury hand-finished detailing and bespoke insignias. Every request is carefully considered and handled by BMW’s dedicated design and production teams, ensuring precision, authenticity and an exceptional level of customisation.

To demonstrate the depth of this capability, BMW has produced a personalised BMW M760e xDrive inspired by South African golf legend Gary Player. Commissioned as a tribute to Mr Player in celebration of his 90^th birthday, the vehicle auction went live on 17 October and will run until 30 October to raise funds for the Blair Atholl Pre-Primary School through The Gary and Vivienne Player Foundation.

In July 2025, Mr Player visited BMW Group Plant Dingolfing in Germany, where he witnessed the completion of this personalised vehicle and fitted the BMW emblem himself. The finished M760e xDrive embodies BMW’s ability to merge engineering excellence with precision artistry and craftsmanship.

Key highlights of the Gary Player Signature BMW 7 Series include:

• A two-tone Black Sapphire Metallic and BMW Individual Dravit Grey Metallic exterior, evoking understated elegance.
• The Gary Player signature logo, laser-engraved on the C-pillar as a mark of individuality.
• A hand-finished interior, featuring embroidered upholstery, engraved trim and golf-inspired detailing.
• PXG accessories and a commemorative key box, designed by Montblanc, that houses the vehicle’s key as well as a bespoke writing instrument, both crafted to complement the vehicle’s refined aesthetic and link its interior design to Mr Player’s heritage.

  “ BMW Individual Manufaktur enables us to bring our customers’ most personal visions to life, seamlessly blending luxury craftsmanship, cutting-edge technology and inspired imagination. The Gary Player Signature BMW 7 Series stands as a remarkable testament to what’s possible when a BMW is tailored to embody individuality, heritage and timeless design,” says Jean-Francois Bidard, Head of Product Management at BMW South Africa.

Through this project, BMW aims to highlight the artistry and personal engagement that define the BMW Individual Manufaktur experience, where every vehicle starts as a vision, evolves into a unique story and becomes a treasured masterpiece.

Midrand. Two South African legends are back, reimagined for a new generation. BMW Group South Africa announced the launch of the BMW 325iS Homage and BMW 333i Homage editions, celebrating the country’s proud performance heritage while making a lasting contribution to local communities.

Both models pay direct tribute to the second-generation BMW 3 Series icons that defined an era. The BMW 325iS, affectionately known as the “Gusheshe,” became a cultural symbol of aspiration, performance and style, while the BMW 333i, produced in extremely limited numbers, remains one of South Africa’s most sought-after performance legends.

Only 33 examples of each model – 66 cars in total – will be built. Each one will be sold exclusively via online auction, with all proceeds donated to charities supported by BMW Group South Africa.

Heritage redefined.

The BMW 325iS Homage is based on the BMW M240i xDrive, powered by a 3.0-litre inline six-cylinder engine delivering 285 kW and 500 Nm of torque. Coupled with BMW’s intelligent xDrive all-wheel-drive system, the coupé sprints from 0–100 km/h in 4.3 seconds.

The BMW 333i Homage builds on the BMW M2, which features a 3.0-litre inline six-cylinder delivering 353 kW and 600 Nm of torque to the rear wheels, accelerating from 0–100 km/h in 4.0 seconds. Both engines form part of BMW’s acclaimed TwinPower Turbo family, known for their blend of responsiveness and efficiency.

While the Homage editions remain technically stock, they carry heritage-inspired cues:

• BMW 325iS Homage: Double rear spoiler, heritage-style wheels, M Sport Pro package, M Sport seats, front splitter, armrest covered in original second-generation Überkaro tartan upholstery, black door handles, commemorative plaque (1 of 33), and colours including Mineral White, Sapphire Black, Skyscraper Grey and Fire Red.
• BMW 333i Homage: Alpina wheels, “333i Homage” decals, quad exhaust pipes, bespoke spoilers and front splitter, Carbon bucket seats, armrest covered in original second-generation Überkaro tartan upholstery, commemorative plaque (1 of 33), and colours Alpine White, Sapphire Black, Brooklyn Grey, Zandvoort Blue and Fire Red.

Icons of South African innovation.

The original BMW 325iS and BMW 333i were products of BMW South Africa’s unique autonomy in the 1980s and 1990s, a period when local engineers operated with a near skunkworks-like spirit.

• The BMW 325iS was conceived to meet Group N racing regulations, a motorsport discipline that demanded true performance credibility. Compared to other “iS” models sold in global markets, South Africa’s version went far beyond a specification upgrade, evolving into a high-performance icon with real motorsport pedigree.
• The BMW 333i was developed as South Africa’s answer to the first BMW M3, which was not offered locally. With a 3.2-litre six-cylinder engine and limited production numbers, the 333i has become one of the rarest and most collectible BMWs globally.

Both cars captured the imagination of enthusiasts and cemented BMW South Africa’s reputation for engineering ingenuity and cultural relevance.

The 2 Series Coupé: A modern successor.

The Homage editions are based on the BMW 2 Series Coupé, a model that has been widely praised for its classic three-box proportions and compact dimensions. Since its global introduction in 2022, the BMW 2 Series Coupé has been celebrated as the spiritual successor to the second-generation BMW 3 Series making it the perfect foundation for these South African Homage cars.

A tribute with purpose.

Rob Gearing, General Manager of Customer Support at BMW Group South Africa, commented: “The BMW 325iS and 333i are more than cars — they are part of South Africa’s story. The Homage editions bring that history into the present, celebrating our connection to these icons while creating a positive impact through charitable giving. It is heritage with purpose.”

Availability.

The BMW 325iS Homage and BMW 333i Homage editions will be available exclusively via online auction. Visit https://www.bmw.co.za/homage to learn about the Homage models, and to register for the auction, starting Tuesday, 21 October 2025. The reserve prices are as follows:

BMW 325iS Homage Edition – R1,435,000.00

BMW 333i Homage Edition – R 1,960,000.00

Midrand. BMW Financial Services South Africa marks a milestone for the books this year as the solutions provider celebrates its 35th anniversary.

Encapsulating three-and-a-half decades of industry excellence, the milestone is an opportunity for the company to reflect on its achievements and the impact it has had as a driver of financial activity and inclusion, customer-centric innovation and socio-economic transformation. The milestone also culminates in BMW Financial Services’ recent Level 1 B-BBEE status, an achievement that embodies the commitment to fostering transformation, empowering local stakeholders and investing in South Africa’s success.

“Achieving Level 1 B-BBEE signifies our commitment to the sustainable transformation of our company, its leadership and its business relationships, while also reflecting our dedication to inclusivity, empowerment, creating opportunities for all, and positively impacting the communities we serve. This achievement will not lead to complacency, though. Thank you to all who entrusted that we would rise from non-compliance in 2021, and to all who supported the journey with cold minds but hot hearts, making Nelson Mandela’s words ring true: ‘It is impossible until it is done.’” stated Stefan Schuett, CEO of BMW Financial Services South Africa.

Established in 1990 as a joint venture and renamed BMW Financial Services (Pty) Ltd in 1994, the division became an independent entity, setting out to be a customer enabler and serving as the gateway to the BMW brand by offering tailor-made financial solutions and services or BMW, MINI, Motorrad and other vehicles through ALPHERA Finance. In 1996, BMW Insurance was launched, empowering customers to customise their leasing and finance contracts with the extras that suited them, along with a new retail technology system for credit and debt collection that helped to streamline operations.

In 2000, BMW Financial Services was awarded a South African business financial rating of ‘AAA’ and an international rating of ‘BBB’, cementing its position as a market leader and heralding a series of service and product launches that would propel the division to new heights over the next decade. This included the launch of MINI Financial Services in 2002 and Flat Rate Insurance in 2012, the latter being an offering unique to the South African market.

The commitment to delivering a customer-centric value offering extends through the power of digital innovation. In 2020, BMW Financial Services went live with its digital sales platform, supported by the brand’s first Business Development Centre to support customers’ online journeys.

In 2022, the division established its first mobile presence via MyBMW App, integrating the MyAccount platform into the mobile app. It is currently piloting with the government’s electronic vehicle registration (eNATIS) platform. The trend of innovation continues in 2025 with the integration of artificial intelligence (AI) technologies in customer support processes, helping to enhance both the customer experience and empower team members with state-of-the-art tools and resources.

Throughout its 35-year history, BMW Financial Services has also strived to be a responsible corporate citizen, with projects and initiatives that reflect a commitment to people and communities. In 2015, Care4Water, a global BMW Group Financial Services employee initiative, was launched to raise funds to provide clean water to people in need. Between 2016 and 2017, the division conducted a local Care4Water rollout by installing 700 water filters in the Northwest and KwaZulu-Natal provinces, providing up to 70,000 South Africans with access to clean water.

To mark the anniversary, the team came together in full force, volunteering their time to support an important environmental initiative in partnership with Greenpop. The day was about more than planting trees, it was about making a positive impact for future generations and reaffirming our shared commitment to sustainability. With energy and purpose, the BMW Financial Services team successfully planted over 350 trees in a single day, a true reflection of their dedication to creating a greener tomorrow.

Other social responsibility initiatives that the division has participated in span the entirety of South Africa, touching many lives and helping to uplift communities through interventions such as food and essential item donations, building refurbishments and community event sponsorships.

From 2022, BMW Financial Services proudly onboarded its first intake of participants as part of its involvement in the Youth Employment Service (YES) programme. To date, the division’s involvement has led to 240 work opportunities for young people. Along with the company achieving Level 1 B-BBEE status, the YES programme reflects the division’s long-held principles of promoting youth employment.

“Thirty-five years is indeed a significant span of time, and we have utilised it wisely and purposefully. As we celebrate this important milestone, BMW Financial Services reflects on our rich history and current achievements, which serve as the bedrock for our future endeavours. We are already envisioning the profound impact we can create over the next 35 years, a vision made possible by the unwavering dedication of our teams, the strength and integrity of our brand, and innovative ideas that prioritise our brands and the South African community. Together, we are committed to shaping a brighter future,” Stefan Schuett added.

ENDS

Johannesburg. Following the successful BMW Art Generation Vol. III experience at NIROX on 30 August, BMW Group South Africa is proud to serve as the Official Vehicle Partner of FNB Art Joburg, taking place from 4–7 September 2025. This partnership underscores BMW’s enduring commitment to the global arts landscape, building on five decades of the iconic BMW Art Car series and cultural initiatives.

Celebrating 50 Years of BMW Art Cars

Since its inception in 1975, the BMW Art Car Collection has featured works from some of the world’s most acclaimed artists, including Frank Stella, Roy Lichtenstein, Andy Warhol, Robert Rauschenberg, Esther Mahlangu, David Hockney, Jenny Holzer, and Ólafur Elíasson.

In 1991, Esther Mahlangu became the first African artist, and the first woman, to design a BMW Art Car, a historic moment that merged African heritage with contemporary automotive design. Her contribution remains a living tribute to her cultural legacy and BMW’s global vision for innovation through art.

This milestone also coincides with the 50th anniversary of the BMW 3 Series, further highlighting BMW’s tradition of design, craftsmanship, and cultural expression.

Immersive Experience at FNB Art Joburg

BMW’s booth at the Sandton Convention Centre will transform into an immersive storytelling hub, celebrating five decades of the BMW Art Cars. Johannesburg takes its place on the global stage as part of the ever-expanding BMW Art Car World Tour, a journey that will span continents and continue well into 2026. Marking the 50th anniversary of this iconic series, the tour brings together a constellation of exhibitions across five continents, enriched by a vibrant array of events.

At the centre of the installation in Johannesburg are large format works by acclaimed automotive photographer René Staud, who has redefined the way the world sees cars through light and motion. His work traces the journey of the BMW Art Car Collection from the very first Art Car created by Alexander Calder in 1975 (BMW 3.0 CSL) to the most recent, the 20th Art Car by Julie Mehretu (BMW M Hybrid V8). “A photograph of an Art Car is not about chrome or color — it’s about the pleasure to turn speed into poetry,” says René Staud.

Among the 10 featured BMW Art Cars are:

• Roy Lichtenstein / BMW 320 Group 5
• Andy Warhol / BMW M1 Group 4
• Ernst Fuchs / BMW 635 CSi
• Michael Jagamara Nelson / BMW M3 Group A
• César Manrique / BMW 730i

These striking images capture not only the vehicles themselves but also the visionary energy of the artists behind them, positioning BMW’s booth as a gallery of movement, design, and innovation.

Complementing this presentation, BMW will also showcase the BMW Art Guide, alongside Jonathan Ball’s ‘To Paint is in My Heart’ — a richly illustrated exploration of Esther Mahlangu’s life and artistic journey. Together, these works invite visitors to experience the full scope of BMW’s cultural legacy, from archival innovation to contemporary vision.

“BMW is celebrating 50 years of the iconic BMW Art Car Collection in 2025, underscoring our longstanding commitment to merging art, design, and innovation. As both a mobility leader and a cultural partner, we continue to support the arts in South Africa and globally. Through events such as BMW Art Generation and collaborations like BMW Young Collectors Co. and Zeitz MOCCA, we are shaping the future of African art patronage while honouring our legacy” states Taz Ramphisa, General Manager: Customer and Brand, BMW South Africa.

Premium Guest Experiences

As Official Vehicle Partner, BMW will provide chauffeur-driven services for guests, delivering the hallmark BMW experience of comfort, precision, and seamless mobility.

Join Us at FNB Art Joburg

BMW invites art lovers, collectors, and cultural innovators to experience this unique convergence of art, design, and mobility. Visit BMW’s stand at FNB Art Joburg from 4–7 September and stay tuned for exciting announcements in 2026.

Event Details

• VIP Opening: 4 September 2025
• Public Days: 5–7 September 2025
• Venue: Sandton Convention Centre, Johannesburg

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

BMW Group Cultural Engagement

Why Culture? Why not! Culture is knowledge, a sanctuary of beauty and depth, of meaning and peace. An inspiring escape. Tranquil at best, even unsettling sometimes. As corporate citizen, the BMW Group takes social responsibility seriously, as part of which it has been involved in hundreds of cultural initiatives worldwide for over half a century, both in the arts, music & sound, architecture as well as in design. As a long-term partner, creative freedom is key – and as essential for groundbreaking works as it is for major innovations within a business enterprise like ours.

iFurther information: www.bmwgroup.com/culture and www.bmwgroup.com/overview

Instagram: @BMWGroupCulture

#BMWGroupCulture

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. With deep respect for craftsmanship, culture, and the communities that shape them, the partnership between MINI John Cooper Works and Deus Ex Machina comes to life through two customised one-off cars – rolling expressions of a lifestyle where a love of speed meets creativity and considered design. Built not just for performance, but for the people who live and breathe it.

“MINI models have always been characterised by a blend of creative design and motorsport dynamics,’ explains Stefan Richmann, Head of MINI. “Thanks to our collaboration with Deus Ex Machina, we are taking this philosophy to a new level and setting exciting new trends for fans and motorsport enthusiasts. The partners are united by their “passion for machines, innovation and creativity” and an authentic relationship with their own community,” says Stefan Richmann.

Purist, functional and graphic design approach.
Both vehicle concepts are based on a MINI John Cooper Works model: the first, a MINI JCW Electric with up to 190 kW, the second, a combustion engine-powered MINI JCW with 170 kW. Each vehicles roof features a large white ‘X’, a connecting element, which signals a significant design and co-creation: the co-creation process between two iconic brands in their own right: MINI JCW x DEUS.

"In this extraordinary collaboration, we showcase two vehicles that remind us of motorsport history and successes of MINI. Every single detail has been crafted with artisanal precision and expertise. This has resulted in unique characters that are clearly perceived as belonging together through their distinctive design language and use of graphics," says Holger Hampf, Head of MINI Design.

Visible seams, striking switches and traditional levers emphasise the mechanical character of the cockpits. The materials and colours utilised throughout the vehicles create bold contrasts: a deliberate break with high gloss. Instead of perfection, authenticity is at the forefront: designers speak of a ‘raw, handcrafted approach’ that celebrates the ‘beauty of imperfection’. On the exterior, expressive graphics consisting of numbers, geometric elements and bright colours pay homage to MINIs racing history.

The MINI JCW X DEUS one-off cars.
Built as a pair - kindred in spirit, opposite in energy. One born of the coast: shaped by surfboards, sea spray, and the stripped-back rhythm of beach life. The other is forged on the track: lean, fast, and fuelled by a love of speed and precision.

The Skeg – sleek, electric, coast-bound.
The electric powered show car ‘The Skeg’ is a clean, minimal and quiet rebellion, drawing on materials, technologies and philosophies from the world of surfing: Fiberglass, acceleration and minimalism.

The vehicle's bodywork lands a bold first impression in a vivid yellow and silver finish – a nod to MINI’s progressive take on electric mobility. Wide fenders, an illuminated front grille, and a roof spoiler sharpen the silhouette, while semi-transparent fiberglass panels strip 15% of the car’s weight and refine its aerodynamic performance. 

At the rear, the Flex Tip Surf Spoiler responds to airflow much like a surfboard rides the contours of a wave. Its form draws from the concave underside of a board, redirecting movement, generating lift, and turning design into function.

Tension straps across the roof reference the familiar ritual of tying down a surfboard after a session, while remaining a characteristic design detail of the new MINI family, featured as an accent on the dashboard and in the 6 o'clock spoke of the steering wheel.

Custom-made fibreglass elements on the roof, front, rear, and interior create a shifting play of light: translucent, strong, and responsive to time of day and environment, while the dashboard itself borrows directly from surfboard construction: lightweight, resilient, and visually distinctive.

The Interior.
Inside, the analogue controls are stripped back – simple, tactile, and true to purpose, reflecting a surf culture that prioritises purpose over polish.

The car resembles a mobile surf shop. An example of the thoughtful functionality is the fibreglass trays for wetsuits. The specially shaped shelves provide a practical storage solution and bring the surf culture into the interior. The neoprene upholstery in the lightweight racing bucket seats – flexible, water-repellent, and comfortable – also creates a tactile connection to surfing.

The fibreglass dashboard transfers the technology of surfboard construction into the automotive sector.

The oversized ‘X’ returns as a visual anchor, while Deus Collection badges and 3D-printed details in the console serve as subtle signifiers of a shared culture – one grounded in craft, connection, and the pursuit of the ride.

The Machina - loud, low, combustion-fed.
The Machina, a John Cooper Works that packs a compact punch of raw mechanics and motorsport bloodline. Inspired by the aesthetics of motorsport, it stands for pure racing enthusiasm and authentic functionality.

The exterior: signature elements with links to the racing scene.
The exterior design pays homage to the motorsport heritage of the MINI brand. Every characteristic feature has been carefully selected with a focus on functionality and emotional appeal.

The red, white and black paintwork, complete with bold accents and Deus lettering on the rear, makes an immediate impression. Classic widened fenders nod to racing heritage, blending form and function, while four additional headlights mounted on the bonnet pay tribute to rally sport roots. Each custom-built light pod features subtle Deus branding, offering both performance and a distinctive visual signature.

At the rear, the diffuser draws inspiration from the MINI JCW race car that tore through the legendary Nordschleife. Beyond its aggressive stance, it’s designed to optimise airflow and stability, with the centrally integrated exhaust serving as both a functional and aesthetic focal point, amplifying the engine’s sound and presence.

Up front, a bespoke grille and perforated headlight surrounds enhance cooling performance, while the iconic MINI John Cooper Works light signature, complete with air intakes, anchors the car firmly in MINI’s high-performance lineage. Topping it off is a Can-Am-style rear spoiler: a bold piece of motorsport nostalgia that nods to an era when innovation in racing pushed both design and engineering to the edge.

The Interior: Inside the JCW show car, the red, white and black palette holds strong - pared-back, purposeful, and unmistakably John Cooper Works. The five-point racing harnesses secure the driver, and ultimately become part of the driving experience, wrapping the body in precision.

Raw aluminium floor plates offer more than grip, rather they echo the utilitarian aesthetic found in Deus’ custom motorcycle workshops from Sydney to Venice Beach to Canggu, grounding the car in a shared language of performance and craft.

Weight-saving is built into every surface, from the stripped-back door panels marked with bold white ‘X’ motifs, to the waxed fabric dash – lightweight, durable, and finished with a lived-in patina that speaks to hands-on workmanship. Overhead, the exposed roll cage adds structure and statement in equal measure - a safety feature that nods to the car’s unfiltered racing DNA.

The show car's controls speak a clear language of functionality and directness. Every switch and every button is designed to function intuitively and reliably, even under extreme conditions.

Toggle switches are classic elements – no complex menus, just direct, mechanical connections between thought and action. Each button has a clear function. A classic example, the hydraulic handbrake with its large lever, acting as a direct connection between driver and vehicle - a commitment to precision and control. The JCW show car is a driving manifesto and a tribute to the motorsport DNA of the MINI brand.

Concentrated creativity for two extraordinary designer pieces.
In collaboration with the MINI design team, BMW Group subsidiary Designworks provided creative impetus with unconventional ideas for the project. Deus’ Creative Director Carby Tuckwell and his wider creative cohort oversaw the striking exterior graphics of the unique cars – led by Matt Willey – and complemented the work – an outcome that truly reflects extraordinary design dynamics and remarkable solutions across the two vehicles.

“Deus has had a longstanding creative partnership with Matt - one powered by a true respect for the power of design and art. Having him involved in this project, for us, was a no-brainer - he worked closely with myself and the Deus team on our first creative project that was splashed across a MINI car in 2023.” – Carby Tuckwell, Deus Co-Founder and Creative Director

Deus x Matt Willey: The fascination of historic racing.
Deus’ Carby Tuckwell and Matt Willey have been working together since 2015. United by their fascination with classic motorsport liveries, they created a historic Mini Cooper S racing car in 2023 with a special paint finish designed by Willey. The design references the glorious and victorious history of the classic Mini at the Monte Carlo Rally, including the number 37, with which Paddy Hopkirk started in 1964 and achieved the British small car's first overall victory in the most famous of all rallies.

Matt Willey, a native of England who lives in Brooklyn, became a partner at the renowned design firm Pentagram after five years as art director of the New York Times Magazine.

A Shared Vision Becomes Fabric.
Woven into the partnership is a capsule MINI x Deus Ex Machina apparel collection, set to launch on September 8, 2025, at IAA in Munich, before becoming available globally via Deus Ex Machina’s e-commerce and retail network. Designed exclusively for the collaboration, the range draws on the shared DNA of both brands – precision engineering, timeless styling, and obsessive attention to detail. High-grade materials and thoughtful tailoring provide the benchmark for the range, with every garment reflecting Deus’ commitment to craftsmanship and its reputation for creating apparel that moves between lifestyle and legacy. With a deep understanding of storytelling through design, Deus brings authenticity and cultural relevance to the capsule, bridging the worlds of motorsport and modern apparel in a way that feels both current and enduring.

You can be first after me.
The highlight of the MINI JCW x DEUS project's communication campaign will be the world premiere at IAA Mobility 2025 with the exclusive MINI JCW x DEUS Night on 6 September at the MINI Pavilion. The MINI JCW x DEUS collaboration will be on display at the MINI Pavilion until 14 September.

The exclusive MINI x DEUS lifestyle collection will be on sale in the same premises as well as online on all DEUS channels and in their sales rooms.

‘You can be first after me’ – the motto that unites the worlds of MINI and Deus Ex Machina. Their shared history has begun and promises further exciting chapters in the name of automotive passion.

Munich. At the IAA Mobility 2025 motorshow, the BMW Group is showcasing the BMW Motorrad Vision CE, presenting a vision of the future of electric, single-track mobility in urban centres and underlining its undisputed leadership in the field of intelligent, connected, electric two-wheel mobility. In addition to its emission-free electric drive, the BMW Motorrad Vision CE's standout features include the elimination of the need for a helmet as well as protective clothing, offering riders an increased sense of freedom and a casual, carefree riding experience. Setting new standards, the Vision CE offers an emotional, creative and fresh take on commuting, describing the future of urban two-wheel mobility.

In line with the BMW Group's sustainability strategy, BMW Motorrad is committed to rethinking urban electromobility constantly, making it emission-free and innovative, and featuring ground-breaking designs. Back in 2014, BMW Motorrad became the first premium manufacturer to combine outstanding design with an electric drive in the 
BMW C evolution. The BMW CE 04, a design and technology masterpiece of emission-free urban mobility, was finally launched on the market in 2022. To this day, the CE 04 is the global market leader in its segment. Another highlight followed in 2024 with the 
BMW CE 02, which is also electric and symbolises a completely new style of mobility that is unique and extremely casual.

Twenty-five years ago, BMW Motorrad revolutionised urban mobility with the BMW C1, a scooter that, thanks to its sophisticated safety bodywork, made it possible to dispense with helmets and the usual protective clothing. The BMW Motorrad Vision CE builds on this fundamental design philosophy, presenting it in a new interpretation with an emotional design language to create a unique, forward-looking vision vehicle.

The centrepiece of the BMW Motorrad Vision CE is its safety concept: a metal tube composite known as the 'cage'. Together with an appropriate seat construction with seat belt, it ensures a safe and emotional riding experience without the need for a helmet or the usual protective clothing.

The cage's reduced overall height and open, airy design, combined with a long wheelbase, give the Vision CE a stretched, dynamic and visually light appearance. The open use of coated aluminium adds an exclusive technical touch. The combination of the basic colour matt white and the contrasting colour black gives the Vision CE a clear, reduced and sculptural appearance. This innovative design and colour scheme is complemented by an elegant matt seat bench with integrated lettering and neon red accents on the graphics and other highlighted details.

Another highlight of the Vision CE is its balancing function, which allows the vehicle to completely balance itself when stationary. 

The BMW Motorrad Vision CE redefines urban riding fun on two wheels, thanks to its unique cage design that eliminates the need for a helmet or protective clothing. The differently designed derivatives emphasise the versatility of this vision vehicle. 

Munich. BMW Motorrad unveils The Tracker, an accessories package for the BMW R 12 nineT that translates the unmistakable design language of flat track racing into street-ready customisation. Inspired by a motorsport discipline celebrated worldwide for its thrilling dynamics and spectacular drifts on oval dirt tracks, the kit pays homage to this distinctive style.

The Tracker endows the BMW R 12 nineT with a strong and powerful presence. A short, sporty rear section, a signature cockpit fairing, and striking number plates define the look – taking cues from machines that have become design icons far beyond the racetrack.

Features and design of The Tracker accessories package.
Flat track machines embody pure dynamism: compact proportions, clean lines, and bold details create their unmistakable presence. Characteristic features include the short rear, prominent number plates, and a silhouette pared down to pure racing – captivating both motorsport fans and the global customising scene.

BMW Motorrad captures this spirit with The Tracker accessories package for the BMW R 12 nineT. Every element is designed to bring the purist racing character to the street. The result is a motorcycle that radiates dynamism even at a standstill – with crisp lines, authentic flat track touches, and a unique character that makes the R 12 nineT a true statement.

The Tracker accessories package for the BMW R 12 nineT includes:

• Short rear end Tracker Blackstorm Metallic, including license plate holder (available in black or silver) and multifunctional indicators.
• Cockpit fairing Tracker Blackstorm Metallic.
• Number plate Blackstorm Metallic.
• Tracker sticker set for number plates and lamp mask.
• Front wheel cover 17" Blackstorm Metallic.

These package components are also available individually, offering a high degree of customisation when combined with other Original BMW Motorrad accessories.

Note: The tyres and race number 35 shown in the photo are not included in The Tracker accessories package. The race number panel offers space for individual design – the race number itself is freely selected and attached by the customer.

Availability and installation.
The Tracker accessories package will be available in South Africa from the first quarter of 2026, and can be mounted on the BMW R 12 nineT. BMW Motorrad recommends installation at a professional workshop, preferably at a BMW Motorrad partner.

The Tracker accessories package gives the BMW R 12 nineT a distinctive character, creating an uncompromising urban tracker look inspired by the rugged style of historic flat trackers. With striking elements such as the cockpit fairing and short rear end, it makes a clear statement for riders who want to stand out from the mainstream.

Estcourt/KwaZulu-Natal. Learners at KwaZamokuhle Special School in Estcourt, KwaZulu-Natal, are stepping into the digital future thanks to the launch of a new Coding and Robotics Hub, established through the BRIDGE partnership between UNICEF and the BMW Group, in collaboration with the Department of Basic Education (DBE).

The BRIDGE partnership is a global initiative that equips young people – particularly those from marginalized communities – with 21st-century skills. In South Africa, this partnership works with the DBE to set up Coding and Robotics Hubs in every province, thereby providing state-of-the-art technology for teaching, learning, and extracurricular activities.

These hubs, located in revamped classrooms in pilot schools and equipped with state-of-the-art advanced technology, serve as centres of excellence, advancing STEAMIE (Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics, Innovation, and Entrepreneurship) education for learners, educators, and the wider community. 

KwaZamokuhle Special School, established in 1988, caters to 220 learners with a range of special needs, including those with significant severe intellectual challenges and learners on the autism spectrum.  Despite being a lower-quintile rural school, it has earned recognition for outstanding academic performance, excelling in both the classroom and on the sportsfield.  

“Every child deserves the opportunity to thrive in a fast-changing world, regardless of where they are born or the challenges they face. By bringing technology and innovation to schools like KwaZamokuhle, we are ensuring that learners with special needs are included in South Africa’s digital future,” says Irfan Akhtar, UNICEF South Africa Deputy Representative. 

While this Hub is part of the global BRIDGE initiative, it is deeply local in its purpose. It exists because learners in remote places like Estcourt deserve equal parts of innovation, support, and opportunity. This is BRIDGE with a human face—powered by global backing but grounded in your community. And with a commitment stretching to 2030, it’s built to last.” Mbasa Kepe, BMW Group South Africa, Head of Government and External Affairs. 

The new hub, one of 12 in the country, reflects the collective vision of UNICEF, BMW Group and the DBE, emphasising inclusivity and resilience, while ensuring that all children and young people have the opportunity to learn, develop and grow their skills and knowledge.

Midrand. The BMW 3 Series can look back over an extraordinary history.

Among the key milestones along the way have been its success in pioneering a new category of vehicle, establishing itself as the embodiment of driving pleasure in its segment, and becoming the world’s top-selling premium car.

The model range was launched 50 years ago to replace the already legendary BMW 02 and is now in its seventh generation. Today, as in 1975, purchasing a BMW 3 Series represents an expression of joy in sporty, agile handling, enthusiasm for innovative technology, and appreciation of premium quality.

First unveiled at the 1975 International Motor Show (IAA) in Frankfurt, the BMW 3 Series has since developed into both the brand’s most successful model range and an international bestseller. And that makes the 3 Series a highly effective global ambassador for BMW’s core attributes. Its history is a testament to the advances achieved by the German carmaker in the areas of sporting ability, efficiency, safety, comfort and connectivity, as well as to the development of BMW design.

Cultivation of hallmark BMW qualities

Again and again, the introduction of trailblazing technological innovations in the BMW 3 Series has also broken new ground in the midsize class in general. Moreover, for five decades now, the BMW 3 Series has led the way with new vehicle concepts that have expanded the brand’s model line-up and injected fresh ideas into the segment as a whole.

The underlying character of the BMW 3 Series endures from generation to generation, complemented by the addition of new technological advances. Its design has likewise been shaped by a characteristic BMW sense of continuity and evolution. Indeed, throughout the model range’s history, its striking front end with twin circular headlights and familiar BMW kidney grille, the dynamic lines of the car’s flanks, and the powerful rear end has always been quick to catch the eye.

As for the interior, the unmistakable driver-focussed cabin design established itself as a key element. The sporty, commanding character of its engines, and the resultant performance set the BMW 3 Series apart from its competitors, as did the rear-wheel drive concept responsible for the hallmark driving pleasure delivered by this new model series.

Strong South African connection

This early dedication to sporting ability also contributed to a South African story steeped in legend. The second to sixth generations of the BMW 3 Series were produced at BMW Group Plant Rosslyn, outside Pretoria, which led to the development of certain South Africa-only versions that remain coveted around the world. The BMW 3 Series was the model first exported from South Africa in 1994.

More than 20 million BMW 3 Series vehicles have been sold since 1975 and to celebrate its 50-year milestone, 50 units of the 50 Jahre Edition for South Africa are being released.

Based on the latest, seventh generation of the BMW 3 Series, the special 320i and M340i xDrive models are inspired by iconic BMW 3 Series from the past. To honour the best-selling BMW yet, signature paint finishes of bygone BMW 3 Series’ have been revived to give these models their most distinctive feature. Look out for the Aegean Blue and British Racing Green paint finishes from the third generation, Stratus Grey from the fourth generation, and the sixth generation’s Lime Rock Grey.

The cabin benefits from a few stand-out features, too. The British Racing Green 320i, in particular, receives a striking perforated Sensatec finish in Cognac, while all M340i xDrive cabins have black Vernasca leather with blue contrast stitching. Alongside the standard M Sport package with black high-gloss accents, all models benefit from aluminium interior trim and the CraftedClarity cut glass element for the gear selector.

Furthermore, a selection of alternative 19-inch wheels is available, too. Other standard features incorporated into the BMW 50 Jahre Edition for South Africa include Comfort Access, Park Assist Plus, Adaptive M suspension, Driving Assist Professional and Harmon/Kardon surround sound.

Prices, including VAT and CO₂ tax, are:

BMW 320i 50 Jahre Edition – R1,067,730.80

BMW M340i xDrive 50 Jahre Edition – R1,422,607.30

Gauteng is set to encounter an extraordinary MINI experience. All drivers of MINIs young and old are invited to join the biggest convoy of MINIs to hit South African roads on Sunday, 14 September 2025.

MINI owners will meet at the BMW x Drive Park in Midrand by 08:30, before driving in convoy to The Ground in Muldersdrift on Gauteng’s West Rand at 09:30. At The Ground, these cars – ranging from classic Minis to the new MINI family – will recreate the iconic MINI wordmark. Furthermore, MINI owners will be able to explore various activations and enjoy the day with fellow MINI family members.

Head of MINI Carmen Myles said: “The MINI Breakfast Drive is an appreciation for our heritage and a chance to make history alongside our passionate MINI community. It embodies our Big Love for the brand and the unique experiences that only a MINI can offer. This is about more than cars; it’s about celebrating MINI with friends.”

The MINI Breakfast Drive honours the cultural MINI moments of community, lifestyle and individuality. It’s about demonstrating MINI’s “We are all different, but pretty good together” philosophy.

Be sure to register your MINI (or Mini) and get the latest updates on the MINI Breakfast Drive by following MINI South Africa on Instagram or Facebook.

Munich. The destination of the BMW Motorrad International GS Trophy 2026 has been decided: this time the off-road adventure will take place in Romania in late summer 2026. With this decision, BMW Motorrad opts for a second destination within Europe. After much sand and steppe, the event returns to the mountains. Dense forests, gravel roads, river crossings, and steep ascents and descents will characterise the upcoming International GS Trophy 2026 in Romania. In 2026, the BMW R 12 G/S will showcase its impressive on- and off-road capabilities as the GS Trophy Competition Bike while traversing the country.

Romania is renowned for its stunning natural beauty and diverse landscapes. From the majestic Carpathian Mountains to rolling hills and fertile plains, it offers a wide range of terrain for adventure seekers. For off-road enthusiasts, the Carpathian Mountains offer a challenging landscape with steep climbs, rocky paths and dense, jungle-like forests.

Romania is deeply rooted in history and culture and is home to numerous medieval castles, fortresses and churches, including the famous Bran Castle, which is often associated with the Dracula legend. The country boasts a vibrant mix of traditions and folklore. Overall, Romania offers a unique blend of natural beauty, cultural richness and adventure, making it an ideal destination for the International GS Trophy 2026 competitors.

The Int. GS Trophy 2026 Competition Bike.

A classic enduro for pure riding fun, both on and off road. Its authentic design is inspired by the legendary BMW R 80 G/S. With the new BMW R 12 G/S, BMW Motorrad is offering a classic enduro for pure off-road fun. The abbreviation borrowed from its predecessor, the R 80 G/S, also stands for "off-road (Gelände) / road (Strasse)" and signals that the new model in the BMW Motorrad R 12 family is equally at home on both terrains. Markus Lederer, Head of Boxer model series

BMW Motorrad and off-road sport. This motorsport success story runs like a red thread through the company's history. The high-torque flat-twin boxer engine in combination with the propeller shaft drive has proven its winning power and durability in countless competitions. In 2026, the BMW R 12 G/S will have the opportunity to prove itself at the International GS Trophy.

National qualifying events worldwide and another international qualifying event at the BMW Motorrad Enduro Park.

There is still some time to go before the official start of the BMW Motorrad International GS Trophy 2026, however. Meanwhile, the national and international qualifying rounds offer a foretaste of what is to come. There will be eight national qualifying events and one international qualifying round worldwide, where skilled enduro riders can demonstrate their capabilities.

In order secure a place on one of the 15 national teams, participants are required to perform GPS navigation exercises, off-road special stages and technical tests. Nine men's teams and six women's teams can look forward to the adventure.

The qualifying rounds for the BMW Motorrad International GS Trophy 2026 are confirmed for the following countries and regions:
• Australia 
• China 
• Germany 
• India 
• Japan 
• South Korea 
• Ukraine 
• International qualifying for interested parties from other countries at the BMW Motorrad Enduro Park in October 2025.

About Romania:

It is located in Eastern Europe and borders Ukraine to the north and east, Hungary and Serbia to the west, Bulgaria to the south, and Moldova and the Black Sea to the east. The country has a temperate continental climate with four distinct seasons. Summers are warm, especially in the lowlands, and winters are cold with heavy snowfall in the mountains. Spring and autumn offer mild and pleasant weather, which is ideal for off-road motorbike tours. Romanian is the official language, but many people also speak English, particularly in urban areas. With a population of around 19 million, Romania is one of the most densely populated countries in Eastern Europe. Romania is home to a rich variety of wildlife, including bears, wolves and lynx in the Carpathian Mountains. It is also home to the Danube Delta, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most biodiverse regions in Europe, offering unique opportunities for birdwatching and wetland exploration. Romania is renowned for the hospitality of its people. The cuisine is hearty and flavourful.

Capital:                   Bucharest
Population:             ~ 19 million
Size:                       238,391 km²
Currency:               Romanian leu (RON)
Language:              Romanian (the official language); English is mainly spoken in urban areas.

About the BMW Motorrad International GS Trophy.

The BMW Motorrad International GS Trophy is an event that celebrates the spirit of the legendary BMW Motorrad GS models. It encompasses everything that a BMW GS stands for: riding fun, adventure and challenges. The BMW Motorrad International GS Trophy 2026 Romania is the tenth edition of the event. The previous events took place in Namibia in 2024, in Southeast Europe (Albania) in 2022, in Oceania (New Zealand) in 2020, in Central Asia (Mongolia) in 2018, in Southeast Asia (Thailand) in 2016, in North America (Canada) in 2014, in South America (Chile, Argentina) in 2012, in southern Africa (South Africa, Swaziland, Mozambique) in 2010 and in North Africa (Tunisia) in 2008. The current event will involve 15 teams. Others involved include the GS Trophy marshals, doctors, sponsors, and a photo and film crew.

The BMW Motorrad International GS Trophy is not a race, but rather a 'once-in-a-lifetime' experience in which a diverse group of off-road enthusiasts from around the world compete in a series of special stages. Not all of these tests are purely riding tests. Skills and teamwork are essential, too. Since competitors are together for a lot of the time, also spending the night in bivouacs, this is an adventure that promotes a sense of togetherness, too. People, cultures and motorcyclists from all over the world come together, and it is not uncommon for friendships to be made for life.

Based on the experience of past GS Trophy events, the most successful teams are ultimately those that demonstrate solid preparation, excellent teamwork and riding ability, while at the same time having a lot of fun and experiencing wonderful international camaraderie.

Be sure to get in on the action!

Over the next few months, BMW Motorrad will reveal more details about the competition bike, the BMW R 12 G/S, as well as information about the participating countries and selected teams. BMW Motorrad offers a multi-channel media experience during and after the event. The spectrum ranges from live streams and up-to-date social media posts during the event and a professionally shot and edited video summary after the Int. GS Trophy 2026.

For details of event and teams, see the dedicated website gstrophy.com.

Immediately following the BMW Motorrad International GS Trophy 2026 Romania, BMW Motorrad will once again be offering “Follow the Trails” tours: these allow customers to follow in the footsteps of the competition on the original GS Trophy motorcycles.

The highly anticipated BMW M5 Touring has arrived in South Africa! Pairing everyday useability with added adrenaline, the high-performance BMW M5 Touring impresses with its monolithic design and muscular body styling. Similarly, the interior features a driver focussed cabin with M specific displays echoing a race car atmosphere.   

Renier Beneke, General Manager for Sales and Distribution, BMW South Africa, said: “The BMW M5 Touring follows the successful market introduction of the BMW M5 Sedan in South Africa last year. First revealed at the popular BMW M Fest in October 2024, the Sedan was bestowed Performance Car of the Year honours (and placed third overall) in the 2025 Old Mutual Insure South African Car of the Year. The addition of the Touring derivative to our arsenal speaks to the overwhelming popularity of this model.”

The BMW M5 Touring shares its BMW M HYBRID V8 powertrain with the proven BMW M5 sedan. The third generation of the BMW M5 Touring combines a powerful V8 engine mated to a BMW eDrive motor to generate a system output of 535 kW and 1,000 Nm of torque. The electric system provides an all-electric range up to 70 km (WLTP) for the added benefit of local emission-free mobility.

Other performance highlights include M Drive Professional, which features Boost Control, M Laptimer and Track View, the M Drivers Package for a top speed of 305 km/h, and the M sport exhaust system. The Touring derivative rolls on M5-specific mixed 20- and 21-inch wheels and tyres.

In South Africa, BMW M5 Touring owners can look forward to the sensation of a newly designed M leather steering wheel and M multifunction seats as part of a comprehensive standard specification offer.  M carbon mirror caps, Panorama Glass Roof and rear sunblinds are standard additions compared with the Sedan. The only options on offer are the deletion of the model designation, a trailer tow hitch, M Carbon brakes and brake callipers finished in high gloss black.

Ten exterior colours, including the M5 range’s exclusive Isle of Man Green and Marina Bay Blue, and Storm Bay and Frozen Deep Grey from the BMW Individual palette, are offered. The cabin receives six upholstery possibilities and the option of either M Carbon Fibre or BMW Individual Fineline Dark Oak interior trims.

The recommended retail price for the BMW M5 Touring, including VAT and Motorplan, is R2,795,000.00.

Midrand. On August 30, 2025, The BMW Art Generation Vol. III returns to NIROX Sculpture Park with a bold and immersive program focused on celebration, dialogue, and the poetics of possibility. Presented by FNB Art Joburg in partnership with BMW Group South Africa, this third edition deepens its commitment to critical thought and cultural engagement.

This year’s theme, “A Tropology Between Image and Imagination,” explores the narrative power of creative practice. Artists and cultural thinkers come together to investigate how symbolism, gesture, and form serve as tools to reclaim histories and shape speculative futures. Through this lens, the festival underscores imagination as methodology, illuminating African presence in all its complexity and nuance.

Talks Programme

A curated talks programme anchors the day’s intellectual offering:

• Talk I | Image and Imagination
  This panel features acclaimed artists such as Zanele Muholi, examining how image-making becomes a means of resistance, self-authorship, and future-building. The conversation unpacks the frameworks through which artists interpret identity, presence, and cultural mythologies.
• Talk II | Existing, Performance & Being
  Featuring luminaries like Nicholas Hlobo, this conversation responds to Koyo Kouoh’s call for loving and emancipatory depictions of Black experiences. Artists reflect on how performance and representation intersect with history, grief, and joy.

These talks serve as key moments for reflection, offering audiences deeper insight into the artistic processes and lived experiences that shape contemporary art on the continent and beyond.

Music Performances

In addition to the talks and exhibitions, headline musical performances by Sipho “Hotstix” Mabuse and Msaki will bring rhythm and resonance to NIROX Sculpture Park. Their performances weave together heritage and contemporary sound, amplifying the festival’s celebration of African imagination and creativity.

Garden Affirmations

Audiences can also join Muneyi’s Garden Affirmations, an intimate reflective session in the park that blends music, poetry, and affirming dialogue within the natural surrounds of NIROX. This addition offers a grounding moment of connection and mindfulness during the day’s programme.

Community Workshop

The BMW Centre for Art Education will also host a workshop for the Kromdraai community, led by Liesl Hartman, Head of Education at Zeitz MOCAA. This initiative encourages hands-on creativity and fosters intergenerational exchange through artmaking.

Legacy & Vision

At its core, The BMW Art Generation is about legacy-building. Since 2020, BMW and FNB Art Joburg have cultivated a new wave of art patrons through the BMW Young Collectors Co., a community committed to collecting African art and investing in local cultural ecosystems.

Taz Ramphisa, General Manager: Customer and Brand for BMW Group South Africa, notes, “BMW is committed to creativity and innovation within the art world. Art Generation reflects our ongoing support for platforms that shape discourse, nurture talent, and enrich communities.”

Mandla Sibeko, Managing Director of FNB Art Joburg, adds, “Art is a language of meaning, memory, and transformation. Through Art Generation, we honour those who stretch the limits of imagination and visual storytelling.”

The event promises a day of deep engagement with art, imagination, and dialogue, continuing to shape the future of artistic expression on African soil.

Event and Ticket Info

Date: August 30, 2025

Venue: NIROX Sculpture Park

Tickets: R500 (includes access to talks, exhibitions, and all programming)

Book here: https://tickets.tixsa.co.za/event/bmw-art-generation       

Media inquiries: zaza@artjoburg.com

ENDS

Munich. The new BMW iX3 demonstrates the BMW Group's take on implementing a holistic approach to product sustainability across the entire life cycle. During product development, extensive measures were implemented throughout the supply chain, production and use phases, explicitly focused on conserving resources and reducing the model’s environmental footprint. As such, the Neue Klasse marks an important milestone toward achieving the company's 2030 and 2050 CO₂e targets.
 
CO₂e benefits achievable after only one year of use
The extensive decarbonisation measures in the supply chain results in an early break-even point: when charged with electricity from the European energy mix, the CO₂e footprint of the new BMW iX3 50 xDrive is lower than that of a comparable model with a combustion engine after about 21,500 kilometres (WLTP combined). When charged exclusively with electricity from renewable sources, the BMW iX3 50 xDrive beats the comparable ICE model after only 17,500 kilometres (WLTP combined), allowing customers to potentially achieve CO₂e benefits in as little as one year.

Decarbonisation in the supply chain
The key levers to reduce CO₂e emissions in the supply chain are the use of secondary materials and renewable energy, alongside product and process innovations. This combination of measures has led to a decrease of CO₂e emissions in the supply chain of 35% during product development.
The Gen6 battery cells of the BMW iX3 high-voltage storage system are made of 50% secondary cobalt, lithium, and nickel materials. In addition, renewable energies are harnessed in the anode and cathode materials and cell production. This is how CO₂e emissions per watt hour were reduced by 42% compared to the Gen5 cell of the previous model.

The BMW Group is increasingly focused on the use of innovative and secondary materials in other components as well. 
For instance, 30% of the secondary raw material  used for the engine compartment cover and the storage compartment under the front hatch is recycled maritime plastic. This post-consumer material consists of old fishing nets and ropes, preventing these materials from potentially being dumped in the ocean.
Secondary aluminum accounts for 80% of the wheel carriers and swivel bearings as well as 70% of the cast aluminum wheels.

‘Design for Circularity’: consistent implementation in the Neue Klasse 
The BMW Group applied the ‘Design for Circularity’ approach consistently in developing the BMW iX3. The approach builds on the concepts of secondary first (the prioritised use of secondary materials), strategic material selection and disassembly optimisation. As a result, secondary materials account for one third of all material used in the new BMW iX3 50 xDrive.
One example of implementing these three concepts is the Econeer seat cover, available in the interior trim Essential, whose fabric, adhesive and fleece are all made from PET. This mono-material choice increases recyclability. Moreover, the textile yarn used consists entirely of recycled PET as well.
Other components whose development followed the ‘Design for Circularity’ approach include the centre console, instrument panel and interior floor trim.

Significantly improved efficiency in the use phase    
BMW EfficientDynamics involves consistently identifying and harnessing efficiency potential in all vehicle subsystems. Applying this approach, the energy consumption of the new BMW iX3 is 20% lower than in the predecessor model (WLTP combined).
This significant improvement is primarily based on optimised aerodynamic properties, reduced rolling resistance and on-board power consumption as well as the drive’s unparalleled combination of efficiency and dynamics. 

Sustainability-centric production at BMW Group’s Debrecen plant
Designed and built according to the BMW iFactory principles, the new BMW Group plant in Debrecen, Hungary, is fully focused on efficiency, digitalisation and sustainability. It is the first BMW Group vehicle factory that is operated and produces vehicles without using fossil fuels, such as oil and gas, under normal operating conditions.
The only energy source to power operations at the site is electricity. According to current planning, up to 25% of the plant's annual electricity needs can be covered by the photovoltaic system located on the premises. The remaining electricity is obtained from other renewable energy sources. Surplus solar energy is stored in a heat storage unit and used to heat the paint shop ovens as needed.
Only 0.1 tons of CO₂e are emitted in the production of a BMW iX3 car, about two thirds below production at other BMW Group plants.

The BMW Group’s sustainability targets
The BMW Group's commitment to the Paris Climate Agreement and to achieving Net Zero by 2050 or earlier is an integral part of the comprehensive 360° sustainability approach incorporated in the corporate strategy. The company is pursuing ambitious, scientifically derived CO₂e targets for the coming years. For instance, the BMW Group intends to reduce its CO₂e emissions by at least 40 million tons in 2030 (baseline: 2019).

Publicly accessible, TÜV-verified Product Carbon Footprint 
For years, the BMW Group has released its vehicle footprint, which includes a greenhouse gas report for its vehicles verified by Germany’s TÜV Technical Inspection Association. The report for the new BMW iX3 50 xDrive can be downloaded here and is also available in the My BMW app. It offers increased transparency regarding raw materials used and CO₂e emissions over the entire vehicle lifecycle.

^{All information regarding the BMW iX3 50 xDrive’s mileage, energy consumption, range, energy content, dimensions, weights, share of secondary raw materials/recycled materials and other technical data and derivations thereof are provisional as of the start of production in November 2025.}

^{All model variants, equipment levels, technical data, fuel consumption and emission data mentioned correspond to the range offered in the German car market, provided the respective model is available there. Deviations in other markets are possible. Dimensions refer to the base model available in Germany; depending on wheel and tyre size as well as optional equipment selected, dimensions may vary depending on the specific configuration.}

^{Power consumption and range data were measured in accordance with the mandatory WLTP procedures and comply with the German Passenger Car Energy Consumption Labelling Ordinance (EnVKV). For more information, see www.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 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} 

The success story at the Nürburgring continues. With a time of 7:29.490 minutes, the BMW M3 CS Touring is the fastest Touring of all time on the Nürburgring-Nordschleife. Following the impressive record set by the BMW M2 CS, which now holds the top spot in the compact category, the BMW M3 CS Touring is now another representative of the fastest production vehicles from BMW M GmbH in the mid-size category.

Franciscus van Meel, CEO of BMW M GmbH, commented on this achievement: "From the very beginning, it was clear that the BMW M3 CS Touring would set new standards in dynamics. With a time under 7:30 minutes, this model impressively demonstrates that this vehicle concept perfectly combines racing DNA with everyday usability."

The ultimate "One Car Solution."
The time of 7:29.490 minutes marks a new benchmark for the Touring in the mid-size category and is also the fastest ever recorded lap time for a Touring body style on the 20.823-kilometer-long track in the "Green Hell". In April of this year, Jörg Weidinger, BMW M development engineer and seasoned record driver, first broke the 7:30-minute barrier with a Touring Car. The previous fastest time for a Touring, set by the BMW M3 Touring in 2022, was 7:35.060 minutes. 

The mid-size category is currently dominated by the latest models from the BMW M3 and M4 family. The BMW M4 CSL holds the fastest time at 7:18.137 minutes, followed by the BMW M4 CS at 7:21.989 minutes and the BMW M3 CS at 7:28.760 minutes. The new time of the BMW M3 CS Touring, just over a second behind, showcases the vehicle's extraordinary performance, reinforcing its reputation as the perfect "One Car Solution."

BMW M is at home on the Nürburgring.
The origin and heart of BMW M's success story at the Nürburgring is the BMW M Test Centre. With its professional infrastructure and perfect location, it serves as the starting point for the successful development of new vehicle projects and testing under demanding conditions. The partnership between BMW M and the Nürburgring, which has thrived for over 25 years, is a great success and is visible from afar through landmarks such as the BMW M Power Grandstand and the BMW M Bridge. Through the offerings of the local BMW M Driving Experience, enthusiasts can drive BMW M vehicles themselves under professional guidance through the "Green Hell." The redesigned BMW M Power Showroom in 2021 emphasises the significance of the Nürburgring as the home of BMW M.

The Nürburgring Nordschleife, known worldwide as one of the most challenging racetracks, serves as a proving ground for drivers and vehicles. Spanning 20.832 kilometres and featuring over 70 corners, it demands the highest performance and driving dynamics. Lap times are a benchmark for a vehicle's sporting capabilities, with record runs monitored by a neutral testing organisation to ensure compliance with production standards.

The Nürburgring plays a crucial role for BMW M not only in development and testing but also in motorsport. BMW M vehicles have achieved numerous successes, including 21 overall victories at the 24-hour race. This year, ROWE Racing secured the latest victory. After a challenging start to the weekend, the team raced from 17th position. Kelvin van der Linde (RSA), Augusto Farfus (BRA), Jesse Krohn (FIN), and Raffaele Marciello (SUI) delivered an outstanding comeback to clinch victory for BMW M Motorsport.

The first-ever BMW M3 CS Touring: Maximum performance, typical M feeling, and absolute everyday usability.
The BMW M3 CS Touring combines unprecedented performance with maximum everyday usability, expanding the BMW M GmbH lineup with another special edition model in the high-performance sports car segment, now available for the first time as a Touring Car. The 405 kW six-cylinder in-line engine propels the vehicle from 0 to 100 km/h in just 3.5 seconds, reaching a top speed of 300 km/h. The vehicle features specially designed engine mounting and an M-specific exhaust system that delivers an emotionally charged driving sound. Power is transmitted through an eight-speed M Steptronic transmission including Drivelogic and the M xDrive all-wheel-drive system, ensuring ultra-dynamic driving characteristics and supreme traction. The chassis technology is precisely tuned, with settings for the DSC stability control and M Dynamic Mode optimised for high-performance track use. The standard M Compound braking system guarantees powerful deceleration, while an optional M Carbon-ceramic brake system is available. The interior merges a performance-oriented sports car cockpit with digital technology, exclusive design features, and a versatile interior that expands storage capacity below the high-opening tailgate from 500 to 1,510 litres.

The first-ever BMW M3 CS Touring will be available in South Africa from 2026. 

Soshanguve, Tshwane. A new chapter in youth development and community upliftment officially began on 25 July in Soshanguve, as BMW Group South Africa proudly handed over state-of-the-art facilities at Lethabong School of Specialisation (SOS) in Maths, Science & ICT. This latest phase in a series of continuous refurbishments and modern infrastructure underscores the company’s enduring commitment to creating a brighter future for South African youth through sustained investment in educational development.
The pivotal event was attended by Ilka Horstmeier, Labour Relations Director and Member of the Board of Management of BMW AG, responsible for People and Real Estate, and Peter van Binsbergen, CEO of BMW Group South Africa. They were joined by a distinguished assembly of guests, including the members from the Department of Basic Education; UNICEF South Africa and various local municipality representatives. 

A collective commitment to future generations. 
The extensive enhancements at Lethabong SOS include a new school auditorium, two advanced IT centres housing a total of 40 workstations, and a fully equipped kitchen. These vital infrastructure investments are a tangible expression of BMW Group South Africa’s impact-driven approach to corporate social responsibility, demonstrating that the company builds more than just cars – it builds futures. The newly introduced auditorium provides matriculants with a dedicated, conducive space for examinations for the first time, ensuring uninterrupted learning for all grades. Additionally, the modern kitchen serves learners with healthy meals and improves the overall learning environment.

Lethabong SOS emerged as the optimal choice, not only serving as a feeder school from Ntsha-Peu Primary School but also representing a community poised for this dedicated support. 

A vision unveiled.
During the event, both Ilka Horstmeier and Peter van Binsbergen addressed the learners, school leadership, and attendees, articulating the vision behind BMW Group South Africa’s investment. The day also featured a walkabout, allowing guests to experience firsthand the significant additions to Lethabong SOS that will deliver a fully modernised campus experience, complete with cutting-edge learning spaces and foundational amenities crucial for contemporary education. Additionally, Ilka Horstmeier engaged with school principal Maphefo Malope and the learners, gaining meaningful insights into the daily realities and aspirations of the school community.

Empowering through partnership: The BRIDGE way. 
This initiative is a cornerstone of BMW Group South Africa’s ‘BRIDGE: Educating Young People for Tomorrow, Today’ partnership with UNICEF South Africa. This collaboration aligns with UNICEF’s global ambition to reach children and young people through educational programmes worldwide, including learning in STEM subjects (science, technology, engineering and maths), a vision championed by the company’s leadership.

“Investing in education is investing in the very fabric of society. Facilities like those at Lethabong SOS create environments where young minds can truly flourish, where potential can be meticulously nurtured,” states Ilka Horstmeier. “Our work here in South Africa, as part of our broader engagements across the nation, reflects the BMW Group’s fundamental belief in empowering communities and enabling the next generation to shape their own success stories.”

The partnership with UNICEF at Lethabong SOS also unlocks unique learning avenues for students through innovative coding and robotics programmes, equipping educators with essential skills to deliver advanced curricula. This hub will extend its reach to neighbouring schools, operating as an essential resource centre in collaboration with the Department of Basic Education and UNICEF South Africa.

This country-wide programme was initiated in 2023 and provides young learners from disadvantaged schools with unparalleled access to mentorship, inspiration, and guidance within the dynamic fields of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics. By immersing these pupils in real-world STEM environments across BMW Group South Africa’s business units the programme aims to ignite a passion for innovation and cultivates the skills essential for navigating the challenges and opportunities of the future.

Building a legacy of progress.
Van Binsbergen affirmed the company’s strategic vision: “Our commitment to South Africa transcends traditional business models. The transformation at Lethabong SOS is a powerful reflection of our collective conviction that sustained investment in education and infrastructure development is paramount for national progress. It solidifies BMW Group South Africa’s leadership in responsible business practices and social transformation, inspiring assurance for a thriving tomorrow.”

This handover marks a significant step in BMW Group South Africa’s ongoing journey to support human potential and build robust educational foundations within the communities it serves.