BMW Group UK is celebrating a strong start to the summer awards season, after receiving recognition from a range of leading automotive titles. Highlights include recent successes for BMW and MINI, at the 2026 Autocar Awards, Autotrader Drivers’ Choice Awards, What Car? Tow Car Awards, Auto Express Driver Power 2026 and the EcoCar Electrified Top 50 Awards.

Autocar name Neue Klasse architecture as ‘Mundy Award for Engineering’ winner,
with MINI JCW winning ‘Future Classic’ Award at 2026 Autocar Awards.
Earlier this week, BMW Group secured two coveted accolades at the annual Autocar Awards. All-new Neue Klasse architecture has received the prestigious Mundy Award for Engineering at the 2026 Autocar Awards. The Mundy Award is a highly regarding award that recognises standout engineering feats within the automotive industry for their exceptional technical contributions and innovation. The Neue Klasse architecture underlines the future BMW model portfolio, with BMW iX3, BMW 7 Series & BMW i3 already announced, and up to 40 new or updated models launching in the coming two years. Speaking on the origins, Mike Reichelt, the Head of Neue Klasse, stated that “we went all in and pushed every technology to the boundaries to lead BMW into the future. Ultimately it feels like a BMW, but a completely modern one and a new interpretation of what a BMW should be. And that’s the biggest compliment we can get”. The Neue Klasse architecture marks the first time a ‘product’ has been received this prize, rather than an individual person, since the Autocar’s inaugural awards ceremony in 2017. Speaking on the win, judges commented that the first of the Neue Klasse models – the BMW iX3 – “is amongst the finest electric cars yet”.

MINI was also victorious on the night, as Autocar named the MINI John Cooper Works (JCW) as the winner of their Future Classic Award for 2026. The MINI JCW was praised for its “compelling hot hatchback charm and trademark desirability”, as it was benchmarked on its driving dynamics and significance in the current automotive market.

BMW iX3 wins ‘Youtube Director Award’ at Autotrader Drivers’ Choice Awards 2026.
At the ninth annual Autotrader Drivers’ Choice Awards, the BMW iX3 was revealed as the winner of this year’s Youtube Director Award. This award is presented to a vehicle launched during the past 12 months that has stood out above the competition after being tested by Autotrader’s Youtube Director, Rory Reid.

Speaking on the accolade, Rory commented, “The BMW iX3 stands out as a genuinely complete electric car. It combines a strong real-world range with everyday practicality, a high-quality, intuitive interior, and a driving experience that still feels distinctively BMW.” To conclude, Rory states, “[the iX3 is] one of the most convincing all-round EVs on sale today”.

Triple success for BMW at 2026 What Car? Tow Car Awards.
The annual What Car? Tow Car Awards help drivers choose a car that performs well both when towing and during everyday driving. Since its introduction in 2007, these awards assist buyers when it comes to towing capabilities across a range of weight classes. This year, the BMW 530e Touring was selected as the overall winner, claiming the headline award, as well as class winner for ‘best car for caravans over 1,700kg’. Speaking on the triumph, judges praised the BMW 530e Touring for its “extreme stability”, “excellent fuel economy”, and “luxurious and roomy” interior. What Car? Editor, Steve Huntingford concluded by stating, “we tested many impressive cars this year, but none is better than the overall champion, the BMW 530e Touring. It makes an exceptional tow car”.

Meanwhile, the all-new BMW iX3 was awarded ‘best electric car for caravans over 1,400kg’. What Car? commented, “Electric tow cars are improving at an impressive rate. There’s no better example than the BMW iX3”. As reigning What Car? Car of the Year, the BMW iX3 impressed judges by being a “powerful and stable tow car”, and What Car? Editor, Steve Huntingford, emphasised that the BMW iX3 is the “new standard-setter for electric tow cars”.

BMW takes home four trophies at EcoCar Electrified Top 50 Awards 2026.
BMW was recently awarded four category wins at the EcoCar Electrified Top 50 Awards 2026. Now in its fifth year as a standalone awards event, the Top 50 celebrate the very best electric, hybrid, plug-in hybrid, mild hybrid and hydrogen vehicles on sale in the UK. The 2026 awards saw BMW triumph, with four models placing within the top 31.

The all-new BMW iX3 was crowned ‘Best Electric Executive SUV’, as judges praised its “class leading” electric range, “premium interior”, and “BMW’s characteristic driving dynamics”.

Meanwhile, for the fifth consecutive year, the BMW iX was selected as “Best Electric Luxury SUV”. Judges commented, “A recent facelift has only improved what was already one of the finest electric vehicles on sale”. Impressed by the model’s “lounge-like interior”, “state of the art” display screen, and usable performance, Diesel & Eco Car Editor, Ian Robertson, stated that the BMW iX is “one of his favourite cars on sale right now”.

The BMW 5 Series and BMW i5 were named as “Best Plug-in Hybrid Executive Car” & “Best Electric Executive Car” respectively. Judges described these cars as “exceptional all-rounders that combine refinement, driver engagement and practicality in a thoroughly convincing package. Touring estate versions only enhance its appeal”.

Best Coupe and Family Car wins for BMW at Auto Express’ 2026 Driver Power survey.
The annual Auto Express Driver Power survey asks thousands of new car buyers to share their thoughts on the current automotive market and their real-world experiences during vehicle ownership. The results provide a good insight into what new car owners actually think of the cars they purchased and drive every day, helping fellow motorists choose their next vehicles. This year, BMW performed across a number of classes. The BMW 2 Series was named as ‘Best Coupe’, with buyers highlighting interior quality, driving pleasure and engine sounds as reasons to recommend. Particular praise was given to the infotainment system, with extra points noted for the ‘user-friendly controls and smartphone connectivity.

Meanwhile the BMW 1 Series was triumphant in ‘Best Family Car’ category with highlights including infotainment technology, interior styling and reliability. Notable impressions being that the BMW 1 Series scored highest in the survey for front seat comfort with 93.2% of customers rating this highly. The two above BMW models both placed within the top 6 of the 50 surveyed models.

Ends


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


For further information please contact:

Sam Buckingham
Press Officer, MINI
Tel: 07815 362 262
Samuel.Buckingham@mini.co.uk

Tom Evans
Senior Press Officer, BMW
Tel: 07815 371 705
Email: Tom.Evans@bmw.co.uk

James Morrison
Head of Product Communications
Tel: 07815 372 646
Email: James.Morrison@bmw.co.uk

Christina Burnham-Hepe
Corporate Communications Director
Tel: 07815 371 206
Email: Christina.Burnham-Hepe@bmw.co.uk

Note: This press release is a 1:1 copy of the original issued by BMW headquarters in Germany. No adaptions have been made to cater to the UK market.  

Munich. Autumn 2025 adds revised powertrains, new features and practical details to the current BMW model range. The entry-level models into the world of BMW M – the BMW M240i xDrive Coupé as well as the corresponding models in the BMW 3 Series and 4 Series – will in future have more powerful and fuel-efficient petrol engines. In the BMW 4 Series Gran Coupé and the BMW i4, the optional Adaptive LED Headlights will now also include laser rear lights.

More power, reduced consumption for BMW M240i xDrive Coupé and the entry-level models into the world of BMW M in the BMW 3 Series and BMW 4 Series.

Autumn 2025 will see both the BMW M340i xDrive Sedan (WLTP combined (EnVKV): fuel consumption 7.5 litres/100 km; CO₂ emissions 172 g/km; CO₂ class F) and the BMW M340i xDrive Touring (WLTP combined (EnVKV): fuel consumption 7.9 litres/100 km; CO₂ emissions 181 g/km; CO₂ class G) fitted with a more powerful variant of the 3.0-litre six-cylinder in-line petrol engine. It now has an output of 288 kW/392 hp, with the mild hybrid system contributing 9 kW/12 hp. The overall increase in power over the previous model is 13 kW/18 hp. Maximum torque has also increased by 40 Nm, to 540 Nm.

This revised powertrain will in future also be fitted in the BMW M440i xDrive Coupé (WLTP combined (EnVKV): fuel consumption 7.7 litres/100 km; CO₂ emissions 175 g/km; CO₂ class F), the BMW M440i xDrive Convertible (WLTP combined (EnVKV): fuel consumption 7.7 litres/100 km; CO₂ emissions 176 g/km; CO₂ class G) and the BMW M440i xDrive Gran Coupé (WLTP combined (EnVKV): fuel consumption 7.8 litres/100 km; CO₂ emissions 179 g/km; CO₂ class G).

The output increase makes for even more dynamic performance in the BMW 3 Series and BMW 4 Series models mentioned above. It shaves 0.1 seconds off the time it takes each model to accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h. As a result, the BMW M340i xDrive Sedan can now perform this sprint in just 4.3 seconds. The BMW M240i xDrive Coupé (WLTP combined (EnVKV): fuel consumption 8.0 litres/100 km; CO₂ emissions 183 g/km; CO₂ class G) now also comes fitted with this more powerful engine.

In addition to the output boost, all models benefit from a significant increase in engine efficiency. As a result, the WLTP fuel consumption of the BMW M240i xDrive Coupé, for example, drops from 8.8–8.7 litres/100 km to 8.0 litres/100 km. CO₂ emissions were likewise reduced, from the previous 200–199 g/km to 183 g/km (see table below for all fuel consumption and emissions figures of the new powertrains).

New exterior colours for the BMW 2 Series Gran Coupé, Adaptive LED headlights available for more BMW 4 Series models, practical addition for the BMW 5 Series family.
From autumn 2025, an additional exterior colour will be available as an option for all versions of the BMW 2 Series Gran Coupé with the M Sport design or the M Sport package. Cape York Green can be ordered for the first time in conjunction with these trim levels.

The optional Adaptive LED Headlights for the BMW 4 Series Gran Coupé and BMW i4 will also benefit from a significant upgrade. In addition to headlights that will illuminate the road evenly in every situation, this option will now also include laser rear lights. Moreover, Adaptive LED Headlights are also available as an individual option without the M Sport package Pro for the BMW 420i, BMW 420d and BMW 420d xDrive.

In conjunction with Veganza and Merino upholstery, the comprehensive standard equipment in the BMW X3 now also includes rear headrests and side sections of the second row of seats in the upholstery colour. This further enhances the premium appeal of the BMW X3 interior.

All BMW 5 Series, BMW i5 and BMW M5 Sedan and Touring models will in future offer a very handy feature. A coat hook on the B-pillar trim, provided as standard, makes transporting jackets and coats particularly easy.

Improvements related to BMW Connected Drive.
From autumn 2025, the Charging Guide in the Explore tab of the My BMW app will offer relevant help on all aspects of charging – e.g., “How do I charge?”, or “How do I optimise charging?” This helps to make charging stops as convenient and efficient as possible.

BMW Maps charge-optimised route planning for all-electric vehicles is now also available in BMW vehicles with Operating System 8 and 8.5 in Bulgaria, Croatia, Greece, Romania, Serbia and Singapore.

* All new models available with start of production in November or December 2025.

BMW UK has collected 12 industry awards in recent weeks, reflecting strong recognition across a broad range of segments. Five awards were presented at last night’s Auto Express New Car Awards, including two wins for the newly revised BMW iX. Also announced this week was EcoCar’s Electrified Top 50 for 2025, which featured a double win for the BMW i5, alongside recognition for the BMW iX, BMW i7 and BMW 330e. The BMW iX3 and BMW i4 further contributed to BMW’s winning streak, after each took a top spot at the 2025 Autotrader Driver’s Choice Awards, based on feedback from British car owners.

BMW claims five accolades at the Auto Express New Car Awards 2025.
BMW proudly collected five awards at last night’s Auto Express New Car Awards, judged by the title’s expert automotive editorial team. The awards are designed to help car buyers choose the best models on the market, with judging based on practicality, efficiency, price, reliability and the overall driving experience.

Congratulating BMW on its achievements this year, Auto Express Editor Paul Barker said: “Five separate awards across four of its models highlights the strength and depth of BMW’s range, with cars as diverse as the sporty 2 Series Coupé and big iX electric SUV picked out by our judges as the best at what they do... “BMW manages to keep driving pleasure core to its cars’ appeal without sacrificing practicality or efficiency, and we’re delighted it keeps producing the goods.”

The new BMW iX was presented with two awards on the night, recognising it as both Premium SUV of the Year and Premium Electric Car of the Year. Describing the iX as “a hugely impressive premium SUV” which has “got even better with its recent update”, Auto Express judges commended the technology flagship for its “stunning interior” and a driving experience which “completely belies its size and weight”. It’s “hugely practical” and “a brilliant and comfortable long-distance cruiser”, judges added.

In the Premium Mid-sized SUV category, the BMW X3 stood out among the competition, with the latest generation described as “moving the game on”. “It had an awful lot to live up to, considering how good its predecessor was,” said judges. Yet the new BMW X3 continues to deliver, impressing the panel with its diverse powertrains, innovative technology, cabin quality and practicality, with “almost no flaws.”

The publication’s preferred Premium Hybrid was the BMW 530e, with this latest award further reinforcing the eighth-generation 5 Series’ reputation as the world’s most successful business saloon. “Great range figures from the battery and electric motor combined with an engaging drive, plush cabin and cutting-edge tech gives the BMW 530e an edge over any of its rivals,” Barker commented. “It's comfortable and refined on the motorway but fun when you're off the main roads – our favourite premium hybrid car.”

The fourth and final BMW to receive praise at the ceremony was the BMW 2 Series Coupé, after it was named Premium Coupé of the Year. Speaking on the win, Barker said, “The 2 Series Coupé feels like an old-school BMW, in a good way. Its simple front-engine, rear-drive layout delivers a hugely engaging driving experience in compact and nimble dimensions, and the crowning glory is the incredible M2.”

Five awards presented to BMW at the EcoCar Electrified Top 50 Awards 2025.
Held annually, the EcoCar Electrified Top 50 counts down the very best cars in the electrified world, encompassing a wide variety of electrified powertrains from mild hybrid to fully electric. The BMW 330e, BMW i7 and BMW i5 all featured in this year’s shortlist, while the new BMW iX placed fifth in the overall rankings. In addition, each model topped its respective category, with the BMW i5 securing a double win.

Now offering up to 63 miles (WLTP¹) of all-electric range, the recently refreshed BMW 330e was voted EcoCar’s Best Plug-in Hybrid Compact Executive Car, described as the “ideal” choice for “business users and urban drivers alike.” Speaking on the win, judges said, “The 2.0-litre petrol engine and electric motor work in seamless tandem, while the handling remains benchmark-sharp. Subtle styling tweaks and an improved infotainment system further cement its all-round appeal.”

Next to be recognised was the BMW i7, which took home the award for Best Electric Luxury Car. “As luxury EVs go, few can match the serenity and spectacle of the BMW i7,” said EcoCar. Praised for its substantial single-charge range, “limousine levels of comfort” and “jaw-dropping” rear-seat theatre screen, the flagship saloon was also commended by judges for its “exceptional” refinement, “effortless” performance and for a technology package that manages to be “futuristic without being overwhelming.”

The title for Best Electric Luxury SUV was awarded to the new BMW iX, which secured fifth place in EcoCar’s Top 50 countdown. The BMW iX’s “carbon core chassis, refined ride and spacious lounge-like interior deliver comfort and composure in equal measure,” said EcoCar Editor, Ian Robertson. “Technology lovers will enjoy the vast curved display and sophisticated driver assistance systems, while luxury SUV buyers will appreciate its serene character and quality materials throughout. It’s like sitting in your lounge on your driveway.”

The BMW i5 rounded off the awards with a double win, after it was named Best Electric Executive Car and Best Electric Estate Car. Labelled by EcoCar as a “masterclass in premium motoring,” the BMW i5 was acknowledged for its compelling technology package, efficiency and overall refinement. “Estate buyers will love the new Touring models, that are a perfect blend of business sense and driving pleasure,” the judging panel added.

Autotrader celebrate the BMW i4 and BMW iX3 at their Drivers’ Choice Awards.
Formerly known as the Autotrader New Car Awards, the Drivers’ Choice Awards are uniquely positioned as they are judged not by the opinions of industry leaders, but by car owners themselves. Over 200,000 British car owners completed an online survey, determining 20 of this year’s 25 award-winning models and sharing exactly what they thought of their car.

BMW celebrated double success, as the brand received two coveted category wins. First to be recognised was the BMW iX3, which continues to impress the driving public as it was named the UK’s Best Premium Electric Car for 2025. The BMW i4 also triumphed, taking top spot in the UK’s Best Car for Families category.

Commenting on BMW’s success, Erin Baker, Autotrader’s Editorial Director, said, “BMW has made huge strides with its electric range, and securing two separate trophies is a huge and much deserved achievement.

“The i4 proves that SUVs aren’t the only choice for families and confidently fended off competition from much larger rivals. It scored top marks for its ability to carry a family of four in comfort whilst having plenty of oomph to put a smile on the driver’s face. And if recognition for one brilliant EV wasn’t enough, BMW’s iX3 took the trophy for Best Premium Electric Car, receiving high praise from owners for its design inside and out, with one telling us that ‘It’s extremely well packaged and designed with lots of usable space, has excellent range and brilliant performance to boot.’ Great work BMW.”


Ends

1) Up to 63 miles of all-electric range achievable for the BMW 330e Saloon as part of the WLTP test cycle.


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

 

For further information please contact:

Tom Evans
Senior Press Officer, BMW
Tel: 07815 371 705
Email: Tom.Evans@bmw.co.uk

Chris Overall
BMW Media Relations Manager
Tel: 07815 370 990
Email: Chris.Overall@bmw.co.uk

Christina Burnham-Hepe
Corporate Communications Director
Tel: 07815 371 206
Email: Christina.Burnham-Hepe@bmw.co.uk

BMW Group UK has made a strong start to the new year, picking up four coveted category wins at the prestigious What Car? Car of the Year Awards 2025. BMW collected three headline awards – with the BMW M3 Touring, BMW 4 Series and BMW X7 continuing to lead their respective classes – and a further six subcategory wins. Meanwhile, MINI was named Most Reliable Manufacturer.

The BMW M3 Touring retains its Performance Car of the Year title for the second consecutive year. Commenting on the win, Steve Huntingford, Editor of What Car? said, “The M3 Touring is one of those cars that's built to handle every scenario you can throw at it – and it does so with devastating effectiveness. Relatively compact exterior dimensions allow it to dance through corners, while its twin-turbo straight-six engine hits all the right notes. Yet the M3 Touring is just as capable of playing the practical and classy family car when circumstances demand."

The BMW 4 Series celebrated its win as What Car? Coupé/Convertible of the Year, continuing its impressive streak in the convertible category, where it has been named ‘Best Convertible’ for five consecutive years. The second-generation 4 Series received an array of updates last year, including a refreshed exterior design, striking new headlights and a redesigned cockpit. On presenting the award, Huntingford said, "While many convertibles feel vague and ponderous compared with their coupé sisters, the 4 Series is great to drive whether you go for the hard-top or the soft-top. The 4 Series is also a full four-seater, with enough space in the back for a couple of six-footers. And its interior combines high-quality materials with a class-leading infotainment system”.

The BMW X7 garnered BMW’s third category win of the evening after being crowned Luxury Car of the Year. The latest variant of the BMW X7 was introduced in 2022, and  has since been widely recognised for its premium feel, exceptional level of standard equipment and spaciousness – with room for up to seven passengers thanks to three rows of seats. What Car? judges praised the model, stating, “The BMW X7 is the rolling embodiment of the sort of houses you see on TV's Grand Designs: spacious, striking and beautifully constructed. What's more, the optional Ultimate Pack makes the interior of this luxury SUV even more cosseting, and brings upgraded air suspension that delivers a more stable and luxurious ride than any rival can offer."

The MINI brand was also recognised on the night as What Car?’s Most Reliable Manufacturer. Highlighting the dependability of MINI’s product range, Huntingford commented, "MINI had the lowest fault rate of any brand featured in the 2024 What Car? Reliability Survey. What's more, on the rare occasions things did go wrong, all of the cars remained driveable and almost half of issues were resolved in a day or less. MINI even showed that going electric is no barrier to producing dependable models, with the MINI Electric achieving a hugely impressive 98.4% reliability score”.

Alongside the above overall category wins, a further six BMW models were recognised for their excellence within sub-categories.

Three vehicles within BMW’s fully electric portfolio were commended. The first was the BMW i7, which topped the Best Electric Luxury Car category, adding a further win to the flagship’s growing list of accolades. Meanwhile, the BMW iX won the Family SUV Best Interior award – a testament to its meticulously crafted and comfortable cabin. The BMW i5 also stood out for its interior, winning the Best Executive Car Interior for a second consecutive year.

In addition, the recently revised BMW 330e which now offers up to 63 miles (WLTP, combined) of all-electric range was recognised as the Best Plug-in Hybrid to Drive. The BMW M240i Coupe won Best Performance Car for Value, with judges commending the model’s comprehensive offering at its price point. Finally, the BMW 1 Series won the award for Best Family Car Interior, continuing its success in this category from the previous year. Launched last year, the fourth-generation BMW 1 Series boasts a premium and versatile cabin with class-leading interior technology.

To learn more about these award-winning brands, please visit https://bmw.co.uk/ or https://mini.co.uk/.


Ends


The BMW Group

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

In 2024, the BMW Group sold over 2.45 million passenger vehicles and more than 210,000 motorcycles worldwide. The profit before tax in the financial year 2023 was € 17.1 billion on revenues amounting to € 155.5 billion. As of 31 December 2023, the BMW Group had a workforce of 154,950 employees.

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

www.bmwgroup.com
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

For further information please contact:

Sam Buckingham
Press Officer, MINI
Tel: 07815 362 262
Samuel.Buckingham@mini.co.uk

Tom Evans
Senior Press Officer, BMW
Tel: 07815 371 705
Email: Tom.Evans@bmw.co.uk

Helen Wilson
MINI Media Relations Manager
Tel: 07815 372 480
Email: Helen.Wilson@mini.co.uk

Chris Overall
BMW Media Relations Manager
Tel: 07815 370 990
Email: Chris.Overall@bmw.co.uk

Christina Burnham-Hepe
Corporate Communications Director
Tel: 07815 371 206
Email: Christina.Burnham-Hepe@bmw.co.uk

BMW and MINI announce an exciting line-up of model updates launching in November, including new BMW 1 Series variants, additional powertrains for the 5 Series Touring, and faster AC charging for select plug-in hybrid models. Meanwhile, MINI will expand personalisation options across its portfolio. Alongside these model enhancements, BMW Group UK has recently received prestigious awards from Carbuyer, Marie Claire, Parkers, The Caravan and Motorhome Club, and What Car? recognising the company and its products across a range of categories.

Introducing a range of BMW model updates from November 2024.
Closely following the launch of the fourth-generation BMW 1 Series, an additional model variant, the 123 xDrive, will join the line-up to bridge the gap between the 120 and range-topping M135 xDrive. This additional all-wheel-drive option is powered by an electrified four-cylinder drive unit featuring 48V mild hybrid technology, resulting in a combined system output of 218 hp. In addition, the BMW M135 xDrive receives an exclusive new M Dynamic Package, bringing additional bracing elements and lightweight construction measures, plus specific chassis components to give the range-topper bespoke performance characteristics.

The line-up of drive systems for the new BMW 5 Series Touring will also be expanded from November, with the introduction of new 520i and 550e xDrive model variants. The introductory BMW 520i Touring mates the latest four-cylinder petrol engine with 48V mild hybrid technology to generate a maximum output of 190 hp and peak torque of 310 Nm. These figures can be raised up to 208 hp and 330 Nm courtesy of the mild hybrid system’s crankshaft-driven starter-generator.

Meanwhile the BMW 550e xDrive, a six-cylinder in-line petrol engine with BMW TwinPower Turbo technology, joins forces with the latest version of BMW eDrive technology for plug-in-hybrid systems. The 3.0-litre engine produces a nominal output of 313 hp at 5,000 – 6,500 rpm and a nominal torque of 450 Nm at 1,750 – 4,700 rpm. The electric motor developed for the hybrid drive system is integrated – together with its power electronics – directly into the eight-speed Steptronic Sport transmission and contributes up to 197 hp to the peak system output of 489 hp. The electric motor’s nominal torque of up to 280 Nm is boosted to as much as 450 Nm at the transmission input for the motor with the help of a pregearing stage patented by BMW. With assistance from the BMW xDrive intelligent all-wheel-drive system, the new BMW 550e xDrive Touring completes the 0-62 mph sprint in just 4.4 seconds.

Finally, all plug-in hybrid versions of the BMW 5 Series, BMW X5 xDrive50e and the new BMW M5 Saloon will benefit from increased AC charging rates. The increase from 7.4 kW to 11 kW enables users to replenish the high-voltage battery of their vehicle in a significantly shorter time. It will now be possible to charge the battery in the BMW X5 xDrive50e from 0 to 100 per cent within three hours, while the 0 to 100 per cent charging times for the BMW M5 and plug-in-hybrid variants of the BMW 5 Series will be reduced by an hour to just 2 hours 15 minutes.

MINI model updates from the tail end of 2024.
From November 2024, MINI will be expanding personalisation options within the Classic, Sport and Exclusive trim structures across the new MINI family. British Racing Green exterior body colour is now available for all vehicles within the MINI family, while Sunnyside Yellow is now additionally offered across all MINI Cooper models.

For customers choosing Sport trim, Blazing Blue exterior body colour is now available on the MINI Countryman, Icy Sunshine Blue on MINI Cooper models, and brand new 17” Sprint Spoke Alloy wheels become standard on all Sport trim, petrol MINI Cooper models.

Classic and Exclusive trims have also been bolstered with additional wheel options. The 17” U-Spoke Dark Grey wheel is now available optionally on all Exclusive trim MINI Cooper vehicles, while the 19” Runway Spoke Black Alloy wheel currently offered on Sport trim for the MINI Countryman is now available in Classic and Exclusive trim also.

BMW 2 Series Coupe crowned ‘Best Sports Car’ at the Carbuyer New Car Awards. 
Remaining undefeated for a third consecutive year, the BMW 2 Series Coupe was crowned ‘Best Sports Car’ at the 2025 Carbuyer New Car Awards. “The BMW 2 Series Coupe is a sleek two-door that serves up BMW’s legendary driving precision in a relatively affordable package. Just as rewarding in entry-level 220i guise as it is in the hot M240i xDrive configuration, which brings searing acceleration and thrilling grip levels," said Carbuyer Editor, Paul Barker. "The 2 Series Coupe is also compact, making it easy to live with, while it boasts an upmarket interior.”

What Car? names the BMW 330e ‘Used Hybrid Car of the Year’.
The What Car? Used Car of the Year awards highlight the best buys on the used car market today, and this year the BMW 330e took the top spot as ‘Used Hybrid Car of the Year’. Commenting on the win, What Car? judges said, “The 330e is great to drive, has a plush interior, a smooth hybrid set-up, an intuitive infotainment system, a good reliability record and it's great value for money when bought at a few years old.”

Triple win at the Parkers New Car Awards.
BMW celebrates success at the recent Parkers New Car Awards, with the BMW i7/7 Series, BMW i4 and BMW 3 Series each topping their respective class.

Praised for its pricing, range and performance, the BMW i7/7 Series was named ‘Best Luxury Car’ for the second consecutive year. On presenting the award, Parkers Editor, Keith Adams said, “If you’re in the market for a luxury car, the all-electric BMW i7 and hybrid 7 Series have all your needs covered beautifully. As you’d expect, both are great to drive, but for those riding in the rear, nothing can touch them at this price point. The i7, in particular, is silently restful, offers a brilliant driving range, quick charging and effortless performance. No wonder it’s two years in a row for this flagship motor.”

Continuing the awards, the BMW i4 reprised its position as ‘Best Company Car’. “The BMW i4 set a new benchmark in the premium car segment when it launched in 2021 and it remains unsurpassed today,” said Adams. Parkers also paid tribute to the model’s desirability, well-equipped specification and noted its “competitive leasing rates, making it an affordable company car choice.”

The third and final BMW to take home a gong was the previous generation BMW 3 Series, celebrated by Parkers as ‘Best Used Car’. After praising its “sharp-suited looks”, driving dynamics and “broad selection of powertrains”, Adams summarised, “Other compact executives are more luxurious, while others are even faster, but none of them is as special as a BMW 3 Series - reason enough to make this a used car we can wholeheartedly recommend.”

Marie Claire honours BMW Group at annual Sustainability Awards.
The Marie Claire Sustainability Awards reward those who demonstrate a commitment to maximum sustainability across a diverse range of industries. At this year’s ceremony, the BMW Group prevailed, securing two awards in the Motors category, which acknowledges companies who are leading the charge in eco-friendly driving.

The first win came from the MINI Countryman, as it was named in the ‘Electric Cars’ sub-class. The model’s sustainable interior materials contributed to the win, with Marie Claire highlighting its dashboard and door panels made from 90 per cent recycled polyester. The vehicle’s manufacturing process played an equal part in this win, with BMW Group Plant Leipzig featuring four on-site wind turbines for energy production and a battery storage farm to ensure surplus energy can be stored and used at a later stage.

BMW Group “is to be commended for adding so much detail to the scrutiny of its various sustainability claims, rather than just adding links to websites, particularly the level of detail around its water management at its global plants – I was taken by the monsoon water being collected in India to provide 100% of plant water requirements,” notes Marie Claire judge, Erin Baker. “I like the fact it is sourcing its critical minerals directly, and that it tracks and traces Scope 3 emissions.”

BMW Group’s second Marie Claire award win was attributed to the introduction of the BMW iX5 Hydrogen pilot fleet – which visited the UK last year.  While a production vehicle won’t be available until 2028, this pilot is an important first step on the road to creating a sustainable alternative to not only traditional fossil fuels, but to battery electric cars too. Marie Claire was particularly impressed by the BMW Group’s “forward-thinking” research into hydrogen fuel cell technology, as well as the iX5 Hydrogen’s zero-local-emissions drive and 313-mile range.

BMW Group UK secures three wins at the What Car? Electric Car Awards.
The What Car? Electric Car Awards pay tribute to the best electrified vehicles currently on sale. At this year’s awards, BMW Group UK triumphed, securing three coveted category wins across its electrified model portfolio.

Combining excellent driving dynamics, sporty elegance and modern functionality, the BMW i5 Touring clinched the award for ‘Best Electric Estate Car’. What Car? judges endorsed the Touring as a “well rounded” estate, while commending the model’s impressive 570-litre boot capacity, “intuitive controls”, “rich mixture of high-quality materials” and the “healthy 335bhp” of the entry-level eDrive40 model variant.

Also praised at the awards was the BMW i7, which secured the accolade for ‘Best Luxury Car’ for the second year running. Commenting on the win, judges said, “As if the petrol-powered BMW 7 Series wasn’t already luxurious enough, the i7 adds the extra quietness that comes only with electric power, taking the sense of tranquillity and relaxation to a whole new level.”

MINI also received recognition from What Car?, with the MINI Cooper SE receiving the award for ‘Best Electric Small Car’. “The new electric Mini Cooper could convince you that the legendary (extremely) small car should have been electric from the beginning,” said What Car?. Judges continued by paying tribute to the hot hatch’s “precise, confidence-inspiring steering”, commendable 0-62mph sprint time (just 6.7 seconds) and its “huge leap” in single-charge range compared to its predecessor.

BMW i5 Touring triumphs at Towcar of the Year 2025.
The annual Caravan and Motorhome Club Towcar of the Year awards are the leisure vehicle industry’s original and longest-standing towcar testing awards and exist to help caravan owners select the car best suited to their individual towing needs.

At the 2025 awards, the BMW i5 eDrive40 M Sport Pro Touring conquered, taking home three awards: first winning the ‘1500kg–1600kg’ caravan weight class, before being named ‘Best Luxury Towcar’ and overall ‘Best Electric Towcar’. Commenting on the win, judges said, “The 5 Series Touring has traditionally been a great towcar and the brand-new electric version (the first-ever electric 5 Series) keeps up the tradition. It’s a luxurious estate car with a wonderful blend of desirable features that bowled over the judges. BMW’s latest interiors offer outstanding tech and fantastic build quality, while there’s loads of space in the back seats and boot. Engaging handling just sealed the deal. It also took the Electric Towcar and Luxury Towcar category wins for its fantastic drive, a claimed solo 324-mile range from its 81.2kWh battery, and plush feel.”

Ends


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

In 2023, the BMW Group sold over 2.55 million passenger vehicles and more than 209,000 motorcycles worldwide. The profit before tax in the financial year 2023 was € 17.1 billion on revenues amounting to € 155.5 billion. As of 31 December 2023, the BMW Group had a workforce of 154,950 employees.

The success of the BMW Group has always been based on long-term thinking and responsible action, from the supply chain through production to the end of the use phase of all products.

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

For further information please contact:

Sam Buckingham
Press Officer, MINI
Tel: 07815 362 262
Samuel.Buckingham@mini.co.uk

Tom Evans
Senior Press Officer, BMW
Tel: 07815 371 705
Email: Tom.Evans@bmw.co.uk

Helen Wilson
MINI Media Relations Manager
Tel: 07815 372 480
Email: Helen.Wilson@mini.co.uk

Chris Overall
BMW Media Relations Manager
Tel: 07815 370 990
Email: Chris.Overall@bmw.co.uk

Christina Burnham-Hepe
General Manager, Communications
Tel: 07815 371 206
Email: Christina.Burnham-Hepe@bmw.co.uk

Graham Biggs
Corporate Communications Director
Tel: 07815 376 867
Email: Graham.Biggs@bmw.co.uk 

BMW Group UK is celebrating a successful July, with an array of award wins from Autocar, Auto Express, Diesel&EcoCar magazine, Parkers and What Car? Both models banking three accolades, the trailblazing BMW 5 Series and luxurious BMW 7 Series continue to impress, while the BMW i4 adds an extraordinary 22^nd award to its cabinet. Topping more categories than any other manufacturer, BMW is leading the industry according to the recent British Vehicle Rental and Leasing Association (BVRLA) OEM Relationship Survey, and the latest BMW Group models complete the GREENFLEET EV Rally to demonstrate the effective roles electric vehicles can play in UK fleets. July was also a prosperous month for MINI, as Auto Express crowns the all-new MINI Countryman their ‘Premium Small SUV’ of the year.

Recent BVRLA survey reveals BMW as leading OEM.
The inaugural British Vehicle Rental and Leasing Association OEM Relationship Survey was published in June, which collated feedback from 26 key leasing members on their relationships with manufacturers. The results revealed BMW as the frontrunner, topping more categories than any other manufacturer.

The survey ranked 23 leading OEMs based on various criteria, including: ‘Quality of the Working Relationship’, ‘Vehicle Purchasing Process’, ‘Products and Services’, ‘In-life Services’, ‘Electric Vehicles’ and ‘Financial Support’. BMW achieved 14 ‘Best in Class’ scores and dominated the Products and Services section, ranking first in five out of seven subcategories – a testament to the brand’s class-leading products and services.

BMW 5 Series crowned Best Plug-in Hybrid at the Autocar Awards 2024.
Offered with a diverse powertrain portfolio and widely recognised as the world’s most successful business saloon, the BMW 5 Series sustains its winning streak after clinching the accolade for ‘Best Plug-in Hybrid’ at the 2024 Autocar Awards.

Autocar judges were particularly impressed by the BMW 550e xDrive, describing it as a “truly compelling PHEV” with an ability to appeal to sports saloon lovers and company car buyers alike. The high-performance saloon received additional praise for offering more power and electric-only range than its predecessor, while retaining a “pliant ride and a good dose of dynamism.” The BMW 530e was also commended, with Autocar commenting, “The four-cylinder 530e is more than quick enough, handles well, has competitive electric range and efficiency and uses its battery power very cleverly to make sure that you get the best of both worlds as often and for as long as possible.”

BMW Group takes the lead in three categories at the Auto Express New Car Awards.
The annual Auto Express New Car Awards serves to recognise the best cars currently on sale across the entire automotive landscape, helping the car-buying public choose the right model for them regardless of budgets and requirements. At this year’s ceremony, BMW Group prevailed with the BMW 5 Series, BMW 7 Series and MINI Countryman each topping their respective class.

With an all-electric range of up to 63 miles (WLTP), the BMW 5 Series was awarded ‘Premium Hybrid Car of the Year’, adding another gong to its July tally. Meanwhile, the BMW 7 Series claimed the title for ‘Luxury Car of the Year’, upholding its reputation as the brand’s flagship saloon.

Speaking on the win, Auto Express Editor, Paul Barker said, “BMW’s class and appeal are highlighted by a pair of 2024 Auto Express New Car Award wins, showing the brand is better than ever at combining driving pleasure, technology, efficiency and all-round appeal. The new 5 Series hybrid’s efficiency impresses as part of a superb all-round package and the 7 Series is the epitome of top-end luxury and technology.”

Offered with a choice of a fully electric or combustion powertrain, the all-new MINI Countryman impressed Auto Express judges, obtaining the ‘Premium Small SUV’ award. “The new MINI Countryman manages to still feel like a MINI despite now offering size and practicality to match any small SUV, but it’s the lift in interior style and quality that impresses more than anything,” said Barker. “Plus, it still has the sense of driving enjoyment we know and love.”

BMW Group UK completes the GREENFLEET EV Rally.
As a live demonstration of electric vehicles and charging infrastructure, the GREENFLEET EV Rally aims to illustrate the roles that electric vehicles can play in UK fleets and prove that there is likely to be an EV model to suit any requirement, whilst improving efficiency, reducing costs, and ultimately contributing to the nation's net zero emissions targets.

Around fifty electric vehicles took part in the five-day, 1,400-mile event, which spanned the entire length of the UK between 1 and 5 July 2024. BMW Group UK was proud to support the initiative, entering four of its latest products, including the BMW iX2, BMW i5 Touring and two all-electric MINI Countryman models.

Reflecting on BMW Group’s participation in the rally, Matt Collins, General Manager of Corporate Sales for BMW Group UK said, “We are thrilled to have completed the 2024 EV Rally. It provided a great opportunity to showcase our latest all-electric products, including the new BMW i5 Touring, BMW iX2 and MINI Countryman. With rewarding driving dynamics and a host of technologies, we hope to have demonstrated the joy and convenience that our electrified product portfolio brings to fleets.”

Parkers announce their ‘top buys’ for 2024 and one in four is a BMW.
BMW blazed a trail on the Parkers’ ‘top buys’ list for 2024, attaining four titles across a range of categories – more than any other OEM. The list curated by the Parkers editorial team establishes the “cream of the crop” across the new car market, catering for a wide range of budgets, from superminis to luxury cars.

Dubbed an “awesome technical masterclass”, the BMW 7 Series is Parkers’ choice for ‘Best Luxury Car’. Praised for its “impressive interior design and quality”, “innovative technology” and efficiency, judges place the 7 Series above its rivals when it comes to driving dynamics, while applauding the “private jet experience” offered to rear passengers with the Executive Lounge package.

Taking the top spot as ‘Best Family Estate Car’ is the BMW 3 Series Touring. Commenting on the win, Parkers said, “It’s hard to think of a more complete package than the BMW 3 Series Touring. It’s a family estate car that ticks every box – it’s great to drive, looks good, feels upmarket and best of all is immensely practical.”

Described by Parkers as the “premium SUV that truly does it all”, the BMW X5 claims the top buy for ‘Best Large SUV’. As “one of the highest-rated cars by any description”, there “there really isn’t any box that the X5 doesn’t tick,” said judges. The publication goes on to commend the model’s “great engine line up”, “sumptuously plush” interior and drive.

The fourth and final BMW recommended as a Parkers top buy is the BMW i4, almost three years after its original market launch. “Great on back roads” and “efficient on trips”, the BMW i4 continues to impress, adding a 22^nd accolade to its collection. Parkers summarises: “The BMW i4 is a consummate all-rounder. It’s fantastic to drive, offers one of the longest electric ranges available in a vehicle this size and feels both futuristic yet reassuringly conventional where it counts.”

A triumph for BMW at the 2024 EcoCar Electrified Top 50 awards.
Now in its third year, the EcoCar Electrified Top 50 awards celebrate the 50 finest new battery electric, hybrid, plug-in hybrid and hydrogen fuel-cell vehicles available today. The 2024 awards saw BMW triumph, with four models placing within the top 17 on the leaderboard, while garnering an impressive five category wins.

Retaining the top spot for a third year running, the BMW iX was recognised as ‘Best Electric Luxury SUV’, with judges commending its “gorgeous and soothing interior”, “next level” infotainment system and powertrain, which offers an all-electric range of up to 382 miles.

The accolade for ‘Best Electric Luxury Car’ was presented to the BMW i7/BMW 7 Series. On announcing the award, EcoCar Editor and Publisher, Ian Robertson said, “It’s only fitting that the 7 Series and i7 should slot in next to the iX, scooping our Best Electric Luxury Car gong. They share many of the iX’s attributes of course, albeit in a lower slung package, and with so much rear space your passengers might request a red carpet is kept rolled up in the boot. That’s if they aren’t too distracted by the cinema-style rear entertainment screen that’s quite simply huge… While the outside may be striking, it’s on the inside of the 7 Series and i7 that is truly stunning – your passengers won’t want to get out.”

Placing 9^th on the overall roster, EcoCar crowned the BMW i5/BMW 5 Series ‘Best Electric Executive Car’ and judges’ “top pick” for those in the “business class” market. The BMW 530e was praised for its “excellent blend of performance, comfort and efficiency” and “stellar” 63-mile all-electric range. The BMW i5 eDrive40 was equally commended for its range, which “shoots up to a maximum of 356 miles” and “is sure to go down a treat with company car choosers due to its super low benefit-in-kind liability.” Robertson concludes, “BMW’s excellent infotainment system is the icing on the cake.”

Finally, the BMW 3 Series garnered a double win, recognised as ‘Best Plug-In Hybrid Large Car’ and ‘Best Plug-In Hybrid Large Estate Car’. On presenting the awards, EcoCar said, “The 3 Series impresses thanks to its cutting-edge interior that encompasses a sweeping double infotainment and instrument screen, and a long list of standard kit. It also epitomises that ‘Ultimate Driving Machine’ slogan from yesteryear thanks to its superb road manners that encompass attentive steering, entertaining handling, and a remarkably well-ordered ride. The Touring is the ultimate Labrador lugger and the 330e’s plug-in hybrid drivetrain means that it is kind to the wallet thanks to favourable benefit-in-kind taxation rates of 12%.”

BMW X5 tops the heavyweight division at the What Car? Tow Car Awards 2024.
The What Car? Tow Car Awards are designed to assist those searching for a great tow car that can also be enjoyed when driving unhitched. Honoured as this year’s heavyweight champion, the BMW X5 xDrive50e M Sport topped the ‘2000kg+’ category and was recognised as “one of the best plug-in hybrids” What Car? has ever tested.

The xDrive50e “improves on its predecessor with even more power and a longer all-electric range of up to 60 miles, and that means extremely low official emissions figures – a boon if you’ll be paying company car tax,” says What Car? Judges also paid tribute to the heavy hitter’s “lightning-fast acceleration” and stability when towing, as well as its “remarkable balance between sporty handling and impressive ride comfort, helped by its adaptive air suspension.” Overall, What Car? scores the BMW X5 an outstanding 5/5.

Ends


The BMW Group

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

In 2023, the BMW Group sold over 2.55 million passenger vehicles and more than 209,000 motorcycles worldwide. The profit before tax in the financial year 2023 was € 17.1 billion on revenues amounting to € 155.5 billion. As of 31 December 2023, the BMW Group had a workforce of 154,950 employees.

The success of the BMW Group has always been based on long-term thinking and responsible action. The company set the course for the future at an early stage and consistently makes sustainability and efficient resource management central to its strategic direction, from the supply chain through production to the end of the use phase of all products.

www.bmwgroup.com

Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/BMWGroup
X: http://twitter.com/BMWGroup
YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/BMWGroupView
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bmwgroup
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/bmw-group/

For further information please contact:

Tom Evans
Senior Press Officer, BMW
Tel: 07815 371 705
Email: Tom.Evans@bmw.co.uk

Helen Wilson
MINI Media Relations Manager
Tel: 07815 372 480
Email: Helen.Wilson@mini.co.uk

Chris Overall
BMW Media Relations Manager
Tel: 07815 370 990
Email: Chris.Overall@bmw.co.uk

Christina Burnham-Hepe
General Manager, Communications
Tel: 07815 371 206
Email: Christina.Burnham-Hepe@bmw.co.uk

Graham Biggs
Corporate Communications Director
Tel: 07815 376 867
Email: Graham.Biggs@bmw.co.uk

BMW integrates a new Personal eSIM solution across its model portfolio and forges a partnership with Manchester Airports Group to elevate the airport passenger journey through premium chauffeur-driven experiences. Meanwhile, the brand’s winning streak continues, with both the BMW 5 Series and BMW iX securing accolades at recent awards. MINI also celebrated success, as the all-new MINI Cooper Electric was crowned as Top Gear’s ‘Best EV Supermini’ at their 2024 Electric Car Awards. The BMW Vision Neue Klasse was honoured with T3’s prestigious Design Award in June, while the BMW 3 Series and BMW 8 Series received top titles at cap hpi’s Used Car of the Year Awards.

BMW offers UK customers increased connectivity through Personal eSIM solution.
At the end of April, BMW announced the integration of Transatel’s Ubigi global Personal eSIM solution across its model portfolio. By activating their Personal eSIM, BMW customers in the UK can now enjoy additional infotainment features and unlimited WiFi connectivity in their vehicle using Ubigi’s 5G UK data plan.

Depending on the model, this service enables the in-vehicle WiFi-Hotspot, video streaming services on the central instrument cluster and is particularly useful in conjunction with the Theatre Screen of the BMW i7 and BMW 7 Series, offering a variety of entertainment powered by Amazon Fire TV.

Owners can conveniently configure their Personal eSIM via the My BMW App and subscribe to Ubigi’s UK data plan, priced at £10 per month. This service is available for BMW vehicles with Operating Systems 8, 8.5 and 9* and equipped with the optional Personal eSIM.

BMW Vision Neue Klasse wins T3 Design Award.
The BMW Vision Neue Klasse won T3’s prestigious Design Award in June, celebrating the Vision Vehicle’s innovative and forward-thinking design. Introduced to the T3 Awards in 2022, the design awards recognise products that combine functionality with elegant aesthetics. The BMW Vision Neue Klasse, a fully electric vision car which paves the way for the next-generation of electric BMW models impressed the judges with both its aesthetics and advanced technology. Notable features include the Panoramic Vision head-up display which is visible to all occupants, and minimalistic yet elegant design including such as headlights integrated into the grille, e-ink door handles, and an embossed BMW logo on the bonnet.

BMW partners with CAVU to provide premium chauffeur-driven experiences at aether, The Private Terminal exclusively at Manchester Airport .
BMW has announced a new partnership with CAVU (owned by Manchester Airports Group) to help revolutionise the airport passenger journey. Through this alliance, travellers can enjoy a truly premium experience as they are chauffeured airside using a fleet of luxury BMW vehicles.

The fleet, comprising the all-electric BMW i7, the seven-seater BMW X7 and the high-performance BMW XM, will be used to seamlessly transport passengers from aether – the new Private Terminal, exclusively at Manchester Airport – to and from their aircraft.

Situated in a contemporary, self-contained space, completely separated from the main airport terminal, aether boasts a dining experience by Adam Reid, panoramic runway views, and dedicated staff to attend to guests’ needs. The new terminal opens Monday 4 November and will be available to all** travellers at Manchester Airport as a purchasable service.

Triple victory for the BMW 5 Series and a win for the BMW iX at recent awards .
After an impressive start to 2024, the BMW 5 Series continues its winning streak. Upholding its reputation as the world’s most successful business saloon, it emerged victorious at the Business Motoring and Great British Fleet awards.

The Business Motoring Awards, a valuable reference for SMEs and vehicle operators, celebrate best-in-class suppliers and vehicles. At the 2024 awards, the BMW 5 Series secured both the ‘Best Executive Car’ and ‘Best Company Car’ titles. The model also received commendation from Fleet World at their 2024 Great British Fleet Awards, taking the top spot as ‘Best Fleet Executive Car. Judges praised the model’s performance, comfort and interior quality as “an impressive package”, commenting, “The new 5 Series once again raises the standard in this class and continues to be viewed as the ultimate driving machine.”

Also offered with an all-electric drive as the BMW i5, the eighth generation BMW 5 Series fuses progressive technology with sophisticated styling and hallmark driving pleasure. With these recent acknowledgements, the latest iteration has now accumulated an impressive 13 accolades since its introduction in October last year.

Meanwhile, the BMW iX secured its 16th accolade as ‘Best Business Lease Car’ at the inaugural Leasing.com Awards. The recently established awards are designed to celebrate and recognise excellence in the products and services available within the leasing sector.

On presenting the award, Leasing.com commented, “With awesome real-world range and a cabin that’s a pleasure to spend time in, it’s little surprise that the BMW iX won out when it comes to the Best Business Lease Car category. The importance of premium plug-in power for business users can’t be overstated.” Judges were particularly impressed by the fully-electric SAV’s “innovative design” and “cutting-edge technology,” describing it as “the perfect option for forward-thinking business users that want to make a statement.”

MINI Cooper Electric crowned Top Gear’s ‘Best EV Supermini ’.
Following its launch earlier this month, the all-new MINI Cooper Electric has been awarded ‘Best EV Supermini’ by Top Gear as part of their Electric Awards. Kickstarted in 2019, the annual awards exist to credit the best EVs in the world across an array of categories.

The MINI Cooper Electric was commended by Top Gear for its spacious interior and driving dynamics, with Jason Barlow, Editor-at-large, commented, “Around town the MINI is all the car you’d ever need. The three-door is roomy enough in the back for a six-footer to sit behind another lanky soul – provided the seat is pulled forward. Late night, long way home the Cooper SE risks feeling like a high-tech toy but at heart it’s still a fizzy driving machine Barlow summarises, “Fundamentally, this is a great little car, overflowing with personality, that just happens to be electric.”

Available in two output levels - E and SE - and three well-specified trims - Classic, Exclusive, and Sport – the fifth generation MINI 3-door remains the icon of the MINI family and represents a giant leap for the MINI brand.

BMW 3 Series and BMW 8 Series named winners at cap hpi’s Used Car of the Year Awards .
In June, automotive data company cap hpi announced the winners of its Used Car of the Year Awards for 2024, recognising excellence across a range of categories. The BMW 3 Series was named Upper Medium Car of the Year while the BMW 8 Series secured Executive Car of the Year. The awards follow an extensive data-led judging process that reviewed various factors, including residual value performance and new car registrations.

Ends

^{* The function Personal eSIM is not yet active in vehicles with BMW Operating System 9. It is expected to be enabled over-the-air at a later point in 2024.
** *Terms and conditions apply, see experienceaether.com}

The BMW Group

With its four brands BMW, MINI, Rolls-Royce and BMW Motorrad, the BMW Group is the world’s leading premium manufacturer of automobiles and motorcycles and also provides premium financial and mobility 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 2023, the BMW Group sold over 2.55 million passenger vehicles and more than 209,000 motorcycles worldwide. The profit before tax in the financial year 2023 was € 17.1 billion on revenues amounting to € 155.5 billion. As of 31 December 2023, the BMW Group had a workforce of 154,950 employees.

The success of the BMW Group has always been based on long-term thinking and responsible action. The company set the course for the future at an early stage and consistently makes sustainability and efficient resource management central to its strategic direction, from the supply chain through production to the end of the use phase of all products.

www.bmwgroup.com
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/BMWGroup
X: http://twitter.com/BMWGroup
YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/BMWGroupView
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bmwgroup
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/bmw-group/

For further information please contact:

Tom Evans
MINI Press Officer
Tel: 07815 371 705
Email: Tom.Evans@mini.co.uk

Helen Wilson
MINI Media Relations Manager
Tel: 07815 372 480
Email: Helen.Wilson@mini.co.uk

Chris Overall
BMW Media Relations Manager
Tel: 07815 370 990
Email: Chris.Overall@bmw.co.uk

Christina Burnham-Hepe
General Manager, Communications
Tel: 07815 371 206
Email: Christina.Burnham-Hepe@bmw.co.uk

Graham Biggs
Corporate Communications Director
Tel: 07815 376 867
Email: Graham.Biggs@bmw.co.uk

• New BMW 5 Series offered as all-electric i5 Touring for the first time, with plug-in hybrid model arriving in summer 2024.
• Sixth generation BMW 5 Series Touring features larger dimensions and modern interior design updates, including BMW Curved Display and BMW Interaction Bar.
• Customer deliveries in the UK commencing 25 May 2024, with prices starting from £61,705.

The BMW 5 Series Touring, the epitome of driving pleasure, sporty elegance and modern functionality in the premium upper mid-range segment, is entering a new era. The sixth generation of the BMW 5 Series Touring is more progressive than ever, featuring numerous digital innovations, pioneering systems for automated driving and parking, increased sustainability throughout the entire product life cycle and, for the first time, an all-electric drive in the form of the BMW i5 Touring. The new BMW 5 Series Touring is a sophisticated all-rounder for everyday driving and touring, offering stylish presence, superior sportiness, versatility and spacious comfort.

The exterior dimensions of the new BMW 5 Series Touring are slightly larger than those of its predecessor, emphasising its dynamically stretched proportions and increasing the amount of space available in both rows of seats. A flexible drive architecture allows model variants with highly efficient combustion engines, plug-in hybrid systems and purely electric drive systems to be produced on a single production line at the BMW Group's Dingolfing plant.

The new BMW 5 Series Touring will be available in four distinct trim levels in the UK, with the Sport Edition, M Sport, M Sport Pro and range-topping BMW i5 M60 models each providing a compelling offering unique to the segment. As one of the most important sales regions for the new BMW 5 Series Touring, the UK will be one of the first markets to launch the all-electric model in May 2024, with the plug-in hybrid offering coming later in the year.

Priced from £61,705, the first BMW 5 Series Touring customer deliveries in the UK will commence from 25 May 2024.

^{*All figures relating to performance, consumption, electric range and emissions are provisional. All the stated technical data including fuel consumption, electric range and emissions figures relate to the offering in the German market. Dimensions and measurements refer to vehicles with basic configuration in Germany. These may vary depending on the wheel/tyre size and items of optional equipment selected. **Electronically limited.} 

Stretched proportions, strong front, individual rear.
Dynamically stretched proportions and generously designed surfaces characterise the exterior of the new BMW 5 Series Touring. Compared to its predecessor, the new BMW 5 Series Touring is 97 millimetres longer (5,060 millimetres), 32 millimetres wider (1,900 millimetres) and 17 millimetres higher (1,515 millimetres). The new BMW 5 Series Touring has the longest wheelbase in its class, increasing by 20 millimetres to 2,995 millimetres.

The distinctive front end features a modern interpretation of the hallmark twin headlights and BMW grille. Two almost vertical LED elements serve as direction indicators and daytime running lights respectively. The BMW grille, which projects far forward, is available with BMW Iconic Glow contour lighting on the M Sport Pro model. In the side view, the flat window graphics and the long roof spoiler emphasise the sporty, elegant 2-box design. Powerfully sculpted rear wheel arches, together with the flat rear window, emphasise the car's wide stature. An L-shaped chrome bar divides the LED rear light elements, which extend well into the side sections.

Sport Edition available to order on both Saloon and Touring models in the UK. 
In the UK, the market launch of the BMW 5 Series Touring will also see the introduction of a Sport Edition across both the Saloon and Touring models. This new derivative provides an entry point into the BMW i5 range, which continues to boast a high-level of specification, with 19” light alloy wheels and Phytonic Blue Metallic paint as standard, alongside the comfort and sportiness expected of any BMW 5 Series model. The new edition offers unique exterior styling highlights, featuring satinated aluminium finishes, M Anthracite Headliner and Sun Protection Glass. The modern interior of the new model is finished to a high standard with a Veganza two-spoke steering wheel alongside the state-of-the-art Interaction Bar and Harmon Kardon sound system. Furthermore, the BMW i5 eDrive40 Sport edition is equipped with AC Professional Charging, allowing up to 22kW charging as standard.

High Level of Standard Equipment across the range: M Sport, M Sport Pro and i5 M60
The new BMW 5 Series Touring in M Sport trim includes a high level of equipment as standard, with a range of options also available to personalise the new model for the driver’s needs. The all-electric and the plug-in hybrid models come with 19-inch light alloy wheels as standard, with up to 21-inch alloy wheels are available as an option. The new BMW 5 Series Touring has vegan upholstery as standard and features Veganza seat surfaces with decorative perforation. Also included with the M Sport models as standard are horizontal slats and M logo, high-gloss black exterior mirror caps and 19-inch M light alloy wheels ensure a particularly striking appearance.

The dynamic character of the new BMW 5 Series Touring can be further emphasised through the M Sport Pro Model, which includes a M Rear spoiler, M high-gloss Shadowline and high-gloss black BMW Kidney Grille with Iconic Glow. Additionally, the M Sport Pro Model comes as standard with 20” M light alloy wheels and M Sport brakes in red high-gloss. Further optional equipment includes BMW Individual Merino leather upholstery in several bi-colour variants and the panoramic glass roof.

As the top model in the series, the BMW i5 M60 xDrive Touring (combined power consumption: 20.8 - 18.3 kWh/62 miles according to WLTP) comes as standard with exterior components that clearly express its outstanding driving dynamics. A Bowers & Wilkins Surround Sound System, with up to 18 loudspeakers, is fitted as standard on the BMW i5 M60, and can be added as option to the other BMW 5 Series Touring models. The performance model also comes with 20” M aerodynamic wheels and Adaptive suspension Professional as standard.

Optimised functionality for everyday use, leisure and travel.
The new BMW 5 Series Touring offers more space and noticeably more leg, shoulder and elbow room, especially in the rear, as well as optimised acoustic comfort. With its versatile interior and numerous intelligent functions, the new BMW 5 Series Touring is just as impressive on the road as it is in everyday use.

A wider luggage compartment opening combined with a low sill makes it easy to stow large items of luggage. Regardless of their drive technology, all variants of the new BMW 5 Series Touring have a luggage compartment volume that can be expanded from 570 to up to 1,700 litres. In addition to the automatic tailgate operation, remote unlocking of the 40:20:40 split rear seat backrest from the luggage compartment is also standard. Storage compartments under the load compartment floor provide space for the luggage compartment partition net, luggage compartment cover and charging cable for the all-electric and plug-in hybrid models.

All-electric BMW i5 Touring available in two variants from the start.
The new BMW i5 Touring is the first all-electric premium model in its competitive field. It will be available in two versions from the outset. In the BMW i5 M60 xDrive Touring, two highly integrated drive units on the front and rear axles together form an electric all-wheel drive with up to 601 hp. With M Launch Control or M Sport Boost activated, the system torque is increased to 820 Nm (605 ft-lb). The top model accelerates from a standstill to 62 mph in 3.9 seconds and its top speed is electronically limited to 143 mph. The electric motor of the BMW i5 eDrive40 Touring is located on the rear axle (combined power consumption according to WLTP: 19.3 to 16.5 kWh/62 miles) and generates a maximum output of 340 hp and a maximum torque of up to 430 Nm (317 ft-lb) with Sport Boost or Launch Control function. The BMW i5 eDrive40 Touring accelerates from zero to 62 mph in 6.1 seconds.

In both models, the high-voltage battery located in the underbody provides a usable energy content of 81.2 kWh. In addition to the efficient electric motors, adaptive recuperation and heat pump technology for heating and cooling the interior, drive and high-voltage battery contribute to the long-distance capability of the BMW i5 Touring. The range determined in the WLTP test procedure is 277 to 314 miles for the BMW i5 M60 xDrive Touring and 300 to 348 miles for the BMW i5 eDrive40 Touring.

Innovative charging solutions from BMW Charging.
The battery can be charged with alternating current with an output of up to 22 kW as standard on both the Sport model and BMW i5 M60. This is available as an option on all other models. The high-voltage battery can be charged with direct current with a power of up to 205 kW. Anticipatory thermal management for the high-voltage battery optimises efficiency when using fast-charging stations. Connected Home Charging for the all-electric and plug-in hybrid models creates the conditions for solar and load-optimised as well as cost-optimised charging. The BMW i5 Touring is also suitable for the Plug & Charge Multi Contract function.

The ideal balance between sportiness and travelling comfort.
Driving pleasure in the new BMW 5 Series Touring is based on an ideal balance between sportiness and travelling comfort. With the longest wheelbase in the competitive segment, large track widths, an almost perfectly balanced 50:50 axle load distribution, intelligent lightweight construction and optimised rigidity of the body-chassis connection, it offers the ideal conditions for this. The extensively enhanced suspension technology includes sport steering, directly controlled wheel slip limitation and the latest version of the integrated braking system as standard. The BMW i5 Touring and the plug-in hybrid models also feature rear-axle air suspension including automatic self-levelling.

An M Sport Suspension, an M sport braking system and the Adaptive Chassis Professional (standard in the BMW i5 M60 xDrive Touring) with electronically controlled shock absorbers, Integral Active Steering and new lateral dynamics management are available as optional equipment. The Adaptive M Chassis Professional with Active Roll Stabilisation and Active Roll Comfort is also available for the top model.

Innovative systems for automated driving and parking.
The systems for semi-automated driving and parking available as standard or as an option for the new BMW 5 Series Touring set standards in the competitive environment with their range of functions, reliability and everyday benefits. The highlight of the range is the optional Driving Assistant Professional including Steering and Lane Control Assist and Distance Control with Stop & Go function. In the US, Canada and Germany, the Highway Assistant is available, which relieves the driver of steering tasks on highways with structurally separated directional lanes. At driving speeds of up to 85 mph it is possible to take your hands off the steering wheel and position them comfortably as long as you keep a close eye on the traffic. The system also includes the unique Active Lane Change Assistant with eye activation.

The new BMW 5 Series Touring features the Parking Assistant including start monitoring, Trailer Assistant and Reversing Assist Camera as standard. With the optional Parking Assistant Professional, automated parking and manoeuvring up to 200 metres can be controlled from outside the car using a smartphone.

Progressively designed cockpit
At the heart of the progressive, driver-oriented cockpit design is the BMW Curved Display. Its 12.3-inch Information Display and the Control Display with a screen diagonal of 14.9 inches form a fully digital display network. The modern premium ambience in the interior is further enhanced by the new sports seats fitted as standard, the steering wheel, which is now flatter at the bottom, and the BMW Interaction Bar.

BMW iDrive with "QuickSelect", video streaming, AirConsole games.
The enhanced BMW iDrive display and operating system based on BMW Operating System 8.5 offers a redesigned home screen and the "QuickSelect" quick access function. The combination of the BMW Curved Display and the BMW Intelligent Personal Assistant is consistently designed for touchscreen and natural language operation. The standard BMW Live Cockpit Plus includes the cloud-based navigation system BMW Maps. The BMW Live Cockpit Professional option includes the BMW Head-Up Display and an augmented view on the Control Display or the instrument cluster.

The infotainment system in the new BMW 5 Series Touring is complemented by a range of attractive digital services. The Connected Package Professional offers a choice of YouTube and the Video app with international and country-specific content for streaming video on the Control Display. The new BMW iDrive also enables the use of an innovative form of in-car gaming with the AirConsole platform.

The new BMW 5 Series Touring is equipped with two 5G mobile phone antennas as standard and four as an option. This ensures optimum reception for telephony and online services. The standard equipment also includes optimised smartphone integration via Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™. The standard Personal eSIM fully integrates the vehicle into the customer's digital ecosystem. With the Remote Software Upgrades function, the new BMW 5 Series Touring always stays up to date with the latest software. It is also possible to test and rebook selected functions in the BMW ConnectedDrive Store.

ENDS

<sup>*All figures relating to performance, consumption, electric range and emissions are provisional. All the stated technical data including fuel consumption, electric range and emissions figures relate to the offering in the German market. Dimensions and measurements refer to vehicles with basic configuration in Germany. These may vary depending on the wheel/tyre size and items of optional equipment selected. **Electronically limited.

Fuel consumption, CO2 emission figures and power consumption were measured using the methods required according to Regulation VO (EC) 2007/715 as amended. The figures are calculated using a vehicle fitted with basic equipment in Germany, the ranges stated take into account differences in selected wheel and tyre sizes as well as the optional equipment. They may change during configuration.

For further details of the official fuel consumption figures and official specific CO2 emissions of new cars, please refer to the "Manual on fuel consumption, CO2 emissions and power consumption of new cars", available at sales outlets, from Deutsche Automobil Treuhand GmbH (DAT), Hellmuth-Hirth-Str. 1, 73760 Ostfildern-Scharnhausen and at https://www.dat.de/co2/_.</sup>

The BMW Group

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

In 2023, the BMW Group sold over 2.55 million passenger vehicles and more than 209,000 motorcycles worldwide. The profit before tax in the financial year 2023 was € 17.1 billion on revenues amounting to € 155.5 billion. As of 31 December 2023, the BMW Group had a workforce of 154,950 employees.

The success of the BMW Group has always been based on long-term thinking and responsible action. The company set the course for the future at an early stage and consistently makes sustainability and efficient resource management central to its strategic direction, from the supply chain through production to the end of the use phase of all products.

www.bmwgroup.com
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More dynamic than ever, brimming with digital innovations, with a spacious interior exuding a premium feel and – in the shape of the BMW i5, with a fully electric drivetrain for the first time, the new BMW 5 Series reinforces its claim to leadership in the premium executive class. For the members of the World Car Awards expert jury, it was the standout new arrival among the field of luxury vehicles which celebrated their debuts in the world’s car markets over the past 12 months. The international panel of experts therefore handed the BMW 5 Series the crown of World Luxury Car 2024. The results were announced today at the start of the New York International Auto Show 2024 as part of a ceremony broadcast worldwide via streaming services.

The success of the BMW 5 Series was underpinned by assessments carried out during extensive test drives by the around 100 car journalists from 30 countries that made up the jury. These ratings were then recorded in detail by the World Car Awards organisers. The BMW 5 Series fended off competition from a field of 13 new luxury vehicles, winning over the jury not only with the majestic power delivery from its portfolio of electrified combustion engines as well as the electric drive system, but also with its high comfort levels over long-distance journeys and numerous digital innovations. “We are very pleased to receive this prestigious award. The verdict of the international jury shows that our strong-character products with their typical BMW qualities convince and inspire demanding target groups all over the world,” said Bernd Körber, Senior Vice President BMW Brand and Product Management, Connected Company.

BMW 5 Series: Consistent electrification and digital innovations.

The BMW 5 Series displays its progressive character with its powertrain technology, its innovative digital services as well as an elegantly sporty design, generous levels of cabin space, optimised acoustic comfort and a progressive premium ambience for the interior. Advanced assistance systems like the motorway assistant and active Lane Change Assistant with eye confirmation emphasise the long-distance qualities of the BMW 5 Series. With the display and control/operation system BMW iDrive with QuickSelect, the BMW Curved Display and the BMW Intelligent Personal Assistant with extended functionality all on board, the i5 is comprehensively set up for user-vehicle interaction via touch control and natural speech. When the car is stationary, BMW 5 Series occupants can explore the extensive video streaming offering on the control display and enjoy a new form of in-car gaming – e.g. to make use of the time when the high-voltage battery is charging.

As a fully integrated member of the new BMW 5 Series model range, the BMW i5 offers locally emission-free driving pleasure. The driving dynamics and efficiency of the BMW i5 have their roots in fifth-generation BMW eDrive technology. This comprises highly integrated drive units and high-voltage batteries with extremely high energy density. In addition, the latest evolution of adaptive recuperation and an intelligent combination of heat pump technology for heating and cooling the interior, drive system and high-voltage battery help the car to achieve a range of up to 356 miles in the WLTP cycle, depending on the model and specification. The Combined Charging Unit of the BMW i5 enables AC charging at a rate of up to 22 kW and DC charging at up to 205 kW. This means the car’s range can be boosted by up to 97 miles within just 10 minutes when plugged into a fast-charging station.

The entire combustion engine portfolio has also been electrified. A flexibly designed drive architecture that was open to different technologies from the outset enables the new BMW 5 Series Saloon to be offered for the first time as an all-electric model, with plug-in hybrid systems and with highly efficient petrol and diesel engines. The combustion engines from the new modular generation of BMW Group Efficient Dynamics engines all feature the latest version of 48-volt mild hybrid technology.

BMW wins title number nine in the World Car Awards.

The World Car Awards were created 20 years ago to stand alongside national and regional distinctions as an acknowledgement of outstanding innovations and new products in car markets worldwide. This year, the awards were presented in a total of five categories in addition to the overall prize.

Over the years, BMW has collected eight wins in the World Car Awards. One of the victors was the BMW 7 Series, which was crowned World Luxury Car in 2016 already. In 2018, the title of World Performance Car was presented to the BMW M5. This ninth title win for the Bavarian premium carmaker is the latest in a long line of distinctions amassed by the new BMW 5 Series over the past few months. For instance, the all-electric version alone adds to the trophy collection with a total of three "Car of the Year" awards from Norway, Denmark and Italy.

The BMW Group

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

In 2023, the BMW Group sold over 2.55 million passenger vehicles and more than 209,000 motorcycles worldwide. The profit before tax in the financial year 2023 was € 17.1 billion on revenues amounting to € 155.5 billion. As of 31 December 2023, the BMW Group had a workforce of 154,950 employees.

The success of the BMW Group has always been based on long-term thinking and responsible action. The company set the course for the future at an early stage and consistently makes sustainability and efficient resource management central to its strategic direction, from the supply chain through production to the end of the use phase of all products.

www.bmwgroup.com

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• BMW i5 named Best Executive Car at UKCOTY
• Matt Collins named 35^th Most Influential Person by GREENFLEET
• First Winter edition YOXMAN, powered by BMW, offered 100 guests test drives in top luxury BMW models
  
  

BMW i5 clinches Best Executive Car at UK Car of the Year
The UK Car of the Year Awards (UKCOTY) is a wholly independent set of awards, designed to highlight and advise on the best new cars on the market specifically for UK customers. To qualify for the award, the car needs to have been launched on or after 1 January 2023, or be on sale by 31 December 2023.

The eighth generation BMW 5 Series launched in May 2023 and offers an all-electric drivetrain for the first-time with the BMW i5. Fusing advanced technology with elegant and sporting saloon style, the all-new BMW i5 Saloon has impressed from the offset and has now added a ninth award to its tally, picking up Best Executive Car at the UKCOTY Awards 2024.

The top model of each category, seven in total, is then put forward for the overall UK Car of the Year award, which is decided by 30-strong panel of judges consisting of the most knowledgeable and influential automotive journalists in the UK.

John Challen, Editor and Managing Director, UK Car of the Year Awards said: “Impressive inside and out, the i5 exudes quality, performance and class. Just a wonderful place to spend time in – no excuse is needed to go for a drive!”.

Matt Collins named in GREENFLEET magazine’s Top 100 Most Influential People
BMW was awarded GREENFLEET’s accolade of Fleet Car Manufacturer of the Year for 2023, with the magazine highlighting the broad range of models that are successful in the fleet market as a key reason for the win. Now, BMW Group UK Corporate Sales General Manager, Matt Collins, has been named the 35^th most standout figure in fleet by GREENFLEET magazine for 2024. Green Fleet Magazine’s Top 100 Most Influential people list is designed to demonstrate the individuals that have made a significant contribution to fleet decarbonisation over the year.

A new entry to the list in 2024, Matt has worked for BMW since 2006 and has gained experience across the Group, including time working in Western USA, where he gained useful insights into the rapidly evolving EV market in California. Utilising this knowledge of electric mobility on his return to BMW UK has allowed Matt to further EVs within corporate fleets.

YOXMAN at Wilderness Reserve, powered by BMW
Following the announcement of BMW’s partnership with Wilderness Reserve, a collection of restored properties in rural Suffolk, in July 2023, the collaboration has continued into 2024 with the first Winter Edition of YOXMAN in January. The one-of-a-kind Michelin Star dining experience, which took place on the stunning 8,000-acre estate, showcased exceptional food and entertainment from some of the UK’s leading chefs - Tom Aikens, Raymond Blanc and Alex Dilling.

Year round, BMW UK provides complimentary transport around the estate to all Wilderness Reserve guests in either an all-electric BMW iX or i4. As a headline partner of YOXMAN, BMW also offered the 100 guests in attendance a test drive in BMW’s most luxurious models: the BMW i7, XM, X7 and M8.

ENDS

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

In 2022, the BMW Group sold nearly 2.4 million passenger vehicles and more than 202,000 motorcycles worldwide. The profit before tax in the financial year 2022 was € 23.5 billion on revenues amounting to € 142.6 billion. As of 31 December 2022, the BMW Group had a workforce of 149,475 employees.

The success of the BMW Group has always been based on long-term thinking and responsible action. The company set the course for the future at an early stage and consistently makes sustainability and efficient resource management central to its strategic direction, from the supply chain through production to the end of the use phase of all products.

www.bmwgroup.com
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/BMWGroup
Twitter: http://twitter.com/BMWGroup
YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/BMWGroupView
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bmwgroup
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/bmw-group/

Note: This press release is a copy of the original issued by BMW headquarters in Germany. 

Munich. Digital, dynamic and, for the first time, fully electric as a BMW i5. The new generation of the BMW 5 Series sets standards, including when it comes to vehicle safety. Independent institutes in Europe, the USA and Korea each gave the BMW 5 Series Saloon top marks. The testers were impressed by both the active assistance systems and passive safety.

5-star rating at Euro NCAP.

The independent safety experts from the European New Car Assessment Programme (Euro NCAP) awarded the eighth generation of the BMW 5 Series Saloon the highest rating of five stars.

The extensive standard equipment with safety-relevant driver assistance systems makes a significant contribution to the 5-star rating. All driver assistance systems used in the new BMW 5 Series are among the best on the market and impressed Euro NCAP safety experts with their range of functions and reliable responses.

The new BMW 5 Series Saloon also scored points in the area of passive safety with its innovative integrated safety concept, which was constantly being further developed by BMW. In addition to highly resilient support structures and precisely designed deformation paths, a model-specific combination of precisely coordinated restraint systems is used.

The Euro NCAP assessments are a Europe-wide recognized standard for accident safety and are constantly being further developed. An award with the highest rating of five stars goes exclusively to vehicles that have excellent impact protection and are also well equipped with comprehensive and practical technology to prevent accidents.

TOP SAFETY PICK+ Award from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety in the USA.

The US Insurance Institute for Highway Safety also gave the best rating with a rating as TOP SAFETY PICK+. The standard assistance system for preventing frontal accidents was particularly convincing here, which achieved excellent ratings in both day and night tests. In combination with the lighting system, the “plus” in the TOP SAFETY PICK+ rating was decisive. It is the highest award that this institute awards.

In various collision tests, the integrated safety concept of the new BMW 5 Series also proved to guarantee that comprehensive protection against injuries is always guaranteed regardless of the size and sitting position of the occupants.

The test procedure of the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety is the standard for the comprehensive safety assessment of new vehicles on the American market, which is important for the BMW 5 Series, and an essential basis for decisions by fleet customers in the USA. 

“Safest Car of the Year” at KNCAP in South Korea

In the Republic of Korea, the Ministry of Transport awarded the BMW i5 the “Safest Car of the Year” award. Only the vehicle that scores the highest number of KNCAP points in the respective year receives this award. At the official presentation of the award in Korea, Dominik Schuster, Head of Vehicle Safety at the BMW Group, emphasized the importance of this award: “Top KNCAP ratings underline our safety-focused development process and prove the BMW Group's commitment to continuous improvement of vehicle safety.”

The independent testers were particularly impressed by the performance of passive safety. They saw 99.5% of these met. In Korea full points were still scored for emergency braking systems to protect pedestrians and cyclists. Some driver assistance systems also received the maximum rating.

The title “Safest Car of the Year” impressively demonstrates the BMW Group's pioneering role in one of the world's most important individual markets for the BMW 5 Series Saloon.

• Eighth generation 5 Series fuses advanced technology with elegant and sporting saloon style, generous space and exceptional refinement
• All-electric drive arrives in the BMW 5 Series Saloon for the first time – BMW i5 eDrive40 offers up to 356-mile range*, BMW i5 M60 xDrive delivers scintillating performance with 0-62mph in 3.8s
• Pushing in-car technology to new levels – the new BMW Interaction Bar joins the BMW Curved Display and the first BMW to feature in-car gaming with AirConsole
• The first BMW in the UK to offer the latest leather free interior, Veganza, as standard, from launch  
• High standard specification - M Sport offered as standard in the UK, with M Sport Pro and BMW i5 M60 xDrive models available
• Plug-in hybrid models offered from November 2023
• BMW 5 Series range is priced from £51,000 OTR

More dynamic than ever, featuring a wealth of digital innovations and all-electric drive for the first time, the eighth generation of the BMW 5 Series Saloon continues to stand for advanced technology combined with sporty, elegant design and hallmark driving pleasure.
The new generation of the world's most successful business saloon also intensifies its commitment to sustainability, significantly reducing its carbon footprint by 20 to 25 per cent in the supply chain, and up to 58 per cent across its life cycle compared to its predecessor.

<sup>*These figures may vary depending on the wheel/tyre size and items of optional equipment selected.

**Electronically limited.</sup>

The exterior design of the latest generation reinterprets the sporty elegance of a BMW 5 Series Saloon in the brand’s current design language. Its proportions make the character of the dynamic business saloon instantly recognisable. As a performance model from BMW M GmbH, the all-electric BMW i5 M60 xDrive comes as standard with specific exterior features that visually underline its outstanding sporting potential.

The road presence of the new BMW 5 Series Saloon is enhanced by its athletic proportions and the larger exterior measurements compared to its predecessor. The eighth generation vehicle has grown in length by 97mm to 5,06mm, in width by 32mm to 1,900mm and in height by 36mm to 1,515mm. The wheelbase has been increased by 20mm to 2,995mm for improved seating comfort, especially in the rear.

In addition to a pure-electric drivetrain, the latest generation BMW 5 Series debuts several firsts for the iconic saloon. It is the first BMW in the UK to feature Veganza upholstery as standard from launch, encompassing the seats, dashboard and door panels while the striking BMW Interaction Bar first seen in the BMW 7 Series is now incorporated in the new BMW 5 Series. Furthermore, the saloon is now available with a panoramic roof – the first time in the model’s history – and the digital experience is taken to a new high with cutting-edge additions of AI-driven servicing notifications and the introduction of in-car gaming.

Like all previous model generations, the new BMW 5 Series Saloon is manufactured at the BMW Group Plant Dingolfing. In 1973, the first vehicle manufactured at the plant was a first-generation BMW 5 Series Saloon.

Available in three exceptionally well specified trim levels in the UK – M Sport, M Sport Pro and the exclusive BMW i5 M60 xDrive – the new BMW 5 Series Saloon is available to order now priced from £51,000.

The BMW 5 Series Saloon range has expanded further with the introduction of the BMW 530e and BMW 550e xDrive plug-in hybrid models, which offer an electric range of up to 63 miles (WLTP) and 55 miles (WLTP) respectively. Set to also join the model family in spring 2024 is the next generation of the BMW 5 Series Touring, which will also be available with all-electric drive for the first time, as well as with plug-in hybrid drive and pure combustion engine drive.

Modern interpretation of classic signature styling
The front view of the new BMW 5 Series Saloon is characterised by a modern interpretation of the brand’s signature twin headlights and BMW kidney grille. The LED headlights show the hallmark four-eye face in a modern and reduced form. Daytime driving lights and turn indicators are generated by two nearly vertical LED elements arranged on the outside. The Adaptive LED Headlights incorporate both the cornering light and the Matrix High Beam including the glare-free High Beam Assist BMW Selective Beam. M Shadow Line lights with black trim for the inside of the headlight housings are standard on M Sport Pro models.

The new BMW 5 Series Saloon offers customers an appealing welcome and goodbye display. Among other things, the headlights and the light carpet projected from the vehicle sill are atmospherically orchestrated.

The BMW kidney grille, inspired by the “Sharknose” and projecting far forward, functions as the visual centre. With its wide surround and BMW Iconic Glow standard on M Sport Pro and i5 M60 xDrive models, the BMW kidney grille gives the 5 Series a distinctively sporty appeal.

Flowing lines enhance the sporty side profile of the traditional saloon design
The clear and reduced design language is also expressed in the side view of the BMW 5 Series Saloon. Its elongated proportions, long bonnet and almost upright BMW kidney grille are clearly visible. The sporty character of the Saloon’s typical three-box design is also expressed in the steeply sloping A-pillar, the gently flowing roof line towards the rear and the slightly sloping luggage compartment line.

The side profile has a pronounced athletic look thanks to a high shoulder line, powerfully modelled surfaces and two precisely drawn character lines. Black side skirts provide a visual contrast to the rest of the bodywork, while the door openers are integrated flush with the surface. The counter-swing at the base of the C-pillar, known as the Hofmeister kink, is highlighted by a graphic element with the number 5 embossed on the side window surround.

At the rear, the shoulder and roof lines flow harmoniously into the contours of the lights. The flat rear lights interpret the brand’s hallmark L-shape with modern appeal. Inside, four narrow, horizontally aligned LED strips generate the lighting functions, divided by an L-shaped chrome strip. Similar to the headlight units, strikingly designed LED units also function as daytime running lights.

Exclusive design features for BMW i5 M60 xDrive and M Sport Pro models
Individual design features give the BMW i5 M60 xDrive a striking look and emphasise its dynamic performance. A front apron with black surfaces in its centre and large air intakes, a BMW kidney grille with contour line lighting, horizontal slats and M logo, side skirts and exterior mirror caps finished in high-gloss black, a unique 20-inch M light alloy wheels and a rear apron with a pronounced diffuser insert signal the top-of-the-range model's sporty character. An M rear spoiler lip is also standard on M Sport and i5 M60 xDrive models.

M Sport Pro variants of the BMW 5 Series Saloon stand out with the illuminated BMW kidney grille with black surround, the dynamic light carpet, high-gloss black exterior mirror caps and a black-painted M rear spoiler. In addition, there are also the M Shadow Line lights for the front and rear and red-painted brake calipers.

Optimised aerodynamics deliver real-world range improvements
Combined with EfficientDynamics measures such as air flap control, an AirCurtain in the front apron, aerodynamic wheels and a smooth underbody, the new BMW 5 Series Saloon achieves an outstanding Cd value of 0.23.

The air flap control can increase the electric range of the new BMW i5 by up to 16 miles, by only opening the cooling air intakes in the BMW kidney grille, the lower cooling air intake, and brake cooling ducts as required. The Air Curtains, meanwhile, direct the airflow from the front apron past the front wheels, thereby reducing turbulence at the wheel arch, increasing range by up to 1.25 miles.

The light alloy wheels with optimised inserts combine optimum aerodynamics with low weight. Their design makes a significant contribution to reducing air resistance and increases the electric range by up to 6 miles.

In the new BMW 5 Series Saloon, the underbody is closed off as far as possible thanks to the optimised panelling and air control elements, reducing air resistance. At the rear, the rear axle cover and aerodynamically shaped diffuser contribute to optimising the underbody airflow. These efforts can achieve an additional reduction in CO₂ emissions and increase the electric range by up to 6 miles.

New EfficiencyCoach generates suggestions for more efficient and sustainable driving
With EfficientDynamics, the BMW Group has been developing technologies to increase the efficiency of its vehicles and reduce their emissions for many years. However, the driver is still a significant factor influencing efficiency. By driving economically, up to 25 percent of fuel or electrical energy can be saved. The new EfficiencyCoach in the My BMW app provides tips to make driving more efficient and sustainable. The assistant analyses the current consumption and compares it with the previous month as well as that of the community and makes suggestions for driving more economically.

Driving pleasure and exceptional comfort combined with innovative style
Generous space, modern functionality, a high level of acoustic comfort as well as high-quality, precisely processed materials, fine workmanship and advanced digital services characterise the new BMW 5 Series Saloon. The fully digital BMW Curved Display represents the heart of the interior redesign. Other innovations include the BMW Interaction Bar in the instrument panel and door area, My Modes for a customisable driving and interior experience, and the new gear selector switch on the centre console.

Fully digital BMW Curved Display with new graphic display and optimised touch operation
With its frameless glass surface slightly inclined towards the driver, the BMW Curved Display consists of a 12.3-inch Information Display behind the steering wheel and a Control Display with 14.9-inch screen, which merge into a single fully digital high-resolution display unit. The BMW iDrive experience, based on BMW Operating System 8.5, offers a new graphic display with a particularly clear start screen and “QuickSelect” access for simple and intuitive touch operation. The latest-generation operating system introduces new functionalities, including video on demand via YouTube for the driver and front passenger when stationary (SIM card reader and separate data plan required).

The advances in digitalisation make it possible to reduce the number of buttons used in the cockpit. They continue to be used only where they are the ideal solution for fast and intuitive operation. A large interior trim strip for the instrument panel highlights the BMW Curved Display and the BMW Interaction Bar. With an Aluminium Rhombicle Dark Silver finish, it is also optionally available in the Carbon Fibre variant with high-gloss silver threads and in several fine wood finishes.

In-car gaming with AirConsole premieres in the new BMW 5 Series
In cooperation with gaming platform AirConsole, BMW presents a new form of in-car gaming in the new BMW 5 Series Saloon. The driver and passengers can play casual games while the vehicle is stationary, for example to bridge waiting times while charging the high-voltage battery of the BMW i5.

Setting up the experience with AirConsole is seamless. Players’ smartphones act as a controller, with the connection established by scanning a QR code on the Curved Display. With instant delivery of games over-the-air, players can start playing right away. The selection of games at launch includes racing, sports, quiz, simulation, strategy, jump-and-run and puzzle games. The portfolio of 20 or so titles is continuously expanding and includes "Go Kart Go", "Golazo", "Music Guess" and "Overcooked".

BMW Interaction Bar with touch function and lighting effects
The BMW Interaction Bar was first presented in the new BMW 7 Series and is now also available in the new BMW 5 Series Saloon. The backlit unit with crystalline surface extends below the trim strip across the width of the instrument panel far into the door panels and includes touch-sensitive control panels for controlling ventilation and air conditioning. Part of the standard Ambient Light, its lighting design is based on the selected My Modes and can be customised. Getting in and out of the car is accompanied by a welcome and farewell scenario, staged with lights on the BMW Interaction Bar. The BMW Interaction Bar interacts with the passengers in the form of dynamic light animation and indicates incoming telephone calls, among other things. It also indicates to the driver and front passenger when it is safe to get out the car thanks to the Safe Exit function.

Fresh designs for steering wheel and centre console control panel
The newly designed steering wheel has three spokes and a rim that is flattened in the lower section, with contrast stitching in BMW M GmbH colours. With BMW i5 M60 xDrive, a red centre marker on the steering wheel emphasises its sporty character. A steering wheel heating function is offered on all models as part of the Comfort Pack.

The control panel on the centre console has also been redesigned. The iDrive Controller, new gear selector switch, start/stop button, My Modes buttons, volume control and other buttons are clearly arranged on the centre panel. With the CraftedClarity option, crystal glass applications for selected controls add a luxurious touch. A wireless charging tray is included as standard on all models.

The first BMW to feature Veganza upholstery as standard from launch
As standard, the new BMW 5 Series Saloon is the first model in the UK to feature Veganza upholstery from the initial launch. The new BMW 5 Series Saloon includes black seat surfaces in the leather­like Veganza finish, with the material also extending to the dashboard and door panels. Optionally, the leather-free surface material is also available with a decorative perforation and in three other colours. Further optional equipment includes BMW Individual Merino leather upholstery in several bicolour variants.

The newly designed seats offer increased comfort and optimised adjustment options. Sport seats are included as standard and incorporate electric height and inclination adjustment as well as a heating function. Active seat ventilation is available as part of the Comfort Plus Pack.

The backrests of the outer rear seats extend far into the door areas, increasing comfort. The rear seats can be heated as part of the Comfort Plus Pack. The entire rear seat backrest is now divided as standard in the ratio 40:20:40. The luggage compartment of the new BMW 5 Series Saloon has a total storage volume of up to 520 litres (490 litres on i5 models). Despite their drive units being integrated in the rear axle, the all-electric BMW i5 models have a luggage compartment volume that is almost equivalent to the other variants.

The Travel & Comfort System, available as part of the Comfort Pack, adds ambient lighting elements to the backs of the front seats to emphasise the atmospheric ambience.

The standard M Sport specification includes an anthracite-coloured roof lining, while M Sport Pro models also feature M seat belts.

Enhanced air conditioning with almost invisible seam vents, heat pump technology in the BMW i5
The standard equipment of the new BMW 5 Series Saloon includes automatic air conditioning with an extended range of features. In the instrument panel area, seam vents are used instead of conventional air vents, positioned at the height of the BMW Interaction Bar.

To maximise range, BMW i5 models have energy-efficient heat pump technology as standard. A 4-zone automatic air conditioning system with separate control panel in the rear, air vents in the B-pillars and nano particle filters is available as part of the Comfort Plus Pack. For the first time, the air conditioning makes it possible to separately regulate the temperature in the front footwells. A second solar sensor is used to regulate the temperature in the rear. Preheating is standard equipment in the BMW i5.

A first for the BMW 5 Series: panoramic glass roof now available
The optional panoramic glass roof is a first for the new BMW 5 Series Saloon. It covers almost the entire roof surface, extends without interruption from just behind the windscreen to almost the rear window. With a length of 841mm and a width of 818mm, the viewing area is almost 90 percent larger than the sunroof of the predecessor. An optional interior sunblind provides shading of the interior.

High payload and trailer load for all versions, strengthening suitability for long-distance travel
The long-distance capabilities of the new BMW 5 Series Saloon are underlined by the high payloads it can carry. For example, the total payload of the BMW i5 eDrive40 Saloon is 610kg. An electrically-deployed towbar is available as an option for all models, with a towing capacity up to 2,000kg.

Exceptional sound experience via high-quality audio systems and BMW IconicSounds Electric
The standard Harman Kardon Surround Sound System provides a high-level sound experience with 12 speakers and a 205 watt amplifier. With 18 speakers and amplifier output boosted to 655 watts, the optional Bowers & Wilkins Surround Sound System guarantees an outstanding acoustic experience. A seven-channel digital amplifier creates a clear sound experience in all seats. Illuminated metal panels for the loudspeakers in the doors emphasise the exclusive character of the sound system.

Two USB-C ports are fitted as standard in the front of the new BMW 5 Series Saloon and two further USB-C ports in the back. Optionally, a further USB-C port is available in the backrests of the front seats.

The Travel & Comfort System is also available to provide customised entertainment in the rear. With plug-in couplings installed in the backrests of the front seats for attaching multifunction holders from the Original BMW Accessories range, tablets and other devices can be attached to serve as entertainment screens. The system includes mounting options for clothes hangers and fold-out tables.

A special soundscape can be experienced in the new BMW i5. The BMW IconicSounds Electric accompany every movement of the accelerator pedal. Depending on the My Mode selected, the sound is staged in different ways, with SPORT mode particularly powerful. The BMW IconicSounds Electric were developed in collaboration with renowned film music composer Hans Zimmer.

Introduction of all-electric powertrains to the BMW 5 Series for the first time
The new BMW 5 Series Saloon is to be offered for the first time with the choice of all-electric models. The new BMW i5 is being launched with two model variants: the BMW i5 M60 xDrive performance model is positioned at the top of the model series. Both it and the BMW i5 eDrive40, are equipped with enhanced fifth-generation BMW eDrive technology.

BMW i5 eDrive40: Advanced BMW eDrive technology, traditional rear-wheel drive
The BMW i5 eDrive40 combines advanced BMW eDrive technology with traditional rear-wheel drive. The electric motor is located directly in the rear axle and generates maximum output of 340hp and maximum torque of 400Nm or 430Nm with the Sport Boost or Launch Control function. The zero-to-62mph sprint is covered in 6.0 seconds, while maximum speed is electronically limited to 120mph. Its combined power consumption is between 18.7 and 16.2kWh per 62 miles.

BMW i5 M60 xDrive: All-electric driving pleasure at the top of the model range
The BMW i5 M60 xDrive is the new top model and combines a 601hp (with M Sport Boost or M Launch Control) electric drive with hallmark M performance and specific design features. Two highly integrated drive units on the front and rear axles form the electric all-wheel drive system. The rear motor generates 340hp, while the front motor produces 261hp. The system torque generated by both motors is 795Nm or 820Nm when M Sport Boost or M Launch Control is activated. This enables the new BMW i5 M60 to accelerate from zero to 62mph in 3.8 seconds. The maximum speed is electronically limited to 142mph. Its combined power consumption is 20.5 to 18.4kWh per 62 miles.

The BMW i5 M60 xDrive and BMW i5 eDrive40 feature a shift paddle marked with "Boost" near the left steering wheel spoke. If the paddle is pulled for more than 0.8 seconds, a Sport Boost indicator appears on the Information Display, and maximum acceleration is triggered by the accelerator pedal. At the same time, the drive sound changes to that assigned to My Mode SPORT.

High-voltage battery with compact design and high energy content
The high-voltage battery used in the all-electric variants is derived from the latest fifth-generation BMW eDrive technology. It is composed of four modules with 72 battery cells each and three modules with 12 cells each. The battery has a particularly flat design and is fitted in the underbody of the BMW i5 to save space. It provides a usable energy content of 81.2 kWh. The BMW i5 M60 xDrive has a range of 282 - 320 miles (WLTP), while the BMW i5 eDrive40 has a range of 296 - 362 miles.

The latest version of adaptive recuperation helps to conserve or recover energy. The system can use navigation data and information from the driver assistance systems to adjust how much power is recuperated according to traffic levels. The driver can also select high, medium or low braking energy recovery in the BMW iDrive menu. Low recuperation triggers the coasting function – the BMW i5 rolls along without drive torque as soon as the accelerator is released. Efficiency is further enhanced by combining the heat pump technology for the interior and the drive units and battery.

My Mode EFFICIENT with new MAX RANGE function
When driving in My Mode EFFICIENT, the range of the BMW i5 can be increased by up to 25 percent by limiting drive power and top speed, combined with reduced comfort functions.

The MAX RANGE mode was designed for situations where a planned charging stop is no longer possible. The maximum speed is limited to 60 mph; the air conditioning is deactivated; rear window heating is reduced; steering wheel and seat heating and ventilation are deactivated. The range gained in this way is shown on the Control Display, the speed and power scales are adjusted on the Information Display and the additional range is taken into account in the range forecast.

Combined Charging Unit and intelligent charging software minimise charging time
The Combined Charging Unit (CCU) of the BMW i5 enables AC charging up to 11kW as standard and optionally up to 22kW (standard on the i5 M60 xDrive). The battery can be charged with DC up to 205kW. This allows the charge level to be raised from 10 to 80 percent in around 30 minutes. In addition, the range can be increased by up to 97 miles in 10 minutes at a DC fast-charging station when starting with a charge level of 10 percent.

Charging efficiency is optimised using the latest version of the charging software. The system continuously adjusts the charging power instead of delivering a "staircase curve" thereby making charging times even shorter. The waste heat generated by the electric motors is used to control the temperature of the battery in the BMW i5 for the first time, significantly reducing the energy required to preheat the battery on the way to a charging station.
 
When the navigation system is active, the battery is automatically pre-conditioned before a planned charging stop. Pre-conditioning can be manually activated at any time. In addition, it is possible to save charging settings for individual charging points. They are then automatically restored on the next visit. The cloud-based navigation system in the BMW i5 calculates charge-optimised routes and will become even more precise as time passes.

Four-cylinder petrol engine with 48-volt mild hybrid technology
The four-cylinder petrol engine is equipped with 48-volt mild hybrid technology that uses a crankshaft starter generator to produce a spontaneous response to every accelerator movement, both when starting off and during acceleration, and increases comfort when using the Auto Start Stop function. The energy required is stored in a 48-volt battery located under the luggage compartment. It is charged by means of recuperation during overrun and braking. In addition to the electric motor, the 48-volt battery also supplies the vehicle’s 12-volt electrical system via a voltage converter.

The four-cylinder petrol engine in the new BMW 5 Series Saloon comes from a new modular generation that uses the Miller combustion process, which shortens the opening times of the intake valves. It also features redesigned intake ducts and combustion chambers, as well as innovations in camshaft control, fuel injection, the ignition system and exhaust gas routing.

In addition, the latest version of the fully variable valve control VALVETRONIC is able to stop gas exchange when required, thus reducing the engine’s frictional torque in overrun phases by about two thirds. This leads to braking energy being more intensively recuperated.

In the new BMW 520i Saloon, this engine produces 190hp and 310 Nm of torque, increased to 208hp and 330Nm with the support of the 48-volt mild hybrid technology – 24hp and 40Nm more than its predecessor. The new BMW 520i Saloon takes 7.5 seconds to accelerate from zero to 62mph.

New 8-speed Steptronic Sport transmission with Sport Boost function as standard
A new 8-speed Steptronic Sport transmission is standard, with shift paddles on the steering wheel and a Sport Boost function activated by the left paddle. The new transmission includes the electric motor and the 48-volt mild hybrid power electronics in its housing. In addition, the internal efficiency of the transmission has been optimised, as have vibration damping and torsional irregularity decoupling. A new electric oil pump and a torsional damper system increase efficiency and shift comfort.

Chassis and steering honed for sporting precision and optimum refinement
Both the double-wishbone front axle and the five-link rear axle of the new BMW 5 Series Saloon have undergone extensive development. To optimise the acoustic properties, the front axle support received an elastic steering gear mount. In the BMW i5 M60 xDrive, noise from the electric drive is insulated by large powertrain mounts, while the all-wheel drive variants feature an aluminium stiffening plate under the front axle support. The rear axle support combines low weight with high rigidity. The vibration damping and acoustic insulation of the BMW i5’s electric drive unit are optimised by a large bearing and specific rubber mounts for the rear axle support.
 
All new BMW 5 Series Saloons are equipped with the latest electromechanical power steering as standard. The standard sport steering now includes a direct and steering angle-dependent ratio. Its range of functions also includes the Servotronic speed-related power assistance.

The advanced Integral Active Steering is also available for the new BMW 5 Series Saloon as part of the Adaptive Suspension Professional. Depending on vehicle speed, the rear wheels are turned either against the front wheels or in the same direction by up to 2.5°. At low speeds this aids manoeuvring in and out of parking spaces, while the turning circle is reduced by more than 0.6 metres to 11.7 metres.

Lowered M sport suspension as standard, stroke-dependent dampers for the BMW i5
The new BMW 5 Series Saloon is equipped with M sport suspension as standard. It includes a firmer tuning of the springs, dampers and anti-roll bars, combined with a lowering of the vehicle by 8mm.

The BMW i5 also features stroke-dependent control of the dampers on both axles. The additional hydraulic damping calms the body when compensating for vibrations caused by uneven road surfaces. The damping is spring-travel-dependent, so that vibrations are initially damped linearly and then additionally absorbed by a second piston in the event of greater deflection. This prevents excessive bouncing or rocking of the body when driving over large bumps.

The BMW i5 is also equipped with rear-axle self-levelling air suspension as standard. This ensures optimum vehicle height, even when heavily loaded. The air supply to the suspension is regulated individually for each wheel and can compensate for uneven loading.

Adaptive Suspension Professional
The Adaptive Suspension Professional with electronically controlled dampers is optionally available across the range. Infinitely adjustable valves enable wheel-specific regulation of the damper forces. The rebound and compression stages of the dampers are infinitely variable. Using My Modes, two different maps can be activated for the dampers. The damper control takes into account longitudinal and lateral acceleration, speed, steering angle, and body and front wheel acceleration, in order to activate the required damper force within a few milliseconds.

Adaptive M Suspension Professional with additional Active Roll Stabilisation offered exclusively on the BMW i5 M60 xDrive
The Adaptive M Suspension Professional with additional Active Roll Stabilisation is offered exclusively on the BMW i5 M60 xDrive as standard. This system uses the new control logic to optimise sportiness and comfort and the damper forces are controlled using M specific characteristics.

The Active Roll Stabilisation deploys 48-volt electric swivel motors to ensure particularly fast and precise compensation of lateral inclination forces. Active Roll Stabilisation benefits agility and driving precision, while at the same time enabling a dynamic steering response by providing better roll support. It also increases comfort when driving straight ahead by decoupling the anti-roll bar, reducing body roll caused by road unevenness. The Active Roll Comfort function ensures that the system not only reduces body roll, but also builds up a counter-torque to keep the body horizontal, especially when the road surface is uneven on one side. In this way, the driver and passengers hardly notice any bumps in the road.

Directly controlled wheel slip limitation for fast and precisely optimised traction
The new BMW 5 Series Saloon now features directly controlled wheel slip limitation to deliver maximum agility and control in demanding driving situations. With this system, the traction control is integrated into the engine control unit. This eliminates the long signal paths to the control unit of the DSC (Dynamic Stability Control), so that the control interventions take place up to 10 times faster.

Larger light alloy wheels introduced across the range
The standard equipment of the new BMW 5 Series Saloon includes 19-inch light alloy wheels on M Sport models, while M Sport Pro models receive 20-inch light alloy wheels as standard. The enlarged diameter over its predecessor gives the vehicle an even more sporty presence. 20-inch and 21-inch light alloy wheels are available ex-works and in the genuine BMW accessories range. The range also includes the option of aerodynamic wheels, whose design and construction methods reduce both weight and air resistance.

In addition to the tyre pressure display, the new BMW 5 Series Saloon features a digital tyre condition monitoring system as standard, making it possible to detect tyre issues earlier. This is made possible by a diagnostic function using artificial intelligence (AI) in the BMW backend. A loss of pressure is reported to the driver by the My BMW app and, depending on the market, also in the vehicle, together with a recommendation for taking action. Predictions allow a forecast to be made of the remaining life of the tyres until the recommended minimum tread depth is reached.

Driving Assistant Professional
Driving Assistant Professional, available as part of the Tech Pack Plus, includes Distance Control with Stop & Go function and Steering and Lane Control Assistant. The combination of these two features enhances the level 2 automated driving experience.

Further components of the system are Side Collision Protection with active return, Road Priority Warning and Wrong-way Warning, the front and rear Crossing-traffic Warning with braking function as well as the Emergency Lane Assistant and Emergency Stop Assistant functions in selected countries.

The central area of the cockpit display is reserved for an augmented reality representation of the vehicle and its surroundings. Camera images are combined with additional graphics and information to provide the driver with a precise overview of the surroundings.

Launching initially in Germany, the United States and Canada, this package also includes the new version of the Active Lane Change Assistant, available for the first time in the new BMW 5 Series Saloon. This system can automatically carry out lane change manoeuvres with corresponding steering movements and speed adjustments. As a world first, the Active Lane Change Assistant can be controlled by eye activation. The vehicle suggests a lane change and this can be carried out by looking in the exterior mirror to confirm. The Active Lane Change Assistant makes the necessary steering movements automatically up to a speed of 85mph. It is no longer necessary to confirm the lane change with the turn indicator. The launch timeframe for this functionality in the UK market is not confirmed.

Driving Assistant with advanced front collision warning and Lane Departure Warning
The new BMW 5 Series Saloon offers a comprehensive safety package as standard equipment with the Driving Assistant. The scope of the front collision warning now includes detection of oncoming traffic when turning left and of pedestrians or cyclists when turning left. The Lane Departure Warning with active lane return now also reacts to oncoming traffic that poses a potential collision risk.

Active lane return has been added to the Lane Change Warning, and a braking function has been added to the rear Crossing-traffic Warning. Further components of the Driving Assistant are the rear collision warning, exit warning, Evasion Assistant and Crossroads Warning with brake intervention. Cruise control with brake function and manual Speed Limit Assist is also standard.

Parking Assistant including Reversing Assistant as standard
The standard Parking Assistant includes start monitoring and the Trailer Assistant, as well as a Reversing Assist Camera that creates panoramic images of the area behind the vehicle. Parking Assistant assists the driver in selecting parallel or perpendicular parking spaces. In addition to the steering tasks, it also takes over accelerating and braking as well as the necessary gear shifts.

The standard Reversing Assistant enables automated reversing in narrow environments such as multi-storey car parks. It stores the steering movements when driven forwards at up to 22mph, which the system can then repeat in reverse for up to 50 metres.

Parking Assistant Plus, part of the Tech Pack, additionally includes the Parking View, Panorama View front and 3D View functions. This shows a 360-degree image of the vehicle and its surroundings on the Control Display. In addition, the Remote 3D View function allows the driver to view a live image on their smartphone (available for Apple iPhone from iOS 16.2). The BMW Drive Recorder and anti-theft recorder are also included.

Parking Assistant Professional: Control parking manoeuvres via smartphone
In conjunction with the optional Parking Assistant Professional (part of the Tech Pack Plus), the Reversing Assistant can take over steering for up to 200 metres. The system can now orient itself to marker lines and kerbs as well as other vehicles when parking automatically. In tight spaces, the driver can now control the manoeuvre outside of the vehicle using the My BMW app (available for Apple iPhone from iOS 16.2).

Also included is the BMW Manoeuvre Assistant which uses GPS and trajectory data to store and replay complex parking manoeuvres. Up to ten manoeuvres of up to 200 metres each can be recorded up to 600 metres in total. From the starting point, the BMW Manoeuvre Assistant takes over all steering, accelerating, braking, and gear shifting. Just like automated parking, the driver can control the BMW Manoeuvre Assistant either in the vehicle or from outside using the My BMW app on Apple iPhone.

BMW iDrive featuring “QuickSelect” for faster function selection
To make selecting the numerous functions more intuitive, the latest-generation BMW iDrive offers a redesigned start screen with “QuickSelect” access that allows functions to be called up directly without switching to a submenu. In addition to the Home symbol, there are now also the symbols for direct access to the Air conditioning menu, the All Apps menu, Navigation as well as Media, Telephony and Apple CarPlay^® and Andoid Auto^™, if activated.

BMW Maps with route guidance optimised for charging
The cloud-based navigation system BMW Maps is part of the standard BMW Live Cockpit Plus. It offers fast and dynamic route calculation based on real-time traffic data. In addition, the new BMW Maps system allows drivers to use improved route planning optimised for charging on long-distance journeys with the BMW i5, both in the vehicle and via the My BMW app. Charging stops are planned so that the destination is reached as quickly as possible. The driver's preferred final charging status can be set in five-percent increments and the system can give preference to charging stations from selected providers. Detailed information can be provided on charging stations en route. Availability, supported plug types and payment options are listed, as well as the availability of bathrooms, catering or playgrounds in the vicinity. How long the charging will take and estimated cost can also be shown.

Personalisation with BMW ID and My BMW app
Functioning as a universal digital interface, the My BMW app provides information on the vehicle's status, charge and available range. Via remote access, it enables vehicle location, door locking and unlocking and recording the vehicle's surroundings. The driver can view a live image of the vehicle's surroundings using Remote 3D View and Remote Inside View. In conjunction with the BMW Digital Key Plus, Remote Control Parking functions are also available when in the vicinity of the vehicle.

In addition, the My BMW app can be used to send destination addresses from the smartphone to the vehicle's navigation system and to initiate, purchase or extend ConnectedDrive upgrades. Charging for the BMW i5 can also be controlled via the My BMW app. The My Journeys function provides data and evaluation of distances travelled, consumption, average speed and the eDrive share on the smartphone and can even provide tips for more efficient driving.

Proactive Care: highlighting servicing needs via AI to offer prompt solutions to customers
With Proactive Care, BMW is creating a new platform for customer exchanges. The focus is on recognising the vehicle's service needs by using artificial intelligence to proactively offer solutions to the customer without them having to take action themselves.

From Condition Based Service to digital tyre diagnostics and Battery Guard to accident detection as part of the automatic emergency call, the new BMW 5 Series Saloon identifies servicing or assistance needs and reports them to BMW according to the customer’s preferences. BMW then contacts the customer and proposes a suitable solution. Should the vehicle need servicing urgently while on the road, the customer receives suggestions for a nearby dealership.

Communication takes place via different channels: an in-car message on the Control Display, a message in the My BMW app, by e-mail or – in the event of a collision or breakdown – a Roadside Assistance call. Remote diagnosis is possible with problem solving via software update or online appointment scheduling. In the event of a breakdown, BMW will activate Mobile Service or a tow truck and inform the customer when assistance will arrive.

BMW ID allows parking fees to be paid directly from the BMW 5 Series
Using the BMW ID, the driver can now pay parking fees directly from the vehicle. The new Park Payments function can initially be used in Germany and Austria, with other European countries following during 2023. The vehicle automatically detects whether the service is available and displays the payment function if the parking zone is covered by one of the connected providers. The parking stay can be paid for using the credit card stored in the My BMW app. When the vehicle leaves the parking space, the parking stay is automatically terminated.

Natural dialogue with the BMW Intelligent Personal Assistant
With the new generation of BMW Intelligent Personal Assistant, naturally spoken instructions can now be used to adjust the seat position, start the Parking Assistant or activate the IconicSounds Electric in the BMW i5, among other things. A text overlay shows the customer the command the voice assistant has just understood. The BMW Intelligent Personal Assistant also now responds to instructions from rear-seat passengers. In addition, the digital companion can recognise user behaviour and make suggestions on how to use the vehicle.

The BMW Intelligent Personal Assistant is accompanied by new graphics on the displays that emphasise the system’s interactive character. The digital assistant is visualised so that it ‘leans’ towards the active speaker and shows that it is listening. In addition, the new BMW 5 Series Saloon offers the option of integrating with Amazon Alexa, , to for example, make shopping lists, play music or control your smart home remotely. At home, you can also check on the BMW i5's battery status or activate pre-conditioning using an Alexa capable device.

BMW Digital Key Plus as a fully-fledged vehicle key
The optional Comfort Access function also includes the BMW Digital Key Plus. It offers the option of unlocking and locking the new BMW 5 Series Saloon via security-optimised Ultra Wideband (UWB) technology using iOS or Android smartphones or the Apple Watch. Approaching or moving away from the vehicle triggers unlocking or locking. The smartphone can remain in the customer's pocket. The vehicle owner can also share access with up to five other users.

Smartphone integration as standard
The standard equipment of the new BMW 5 Series Saloon includes smartphone integration via Apple CarPlay^® and Android Auto^™. The services are integrated into the operating system via a Wi-Fi connection between the smartphone and the vehicle. The driver can view all important information from the apps on the Control Display, the instrument cluster and the optional Head-Up Display available as part of the Technology Pack.

Individual driving experience with My Modes
My Modes can be called up by voice command or via a button on the centre console, which takes the place of the previous Driving Experience Control button. The My Modes PERSONAL, SPORT, EFFICIENT as well as RELAX, EXPRESSIVE and DIGITAL ART are available in the new BMW 5 Series Saloon. They can be used to activate settings for the drive, suspension, displays, and interior lighting including the BMW Interaction Bar to suit personal preferences.

Interior camera for image and video recording
The Tech Pack includes an interior camera in the roof area that allows passengers to take photos and record video and sound to capture special moments and share them with friends or family. The recordings can be transferred by scanning a QR code in the control display. In addition, the customer can use the remote function in the My BMW app to request footage from the interior camera on their smartphone. The interior camera is also activated when the anti-theft recorder is triggered.

“Over-the-air” updates: Remote Software Upgrade and BMW ConnectedDrive Upgrades
With more than 5 million vehicles on the road, the BMW Group has the world's largest over-the-air upgradeable vehicle fleet. With the Remote Software Upgrades function, the new BMW 5 Series Saloon always stays up to date with the latest software. Upgrades may include free quality improvements or even additional features and functions.

With BMW ConnectedDrive Upgrades, customers can test selected functions free of charge for one month and then book them for a specific term. The BMW ConnectedDrive Store for the new BMW 5 Series includes Remote Engine Start, Parking Assistant Professional and Welcome Light projection.

Fixed kilowatt-hour prices for public charging
The main advantage of BMW Charging's public charging offer is the fixed and attractive kilowatt hour prices for AC and DC charging. For drivers of a BMW i5, the monthly fees for the bp pulse and the IONITY Plus package are waived for the first twelve months in the UK. These packages fix the cost of charging, for example IONITY high-power rates are currently 0.26 GBP / kWh and bp pulse DC charging is 0.55 GBP / kWh (for stations up to 149 kW, under 90 minutes of charging). BMW Charging ensures that every charge uses renewable energy, while providing access to more than 466,300 public charging points in 29 countries in Europe with just one registration. For further information, visit https://bmw-public-charging.com/.

New BMW 5 Series Saloon meets premium standards of sustainability
The new BMW 5 Series Saloon makes a significant contribution to achieving the company's ambitious climate goals by reducing the carbon footprint in the supply chain by 20 to 25 per cent and by up to 58 percent across the entire life cycle compared to its predecessor.

The new BMW 5 Series is the brand's first model in the UK to offer Veganza upholstery as standard from launch. Innovative Frozen paints produced using the Biomass Balance process are now available. In the BMW i5, the waste heat from the electric drive can be used for the first time to warm the battery while the new MAX RANGE function, the range can be increased by up to 25 percent if required.

Ends
<sup>*These figures may vary depending on the wheel/tyre size and items of optional equipment selected.
**Electronically limited.

Fuel consumption, CO2 emission figures and power consumption were measured using the methods required according to Regulation VO (EC) 2007/715 as amended. The figures are calculated using a vehicle fitted with basic equipment in Germany, the ranges stated take into account differences in selected wheel and tyre sizes as well as the optional equipment. They may change during configuration.

For further details of the official fuel consumption figures and official specific CO2 emissions of new cars, please refer to the "Manual on fuel consumption, CO2 emissions and power consumption of new cars", available at sales outlets, from Deutsche Automobil Treuhand GmbH (DAT), Hellmuth-Hirth-Str. 1, 73760 Ostfildern-Scharnhausen and at https://www.dat.de/co2/.</sup>

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

In 2022, the BMW Group sold nearly 2.4 million passenger vehicles and more than 202,000 motorcycles worldwide. The profit before tax in the financial year 2022 was € 23.5 billion on revenues amounting to € 142.6 billion. As of 31 December 2022, the BMW Group had a workforce of 149,475 employees.

The success of the BMW Group has always been based on long-term thinking and responsible action. The company set the course for the future at an early stage and consistently makes sustainability and efficient resource management central to its strategic direction, from the supply chain through production to the end of the use phase of all products.

www.bmwgroup.com

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Note: This press release is a 1:1 copy of the original issued by BMW headquarters in Germany. No adaptations have been made to cater for the UK market.

Munich. The new BMW 5 Series Sedan now offers the entire range of electrified drive technology. Just a few weeks after the market launch of the all-electric BMW i5 and the combustion engine variants equipped exclusively with 48-volt mild hybrid technology, two plug-in hybrid models will already be launched in November 2023. The BMW 530e Sedan (fuel consumption combined: 0.8 - 0.6 litres/100 km (62 miles); combined power consumption: 21.7 - 19.9 kWh/100 km (62 miles); combined CO₂ emissions: 17 - 13 g/km according to WLTP; data according to NEDC: -) The BMW 550e xDrive Sedan (fuel consumption combined: 1.0 - 0.8 litres/100 km (62 miles); combined power consumption: 23.2 - 21.6 kWh/100 km (62 miles); combined CO₂ emissions: 23 - 19 g/km according to WLTP; data according to NEDC: -) can be ordered as of now. They are available in Germany at the recommended retail price of 65,300 euros (incl. VAT) for the new BMW 530e Sedan and 77,300 euros (incl. VAT) for the new BMW 550e xDrive Sedan.

In the eighth generation of the world's most successful business sedan, the plug-in hybrid models are characterised by extremely spontaneous power delivery, clearly increased efficiency and a significantly increased electric range. Both models feature the latest BMW eDrive technology for plug-in hybrid systems, which is combined in the BMW 530e Sedan with a four-cylinder petrol engine and in the BMW 550e xDrive Sedan with an in-line six-cylinder petrol engine from the BMW Group's latest Efficient Dynamics modular generation.

Highly integrated drive unit with particularly high efficiency.

The electric motor, specially developed for the hybrid drive, is also integrated into the 8-speed Steptronic Sport transmission together with its power electronics. The highly integrated drive unit is particularly efficient and contributes up to 145 kW/197 hp (BMW 550e Sedan) or 135 kW/184 hp (BMW 530e Sedan) to the maximum system output of the two plug-in hybrid sedans.

In combination with the latest generation of BMW eDrive technology for plug-in hybrid models, the 3.0-litre in-line six-cylinder petrol engine in the new BMW 550e xDrive Sedan generates a system output of up to 360 kW/489 hp and a maximum system torque of 700 Nm (516 lb-ft). The plug-in hybrid system puts its power to the road by means of BMW xDrive intelligent all-wheel drive. It sprints from zero to 100 km/h (62 miles) in 4.3 seconds. The maximum speed of the BMW 550e xDrive Sedan is electronically cut off at 250 km/h (155 mph). A maximum speed of 140 km/h (87 mph) is possible in purely electric operating mode.

The new BMW 530e Sedan has a 2.0-litre in-line four-cylinder petrol engine with BMW TwinPower Turbo technology and, together with the highly integrated e-drive unit, generates a maximum system output of 220 kW/299 hp. With a maximum system torque of 450 Nm (332 lb-ft), the new BMW 530e Sedan accelerates from zero to 100 km/h (62 miles) in 6.3 seconds. The top speed is 230 km/h (143 mph), and up to 140 km/h (87 mph) in fully electric mode.

Increased range and high agility thanks to innovative BMW technologies.

A patented BMW innovation is used in the new plug-in hybrid models to increase the power development of the electric motor: The nominal torque of up to 280 Nm (207 lb-ft) is increased to a torque of up to 450 Nm (332 lb-ft) by a pre-transmission, which is effectively applied to the engine-side transmission input. In this way, the compact electric motor generates additional drive torque that would otherwise only be possible with a larger electric motor. The additional torque is clearly noticeable both when accelerating and during intermediate sprints.

The electric range is now 83 to 90 kilometres (49 - 56 miles) according to WLTP for the new BMW 550e xDrive Sedan and 93 to 103 kilometres (54 to 62 miles) according to WLTP for the new BMW 530e Sedan. Longer commutes are therefore also possible without producing any local emissions. Both plug-in hybrid models also owe their excellent electric range to their aerodynamic properties. As in all other variants of the new BMW 5 Series Sedan, special panelling and air deflection elements contribute to an optimised underbody structure that minimises air resistance. Special attention was also paid to aerodynamically optimising the underbody, in order to additionally reduce CO₂ emissions and increase the electric range by up to ten kilometres.

When driving, the latest version of adaptive recuperation helps to recover electrical energy during overrun and braking phases. Thanks to intelligent networking, the drive control system can use navigation data and information from sensors of the driver assistance systems to adjust how much power is recuperated according to the respective traffic situation.

The space-saving arrangement of the lithium-ion high-voltage battery in the vehicle underbody has a positive effect on both the vehicle's centre of gravity and the luggage compartment. With a total of 520 litres, the storage volume of the plug-in hybrid models is just as large as that of the purely combustion engine powered variants. The high-voltage battery provides an increased usable energy content of up to 19.4 kWh. The maximum charging power has been doubled compared to the previous models and is now 7.4 kW, so that the high-voltage battery can be charged from zero to 100 percent of its capacity within 3 hours and 15 minutes. At a conventional household socket, the charging process is completed within 11 hour and 45 minutes.

Extensive range of standard equipment and equipment highlights.

Both the new BMW 530e Sedan and the new BMW 550e xDrive Sedan feature an extended range of standard equipment compared to the models with 48-volt mild hybrid technology. In addition to 19-inch light alloy wheels, it also includes BMW IconicSounds Electric. In purely electric operating mode, this system provides a very special soundscape: Every movement of the accelerator pedal is accompanied by authentic acoustic feedback. The transparent and spherical sounds were developed in a cooperation between the BMW Group and the renowned film music composer Hans Zimmer.

The BMW 550e xDrive Sedan also comes as standard with Adaptive Chassis Professional, which includes electronically controlled shock absorbers and a lowered suspension as well as Integral Active Steering. It makes manoeuvring more comfortable, enhances agility at medium speeds and conveys confidence when changing lanes and cornering at higher speeds. 

The BMW Interaction Bar combines modern functionality and fascinating design as part of the ambient lighting equipment. The strikingly backlit functional unit with crystalline surface structure extends across the entire width of the instrument panel far into the door panels and includes touch-sensitive control panels for controlling ventilation and air conditioning and for activating the hazard warning lights.

• Five category wins for BMW at the Business Car Awards 2023
• BMW named Fleet Manufacturer of the Year
• BMW X1, 3 Series, i4 and 5 Series top respective categories

BMW has added five more awards to its impressive tally for 2023, including the coveted Fleet Manufacturer of the Year for a second consecutive year at the Business Car Awards. Further to the headline award, the BMW X1, 3 Series, i4 and 5 Series were each recognised as best in their respective classes.

Martyn Collins, Editor, Business Car Magazine presented BMW with Fleet Manufacturer of the Year, and commented, “We continue to be impressed by BMW’s choice of models, that continue to build on their strong fleet record – particularly with the choice of EVs that continues to grow at pace. Then there’s support for company car drivers, with innovations for the ‘Inside Edge’ rewards programme, and the launch of ‘Corporate Certified’ this year, which is all about improving the retailer experience.”

Launched in 2022, the third generation of BMW X1 offers fully electric models for the first time and features the latest in connectivity. Walking away with the Best Premium Medium SUV, judges stated “The latest X1 impresses with its extra practicality, its performance, plus the electric range for EV and plug-in hybrid models. On top of the added space, all X1’s are well-equipped and good to drive.”

The BMW i4 claims its sixth award for 2023, taking the win for the Best Electric Car over £40,000 for the second year running at the Business Car Awards. Judges said that “despite the choice of models in this class growing massively over the last year, we felt none of them could match the i4’s reliable electric range, driver appeal and practical hatchback design.” Collins also added that the lower entry price of the eDrive35 model will allow more drivers to experience the BMW i4 moving forward.

The BMW 3 Series continues to impress with the model retaining its Best Premium Car title for the fifth consecutive year. Business Car said, “the BMW 3 Series remains head and shoulders above the competition in the premium class.”

For the fourth consecutive year, the BMW 5 Series has also been named Best Executive Car by Business Car, with judges believing the current model “is still the best car in its class.”

Matt Collins, General Manager, Corporate Sales BMW UK, commented, “We’re thrilled to be recognised as Fleet Manufacturer of the Year for a second time running at the Business Car Awards. It’s a real feather in the cap for everyone in the Corporate Sales team. We continue to bolster our fleet offering and with the further strengthening of our ‘Corporate Certified’ programme, we hope to make further strides in improving the service that we offer to our fleet customers. Alongside the top award, we’re also pleased to be taking home another three wins for some of our latest models. This includes the BMW i4, which continues to be a compelling offering for our corporate customers and with the introduction of the eDrive35, we hope to see its popularity increase further still.”

ENDS

The BMW Group

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

In 2022, the BMW Group sold nearly 2.4 million passenger vehicles and more than 202,000 motorcycles worldwide. The profit before tax in the financial year 2022 was € 23.5 billion on revenues amounting to € 142.6 billion. As of 31 December 2022, the BMW Group had a workforce of 149,475 employees.

The success of the BMW Group has always been based on long-term thinking and responsible action. The company set the course for the future at an early stage and consistently makes sustainability and efficient resource management central to its strategic direction, from the supply chain through production to the end of the use phase of all products.

www.bmwgroup.com

Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/BMWGroup
Twitter: http://twitter.com/BMWGroup
YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/BMWGroupView
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bmwgroup
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/bmw-group/

Note: This press release is a 1:1 copy of the original issued by BMW headquarters in Germany. No adaptations have been made to cater for the UK market.

Munich. At the IAA Mobility 2023 international motor show in Munich, the BMW Group will be presenting the most recent highlights of its ongoing transformation in the key action areas of electrification, digitalisation and circularity. The latest new models with electrified powertrains from the BMW, MINI and BMW Motorrad brands, plus Vision Vehicles and concepts for individual mobility in tomorrow’s world all serve to underline the company’s innovative strength in these fields. As the dawn of a new era in personal mobility approaches, the BMW Group is set to unveil its latest highlight, the BMW Vision Neue Klasse, which brings together the Group’s development expertise in the three crucial disciplines for the future of mobility.

The IAA Mobility show is being staged in Munich for the second time. For the BMW Group and its brands, this provides an excellent opportunity to enter into constructive dialogue on the future of individual mobility with local people, as well as with visitors to the show from outside Munich and other stakeholders. The IAA Mobility Summit at the exhibition centre and the BMW Group’s Open Space at Max-Joseph-Platz in the heart of Munich will be the main arenas where BMW, MINI and BMW Motorrad present their new products on 5 – 10 September 2023. Among the models visitors can acquaint themselves with here alongside the BMW Vision Neue Klasse is the fully electric BMW i5. And they can also experience the world premieres of the new fully electric MINI Cooper, new fully electric MINI Countryman and BMW CE 02 eParkourer.

Electric, digital, circular – the focus areas of the BMW Group.

The BMW Group’s presence at IAA Mobility 2023 revolves around the company’s rigorous focus on electric, digital and circular mobility for the future and the latest progress it has made in these areas. The BMW Vision Neue Klasse is joined by a selection of new models from across the Group’s brands whose electrified powertrains, digital innovations and resource-efficient manufacturing illustrate the ongoing process of change in a variety of ways.

The new products poised for launch by the BMW brand include the plug-in hybrid variants of the new BMW 5 Series. The new BMW i7 Protection – the first ever all-electric protection vehicle in the luxury sedan segment – is also making its debut at IAA Mobility 2023.

MINI is unveiling the members of the brand’s new model family for the first time with the help of two world premieres: the new fully electric MINI Cooper and new fully electric MINI Countryman will both be on show at the Open Space site. A new model with all-electric drive also forms the centrepiece of BMW Motorrad’s line-up at Max-Joseph-Platz. Conceived as a compact eParkourer with a trailblazing design, the new BMW CE 02 injects fresh impetus into the urban mobility scene.

Locally emission-free mobility sets the theme for the models on show.

The IAA Mobility show will be officially opened on 5 September at Munich’s exhibition centre. The BMW Group will be represented at its stand in Hall A2, where the BMW Vision Neue Klasse will be unveiled to kick off the event. The BMW i7 Protection all-electric protection vehicle will also be presented for the first time at the IAA Mobility Summit.

The IAA Mobility Summit is taking place under the banner “Experience Connected Mobility” and is aimed primarily at trade visitors. It will showcase trends and technological innovations for future mobility over the course of numerous talks, presentations and panel discussions. One of the central topics is the use of hydrogen as an energy source for current and future vehicles. BMW is carrying out pioneering work in this field with its development and practical testing of a Sports Activity Vehicle with a hydrogen-powered fuel-cell drive system. The BMW iX5 Hydrogen is also being exhibited at the Summit.

Locally emission-free mobility is also the dominant theme for the models awaiting visitors to the Open Space site. BMW has at least one purely electrically powered representative in all relevant model segments. The brand is presenting its entire line-up to the public, ranging from the BMW iX1 compact Sports Activity Vehicle via the BMW i4 and BMW i5 to the BMW iX and the BMW i7 luxury sedan.

The Open Space at Max-Joseph-Platz can be visited free of charge on 5 – 9 September from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. and on Sunday 10 September from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. In addition, BMW Welt will continue to provide an attractive destination for all automotive enthusiasts during IAA Mobility 2023. The current model portfolios of the BMW, MINI, Rolls-Royce and BMW Motorrad brands are presented here, along with the latest BMW and MINI Lifestyle collections. Plus, starting on 2 September 2023, BMW Lifestyle together with BMW M GmbH will be running a GOODS WITH FREUDE pop-up store in the Hofstatt shopping centre at No. 10 Sendlinger Straße. Located just a few minutes’ walk away from the Open Space, the store will feature both familiar lifestyle articles and the new BMW Lifestyle collection.

World premiere: the BMW Vision Neue Klasse.

At IAA Mobility 2023, the BMW Group is offering visitors a preview of the Neue Klasse – the forthcoming generation of models from BMW. The BMW Vision Neue Klasse brings together innovations from the areas of electrification, digitalisation and circularity in signature BMW style. The Vision Vehicle takes design, control/operation, efficiency and sustainability into a whole new dimension – one that it will be possible to experience on the road before long.

During IAA Mobility 2023, the BMW Vision Neue Klasse will be on show at both the Summit and the Open Space. The new Vision Vehicle incorporates the latest innovations in the BMW Group’s key future-focused fields. It therefore builds on the BMW i Vision Circular and the BMW i Vision Dee – which have already demonstrated the BMW Group’s development expertise in the areas of circular economy and digitalisation – and combines their qualities with further new developments in exterior and interior design, user experience and powertrain and battery technology.

World premiere: the plug-in hybrid variants of the new BMW 5 Series Sedan.

As well as the all-electric BMW i5, the brand is exhibiting two other model variants with electrified powertrains at IAA Mobility 2023. As early as spring 2024, two models featuring state-of-the-art plug-in hybrid technology will be added to the new BMW 5 Series Sedan range. Their six-cylinder and four-cylinder in-line petrol engines from the new modular generation of Efficient Dynamics units will each be combined with the latest BMW eDrive technology for plug-in hybrid systems. This will result in a notable increase in output and much sharper power delivery, while also significantly improving efficiency and electric range compared to the outgoing model generation.

The electric motor purpose-developed for the new plug-in hybrid system is integrated into the eight-speed Steptronic Sport transmission together with its power electronics. The highly integrated drive unit contributes up to 145 kW/197 hp to the maximum combined output of 360 kW/489 hp in the case of the new BMW 550e xDrive Sedan (fuel consumption combined: 1.1 – 0.8 l/100 km [256.8 – 353.1 mpg imp]; electric power consumption combined: 22.5 – 20.1 kWh/100 km; CO₂ emissions combined: 24 – 19 g/km in WLTP cycle, provisional figures) and 220 kW/299 hp for the new BMW 530e Sedan (fuel consumption combined: 0.8 – 0.6 l/100 km [353.1 – 470.8 mpg imp]; electric power consumption combined: 21.4 – 18.9 kWh/100 km; CO₂ emissions combined: 19 – 14 g/km in WLTP cycle, provisional figures).

A BMW-patented innovation has been used to enhance the electric motor’s power delivery in the new plug-in hybrid models: a pre-gearing stage enables the nominal torque of 280 Nm (206 lb-ft) to be increased to effective torque of up to 450 Nm (332 lb-ft) at the transmission input for the motor. The compact electric motor is therefore able to boost torque by an amount that would normally only be possible using a larger unit and makes a clear difference both when accelerating off the line and putting in a rapid burst of speed. Electric range is now up to 79 – 90 kilometres (49 – 56 miles) in the WLTP cycle for the new BMW 550e xDrive Sedan and 87 – 101 kilometres (54 – 63 miles) in the WLTP cycle for the new BMW 530e Sedan.

The lithium-ion high-voltage battery’s space-saving positioning within the vehicle’s underbody has a beneficial effect on both the car’s centre of gravity and the capacity of its luggage compartment, which holds a total of 520 litres in the plug-in hybrid models – meaning it is just as large as that offered by their purely combustion-engined siblings. The usable energy provided by the high-voltage battery has climbed to 19.4 kWh. At the same time, maximum charging capacity has doubled compared to the outdoing models and now stands at 7.4 kW, enabling the high-voltage battery to be fully recharged from empty in 3.0 hours. When hooked up to a conventional domestic power socket, a full vehicle charge is completed in 9.8 hours.

World premiere: the BMW i7 Protection.

BMW is presenting a new generation of protection vehicles in the luxury sedan segment at the IAA Mobility 2023 show. The new BMW i7 Protection (electric power consumption combined in WLTP cycle: 30.0 kWh/100 km, provisional figure) is absolutely unique in this segment, as it is the world’s first ever certified protection sedan with an all-electric drive system. Driven by two powerful electric motors, it meets all the requirements of class VR9 protection without any limitations, as does the new V8-engined BMW 7 Series Protection (fuel consumption combined in WLTP cycle: 14.6 l/100 km [19.3 mpg imp]; CO₂ emissions: 328 g/km, provisional figures).

Both models blend the integrated protection concept channelled into the development of the new BMW 7 Series range with outstanding levels of ride comfort and spaciousness, advanced equipment features and the unbeatable dynamic prowess for which BMW is renowned. The concept centres around the new and unique BMW Protection Core, which forms a self-supporting body structure made from armour steel. This is then combined with features such as additional armouring for the underbody and roof, plus armoured glass. The result is customised protection from attacks with firearms or explosives for at-risk individuals. The glass in the new protection vehicles even meets the requirements for the highest class of civilian protection, VPAM 10.

The all-electric BMW i7 Protection is equipped with one electric motor at the front axle and another at the rear. Together they generate a combined output of 400 kW/544 hp and maximum combined torque of 745 Nm (549 lb-ft), and create an electric all-wheel-drive system. The new BMW i7 Protection sprints to 100 km/h (62 mph) from rest in 9.0 seconds, while top speed is electronically limited to 160 km/h (99 mph). The instantaneous, precisely orchestrated power delivery from the two motors guarantees exceptional traction and directional stability even when the car is being driven hard and performing challenging manoeuvres, such as when escaping from an attack.

Tuned and optimised specifically for this model, the chassis technology also makes allowance for the additional weight of its armouring, resulting in superbly assured performance in any situation. Another unique offering for this segment is the inclusion of Integral Active Steering as standard. This reduces the car’s turning circle, increases agility when cornering at speed and improves driving comfort for rear-seat passengers. The 20-inch light-alloy wheels are a further standout feature. The PAX tyres that also come as standard allow the car to continue its journey at up to 80 km/h (50 mph) even in the event of a total loss of pressure.

The latest generation of BMW iDrive based on BMW Operating System 8.5 is fitted, complete with the BMW Curved Display. The system is intuitive to use and operates in a way familiar to BMW drivers. The special functions relevant to occupant protection are also operated via BMW iDrive. The new protection vehicles can also be tailored precisely to any purpose, with items including a fresh-air supply system, a fire extinguishing system, flashing lights, radio transceivers and flag poles for when the car is on official duty, plus other special customer-specific options.

Trailblazing: the BMW iX5 Hydrogen.

The BMW iX5 Hydrogen presented at IAA Mobility 2023 provides further evidence of the company’s superlative innovative strength in the field of drive technology. A pilot series of the Sports Activity Vehicle with hydrogen fuel-cell drive, developed on the basis of the current BMW X5, has entered service for demonstration and test purposes with various target groups around the world. This allows selected test groups who haven’t been involved in the development process to get behind the wheel of the BMW iX5 Hydrogen and gain a direct impression of its attributes for the first time.

The BMW iX5 Hydrogen is equipped with the latest, fifth generation of BMW eDrive technology. The highly integrated drive unit at the rear axle draws its energy from a high-performance battery with li-ion technology that was specially developed for the hydrogen fuel-cell vehicle and generates maximum output of 295 kW/401 hp. The electric motor also doubles as a generator that feeds energy back into the high-performance battery on the overrun or under braking.

The model’s two 700-bar tanks made from carbon-fibre-reinforced plastic (CFRP) together hold six kilograms of gaseous hydrogen and can be refilled in three to four minutes. A chemical reaction takes place in the fuel cell system between the hydrogen and oxygen from the air, through which the electric power for the electric motor is generated. The BMW iX5 Hydrogen achieves a range of 504 kilometres (313 miles) in the WLTP cycle without having to refill the tanks. The hydrogen-powered SAV completes the 0 to 100 km/h (62 mph) sprint in under six seconds and goes on to reach a top speed in excess of 180 km/h (112 mph).

The BMW iX5 Hydrogen combines long-distance capabilities and short refuelling stops with zero tailpipe emissions and hallmark BMW driving dynamics. Its hydrogen fuel-cell technology has the potential – provided the necessary basic conditions are in place – to serve as an additional pillar in the BMW Group’s future powertrain portfolio. As part of its ongoing transformation, the BMW Group is following an approach that embraces all technologies when it comes to drive systems. The company is therefore readying itself for differing customer requirements, infrastructure standards and political and regulatory frameworks in the various regions of the world. This degree of flexibility puts the BMW Group in a position to react quickly to changing requirements in the markets in any situation and to present as many customers as possible with an appropriate model offering at all times.

The new BMW 5 Series will be seen in action for the first time in the UK at the Goodwood Festival of Speed in 2023. Taking to the hill too will be the ground-breaking BMW H2R Record Car alongside the new BMW iX5 Hydrogen. The new and exclusive BMW M3 CS will tackle the famous 1.16-mile course whilst the Festival will also provide a stage for the BMW 3.0 CSL - the most exclusive automobile BMW M has ever produced. Visitors will be able to see the latest models from BMW’s exciting range, including the new BMW i7 M70 xDrive, BMW XM Label Red and BMW M2.

All-electric drive arrives in the BMW 5 Series Saloon for the first time. The BMW i5 eDrive40 offers up to 361-mile range whilst the BMW i5 M60 xDrive delivers scintillating performance with 0-62mph in 3.8s. The new generation of the world's most successful business saloon will be seen on the hill in the ‘First Glance’ category and on display in the Stable Yard and at Trackside.

BMW heralded the future of the hydrogen-powered production car with the BMW H2R, by setting nine world records back in 2004. Using an adapted version of the 6.0-litre 12-cylinder engine taken from the BMW 760i, the aerodynamically efficient carbon fibre-bodied H2R will thrill Festival visitors as it ‘roars’ up the hill.

Representing BMW’s latest iteration of hydrogen fuel cell technology is the BMW iX5 Hydrogen which will join the H2R on the hill. Based on the current BMW X5, it was first unveiled as a concept at the IAA show in 2019. After four years of development work, a double-digit vehicle fleet is now being employed internationally for demonstration and trial purposes for various target groups.

Signalling ‘go’ on the hill, will be the new and exclusive BMW M3 CS. BMW M GmbH’s latest special-edition model teams a 550 hp six-cylinder in-line engine with an eight-speed M Steptronic transmission and the M xDrive intelligent all-wheel-drive system. These combine to produce a 0 to 62 mph time of just 3.4 seconds and on to an electronically limited 188 mph top speed.

Helping steer the BMWs up the hill will be four-times BTCC champion and West Surrey Racing driver Colin Turkington. He will be joined on the hill by team-mates Jake Hill, Stephen Jelley and Adam Morgan along with racing driver Charlie Martin throughout the long weekend.

The Stable Yard, once again dedicated to BMW, will tell the story of Vision iCircular to illustrate the company’s determination to become the most sustainable manufacturer. Visitors will not only be able to see the brand’s latest range of all-electric and electrified models but also many notable cars from the past fifty years. The first electric BMW, the BMW 1602e, will be on display alongside others including the efficient BMW 525e, from the 1980’s, and the i8 - BMW’s first plug-in hybrid sports car.’

These models will be joined by the new BMW i5 and iX5 Hydrogen as well as the most powerful all-electric BMW model, the BMW i7 M70 xDrive, which delivers the perfect combination of electric mobility and performance. The range-topping model of the new BMW 7 Series line-up accelerates from 0 to 62 mph in 3.7 seconds, making it the fastest all-electric BMW model yet.

For many, BMW M at Trackside will be a key focus of the Festival, offering an unparalleled array of the latest BMW M GmbH products. The new BMW M2, M3 Touring and BMW M8 Convertible will line up alongside XM Label Red - the most powerful BMW M model ever made featuring a power output of 748hp and 1,000 Nm system torque.

The stand will also host iconic models from BMW’s illustrious past, from the legendary BMW 3.0 CSL Batmobile to the revered BMW 2002 Turbo.

Taking centre stage will be the BMW 3.0 CSL – the most exclusive special model the company has ever produced. BMW M GmbH’s masterpiece of engineering was built to celebrate its 50th anniversary in 2022 and embodies 50 years of racing passion and its historic roots with its legendary model designation. The BMW 3.0 CSL is produced in a strictly limited edition, with exactly 50 consecutively numbered units of the special model going on sale.

Visitors will be entertained by Duke, a unique beat boxing group, and DJs including Stephanie, Sophie and the Boom Collective to get everyone dancing, whilst former British Touring Car Championship driver Paul O’Neill will present on stand throughout the weekend.

The Goodwood Festival of Speed is being held over four days from 13-16 July 2023.


Ends


The BMW Group

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

In 2022, the BMW Group sold nearly 2.4 million passenger vehicles and more than 202,000 motorcycles worldwide. The profit before tax in the financial year 2021 was € 16.1 billion on revenues amounting to € 111.2 billion. As of 31 December 2021, the BMW Group had a workforce of 118,909 employees.

The success of the BMW Group has always been based on long-term thinking and responsible action. The company set the course for the future at an early stage and consistently makes sustainability and efficient resource management central to its strategic direction, from the supply chain through production to the end of the use phase of all products.

www.bmwgroup.com
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/BMWGroup
Twitter: http://twitter.com/BMWGroup
YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/BMWGroupView
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bmwgroup
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/bmw-group/

For further information please contact:

Martin Harrison
Media Relations Officer
Tel: 07815 377083
Email: Martin.Harrison@bmw.co.uk

Carolyn Paterson
Senior Press Officer, BMW
Tel: 07815 372906
Email: Carolyn.Paterson@bmw.co.uk

Chris Overall
BMW Media Relations Manager
Tel: 07815 370 990
Email: Chris.Overall@bmw.co.uk

Christina Burnham-Hepe
General Manager, Communications
Tel: 07815 371 206
Email: Christina.Burnham-Hepe@bmw.co.uk

Graham Biggs
Corporate Communications Director
Tel: 07815 376 867
Email: Graham.Biggs@bmw.co.uk

Note: This press release is a 1:1 copy of the original issued by BMW headquarters in Germany. No adaptations have been made to cater for the UK market.

Munich. The first-ever BMW 5 Series with a fully electric drive system has yet to make its global debut, but it has already come through the ultimate endurance test. The new BMW i5 repeatedly demonstrated both the stability of its electric powertrain and its dynamic performance qualities over the course of arduous test drives in wintry conditions. The programme of testing on ice and snow lasted about a year in all, from the initial test runs to the final stages of fine-tuning. During the extensive testing on country roads, motorways and specially prepared test tracks, the development engineers mainly focused their attention on the car’s ability to drive at low temperatures and on surfaces offering little grip.

The innovative powertrain and chassis control systems on board the new BMW i5 do a great deal to optimise its traction, dynamism and driving stability, and nowhere is this more apparent than on a solid blanket of snow, icy mountain roads or frozen lakes. It was only right that the dynamic winter testing of the purely electrically powered sedan recently finished exactly where it began: in the biting cold of the BMW Group’s winter test centre at Arjeplog, northern Sweden.

Endurance test for BMW eDrive technology, operating continuously at extreme sub-zero temperatures.

As part of the production development process, the new BMW i5 first had to prove its mettle back in February 2022, when it completed a road trip from Munich to the BMW test centre at Arjeplog. A prototype model of the all-electric BMW 5 Series fully camouflaged with a special wrap, plastic attachments, grilles and provisional headlights and rear lights set off on a five-day test drive from the foothills of the Bavarian Alps up to Denmark, then on to the edge of the Arctic Circle in Swedish Lapland.

The journey of around 3,000 kilometres (1,850 miles) provided an early opportunity for the motors, power electronics, high-voltage battery and integrated heating and cooling system for the cabin and battery pack to demonstrate their advanced level of readiness on a long-distance journey. Featuring cutting-edge battery cell technology and intelligently controlled thermal management, the fifth-generation BMW eDrive technology – further upgraded for the new BMW i5 – forms the basis for long ranges and short charging times during breaks in the journey, even in extreme sub-zero ambient temperatures.

• See photo set 1

The final destination of Arjeplog provided the team of development and test engineers with the ideal venue for their test programme. The snow-covered roads and frozen lakes of northern Sweden, with their vast expanses of ice, create the perfect setting for exploring how the chassis components, steering and braking systems, and driving dynamic and driving stability systems all interact with one another in extreme outdoor conditions. As a result, the groundwork for the authoritative, assured and characteristically sporty handling of the new BMW i5 were already laid in the first test drives in Arjeplog.

• See photo set 2

Testing in everyday driving and on wintry roads in the foothills of the Alps.

This was followed by more testing over the course of 2022, both at other
BMW Group test facilities and in everyday driving in and around Munich as well as in the vicinity of BMW Group Plant Dingolfing. The task here was to continue refining the car’s chassis technology and acoustic properties under a wide variety of conditions, as well as honing the drive unit’s power delivery, in order to produce a well-resolved driving experience at all times.

Here again, part of the development work was deliberately carried out during the colder months on icy and snowy roads in the Alpine foothills. This last winter, BMW i5 prototypes – now sporting less camouflage and near-production headlights – were regularly sent out for testing to verify the functionality and reliability of their powertrain and chassis control systems in extremely demanding road and weather conditions. The BMW engineers involved in the vehicle project were able to directly inspect the current state of development through testing in the BMW brand’s native Bavaria before it was time to return to endurance testing near the Arctic Circle in February 2023.

• See photo set 3

BMW i5 thrills with its unrivalled handling on ice and snow.

The purpose of this second round of testing in Sweden was to fine-tune all powertrain and chassis control systems. Thanks to their low-grip surfaces, the test areas sited on frozen lakes around Arjeplog were particularly well suited for delicately adjusting the drive torque control system in the BMW i5 under precisely reproducible conditions. In the new BMW i5, the DSC (Dynamic Stability Control) system, the near-actuator wheel slip limitation function and the drive torque control system are interlinked so that they can interact and complement each other flexibly in any driving situation. As a result, the all-electric sedan performs at least as proficiently as any conventionally powered model on ice and snow.

The integrated application of all powertrain and chassis systems underpins the outstanding handling abilities displayed by the BMW i5 in winter testing. The more challenging the conditions, the more impressive were the speed and precision of the control systems in the fully electric version of the new BMW 5 Series Sedan. The BMW i5 serves up a harmonious blend of optimum traction when pulling away and supreme driving stability when cornering or braking, which is unique in the competitive environment.

• See photo set 4

BMW named Fleet Manufacturer of the Year at the Business Car Awards 2022

• Five category award wins for BMW at the Business Car Awards 2022
• BMW is named Fleet Manufacturer of the Year
• BMW i4, 3 Series, 5 Series and X5 lead their respective categories 

BMW was triumphant at the 2022 Business Car Awards last night, securing five prized category wins, including the prestigious Fleet Manufacturer of the Year Award.

Besides receiving the headline award, the BMW i4, 3 Series, 5 Series and X5 were each recognised as best in their respective class.

On presenting BMW with the award for Fleet Manufacturer of the Year, Martyn Collins, Editor, Business Car Magazine said, “We continue to be impressed by how BMW builds on its strong fleet record through its choice of models – most recently with its expanded EV range. Then there’s the support for company car drivers, from keeping them updated on the status of their order, through to the roll out of ‘Inside Edge’, an exclusive rewards platform for BMW company car drivers.”

The BMW i4 attained its sixth accolade for 2022, winning the award for Best Electric Car over £40,000. Judges commended the i4 for its “impressive electric range” and “practical hatchback design”. Collins added, “it is the perfect premium EV option for user-choosers or businesses to go green without attracting attention.”

The BMW 3 Series retained its Best Premium Car title for the fourth consecutive year, described by Business Car as the “king of the premium cars”. The model was commended by judges for its “attractive mixture” of driver appeal, comprehensive choice of engines, and low total cost of ownership.

The title of Best Premium Large SUV was awarded to the BMW X5, as the car was celebrated for its “quality, well-made and well-designed” interior, as well as its “optional seven-seat practicality”. Collins paid tribute to the model’s development over the years, stating, “BMW has been refining the X5 for the past 21 years, and the current fourth-generation version is a brilliant fleet choice.” A special mention was also given to the plug-in hybrid X5 xDrive45e model for its “impressive” 8% BIK.

The fifth and final award went to the BMW 5 Series, which remains Business Car’s Best Executive Car for the third year running. Collins said, “There’s nothing we’d take over the 5 Series’. Despite serious competition from new rivals, the BMW remains the accomplished all-rounder its always been.”

In response to receiving the five category award wins, Steve Roberts, General Manager, Corporate Sales at BMW Group UK said, “I am delighted to accept these awards on behalf of the corporate sales teams at BMW UK. We are incredibly proud to be named Fleet Manufacturer of the Year as the award recognises BMW’s continuous ability to adapt to fast-changing market conditions with our extensive model portfolio and ever-growing electrified range, without compromising on our industry-leading service for business customers.”


Ends


The BMW Group

With its four brands BMW, MINI, Rolls-Royce and BMW Motorrad, the BMW Group is the world’s leading premium manufacturer of automobiles and motorcycles and also provides premium financial and mobility services. The BMW Group production network comprises 31 production and assembly facilities in 15 countries; the company has a global sales network in more than 140 countries.

In 2021, the BMW Group sold over 2.5 million passenger vehicles and more than 194,000 motorcycles worldwide. The profit before tax in the financial year 2020 was € 5.222 billion on revenues amounting to € 98.990 billion. As of 31 December 2020, the BMW Group had a workforce of 120,726 employees.

The success of the BMW Group has always been based on long-term thinking and responsible action. The company set the course for the future at an early stage and consistently makes sustainability and efficient resource management central to its strategic direction, from the supply chain through production to the end of the use phase of all products.

www.bmwgroup.com

Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/BMWGroup
Twitter: http://twitter.com/BMWGroup
YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/BMWGroupView
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bmwgroup
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/bmw-group/


For further information please contact:

Chris Overall
BMW Media Relations Manager
Tel: 07815 370 990
Email: Chris.Overall@bmw.co.uk

Christina Burnham-Hepe
General Manager, Communications
Tel: 07815 371 206
Email: Christina.Burnham-Hepe@bmw.co.uk

Graham Biggs
Corporate Communications Director
Tel: 07815 376 867
Email: Graham.Biggs@bmw.co.uk

• BMW wins more category awards than any other brand at the 44^th annual What Car? Awards
• 3 Series, 4 Series Coupé, 4 Series Convertible, 5 Series and X5 xDrive45e lead their respective categories
• Eight ‘Best Buy’ recommendations for BMW and a win for MINI

BMW is celebrating a triumphant start to 2022 after winning more awards than any other manufacturer at the 44^th annual What Car? Awards, with five coveted category wins across the brand’s model portfolio.

The BMW 3 Series, 4 Series Coupé, 4 Series Convertible, 5 Series and X5 xDrive45e were all recognised as best in their respective class, with BMW also winning a further eight ‘Best Buy’ awards. MINI snapped up the award for ‘Best Small Car Interior’.

BMW 330e and BMW 530e retained their awards from 2021, taking home the highly contested ‘Executive Car of the Year’ and ‘Luxury Car of the Year’ awards respectively.

Steve Huntingford, Editor, What Car? commented “The 330e represents the brilliant BMW 3 Series at its very best, because it offers a long enough electric range to cover a typical daily commute, while keeping running costs low for private and company car drivers alike. It's well thought out inside, too, with an infotainment system that's better than those of rivals, and plenty of space for your family. Add in the fact that the 330e retains the fun handling we've come to expect from the 3 Series, and you've got a truly special car”.

The BMW 4 Series Coupé added another award to its collection as it was named ‘Coupé of the Year’, taking its total to nine UK industry awards since it was launched in October 2020. Huntingford praised the model’s silhouette, suspension and driving pleasure, noting “The 4 Series Coupé has the bulletproof underpinnings of the 3 Series, but with a sexier silhouette, a stiffer structure, retuned suspension and a wider rear.  In other words, what you lose in practicality, you gain (big time) in aesthetic appeal and driving pleasure. It trounces rivals in bends with the standard suspension, and even more so with the M Sport adaptive set-up”.

The 4 Series Convertible was named ‘Convertible of the Year’, with judges praising both the spacious interior and dynamic yet efficient petrol engine, stating “refinement is excellent in the new 4 Series Convertible, whether you have the roof up or down. Plus, that roof is lighter than before, which contributes to this latest 4 Series drop-top being even better to drive than its predecessor. The punchy and pleasantly frugal petrol engine in our favourite version is another strength. And the interior is both spacious enough for four and smartly finished”.

The BMW X5 xDrive45e impressed the What Car? team with its “remarkable efficiency and long electric range”. It won ‘Luxury SUV of the Year’ with judges adding: “the BMW X5 xDrive45e is hard to beat as an overall package because it's smooth, classy and luxurious.”

The honours continued for BMW, with the brand securing Best Buy wins across an impressive eight categories, including Best Family Car Interior (BMW 1 Series), Best Luxury SUV for Big Families (BMW X7), Best Estate Car to Drive (BMW 3 Series Touring) and Best Estate Car Interior (BMW 5 Series Touring).

Numerous electrified BMW models were also successful with BMW i4 named the Best Large Electric Car Interior, BMW iX winning Best Electric SUV for Long Distances and BMW iX3 securing Best Electric SUV to Drive. Finally, the BMW X5 xDrive45e also took home Best Plug-in Hybrid for Long Distances.

                                                                   Ends


The BMW Group

With its four brands BMW, MINI, Rolls-Royce and BMW Motorrad, the BMW Group is the world’s leading premium manufacturer of automobiles and motorcycles and also provides premium financial and mobility services. The BMW Group production network comprises 31 production and assembly facilities in 15 countries; the company has a global sales network in more than 140 countries.

In 2021, the BMW Group sold over 2.5 million passenger vehicles and more than 194,000 motorcycles worldwide. The profit before tax in the financial year 2020 was € 5.222 billion on revenues amounting to € 98.990 billion. As of 31 December 2020, the BMW Group had a workforce of 120,726 employees.

The success of the BMW Group has always been based on long-term thinking and responsible action. The company set the course for the future at an early stage and consistently makes sustainability and efficient resource management central to its strategic direction, from the supply chain through production to the end of the use phase of all products.


www.bmwgroup.com
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/BMWGroup
Twitter: http://twitter.com/BMWGroup
YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/BMWGroupView
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bmwgroup
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/bmw-group/

For further information please contact:

Helen Wilson
Senior Press Officer
Tel: 07815 372 480
Email: Helen.Wilson@bmw.co.uk

Chris Overall
BMW Media Relations Manager
Tel: 07815 370 990
Email: Chris.Overall@bmw.co.uk

Emma Begley
General Manager, Communications
Tel: 07815 371 062
Email: Emma.Begley@bmw.co.uk

Graham Biggs
Corporate Communications Director
Tel: 07815 376 867
Email: Graham.Biggs@bmw.co.uk

BMW has kicked off 2021 by scooping an impressive number of wins at the 43^rd annual What Car? Awards.

The BMW 3 Series, 4 Series and 5 Series were all recognised, as were the BMW X5 and X6, with a further nine awards for a range of models across the Best Buy categories, where MINI also snapped up two awards.

The BMW 330e secured the highly coveted Executive Car of the Year award, to add to the seven industry awards already collected in 2020.

Steve Huntingford, Editor, What Car?, said “The latest 3 Series has been our favourite executive car ever since it went on sale, but the specific magic of the plug-in hybrid 330e is in being all things to all drivers. It can run for up to 36 miles on electric power alone, which is enough for most commutes, but it's also great at shrugging off long motorway trips and displays an agility and sense of fun in corners that no rival can match”.

The recently launched BMW 4 Series won Coupé of the Year, with Huntingford praising the vehicle’s “perfectly balanced take on the dual nature that makes for a world-class sports coupé”, while the BMW 530e was named the title’s Luxury Car of the Year.

The BMW X5 xDrive 45e and X6 xDrive 30d were also successful, winning Luxury SUV of the Year and Coupé SUV of the Year respectively. Impressed with the X5 for its hybrid credentials, Huntingford commented, “When choosing a plug-in hybrid, it goes without saying that you want economy and cost-effectiveness, but if you don’t want to compromise on the finer things in life, the X5 xDrive45e is right up your street”.

Huntingford also praised the BMW X6 for being class leading, writing “without the X6, it’s doubtful the coupé SUV class would even exist, and the latest version moves the game on again”.

The honours continued with BMW securing nine Best Buy wins across its range of models, including Best Family Car Interior for the BMW 1 Series, Best Plug-in Hybrid to Drive for the BMW 330e and Best Estate Car to Drive for the BMW 3 Series Touring. The BMW 5 Series Touring was recognised as Best Estate Car Interior, BMW 4 Series took home Best Performance Car for Value and the BMW iX3, the brand’s first fully electric SUV, took home Best Large Electric SUV.

Numerous BMW SAV models were also recognised, with the BMW X7 winning Best Luxury SUV for big families, Best Plug-in Hybrid interior for the BMW X5 and the X3 winning Best Sports SUV for families.

MINI also enjoyed another successful year, securing two Best Buy wins: Best Small Car Interior and Best Convertible for Value for the MINI 3-Door Hatch and MINI Convertible.

Remarking on the win, Huntingford said “The latest MINI Convertible is one of the most affordable drop-tops you can buy but, crucially, it still feels every inch the premium product. Its interior is a particular highlight, because it’s packed with fashionable touches and there are quality materials everywhere you look. What's more, with the roof down but the windows up, you’re well isolated from wind bluster”.

The MINI Convertible remains the number one selling Convertible in the UK, with 3,416 sold in 2020.

Ends

The BMW Group

With its four brands BMW, MINI, Rolls-Royce and BMW Motorrad, the BMW Group is the world’s leading premium manufacturer of automobiles and motorcycles and also provides premium financial and mobility services. The BMW Group production network comprises 31 production and assembly facilities in 15 countries; the company has a global sales network in more than 140 countries.

In 2020, the BMW Group sold over 2.3 million passenger vehicles and more than 169,000 motorcycles worldwide. The profit before tax in the financial year 2019 was € 7.118 billion on revenues amounting to € 104.210 billion. As of 31 December 2019, the BMW Group had a workforce of 126,016 employees.

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

www.bmwgroup.com
www.bmw.co.uk
https://newsroom.bmwgroup.com/global/en

Facebook: BMW UK
Twitter: @BMW_UK
Instagram: BMWUK
LinkedIn: BMW Group UK Limited
YouTube: BMW UK


For further information please contact:

Helen Wilson
BMW Group Media Relations Executive
Tel: 07815 372 480
Email: Helen.Wilson@bmw.co.uk

Chris Overall
BMW Media Relations Manager
Tel: 07815 370 990
Email: Chris.Overall@bmw.co.uk

Emma Begley
General Manager, Communications
Tel: 07815 371 062
Email: Emma.Begley@bmw.co.uk

Graham Biggs
Corporate Communications Director
Tel: 07815 376 867
Email: Graham.Biggs@bmw.co.uk

Note: This press release is a 1:1 copy of the original issued by BMW headquarters in Germany. No adaptations have been made to cater for the UK market.

Munich. With a ten-year plan for sustainability, the BMW Group is underscoring its commitment to the goals of the Paris climate agreement, the main focus being on the expansion of electric mobility. More than 500,000 electrified vehicles were sold by the end of 2019 and this figure will most likely rise to over 1 million by the end of 2021. The BMW 5 Series makes a substantial contribution towards achieving both past and future goals. With almost 50,000 units, BMW 5 Series plug-in hybrid models were the most successful electrified models in the BMW Group’s portfolio worldwide in 2019.

Extension of the BMW 5 Series to include five plug-in hybrid models.
With an increase from two to five models featuring innovative plug-in hybrid drive by November 2020, the new BMW 5 Series offers the largest range of PHEVs within one BMW Group model series.

The latest generation of BMW eDrive technology in conjunction with a four-cylinder petrol engine powers the BMW 530e plug-in hybrid models. July 2020 saw the launch of the new BMW 530e Saloon (combined fuel consumption: 1.8 – 1.7 l/100 km; combined power consumption: 14.8 – 13.7 kWh/100 km; combined CO₂ emissions: 42 – 39 g/km)* and the new BMW 530e xDrive Saloon (combined fuel consumption: 2.1 – 2.0 l/100 km; combined power consumption: 16.4 – 15.9 kWh/100 km; combined CO₂ emissions: 49 – 46 g/km)*.

In November 2020, the new BMW 530e Touring (combined fuel consumption: 2.1 – 1.9 l/100 km; combined power consumption: 15.9 – 14.9 kWh/100 km; combined CO₂ emissions: 47 – 43 g/km)* and the new BMW 530e xDrive Touring (combined fuel consumption: 2.3 – 2.1 l/100 km; combined power consumption: 16.9 – 15.9 kWh/100 km; combined CO₂ emissions: 52 – 49 g/km)* will be launched.

Top of the range model: The new BMW 545e xDrive Saloon.
The new BMW 545e xDrive Saloon (combined fuel consumption: 2.4 – 2.1 l/100 km; combined power consumption: 16.3 – 15.3 kWh/100 km; combined CO₂ emissions: 54 – 49 g/km)* features a synchronous electric motor delivering a maximum power output of 80 kW/109 hp, which is combined with an efficient straight six-cylinder petrol engine with BMW TwinPower Turbo Technology and 210 kW/286 hp, together generating an overall system output of 290 kW/394 hp. Power is distributed as required to all four wheels via an 8-speed Steptronic transmission and intelligent BMW xDrive four-wheel drive. Maximum system torque is 600 Nm and top speed is reached at 250 km/h, whilst a speed of 140 km/h is possible in purely electric operation. From a standstill, the new BMW 545e xDrive accelerates to a speed of 100 km/h in just 4.7 seconds*. Thus, the BMW 545e xDrive clearly excels as the most dynamic of all BMW six-cylinder plug-in hybrids.

Thanks to intelligently controlled interaction between both drive systems, the new BMW 545e xDrive combines the best of two worlds. It facilitates not only purely electric driving in urban traffic and efficient commuting between home and the workplace, but also excels through dynamic performance and comfortable long-distance travel. With a purely electric range of 54–57 kilometres* and an average fuel consumption of 2.4–2.1 litres/100 km*, the new BMW 545e xDrive combines brand-typical driving dynamics and a high level of long-distance ride comfort with extremely efficient use of resources.

The latest plug-in hybrid model of the BMW 5 Series is fitted with a 400V lithium-ion battery which is positioned under the rear seat in order to save space. With a luggage volume of 410 litres, the transport capacity of the BMW 545e xDrive is only slightly smaller than of those model variants which are fitted with a conventional engine.

Different driving modes for maximum efficiency in accordance with the relevant driving style and situation.
In order to make optimum use of the combination of the straight six-cylinder engine featuring ultra-smooth running characteristics and eDrive technology in all driving situations, the BMW 545e xDrive supports the driver in numerous ways in terms of energy management. Various driving modes, some of which can be individualised in their operation, are simply selected by pressing the corresponding button on the centre console.

The HYBRID mode is the default setting, which ensures a balanced set-up and an intelligent interaction between combustion engine and electric motor. It is also possible to select ELECTRIC mode as the standard setting via the iDrive menu. In HYBRID mode, the electric motor is predominantly used. The combustion engine only kicks in at higher speeds or under intensive load conditions. Since the system is linked to the navigation system, the interaction between combustion engine and electric motor can be adapted more precisely to the route profile, topography and other driving situations in an anticipatory manner. The electric range is increased by recuperation in overrun and braking phases. The energy supply saved in this way can then be used specifically for locally emission-free driving through urban areas and the arrival at the defined destination.

By pressing the HYBRID button twice, an efficiency-optimised version of this operating mode (HYBRID ECO PRO) is activated.
The coasting function on the overrun, among other things, contributes to a further reduction in consumption. The navigation and sensor data-supported control system also optimises the effectiveness of braking energy recovery. When approaching a junction or a vehicle driving ahead, for example, infinitely adaptive recuperation can be put to particularly intensive use for the purpose of deceleration.

In SPORT mode, the electric motor supports the straight six-cylinder petrol engine when the overall system output of 290 kW/394 hp is fully needed. The set-up is designed for dynamic performance, and the gearshift program is sporty. The ELECTRIC mode, on the other hand, enables locally purely emission-free driving up to 57 kilometres* and up to 140 km/h.

S pecial sounds for a special driving experience.
The new “ready to drive sound” produced by the BMW 545e xDrive is the result of the collaboration with composer Hans Zimmer and is designed to trigger joyful anticipation of the electric drive when the driver enters the vehicle and presses the Start/Stop button.

A distinctive sound created especially for electrified BMW models is used for the purpose of acoustic pedestrian protection, emitted via a speaker system. The sound design in the low speed range of up to 30 km/h radiates a vibrant acoustic presence, though without impairing the acoustic comfort of vehicle occupants.

Likewise, via the vehicle audio system, “Active Sound Design” provides for an authentic and, in the SPORT mode of the Driving Experience Control Switch, for a particularly intense and pronounced sound.

Electric mobility meets digitalisation: Digital services for the plug-in hybrid models of the BMW 5 Series.
The BMW Group also offers innovative digital services that actively contribute towards increasing the attractiveness of electric driving even further.  

The BMW eDrive Zone service facilitates the automatic switching over of the drive system to purely electric mode when entering an urban low-emission zone and similar inner-city areas. In addition, local emission-free driving with a BMW plug-in hybrid model is rewarded through the globally unique loyalty programme BMW Points.

Apart from filling stations, the navigation system also displays public charging points. When selecting a charging station, the driver is also provided with a forecast on its occupation status as well as recommendations for nearby restaurants or cafés. Moreover, BMW enables BMW Charging customers to reserve an enabled charging station for a limited period of time.

Furthermore, other products from BMW Charging also offer the possibility of comfortable charging at home and when out and about. These also comprise various versions of the Wallbox, including installation service, individual offers for the purchase of electricity and access to the world’s largest network of public charging stations comprising more than 155,000 charging points in Europe alone.  

Preconditioning of the interior by means of auxiliary heating and air conditioning ensures optimised comfort during any season. If the preconditioning system is activated during the charging process after defining a specific departure time, the system also guarantees the full electric range in drive mode. The system is controlled either from inside the vehicle or conveniently via the My BMW app.

* All figures are provisional.

The new BMW 5 Series reaffirms its leading position in the premium executive class thanks to a new look, an interior brimming with refinements, cutting-edge innovations and even greater efficiencies, as most models now feature mild-hybrid technology.

Like the new BMW 5 Series Saloon, the new BMW 5 Series Touring will also be available with a plug-in hybrid drive system from November 2020. The use of mild hybrid technology with a 48V starter-generator will be rolled out to all models with a four- or six-cylinder engine, except PHEV and M550i xDrive models.

Inside, new interior features include a larger 12.3” Central Information Display powered by the latest Operating System 7.0, including BMW’s Intelligent Personal Assistant and Smartphone Integration. The new 5 Series also benefits from the latest camera- and radar-based driving assistant systems, including features like steering and lane-control assistant and active cruise control to name just a few.

More than 600,000 units of the BMW 5 Series Saloon and Touring have been sold worldwide since the current generation was launched. The market introduction of the new BMW 5 Series is in July 2020 and both models will be produced at BMW Plant Dingolfing in Bavaria. The new BMW 5 Series Saloon will also be built by our production partner Magna Steyr in Graz, Austria.

Exterior design

The exterior design of the BMW 5 Series features precise modifications to heighten the car’s distinctive presence and sporting style.

The BMW kidney grille has extra width and height, dropping down further into the front apron and framed by a single-piece surround. The slimmer contouring of the headlights brings a modern twist to the focused look so familiar from BMWs past and present. The standard full LED headlights include two U-shaped daytime driving lights to create a precise and modern light graphic. With the Visibility pack, customers can upgrade to either Adaptive LED headlights with matrix technology or BMW Laserlights including High-beam Assistant – these headlight upgrades are characterised by two L-shaped daytime driving lights. The latest generation of BMW’s Laserlight technology increases the lighting range up to 600 metres and includes a blue laser effect within the eye-brow. On both Adaptive LED and Laserlight upgrades, customers can select the optional ‘BMW Individual Lights Shadow Line’ for an even sportier front profile aesthetic. The front apron of both SE and M Sport trim levels have also been redesigned with larger and more pronounced air inlets.

The LED taillights are now presented with an additional top overhang that transforms the L-motif into a C-shape. Blackened lenses frame the taillights for a more slender, high-tech look, with bold, stepped contours providing a modernised appearance. The rear apron has also been redesigned with trapezoidal tailpipe finishers and a sportier mounted diffuser on Saloon models.

M Sport package features new 19” and 20” Wheels whilst the new limited M Sport Edition comes with exclusive Individual metallic paint and unique 20” Air Performance wheels.

The M Sport package delivers a sportier look from both the front and rear profiles of the car. Typical of our most popular trim level, these models include the M aerodynamics package, M Sport steering wheel and all new 19” and 20” M Sport alloy wheels. A new M Sport Edition version will be available from launch in a limited worldwide production run of 1,000 units. Its exclusive specification includes the M Sport package, model-specific 20” Air Performance Wheels and a choice of two exclusive exterior paints including Donington Grey and Tanzanite Blue.

Interior: 12.3-inch Central Information Display

The Central Information Display has increased in size from 10.25” to 12.3” and is powered by BMW’s latest Operating System 7.0.

Trim levels
The new BMW 5 Series comes in a choice of three trim levels: SE, M Sport and M Sport Edition. For the very first time in the UK, we’ll also be introducing a range-topping M Performance M550i xDrive on Saloon models.

Standard features of the SE include a choice of 17”, 18” and 19” alloy wheels and Steptronic or Steptronic Sport transmission depending on the engine variant. The interior benefits from Dakota leather upholstery, Oxide Silver dark matt trim, Sport leather steering wheel and heated front seats. The SE Touring specification includes split folding rear seats and matt silver roof rails, with all body styles also having an electronic tailgate.

New for the SE are folding mirrors, front electric lumbar support and Parking Assistant. Comfort, convenience and connectivity are heightened with automatic air conditioning, DAB radio, Connected Package Professional and BMW Live Cockpit Professional.

The M Sport trim level adds new alloy wheel designs in 18”, 19” and 20”sizes, the M aerodynamics package and high gloss shadowline exterior trim, which now extends to the roof rails on the Touring. Inside, there is the M leather steering wheel, front sports seats, a distinctive instrument panel finished in Sensatec, anthracite headliner and Aluminium Rhombicle Grey trim details. M Sport suspension is standard except on 530e and 530e xDrive models.

Building on the M Sport, the M Sport Edition boasts exterior and interior enhancements. Finished in either Tanzanite Blue or exclusive Donington Grey, the M Sport Edition features 20-inch alloy wheels fitted with runflat tyres, shadowline adaptive LED headlights, all-new red M brake callipers, extended high-gloss shadowline exterior trim and sun protection glass. The M Sport Edition specification also includes an M rear spoiler and M multifunction seats on the Saloon model.

The range-topping M550i XDrive Saloon is  distinguished from the core 5 Series models with a 4.4 litre V8 TwinPower turbocharged powertrain, exclusive 20” wheels, cerium grey exterior detailing, Harman/Kardon Surround Sound System, an M Sport differential and adaptive M suspension.

Engines

A choice of plug-in hybrid models with the latest fourth-generation battery technology including an all new six-cylinder 545e xDrive Saloon and four-cylinder 530e sDrive/xDrive Touring from November 2020.

From November 2020, the latest-generation BMW eDrive technology will be combined with a four-cylinder petrol engine on the new BMW 530e Saloon and - for the very first time – the BMW 530e Touring.

5 Series Saloon

5 Series Touring –

48V mild-hybrid technology for all four- and six-cylinder models

Mild-hybrid technology, first introduced in the BMW 520d and BMW 520d xDrive models in autumn 2019, will now offer enhanced performance combined with lower fuel consumption and improved driving comfort in all four- and six-cylinder variants of the new BMW 5 Series. Fitting a powerful 48V starter-generator and a second battery enables a significant increase in the amount of brake energy that can be regenerated and stored. This energy is used not just to supply the electrical system, but also to lighten the combustion engine’s workload and boost its power.

The starter-generator produces an electric boost that instantly makes an additional 8 kW/11 hp available, enhancing overtaking and off-the-line acceleration. The starter-generator also increases efficiency by assisting the engine when driving at constant speeds and improves comfort when the Auto Start-Stop and coasting functions are in use.

Further developed powertrain and chassis technology

Alongside the 530hp V8 found in the range-topping BMW M550i xDrive Saloon, the new BMW 5 Series comes with a choice of three additional petrol and three diesel engines producing between 184hp and 340hp. The direct injection system in the petrol units operates at increased pressure, meaning greater efficiency, while the two-stage turbocharging technology now fitted in all diesel variants makes for even sharper power delivery. All the engines are complemented with an eight-speed Steptronic transmission as standard. BMW xDrive intelligent all-wheel drive is also offered on select variants including the 520d, 530d, 530e, 540i, 545e and M550i models.

There is a choice of sophisticated chassis systems designed to enhance either agility and dynamism or driving comfort. M Sport suspension, Adaptive M suspension and Adaptive M suspension Professional including active roll-stabilisation can all be found on the options list. Red M callipers are now available as an alternative to blue with the M Sport Pro pack on M Sport models and are standard on M550i xDrive Saloon models.

Driver assistance systems offering additional functions

The driver assistance systems available for the new BMW 5 Series serve both to enhance driving comfort on long journeys and increase safety in situations where the driver does not have a clear view. As part of Driving Assistant Professional, updates to Steering and Lane Control Assistants are included, which in turn introduces Active Navigation. This system uses navigation data to spot in advance when a lane change will be required, and this can then be performed simply in advance notice, using the Lane Change Assistant. 

The newly standard Parking Assistant’s range of functions has been extended with the addition of the reversing assistant, which takes control of the steering while reversing for distances of up to 50 metres.

The new Drive Recorder option coupled with Parking Assistant Plus, uses in-built cameras to record video footage from different points around the vehicle, before storing the recordings so they can be either watched later on the control display or exported via the USB port.

Recordings can be up to 40 seconds in length, comprising the 20 seconds of video saved immediately prior to the Drive Recorder being activated and the next 20 seconds. In the event of a collision, the 20 seconds up to the moment of impact and the next 20 seconds are automatically recorded and saved.  

New digital services: BMW Intelligent Personal Assistant, Smartphone Integration and Remote Software Upgrade

The standard BMW Live Cockpit Professional brings in the latest BMW Operating System 7.0 and a host of digital services as standard.  

The new BMW 5 Series includes the BMW Intelligent Personal Assistant with the latest extended functionality. This technology learns routines, habits and preferences to help the driver get the best out of the in-car functionality. Smartphone Integration is offered as standard, without any runtime limitations, and is now compatible with both Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.

Offered for the first time on the new BMW 5 Series the Remote Software Upgrade functionality keeps the vehicle up to date with the latest software. All updates can be imported over the air, either on a smartphone via BMW Connected or directly into the car using its built-in SIM card. Installation is much like a smartphone update. The content of the upgrades can vary, from new software services to improved vehicle functions and the possibility to purchase additional technology via the BMW ConnectedDrive online store.

Options

ENDS

Fuel consumption, CO2 emission figures and power consumption were measured using the methods required according to Regulation VO (EC) 2007/715 as amended. The figures are calculated using a vehicle fitted with basic equipment in Germany, the ranges stated take into account differences in selected wheel and tyre sizes as well as the optional equipment. They may change during configuration.

The details marked * have already been calculated based on the new WLTP test cycle and adapted to NEDC for comparison purposes. In these vehicles, different figures than those published here may apply for the assessment of taxes and other vehicle-related duties which are (also) based on CO2 emissions.

For further details of the official fuel consumption figures and official specific CO2emissions of new cars, please refer to the "Manual on fuel consumption, CO2 emissions and power consumption of new cars", available at sales outlets, from Deutsche Automobil Treuhand GmbH (DAT), Hellmuth-Hirth-Str. 1, 73760 Ostfildern-Scharnhausen and at https://www.dat.de/co2/.

The BMW Group

With its four brands BMW, MINI, Rolls-Royce and BMW Motorrad, the BMW Group is the world’s leading premium manufacturer of automobiles and motorcycles and also provides premium financial and mobility services. The BMW Group production network comprises 31 production and assembly facilities in 15 countries; the company has a global sales network in more than 140 countries.

In 2019, the BMW Group sold over 2.5 million passenger vehicles and more than 175,000 motorcycles worldwide. The profit before tax in the financial year 2019 was € 7.118 billion on revenues amounting to € 104.210 billion. As of 31 December 2019, the BMW Group had a workforce of 126,016 employees.

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

www.bmwgroup.com

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

Twitter: http://twitter.com/BMWGroup

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

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

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/bmwgroup/

For further information please contact:

Helen Wilson
BMW Group Media Relations Executive
Tel: 07815 372 480
Email: Helen.Wilson@bmw.co.uk

Chris Overall
BMW Media Relations Manager
Tel: 07815 370 990
Email: Chris.Overall@bmw.co.uk

Emma Begley
General Manager, Communications
Tel: 07815 371 062
Email: Emma.Begley@bmw.co.uk

Graham Biggs
Corporate Communications Director
Tel: 07815 376 867
Email: Graham.Biggs@bmw.co.uk

The BMW M5 Competition is on sale now priced at £96,205 OTR with customer deliveries in September 2018.

Ends

Following the launch of the all-new BMW 5 Series Saloon, the BMW 530e iPerformance model follows in the footsteps of other Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicles (PHEV) in the BMW range. This includes the BMW X5 xDrive40e, BMW 225xe, BMW 330e, BMW 740e and the 740Le. Featuring technology derived directly from the BMW i brand, the BMW 530e iPerformance Saloon offers a dynamic driving experience with exceptionally efficient performance as well as all-electric mobility with zero tailpipe emissions, as and when required.

The intelligently controlled interaction between the combustion engine and the electric drive, which together generate a total system output of 252hp, gives the BMW 530e Saloon rapid acceleration while offering a substantial reduction in fuel consumption and emissions. The BMW 530e achieves combined fuel consumption of 141.2mpg, and a combined electricity consumption of 9.2kWh with CO2 emissions of just 46g/km.

Power delivery on a par with a high-displacement combustion engine.
The BMW eDrive system’s state-of-the-art electric motor has an output of 95hp and maximum torque of 250Nm, while the four-cylinder combustion engine with its 2.0-litre displacement generates 184hp and 320Nm of torque. The overall system output of 252hp and combined peak torque of 420Nm allows the BMW 530e to sprint from zero to 62mph in 6.2 seconds and enable it to reach a top speed of 146mph while CO2 emissions of the BMW 530e are just 46g/km.

The BMW 530e iPerformance has a range of nearly 400 miles in real-world driving and is capable of covering distances of up to 29 miles using purely electric power at a maximum speed of 87mph. The electric motor and combustion engine direct their power to the saloon’s rear wheels via the standard eight-speed Steptronic transmission. Positioning the electric motor upstream from the transmission allows the transmission’s ratios to be used in all-electric mode too. This dispenses with the need for a torque converter, reducing the overall weight of the vehicle.

The high-voltage battery pack, consisting of lithium-ion cells with a total capacity of 9.2kWh, has been placed in a space-saving location underneath the rear seat and includes efficient refrigerant cooling with a highly integrated low-temperature circuit. Thanks to the battery’s neat installation, the BMW 530e Saloon offers 410 litres of boot capacity and a flat load compartment floor. The high-voltage battery of the BMW 530e Saloon can be fully charged in under five hours from a standard domestic power socket and in under three hours if it is hooked up to a BMW i Wallbox (3.7 kW charging capacity).

BMW eDrive adapts and anticipates. 
As well as the Driving Experience Control switch, with its SPORT, COMFORT and ECO PRO settings, drivers will also find an eDrive button at their disposal. This lets them tailor the BMW eDrive system’s operation even more precisely to the journey ahead through three driving modes: AUTO eDRIVE, MAX eDRIVE and BATTERY CONTROL.

AUTO eDRIVE ensures that the engine and electric motor interact to optimum effect in all driving situations and allows an all-electric top speed of 56mph. This mode is automatically activated as the default setting every time the vehicle is started. When MAX eDRIVE mode is selected, the BMW 530e Saloon drives on electric power alone. To do so, it uses the electric drive’s full power and can attain a maximum speed of 87mph. However, if the accelerator is pressed through to kickdown the engine will cut in, which is handy should an extra boost of power be desired – when overtaking, for example.

BATTERY CONTROL mode lets the driver set the charge level for the high-voltage battery manually. The target value can be adjusted to between 30 and 100 per cent of maximum charge, allowing that proportion of the battery’s capacity to be reserved for all-electric driving at a later point in the journey. The intelligent battery management of the BMW 530e Saloon either keeps the high-voltage battery’s charge constant at the selected level or increases it to the pre-set value, with the electric motor acting as a generator. In this way, BATTERY CONTROL mode makes it possible to conserve or even increase the reserves of electric power while travelling on the motorway, for example, in order to ensure that an upcoming section through an urban area can be covered with zero local emissions.

Discreet visual differentiation inside and out. 
Bespoke design touches on the exterior clearly identify the BMW 530e iPerformance Saloon. Blue kidney grille slats, blue wheel hub covers, the charging socket located between the front wheel arch and the A-pillar on the driver’s side, the “eDrive” emblems on the C‑pillars and, of course, the “530e” badge on the boot lid are the most noticeable identifying features of the plug-in hybrid variant.

When passengers open the doors, they are welcomed by illuminated sill panels bearing “eDrive” lettering and an interior that mirrors the sporty elegance of the exterior design, just as it does on all variants of the BMW 5 Series saloon. The BMW 530e additionally comes with an eDrive button on the centre console, along with specially designed displays for both the instrument cluster in front of the driver and the central information screen.

Latest-generation iDrive for even more intuitive operation.
As in all the other models in the new BMW 5 Series line-up, the navigation, telephone, entertainment and vehicle functions grouped within the standard high-resolution 10.25-inch display can be controlled not only using the iDrive Controller, but also by simply touching the buttons on the display or with the help of the Intelligent Voice Assistant. BMW gesture control, which reacts to simple movements of the hand or fingers, offers users another option when it comes to operating these functions.

All driver assistance systems and equipment features are available.
The new BMW 530e Saloon includes an extensive range of assistance systems which can also be used when driving in eDrive mode. These are not only important at critical moments but also in less demanding situations at the wheel, such as traffic jams, slow-moving traffic and monotonous stretches of motorway.

New features in the BMW 5 Series alongside the evasion aid and Crossing traffic warning are the Lane Change Assistant and Lane keeping assistant with active side collision protection. The latter keeps an eye on the lane markings and the area around the car, and actively helps the driver to avoid looming collisions by applying corrective steering inputs. The optional Active Cruise Control (ACC) and Lane Keeping Assistant now come with new functions. These include importing the speed limits relayed by Speed Limit Assist to the Active Cruise Control system, with the driver also having the option of setting a margin of variation of +/– 10mph. This feature brings the BMW 530e a step closer to automated driving, as does the Steering and lane control assistant; with this system, the vehicle helps the driver maintain a safe distance, accelerate, brake and stay in lane when travelling at speeds between zero and 130mph.

BMW Connected Onboard: the personalised start screen.
BMW has introduced an all-encompassing digital concept designed to aid personal mobility. Using a flexible platform called the Open Mobility Cloud as a basis, BMW Connected seamlessly integrates the vehicle into the user’s digital life via multiple touchpoints, such as an iPhone, Apple Watch, Android smartphone, smartwatch or Amazon Echo. Further new functions have been introduced in the new BMW 5 Series Saloon, for example BMW Connected Onboard, which allows personalised information such as the next navigation destination, estimated arrival time and current weather conditions at the destination to be shown on the car’s display. BMW Connected is additionally able to seamlessly transfer the user’s personal agenda for the day from their smartphone straight to their car, knowing your next destination which can be accepted with a single click.

Surround View and 3D View offer peace of mind to anyone who frequently finds themselves manoeuvring in awkward traffic situations in city centres by allowing them to keep an eye on the area surrounding their BMW 5 Series at all times. The system shows a bird’s-eye view of the driver’s car as well as a three-dimensional image of the traffic situation. With the Remote 3D View technology integrated into BMW Connected, these three-dimensional views of the vehicle’s surrounding area can now be accessed from smartphones too, allowing owners to quickly check on their parked car no matter how far away it is. The image data is transmitted over the mobile phone network to the mobile device.

Email access with Microsoft Exchange.
BMW is now the first car manufacturer to offer Microsoft Office 365 users a secure server connection for exchanging and editing emails, calendar entries and contact details thanks to the car’s built-in Microsoft Exchange function. This seamless integration enables users to stay productive while on the road. Addresses from appointments can be imported straight into the navigation system and telephone numbers on the Office 365 address book or within meeting invites or email text can be dialled directly from a linked phone.

The BMW 530e is the latest Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicle (PHEV) in the BMW range following the BMW X5 xDrive40e, BMW 225xe, BMW 330e, BMW 740e and the BMW 740Le xDrive. All models benefit from the technology and know-how transferred from BMW’s i brand.

The BMW 530e is available to order now with prices starting from £44,765 OTR.


                                                                  ENDS

The BMW Group

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

In 2016, the BMW Group sold approximately 2.367 million cars and 145,000 motorcycles worldwide. The profit before tax was approximately € 9.67 billion on revenues amounting to € 94.16 billion. As of 31 December 2016, the BMW Group had a workforce of 124,729 employees.

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

Facebook: BMW UK
Twitter: @BMW_UK
Instagram: BMWUK
LinkedIn: BMW Group UK Limited
YouTube: BMW UK

For further information please contact:
Gavin Ward BMW Media Relations Manager
Tel: 07815 371512
Email: Gavin.Ward@bmw.co.uk

Lauren Prema BMW Media Relations Executive
Tel: 07815 370746
Email: Lauren.Prema@bmw.co.uk

Piers Scott General Manager, Product and Internal Communications
Tel: 01252 921265
Email: Piers.Scott@bmw.co.uk

Graham Biggs Corporate Communications Director
Tel: 01252 921256
Email: Graham.Biggs@bmw.co.uk

BMW, one of the world’s most successful premium carmakers, also boasts an excellent position in the all-wheel-drive market, a segment it first entered 30 years ago. Around one in three BMW cars sold around the world is now equipped with the intelligent BMW xDrive all-wheel-drive system. BMW’s success in this segment has been driven not only by the ever-popular BMW X models but also by all-wheel-drive models based on the other model series, from the BMW 1 Series to the BMW 7 Series. Across these model series, a large choice of AWD models is offered in a wide range of engine versions. At the same time, BMW continues to refine this technology and take it in new directions. By offering BMW xDrive in combination with a hybrid drive and with a front-wheel-drive platform, the company has repeatedly demonstrated its proficiency in the all-wheel-drive field, proficiency that will secure BMW’s position at the forefront of this sector well into the future. Today, BMW offers more than 110 models – of either transmission type – with BMW xDrive in 12 different model series, as well as the plug-in hybrid BMW i8 sports car and the compact BMW 225xe with electrified all-wheel drive.

The focus from day one: traction and dynamics.
BMW’s first foray into the all-wheel-drive market came with the unveiling of the BMW 325i “Allrad” at the Frankfurt Motor Show (IAA) in 1985. From the outside, the newcomer didn’t immediately reveal its inner qualities, so its performance when the journalists took it out on the test track was even more of an eye-opener. This very first BMW all-wheel-drive system not only improved traction away from surfaced roads and in adverse weather conditions, but also made for more dynamic handling through corners. “The new BMW is the new champion when it comes to handling,” was the verdict of the testers from German car magazine Auto Zeitung not long after the first unveiling.

Today, the intelligent BMW xDrive all-wheel-drive system takes typical BMW driving dynamics to new levels. The current generation of this system is controlled by the Integrated Chassis Management (ICM) system, which ensures that xDrive always responds appropriately at the earliest possible moment, based on reliable sensing and monitoring of the current driving situation. The interventions may be performed either entirely by BMW xDrive, or by xDrive in combination with Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) or Dynamic Performance Control (DPC). The resulting fast and precise control of drive power distribution ensures typical BMW handling characteristics even under extremely dynamic cornering.

The all-wheel-drive system is biased towards the typical BMW rear-wheel-drive characteristics. That is to say, on the all-wheel-drive models a greater share of the drive power is sent to the rear wheels, even under normal driving conditions. This maintains the typical BMW precise steering response, with virtually no torque steer. For crisp turn-in and high tracking stability, the latest-generation BMW xDrive system starts increasing the amount of power sent to the rear wheels as soon as the vehicle enters a corner, further enhancing the driving pleasure for which BMW is a byword.

BMW all-wheel-drive technology: continuous evolution since 1985.
The full-time all-wheel-drive system featured on the BMW 325i “Allrad” of 1985 split the drive power in a ratio of 37 to 63 per cent between the front and rear wheels. In response to wheel speed differences, visco locks in the transfer case and rear differential were capable of providing a virtually rigid connection between the front and rear wheels, in order to improve traction and stability. This model’s name was soon changed to BMW 325iX, and from 1988 it was offered in a “touring” version as well (lower-case spelling up to and including the E46 series).

1991: BMW 525iX.
Three years on, BMW introduced an all-wheel-drive model in the BMW 5 Series too. For the first time, the power split was now electronically controlled. The newly developed system featured multi-plate clutches that allowed the default 36:64 front-to-rear power split to be varied seamlessly and automatically in line with driving conditions. Initially a hydraulically controlled multi-plate clutch was used at the rear axle, but this was later replaced by electronically controlled selective braking intervention. The system monitored the driving situation using wheel speed signals from the Anti-lock Braking System, supplemented by further information about brake status, engine speed and throttle valve position.

From the outset the all-wheel-drive system of the BMW 525iX was a class apart. The electronic control system delivered a very fast and precise response, resulting in safe, neutral handling characteristics even in difficult driving conditions, such as on wet roads or snow. In the BMW 5 Series, too, the first all-wheel-drive models were offered in both Sedan and touring versions.

1999: The Sports Activity Vehicle (SAV) opens a new chapter.
In the run-up to the new millennium, a highly innovative vehicle concept from BMW made its sensational debut. The BMW X5, the first Sports Activity Vehicle (SAV), impressed customers with driving dynamics that were unmatched among other all-terrain vehicles of the time. The outstanding all-wheel-drive system played a big part in this. A planetary gear system split the drive power in a ratio of 38:62 per cent between the front and rear wheels, while electronic control systems such as DSC (Dynamic Stability Control), ADB-X (Automatic Differential Brake) and HDC (Hill Descent Control) ensured the new BMW X5 was both sporty on the road and equipped to handle challenging conditions off the beaten track.

In the years following the successful launch of the SAV concept, there was no let-up in the fast pace of all-wheel-drive development at BMW. The next year, 2000, a model-specific version of the BMW X5’s all-wheel drive technology became available for the fourth generation of the BMW 3 Series.

2003: BMW xDrive makes its debut in the BMW X3 and BMW X5.
Four years on from the debut of the BMW X5 in 1999, BMW kept up the momentum by launching the SAV concept in a further vehicle segment. The new BMW X3 was more compact than the BMW X5 and offered even more agile handling. It set new benchmarks and remained the only premium model in its class for years to come.

The newly developed BMW xDrive all-wheel-drive system, which was introduced in the same year in both the BMW X3 and the BMW X5, soon extended BMW’s lead in the AWD segment. Based on an extremely fast-acting electronic multi-plate clutch in the transfer case, xDrive worked in tandem with the Dynamic Stability Control system (DSC) to continuously adapt the drive power split to the current driving situation. In addition to wheel speed, for the first time the electronic control system also took into account Dynamic Stability Control data, for example about steering angle, accelerator position and lateral acceleration. This is what makes BMW xDrive the world’s first, and still only, “intelligent” all-wheel-drive system. Unlike conventional all-wheel-drive systems, which only react when at least one wheel is already spinning, xDrive is able to detect a risk of oversteer or understeer at the very first signs, and proactively corrects this by redirecting the flow of drive power.

In the years that followed, the BMW xDrive intelligent all-wheel-drive system was fitted not only on the X models but also on the xDrive versions of the BMW 3 and 5 Series Sedan and Touring models. By the time the second generation of the BMW X3 was introduced in 2010, more than 600,000 units of this series had already been sold worldwide. A little earlier, sales of the BMW X5 – which entered its second generation in 2006 – had topped the one million mark.

2008: SAC with Dynamic Performance Control and hybrid drive.
With the two Sports Activity Vehicles now firmly established in their respective segments, in 2007 BMW went on to present the world’s first Sports Activity Coupe. Unveiled at the Frankfurt Motor Show (IAA), the brand-new BMW X6 elevated the typical dynamic character of the BMW X models to a new level of intensity. For the first time, the intelligent all-wheel-drive system was combined with Dynamic Performance Control (DPC), which varies the drive power split between the rear wheels when cornering to ensure unrivalled agility and stability, even under sudden throttle changes or on overrun. In 2009, the BMW Active Hybrid X6 demonstrated a further perfect pairing – between BMW xDrive and hybrid propulsion. Meanwhile, in the same year, BMW M GmbH added two very special models to its range of high-performance sports cars. With an M-tuned BMW xDrive system, including Dynamic Performance Control, the BMW X5 M and BMW X6 M boasted performance that was previously unknown in the all-wheel-drive market.

2009 also saw the arrival of a new X model, the BMW X1. For many years to come, the BMW X1 was destined to remain the only vehicle of its kind in the premium compact segment. Its intelligent BMW xDrive all-wheel-drive system, like that of the new BMW X3 (2010), was also combinable with Performance Control. This system selectively brakes the wheel on the inside of a turn while simultaneously increasing engine power, resulting in quick and precise turn-in to corners and taking the agile handling of both models to new levels.

BMW xDrive also available for other model series.
The steady advance of the BMW X models has been accompanied by an increase in the number of xDrive versions offered in the other BMW model series too. Designed to improve cornering agility and precision, BMW xDrive provides an enhanced driving experience and an optimal combination of dynamics and comfort. So it was only a matter of time before this intelligent drive technology made its debut in the BMW 7 Series as well, in 2009. In spring 2012, the first all-wheel-drive Coupe and Convertible models were then offered in the sporty BMW 6 Series. BMW xDrive can also be specified on the current BMW 3 and 5 Series and, since 2013, on the Convertible, Coupe and Gran Coupe models of the new BMW 4 Series.

Driving progress ever forward.
BMW took things forward in the premium mid-sized segment with the launch of the BMW X4 in 2014. The new Sports Activity Coupe offers a unique blend of driving enjoyment, sophisticated style and contemporary practicality. It comes with BMW xDrive as standard and is available in a wide range of engine versions. In the same year, BMW also presented the third generation of the BMW X5, the second generation of the BMW X6, and M Sport versions of both models. BMW xDrive also made its debut in the new BMW 2 Series Active Tourer. This was a debut with a difference, being the first time BMW had combined its intelligent all-wheel-drive system with an all-new front-wheel-drive format.

With the BMW i8, unveiled in 2014, the BMW Group took a bold new step in new directions – which also extended to the all-wheel-drive system. This 2+2-seater sports model is powered by a highly advanced plug-in hybrid drive system that pairs an internal combustion engine driving the rear wheels with a high-performance electric motor driving the front wheels.

Focused on the future: BMW xDrive meets BMW eDrive.
BMW’s latest all-wheel-drive models bring technology advances that are firmly focused on the future of mobility. The BMW i8 was followed by the international launch of the first production plug-in hybrid model from the BMW core brand: the BMW X5 xDrive40e. Thanks to full-time BMW xDrive all-wheel-drive and eDrive BMW EfficientDynamics technology, this Sports Activity Vehicle mates thrilling and effortless sporty performance with outstanding efficiency. Intelligent hybrid power management synchronises the operation of the internal combustion engine and the electric motor to maximise efficiency at all times, while also responding perfectly to the driver’s demands. The drive from the two power units is transferred to the road via the full-time BMW xDrive intelligent all-wheel-drive system.

BMW 7 Series: Integral Active Steering combinable with BMW xDrive.
In September 2015, the sixth generation of the BMW 7 Series makes its world debut at the Frankfurt Motor Show (IAA). This high-end BMW luxury model pioneers groundbreaking innovations on all fronts, and will be available with BMW xDrive from its market launch in October. The new luxury sedan will also be the first model to allow intelligent all-wheel-drive to be combined with Integral Active Steering – that is to say with passively steering rear wheels.

Please find attached the complete press kit for download.

BMW has once again taken home the two headline awards, Fleet Manufacturer of the Year and New Company Car of the Year, for the fourth year in a row at the annual Fleet News Awards.

As well as New Company Car of the Year, the BMW 5 Series Saloon also took the honour for Best Executive Car.  Commended for its broad appeal and reduced running costs, the BMW 5 Series Saloon remains the driver’s car of choice in the fleet sector.

BMW UK was also named Green Fleet Manufacturer of the Year, an award that was bolstered by the announcement of the BMW i3 as Best Ultra-Low CO2 Car, following on from it recently being named UK Car of the Year 2014.

A panel made up of fleet industry experts, as well as senior members of the Fleet News editorial team, were involved in the lengthy judging process, chaired by former SMMT chief executive Christopher McGowan and audited by Deloitte. Both New Company Car of the Year and Fleet Manufacturer of the Year were voted for by readers too.

Fleet News editor-in-chief Stephen Briers said: “The BMW 5 Series has been freshened with a broader range of diesel versions which reduce running costs, but one thing that hasn’t changed is its peerless driver appeal. The 5 Series remains the benchmark in the sector.

“BMW continues to set the standard when it comes to providing a range of outstanding, low cost model backed with the excellent level of support needed to satisfy fleets. It remains the most desirable brand for both fleets and their drivers to have on their choice lists.”

Matt Bristow, Corporate Operations Manager for BMW Group, said: “To once again take home these prestigious awards is justification of the importance that BMW places on the fleet sector. With the introduction of the BMW i3, BMW has broadened its fleet offering and to have this recognised by the experts in the UK fleet market is a real honour.”

 Ends

The BMW Group

The BMW Group is the leading premium manufacturer of automobiles and motorcycles in the world with its BMW, MINI and Rolls-Royce brands. As a global company, the BMW Group operates 28 production and assembly facilities in 13 countries and has a global sales network in more than 140 countries.

In 2013, the BMW Group sold approximately 1.963 million cars and 115,215 motorcycles worldwide. The profit before tax for the financial year 2013 was € 7.91 billion on revenues amounting to approximately € 76.06 billion. As of 31 December 2013, the BMW Group had a workforce of 110,351 employees.

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

Further information about the BMW Group can be found here:

Web: www.bmwgroup.com

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

Twitter: http://twitter.com/BMWGroup

YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/BMWGroupview
Google+: http://googleplus.bmwgroup.com

For further information please contact:

Krystyna Kozlowska            BMW Media Relations Executive

Tel: 01344 480707             Email: Krystyna.Kozlowska@bmw.co.uk

Gavin Ward                           BMW Media Relations Manager

Tel: 01344 480829             Email: Gavin.Ward@bmw.co.uk

Piers Scott                            General Manager, Product and Internal Communications

Tel: 01344 480113             Email: Piers.Scott@bmw.co.uk

Graham Biggs                       Corporate Communications Director

Tel: 01344 480109             Email: Graham.Biggs@bmw.co.uk

Press office fax: 01344 480306

Media website: www.press.bmwgroup.co.uk

Customer website: www.bmw.co.uk

The BMW Group UK has scooped seven awards from one of the country’s leading fleet publications.  Business Car magazine has honoured the BMW Group with the headline accolade of ‘Manufacturer of the Year’, for the third year in a row, in recognition of BMW’s diverse product portfolio and class-leading running costs.

The title ‘Business Car of the Year’ was awarded to the new BMW 5 Series for its combination of superior build quality, driving dynamics and class-leading economy, while ‘Green Car of the Year’ was scooped by the BMW 320d EfficientDynamics.

Continuing on from their success in 2010 the BMW X5 was again named ‘Large 4x4 of the year’, the BMW 3 Series took home ‘Upper Medium Car of the Year’ for the second year in a row and on top of its main billing, the new 5 Series was named ‘Executive Car of the Year’.  Remaining the small car of choice for the fleet user MINI was crowned ‘Supermini of the Year’ for the ninth year in a row. 

Voted for solely by its readership, the Business Car Awards reflect the opinions of the people who really matter in the fleet industry, giving the awards a particular gravitas.  

“BMW’s massive achievement in providing cars that are both cost-efficient to run and desirable to staff has led to a well deserved and very impressive seven awards, including all three of the headline car awards” said Business Car Editor Paul Barker.

“The new 5-series was the obvious choice as Business Car of the Year, while the 320d Efficient Dynamics has seemingly achieved the impossible when you combine its emissions figure with its size and performance. And BMW’s model range meant it would always be the favourite for Manufacturer of the Year thanks to the stunning emissions and economy figures combined with unmatched badge appeal in the corporate sector.”

Sean Green, Sales Director BMW Group UK, said: “To win the big three from Business Car is a huge honour, as there are no other awards which can claim that they truly represent the views of the industry in quite the same way.  The corporate customer is very important to BMW and with models such as the award winning 320d EfficientDynamics and new BMW 5 Series, we are dedicated to staying ahead of our rivals and exceeding customer expectations.”

Ends

The BMW Group

The BMW Group is one of the most successful manufacturers of automobiles and motorcycles in the world with its BMW, MINI and Rolls-Royce brands. As a global company, the BMW Group operates 24 production facilities in 13 countries and has a global sales network in more than 140 countries.

The BMW Group achieved a global sales volume of approximately 1.29 million automobiles and over 87,000 motorcycles for the 2009 financial year.  Revenues totalled euro 50.68 billion. At 31 December 2009, the company employed a global workforce of approximately 96,000 associates.

The success of the BMW Group has always been built on long-term thinking and responsible action. The company has therefore established ecological and social sustainability throughout the value chain, comprehensive product responsibility and a clear commitment to conserving resources as an integral part of its strategy. As a result of its efforts, the BMW Group has been ranked industry leader in the Dow Jones Sustainability Indexes for the last six years.

For further information please contact:

Krystyna Kozlowska            BMW Media Relations Assistant

Tel: 01344 480707             Email: Krystyna.Kozlowska@bmw.co.uk

Gavin Ward                           BMW Media Relations Manager
Tel:  01344 480829            Email: Gavin.Ward@bmw.co.uk

Wieland Bruch                      Product Communications Manager

Tel: 01344 480113             Email: Wieland.Bruch@bmw.co.uk

Graham Biggs                       Corporate Communications Director

Tel:  01344 480109            Email:  Graham.Biggs@bmw.co.uk

Press office fax:                    01344 480306

Media website:                    www.press.bmwgroup.co.uk
Customer website:              www.bmw.co.uk

Hot on the heels of a record sales year in the UK, BMW has launched a new
specification tier on BMW 1, 3, 5 Series and Z4 models, offering even greater
value for money and personalisation. Edition models feature a range of
specific colour choices and interior options as well as specification
enhancements on four-cylinder cars.


BMW 1 Series Edition ES models
The line up of BMW 1 Series 3- and 5-door Sports Hatch derivatives has been
extended to offer even more customer choice. BMW 1 Series Edition ES models
are available in 116i and 118d guises and, for a nominal price increase of £250
over the current ES model, offer substantial added value.


All 1 Series Edition ES models feature a 17-inch star-spoke alloy wheel, sport
seats covered in upgraded cloth upholstery, three-spoke multi-function leather
steering wheel and front fog lights. This package of additional equipment
would normally add up to £1,340 to the cost of a standard ES model. The £250
upgrade benefits residual values too. CAP and Glass's have indicated that
Edition ES models are set to boost the BMW 1 Series' already strong residual
values.


BMW 3 Series Edition ES, Edition SE and Edition M Sport models
BMW 3 Series Edition models offer an even broader range of models and customer
choice, with 24 new models available. All four-cylinder petrol- and
diesel-powered 3 Series Saloon and Touring models are available in Edition ES,
Edition SE or Edition M Sport models. These models will add further driver
appeal and offer even higher levels of standard equipment to the compact
executive car of choice for retail and corporate buyers alike.

Edition ES and SE models come as standard in a choice of Carbon Black, Titanium
Silver or Sparkling Graphite colours. To complement the exterior colour, these
models also feature Dakota leather upholstery and Brushed Aluminium interior
trims. In addition, they are all equipped with a 17-inch V-spoke alloy wheel
(currently standard on 335i/d Coupé and Convertible models) and a three-spoke M
multi-function leather steering wheel.

Both the Edition ES and Edition SE models add £750 to the price of the existing
car but, at retail prices, add around £3,000 of equipment value to the car.

For those drivers who appreciate the sporting credentials of the 3 Series,
Edition M Sport Saloon and Touring models are available. Building on the
sporting pedigree of the 3 Series, the Edition M Sport models come as standard
in Carbon Black, Titanium Silver or Sparkling Graphite. Like the Edition ES
and SE models, Dakota leather seat coverings are standard.

The Edition M Sport also recognises BMW's continued success in the World
Touring Car Championship. It features the same 18-inch WTCC-style alloy wheel
as is fitted to the triple championship-winning BMW 320si.

In addition, the Edition M Sport models feature Business Navigation system,
complete with map guidance, Bluetooth mobile telephone connectivity and BMW's
new ConnectedDrive Online and Assist telematics package as standard.

With a nominal cost of £1,000 on top of the cost of the 'standard' M Sport
models, the Edition M Sport derivatives add up to £3,100 of additional customer
value to the car.

BMW 520d Business Navigation offer
2007 was a record sales year for 5 Series Saloon and Touring models in the UK
with nearly 20,000 cars sold and 520d models being the most popular
derivative. BMW is now adding even more value to the class-leading executive
car. For a nominal £350 contribution, buyers of 520d Saloon and Touring models
will receive BMW's Business navigation system, complete with map and arrow
view, normally valued at £1,365. In addition, a six-CD changer, usually
costing £295, is added to the package, representing a total customer saving of
£1,310.

BMW Z4 Roadster 2.0i Edition Exclusive and Edition Sport models
Four-cylinder open-topped Z4 customers also benefit from the same added value
and financial benefits of an Edition model. Buyers are able to choose between
the Z4 2.0i Edition Exclusive and Edition Sport models. Uniquely, Z4 Edition
models will be produced in limited numbers, with less than 300 planned in 2008.

Z4 Edition Exclusive models are offered in a range of metallic colour choices;
Sapphire Black, Stratus Grey, Space Grey, Titan Silver or Montego Blue. This
is complemented by BMW's Individual upholstery in full Soft Nappa leather. BMW
Individual interior trim in high-gloss Piano Black and an upgraded 17-inch
Star-spoke alloy wheel round off the offering. The Z4 Edition Exclusive model
costs an additional £1,045 representing a customer saving of £1,835.

Customers who enjoy more sports-oriented roof-down driving will select the Z4
2.0i Edition Sport. The Edition Sport is available in a choice of metallic
colours; Carbon Black, Black Sapphire, Space Grey, Titanium Silver and Montego
Blue. And the sporting exterior design of the Z4 matches the interior with the
Edition Sport models featuring BMW Individual Bi-colour New England leather
covering the sports seats as well as Individual Bi-colour interior trim. The
model is rounded off by visually-dynamic 18-inch Composite Star-spoke
light-alloy wheels. The Z4 2.0i Edition Sport models costs just £775 more than
the 'standard' Sport model but adds nearly £2,500 of options to the car.

All Edition models will start production in March 2008.
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Editors notes.
All four-cylinder petrol engines for BMW and MINI products are produced at BMW'
s engine facility at Hams Hall, Coleshill near Birmingham.

All Edition models feature BMW's EfficientDynamics programme, offering
increases in performance alongside reductions in emissions and improvements in
fuel consumption. As a result, for example, the 118d Edition ES 5-door offers
143hp from its two-litre diesel engine to help it accelerate from zero to 60mph
in 9.0 seconds and on to a top speed of 130mph. However, even with these
levels of performance, the 118d still returns a frugal 62.8mpg on the combined
cycle and 119g/km of emissions to minimise the cost of ownership.

The BMW 5 Series has been voted the best overall Used Car of the Year 2003, by
Used Car Buyer magazine's panel of 13 motoring journalists and industry
experts.

The 5 Series also won Best Used Executive Car in the annual awards by beating
rivals Jaguar S-Type, Audi A6 and the Mercedes E Class. It was marked highly
for fitness for purpose, value for money, running costs, reliability, residual
value and image.

Likewise the BMW 7 Series beat the Mercedes S Class, Jaguar XJ8 and the Audi A8
to win the Best Used Luxury Car category.

Buying an Approved Used BMW
The introduction of the new BMW Approved Used Car internet search
www.approved.bmw.co.uk has made locating a used BMW even easier. With the
ability to search by model and body-style and then in more detail by age, price
colour, fuel and transmission type, customers are even able to state how far
they are willing to travel to view a car.

Once a car has been selected, customers can then view three photos of the
actual car for sale rather than a generic image of the model. A screen showing
the car's standard and additional equipment as well as technical detail can
also be viewed, plus a link through to independent road test reviews is
provided.

If a customer is unable to locate their desired car they can select to be
notified automatically by email when the car they have specified arrives into
stock at a BMW dealership.

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