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 

The MINI Cooper has been announced as The Sun’s Car of the Year 2024 at their annual awards ceremony.

Launched earlier this year, the MINI Cooper was praised for both its innovative in car technology and iconic handling, with Motors Editor, Rob Gill, commenting; “The MINI Cooper is hands-down our favourite new buy from our head and heart. Classier inside and out, with a less is more approach, and that dinner plate-sized touchscreen carries the same cutting-edge tech as a £100k BMW. Mega fun to drive, as it always has been”.

Judges went on to compliment the vehicles UK based manufacturing; “The icing on the cake is that MINI is a homegrown hero. The petrol engines are made at BMW Group Hams Hall, the body panels in Swindon, and the whole thing is put together at MINI Plant Oxford. British engineering at its best” Gill continued.

The win builds on a successful year for the brand, launching an entirely new generation of models across the whole MINI family. With clean exterior design, a world-first circular OLED display and innovative new interior materials, the MINI Cooper is the icon reimagined.

Commenting on the win, Federico Izzo, Director, MINI UK and Ireland said, “2024 has been a fantastic year for the MINI brand, introducing an entirely new model family over the past twelve months. Taking home the highly coveted Car of the Year award for the new MINI Cooper is an honour, and we’re grateful to The Sun for continuing to acknowledge the feel-good factor that driving a MINI provides”.  

The MINI Cooper is available from retailers nationwide and priced from £23,270 OTR. Further information on the MINI Cooper and the entire MINI range can be found at www.mini.co.uk.

Ends

The BMW Group

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 

MINI Press Office Contacts:

Sam Buckingham
MINI Press Officer
Tel: 07815 362262
Email: Samuel.Buckingham@mini.co.uk

Helen Wilson
MINI Media Relations Manager
Tel: 07815 372480                   
Email: Helen.Wilson@mini.co.uk

Christina Burnham-Hepe
General Manager, Communications
Tel: 07815 371206
Email: Christina.Burnham-Hepe@bmw.co.uk

Graham Biggs                
Corporate Communications Director
Tel:  07815 376867
Email:  Graham.Biggs@bmw.co.uk

Media website:
www.press.bmwgroup.co.uk
www.mini.co.uk
www.twitter.com/miniuk
www.facebook.com/miniuk
www.youtube.com/miniuk

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 has continued its impressive run at the coveted Fleet News Awards, securing the Fleet Manufacturer of the Year title for the sixth consecutive year in 2024. This achievement is particularly significant as the award is voted for by Fleet News readers, who are certified fleet decision-makers, reflecting the brand's strong reputation across the wider sector.

The award ceremony was held on the 13th of March at Grosvenor House in London, where the achievements of the fleet industry were celebrated in style. In addition to the Manufacturer of the Year accolade, BMW also triumphed in individual vehicle categories. The BMW i4 claimed the Best Premium Car title, acknowledging its leading position in the premium electric vehicle market and its appeal to corporate customers and company car drivers.

Furthermore, the new BMW 5 Series was named Best Executive Car, solidifying its position as a leading choice for business users in the UK. Launched in October 2023, the eighth-generation BMW 5 Series fuses advanced technology with an elegant and sporting saloon style, generous space, and exceptional refinement. The BMW 5 Series offers a choice of powertrains – petrol, plug-in hybrid, and the all-electric BMW i5, providing fleet customers complete flexibility depending on the needs of their drivers.

Matt Collins, General Manager of Corporate Sales at BMW UK, said, "We are immensely proud to be recognised once again as Fleet Manufacturer of the Year, and I'd like to express my sincere thanks to Fleet News and its readers for their continued support and recognition. We are also delighted to receive individual accolades for the BMW i4 and 5 Series. These awards are a testament to the hard work and dedication of our team and our commitment to delivering vehicles that meet the evolving needs of the fleet sector."

The Fleet News Awards are well-known for their meticulous judging process and focus on real-world fleet usage, thanks to a panel of industry-leading judges, making BMW's continued success at these awards a testament to the brand's leadership in the fleet sector.

For further information on BMW's award-winning fleet and corporate offerings, please visit https://www.bmw.co.uk/en/topics/buying/business-corporate/fleet-managers.html.

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/

• 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/

• BMW congratulates retailers for their success and achievements across 2023 in annual event at Tate Britain
• Barretts Canterbury named BMW Retailer of the Year for 2023
• Victoria Steel from Eastern received ‘Head of Business’ award

BMW UK last week celebrated the hard work and accomplishments of the teams across its 132-strong retailer network, who continued to deliver above and beyond throughout 2023. The annual ‘Retailer of the Year’ awards recognised excellence across 12 categories, with Barretts Canterbury winning the overall BMW Retailer of the Year 2023 title.

This year the event was held at the Tate Britain on Friday 23^rd February. Among the celebrated categories were Sales, won by Ocean Falmouth; Marketing, which saw Williams Group take home the top award; and BMW Financial Services, which was led by Sytner Newport.

With the introduction of the all-new BMW 5 Series last year, and also the first-ever all-electric BMW i5, Corporate sales continues to be an extremely important area of growth for BMW UK and a category that the company wanted to recognise across its network. The Jardine Group, impressing the judges with their deep understanding of the sector and experience in catering to corporate customer requirements, clinched the ‘Corporate’ accolade.

Soper of Lincoln were recognised for leading the charge when it comes to sustainability, in the second year that this category has been given a standalone award, thanks to their clear strategy and proven track record as a pioneer of clean energy. The business proved themselves as the benchmark when it came to showcasing an extensive range of solid social sustainability and governance initiatives, geared towards the wellbeing of their employees and the wider community.

Individual talent across the network was also recognised on the night, with Victoria Steel of Eastern, picking up the ‘Head of Business’ award and Lukas Ryan of Partridge receiving an award for the best ‘Newcomer’.

David George, Chief Executive Officer, BMW Group UK said: “It was a privilege to celebrate the exceptional talent within our retailer network at a truly special event and venue. Returning to BMW Group UK this year and recognising their achievements in 2023 has been a marvellous way to reacquaint myself with so many people within our network. I want to extend my thanks to everyone across the BMW Group UK retail network and offer special congratulations to Barretts Canterbury for their outstanding performance last year, earning them the title of our 2023 Retailer of the Year.”

Paul Barrett, Managing Director, Barretts Motor Group, commenting on the Retailer of the Year awards, said: “All of us at Barretts are absolutely thrilled to have won the BMW Retailer of the Year Award for 2023; it is particularly special in what is our 25th year with the BMW Group. It is a real credit to our Head of Business, Nathan Rogers, and to all of the team in Canterbury, who have delivered an outstanding performance in all areas of the business.”

WINNERS

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/

MINI UK begins the new year by applauding its retailer network for their hard work and dedication at the ‘Retailer of the Year 2024’ awards in Manchester, hosted by comedian and writer, Katherine Ryan. The annual awards celebrate talent within the network and recognise those providing best-in-class customer experiences.

Winners were selected across a range of categories including Sales, Marketing, Financial Services, and Used Cars. New for 2024, the ‘MINI Big Love’ award additionally acknowledges those delivering significant and impactful Big Love initiatives, which could include charitable fundraising, volunteering, or efforts to reduce environmental impact.

This year Vertu Yeovil took home the award for ‘Retail Sales’, Cotswold Cheltenham were successful in ‘Used Cars’ and Grassicks achieved the top score in ‘Customer Support’.

The inaugural ‘MINI Big Love’ award was jointly presented to Dick Lovett & Partridge, who made some incredible contributions to their respective communities and demonstrated significant efforts to reduce their environmental footprint in 2023. Dick Lovett committed £500,000 to solar panel installations across the group, with panels predicted to save over 78 tonnes of CO2 emissions annually. Additionally, foodbank collection points were set up across their four MINI Centres to help support vulnerable members of the community. Similarly, Partridge conducted several inspiring Big Love initiatives while fundraising for their chosen charity - Ronald McDonald House. Including a family fun day and tea and cake morning, the team set themselves the challenge of virtually cycling 1,500 miles (the distance to Munich and back), raising almost £4,000. Going one step further, Partridge planted 1.5 trees for every car they delivered in 2023 – a total of 5,700 trees.

This year’s overall ‘Retailer of the Year’ award was presented to Cotswold Hereford, who were shortlisted across four categories and went on to win separate awards for ‘Financial Services’ and ‘MINI App’.

Speaking at the awards, Federico Izzo, Director, MINI UK and Ireland said, “2023 was an exciting year for the MINI brand with the announcement of the first two members of the new MINI family: the all-new Cooper Electric and new MINI Countryman. While looking forward to welcoming these models to their showrooms, our incredible retailers remained passionate and dedicated, and thanks to their efforts over 47,000 new MINIs were delivered to UK customers in 2023 – up 4 per cent year on year – continuing the UK’s position as the largest MINI market. Congratulations to all our winners, and especially to Cotswold Hereford - our 2024 Retailer of the Year.”

On receiving the highly coveted Retailer of the Year Award, Peter Redfern, Head of Business, Cotswold Hereford, commented, “I am delighted for the Cotswold Hereford MINI team, who demonstrated focus, energy and consistency throughout 2023. To be nominated for one award is immense, let alone picking up awards for MINI Financial Services, MINI App, and then overall MINI Retailer of the Year.I know how hard Luke and his team have worked to achieve this amazing recognition, so I am absolutely thrilled for them, as well as incredibly proud. They treat every customer like family which shows in their NPS scores for New Cars, Used Cars and Service, whilst delivering the highest levels of professionalism at all times.”

WINNERS

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

MINI Press Office Contacts:

Tom Evans
MINI Press Officer
Tel: 07815 371705
Email: Tom.Evans@mini.co.uk

Helen Wilson
MINI Media Relations Manager
Tel: 07815 372480                 
Email: Helen.Wilson@mini.co.uk

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

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

• BMW awarded three category wins at the 46^th annual What Car? Awards
• M3 Touring presented with Performance Car of the Year
• Luxury Car of the Year awarded to X7 and 4 Series retains award from 2023
  
  

BMW is celebrating a successful start to 2024 after securing three category wins at this year’s What Car? Car of the Year Awards. The BMW M3 Touring, the BMW 4 Series and the BMW X7 were each recognised as best in their respective categories. 

The first-ever BMW M3 Touring world premiered at Goodwood Festival of Speed in 2022 before launching to critical acclaim last year. The model continues to impress, after What Car? named it their ‘Performance Car of the Year’ for 2024. Steve Huntingford, Editor of What Car? said: "By taking the form of a more practical estate, the M3 Touring is even better in day-to-day use than the saloon. You can drive to IKEA, electrically open the tailgate and drop part (or all) of its 40/20/40 split rear seats to slide in a flat-packed shelving unit. Then you can head home via Brands Hatch and set a personal-best lap time, before cruising comfortably for the rest of your journey."

What Car? also named the BMW 4 Series as its winner in the ‘Coupé/Convertible of the Year’ category. The second-generation 4 Series was unveiled in 2020, with the Coupé, Gran Coupé and Convertible body styles launching in quick succession. Huntingford highlighted that “One of the best things about the BMW 4 Series is that it’s great to drive, whether you go for the Coupé or the Convertible; without experiencing the two versions back to back, you’d struggle to tell the difference, because both offer razor-sharp steering and fabulous cornering poise. In addition, the petrol engines sound rorty when revved, but are smooth and quiet at a cruise. And the 4 Series is surprisingly practical, with enough space to seat four adults without anyone feeling cramped."

BMW 4 Series Convertible was previously named What Car? Convertible of the Year in 2021, 2022 and 2023.

A trailblazer in the luxury car segment, the BMW X7 is the largest of all BMW X models, offering generous levels of on-board space, equipment, and a high-class cabin for up to seven occupants. Huntingford believes that the X7 ‘combines limo-like interior space with a wonderfully commanding driving position’ and has awarded the model with the ‘Luxury Car of the Year’ accolade, adding “the interior majors on wow factor full stop, thanks to plush, soft-touch surfaces, polished glass elements and huge, high-resolution screens. You also hear very little wind or tyre noise, the torquey diesel engine is brilliantly refined, and the X7's ride is both supple and settled."

To learn more about the BMW M3 Touring, BMW 4 Series or the BMW X7 please visit https://bmw.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 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/

For further information please contact:
Carolyn Paterson
BMW Senior Press Officer
Tel: 07815 372 906
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

BMW UK is pleased to be celebrating another successful year end, collecting a host of awards across the winter period, including accolades from Top Gear, Carwow, Electrifying.com, The Car Expert and GREENFLEET. The newly launched BMW i5 received the first awards since its market launch in October 2023, with three category wins.

2023 was another hugely successful year for BMW in the UK, with the brand achieving more than 50 major independent awards. The BMW i7 continued to impress judges following its launch last year, picking up nine prizes across the year, whilst the BMW UK was awarded ‘Fleet Manufacturer of the Year’ by three industry leading outlets.

Frank van Meel collects ‘All The Car You’ll Ever Need’ win at Top Gear Awards 2023
The Top Gear Awards celebrated the greatest cars of 2023 amongst a host of industry experts and leaders in November. Flying to London especially for the awards, BMW M CEO Frank van Meel took to the stage to accept the award ‘All The Car You’ll Ever Need’ for the BMW M3 Touring, a car first World Premiered in the UK at Goodwood Festival of Speed in 2022.

The first-ever BMW M3 Touring blends blistering performance with everyday practicality with Top Gear Editor-in-Chief Jack Rix adding: “The M3 Touring hits every base on the bullseye. It’s exquisitely trimmed and lavishly equipped, yet it’ll moisten your palms, dry your throat and griddle your backside between home and the tip.”

All-new BMW i5 wins at Carwow ‘Car of the year’ Awards 2024
The Carwow 2024 awards showcased the very best cars on the market, alongside an array of highly commended alternatives, whatever a customer’s budget.  The content team - who run Carwow’s YouTube channel with over 8 million subscribers - reviewed hundreds of vehicles over 2023 and decided on 12 category winners, recognising and celebrating the cream of the crop.

Launched in the UK in October 2023, the BMW i5 is the eighth generation 5 Series and the first all-electric iteration of the model. Fusing advanced technology with elegant and sporty style, the new i5 won the ‘Comfortable Cruiser’ award from Carwow for 2024. Mat Watson, Carwow Chief Content Officer, said: “The 5 Series is BMW’s legendary saloon, so updating it always comes with pressure. But the first electric i5? Nailed it! BMW has built a posh premium electric car that’s good for the family but also good to drive, has loads of tech, buckets of performance and is a brilliant long-distance cruiser.”

Alongside the category win for the new all-electric model, BMW picked up five commendations for a variety of its models. The BMW X7 was Highly Commended in the ‘Family Values’ award category, the BMW M3 Touring was Highly Commended in ‘Desirability’ award category and the BMW M5 was Highly Commended for ‘2024's Most Anticipated New Car’. The BMW M2 was Highly Commended in the ‘Pleasure of Driving’ award category and the BMW i7 rear screens were also Highly Commended in the ‘Tech Trailblazer’ award category.

BMW i5 named Best Premium Electric Car at Electrifying.com Awards 2024
The Electrifying.com Awards are given to the brands, fully electric vehicles and innovations that an expert panel of judges believe represent a significant achievement in the field. The judging panel consisted of a variety of experienced and trusted electric car reviewers including; Founder and CEO of Electrifying.com, Ginny Buckley; Associate Editor at Electrifying.com and Formula E presenter, Nicki Shields; and experienced automotive journalist, and EV advocate, Tom Barnard.

The BMW i5 – which Electrifying.com first featured on their channel in May 2023 – has been awarded Premium Electric Car of the Year at the 2024 awards. Ginny Buckley said: “Premium cars are all about making you feel special through their quality, performance, technology and comfort. Our Electrifying.com Premium Car of the Year - the BMW i5 - has all of those attributes in spades.”

Three category wins for BMW at The Car Expert Awards 2024
Using the power of their exclusive Expert Rating Index, The Car Experts tracked new car reviews from 35 of the UK’s leading motoring websites over the last 12 months and compiled all of the scores awarded to each new model. These scores are then fed into a sophisticated algorithm that accounts for the various different scoring system that the different websites and magazines use, which then allows the awards to be given for the very best new cars customers can buy in 2023.

BMW has rounded out 2023 with not one but three category wins at The Car Expert Awards 2024, with the all-new BMW i5 being awarded Best Large Car on the night, alongside the BMW M2 receiving Best Performance Car and finally the BMW i7 being honoured with Best Luxury Car.

Stuart Masson, Editorial Director at The Car Expert, heralded the importance of the 5 Series model stating: “The arrival of any new 5 Series is a seminal moment for the car industry,” and further went on to praise the introduction of the new electric derivative “The i5 has moved straight to the top of the premium executive class, with a sublime mix of comfort, quality and advanced technology.”

For the third year running, BMW has been awarded the performance car award. Built on its predecessor with an increased performance and an enhanced specification the M2 takes the trophy for the Performance Car of the Year, Masson said: “Its performance will scare a few supercars, both in a straight line and through the trickiest of corners. A triumph.”

Finishing the year with a ninth accolade, the BMW i7 embodies luxury and technology, with the latest generation of the flagship saloon defining the luxury segment with Stuart Masson stating: “The BMW i7 has received near-universal praise from the UK media since its arrival, with its spacious and tech-laden cabin being earmarked as a particular highlight.”

BMW recognised as Fleet Car Manufacturer of the Year at 2023 GREENFLEET Awards
The 2023 GREENFLEET awards continued to celebrate environmental excellence within the fleet sector, taking a close look at organisation and individuals that have gone above and beyond to reduce transport emissions.

The event - which took place at the British Motor Museum and was attended by the BMW Corporate Sales team - saw BMW take the top spot as Fleet Car Manufacturer of the Year. Colin Boyton, GREENFLEET Event Manager, said “This was one of the most hotly-contested categories this year. A leading name on most UK fleet option lists, BMW is taking electrification seriously, with electric versions of its staple models at its core, and electric SUV models complimenting its line-up.”

GREENFLEET is the third major title to name BMW Fleet Manufacturer of the Year in 2023, following the Fleet News Awards and the Business Car Awards.

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/

BMW Group UK announces a significant enhancement to its Roadside Assistance Programme with the introduction of 72 new, state-of-the-art service vans. Meanwhile, BMW has continued its winning streak, securing multiple accolades from Professional Driver Magazine, Pocket-lint, What Car?, Parkers and Fleet News. BMW Group Plant Hams Hall has also seen success this quarter, with a win at the 2023 Manufacturer MX Awards.

BMW Group UK enhances customer experience with state-of-the-art Roadside Assistance fleet upgrade
BMW Group UK, together with Allianz Partners, has announced a major upgrade to its Roadside Assistance Programme with the introduction of 72 new state-of-the-art service vans. This enhancement, part of a multi-million-pound investment, increases the recovery fleet from 41 to 72 vehicles, significantly boosting roadside support capabilities.

These new advanced vans replace an existing fleet of support cars and are better equipped to handle a wider range of roadside issues efficiently. The increased storage capabilities for spare parts, including emergency spare wheels, significantly increases the likelihood of completing repairs on the roadside. All vans have been equipped with the latest remote diagnosis systems, meaning that before arriving on location, technicians can where possible obtain the necessary spare parts to complete the repair.

Another notable advancement in the new fleet is the ability to tow vehicles, reducing the need for a separate recovery truck if a vehicle is not repairable on the roadside, further streamlining the customer experience.

Every roadside technician has also been fully trained in High Voltage (HV) systems and is ready to service the entire BMW Group product range.

Mario Moser, Director for Aftersales & Customer Support at BMW Group UK, highlighted the upgrade as a reflection of the company’s continued focus on enhancing its customer experience, stating, “With the introduction of these advanced service vans to our Roadside Assistance Programme, we are set to get our customers back on the move even faster, ensuring that any interrupted journey is resolved as seamlessly and quickly as possible."

BMW 7 Series comes out on top at Professional Driver Magazine Awards
The Professional Driver Awards are among the most rigorous in the automotive industry. There are five categories in total, and a one-day judging event was held in August with an invited audience of Professional Driver readers.

The all-new BMW 7 Series and i7 have both impressed the readers of Professional Driver in 2023, with the BMW 760e narrowly beating the i7 in the judges’ voting for the Chauffeur Car of the Year category. Mark Bursa, Professional Driver Editor, said: “The plug-in BMW 760e took the honours as our Chauffeur Car of the Year, but the margin was incredibly close.”

Following extensive testing of both the PHEV and fully-electric 7 Series models – which both feature the very latest in-car technology, including the optional BMW Theatre Screen – the judges were unable to pick an out-and-out winner for the Car of the Year Award and therefore “as a result, we decided to give our overall award to the impressive new 7 Series range, rather than one specific model.”

BMW i4 comes out on top at Pocket-Lint Awards 2023
Adding a seventh feather to its cap for 2023, the BMW i4 topped the Best Car category at the Pocket-Lint Awards. The Pocket-Lint team said on the night that the all-electric model, which launched in November 2021, is “the ideal gateway EV to draw people away from their combustion cars.” The first all-electric midsize luxury model developed BMW, the i4 “pulls off that particular trick of feeling like a BMW to drive, while showcasing the latest in electric power. There's quality and refinement at every turn, evidence of that premium BMW heritage, fused with the greatest soundtrack you'll find in an EV - composed by Hans Zimmer - and sleek looks that turn heads.”

Three wins for BMW 3 Series at What Car? Used Car Awards 2023
The BMW 3 Series continues to make an impression in 2023, bringing home not one but three category wins at the What Car? Used Car Awards, including the coveted Used Car of the Year accolade, as well as Used Executive Car of the Year and Used Hybrid Car of the Year for the 330e. Judges praised “the variety of options available to used 3 Series buyers, from swish petrols and frugal diesels to the tempting plug-in hybrid 330e.”

BMW 3 Series “Most Reliable” Company Car for second year running at Fleet News Top 50 Awards
Fleet News asked leasing companies to establish the most reliable brands and cars they had on their fleet over the previous 12 months as part of the research into this year's FN50 report.

Once again, the BMW 3 Series was voted the Most Reliable Company Car in 2023. Since the original BMW 3 Series of 1975, the model has been a stalwart of the company car customer and continues to be a market leader in its class in the UK. Offered in several variants, including petrol, diesel and plug-in hybrid, the executive model continues to excite the fleet world and end users across the country.

Parkers awards BMW 7 Series and i7 with Best Luxury Car
Celebrating those cars that set the industry standard, the Parkers New Car Awards seeks to recommend the best vehicles for the UK’s car-buying public.

The new BMW 7 Series and i7 continue to impress across the board, with Parkers.co.uk awarding it the Best Luxury Car award for 2024. Keith Adams, Parkers.co.uk Editor, said: “this is a luxury car that turns heads and despite its size is brilliant to drive.” Boasting innovative new technology, including the unique 31.3” rear-passenger Theatre Screen, Adams believes “the all-electric i7 is the pinnacle of EVs currently on sale.”

BMW Group Plant Hams Hall wins at 2023 Manufacturer MX Awards
Organised by The Manufacturer in partnership with the Institution of Mechanical Engineers (IMechE), The Manufacturer MX Awards are widely considered the gold standard in industry awards and are the only peer-reviewed and judged programme of their kind for UK manufacturing.

The judges witnessed numerous advancements at Plant Hams Hall, including the integration of digital team boards, real-time data collection and the utilisation of smart maintenance practices, including the deployment of a cutting-edge four-legged robot. The seamless linkage of various digital tools and systems via the plant's ‘digital twin’ for enhanced transparency led them to honour the plant with the coveted Smart Factory award.

Whilst collecting the Smart Factory award at the ceremony in Liverpool last week, Plant Director Dirk Dreher, said: “We’re transforming our plant into a BMW iFactory of the future, and this award win is another step forward in our journey to becoming lean, green and digital. The fact that finalists are judged by experienced industry experts and evaluated against the highest benchmarks, makes it an exceptional achievement.”

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/

• BMW Group UK collects four award wins at the What Car? Electric Car Awards 2023
• BMW 330e, i7 and i8 lead their respective categories
• MINI Countryman PHEV reclaims Best Hybrid Small SUV title

BMW Group UK was once again successful at this year’s What Car? Electric Car Awards, taking home four prized category wins across the Group’s electrified model portfolio.

The BMW 330e, i7 and i8 each secured the win in their respective class. Whilst once again the MINI Countryman PHEV won at the awards, topping the Best Hybrid Small SUV category.

For a second year in a row the BMW 330e, powered by the combination of a 2.0 litre petrol engine and an electric motor producing 292hp, took home the illustrious ‘Best Used Hybrid Executive Car’ award. Steve Huntingford, Editor, What Car? said, "If you buy used, the 330e costs less than key rivals. Yet it's more entertaining than any of them to drive, thanks to sharp, well-balanced handling. It's a comfortable car, too (particularly if you buy an example equipped with the M Sport Pro Pack), and all versions come with an infotainment system that's wonderfully intuitive."

With What Car? believing "BMW's flagship saloon is undoubtedly one of the most complete cars on sale today” the BMW i7 has added ‘Best Electric Luxury Car’ to its growing tally of awards. Offering a cutting-edge digital experience with the BMW Theatre Screen and BMW Interaction Bar, the BMW i7 combines striking style with a luxurious interior to lead its segment. What Car? states “It combines superb ride comfort and effortless performance with a long range and fast charging. What's more, it's hugely spacious and available with a rear entertainment system that offers audio and visuals worthy of the best cinemas."

Launched in 2012, the BMW i8 was a trailblazer in the performance car segment and continues to impress over 10 years on, collecting the ‘Best Used Hybrid Performance Car’ at the 2023 What Car? Electric Car Awards. Steve Huntingford said, "It may have been discontinued, but the BMW i8 still looks like the future. And in many ways it feels like it, too, with its lightweight construction boosting performance, agility and efficiency. Our advice would be to buy one while you can, because we think prices are only going to go up."

Finally, the MINI Countryman PHEV reclaimed its title as ‘Best Hybrid Small SUV’, with What Car? judges applauding its “smart interior design” and class-leading build quality. Huntingford summarises, “The Countryman takes the style of the traditional Mini hatchback and applies it to a much more practical, family-friendly package,” with a pure electric range that is “easily long enough for the school run.”

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/

BMW Group UK kickstarted 2023 by recognising the hard work and dedication of its BMW and MINI retailers across its network. The awards acknowledge exceptional retailer talent and dedication across both brands’ retail networks, celebrating those that provided an industry-leading experience for their customers across the UK.

Winners were selected across a range of categories including Sales, Marketing, Used Cars and Sustainability, before an overall Retailer of the Year was awarded for each brand.

Celebrated for their efforts, Lloyd Carlisle took home the award for ‘Aftersales’, Rybrook Wolverhampton for ‘BMW Financial Services’ and Bowker Group for ‘Sustainability’. First winning the highly coveted ‘BMW Sales’ award, Westerly Exeter then went on to take home the overall ‘BMW Retailer of the Year’ title for 2022.

Reflecting upon the achievements of retailers over the past 12 months Chris Brownridge, Chief Executive Officer, BMW Group UK said, “Last year our Retail Network delivered best-in-class customer service whilst successfully launching a range of innovative new models.

“I'm incredibly proud of all our retailers as their agility and passion for our brands means that BMW starts 2023 as the fastest-growing brand for pure electric vehicles in the UK and every fourth MINI Hatch registered is a MINI Electric. Tonight, we say thank you to each team for their hard work and dedication and we are delighted to celebrate their achievements with them.”

Simon Emery, Head of Business, Westerly BMW Exeter said, “I am incredibly proud of the Westerly Exeter team for winning both the BMW Retailer of the Year award and the BMW Sales Retailer of the Year award. This really is down to all their hard work, dedication and passion for the job they do each and every day.

My entire BMW sales team set out their ultimate team goal of achieving the BMW Sales Retailer of the Year award following last year’s virtual event. I know how much time and effort was put into 2022 by the entire team and I could not be happier for them."

Continuing the success, Soper won the very first ‘MINI App’ award, with Prentice Portadown taking home the win for ‘Customer Service’ and Stephen James Woolwich for ‘Best Improvement’. Overall ‘MINI Retailer of the Year 2022’ was awarded to Cotswold Cheltenham, who were also top performers for ‘Used Cars’.

Speaking at the awards, Federico Izzo, Director, MINI UK commented, “While dealing with turbulent times, our incredible retail network handed over 45,000 vehicles to customers in 2022. I'm extremely proud of our MINI retailer teams; their resilience throughout the last 12 months has created a solid foundation as we begin a very exciting year for the MINI brand. Congratulations to all our winners this evening.”

On receiving the awards, Paul Neale, Managing Director, Cotswold Motor Group, “I am incredibly proud of the team at Cotswold MINI Cheltenham for winning MINI Used Car Retailer of the Year and also for winning the overall MINI Retailer of the Year Award. It is great recognition for the whole team, who have passionately delivered the very best service for our customers, whilst consistently performing at the very highest level. To be awarded MINI Retailer of the Year for 2022 is incredibly special for all the team.”

BMW WINNERS:

MINI WINNERS:

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

Helen Wilson
MINI Media Relations Manager
Tel: 07815 372480                   
Email: Helen.Wilson@mini.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 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 M2 CS receives top honour.
• Beats fierce competition from the best hot hatches to hypercars and every segment in between.
• “BMW M2 CS was the standout car” – Stuart Gallagher, Editor, evo.

Renowned motoring magazine and website evo has named the BMW M2 CS its Car of the Year 2020.

Announced in November 2019, BMW M2 CS started production in early 2020 with the first customer deliveries in spring. This special edition was offered in limited numbers, positioned one rung up the performance ladder from the BMW M2 Competition. It blends outstanding track performance with unrestricted everyday usability and sets new, class-leading standards for acceleration, handling dynamics and precision.

Stuart Gallagher, evo editor, said: “In the BMW M2 CS our six judges experienced the very essence of a driver’s car. From the way it looks, to the performance it offers and, crucially, how it engages with the driver on road and track. Of our eight finalists the M2 CS was the car we couldn’t get enough of. In an outstanding year for new driver’s cars, the M2 CS was the standout car.”

Devoted to the ‘thrill of driving’, evo magazine was launched in the UK in November 1998, and since then has become a global brand with editions around the world and an engaged social media following of more than half a million car fans.

Eight cars were in the running for the overall top accolade, with the magazine’s editorial team putting all of them through a series of extensive tests at Anglesey Circuit and the Scottish Borders. All of the cars were judged on their on-road and on-circuit dynamics, performance and, crucially, whether they deliver the thrill of driving.

Speaking about the award, Graeme Grieve, Chief Executive Officer, BMW Group UK, said: “We are exceptionally proud that BMW M2 CS has taken the evo Car of the Year 2020 title among such a competitive and varied field and this award is proof that we raised the bar. Every detail of the vehicle was designed for high performance and racetrack capability, delivering the trademark BMW M driving experience.

“To receive such high praise from the evo team is a very special way to end the year.”

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 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/bmw-group/

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

• BMW UK awarded Fleet Manufacturer of the Year for the second consecutive year.
• 5 Series named Best Executive Car for third consecutive year.
• 3 Series awarded Best Premium Car and New Company Car of the Year.
• 1 Series takes the win in the Best Compact Premium Car category.
• Latest awards take BMW UK’s tally of industry accolades to nearly 20 since the start of the year.

BMW UK has reaffirmed its popularity with business customers after winning five categories at the Fleet News Awards 2020, including retaining the highly coveted Fleet Manufacturer of the Year award that is voted for entirely by readers.

In addition to the top accolade, BMW UK also won Best Compact Premium Car for the 1 Series, Best Premium Car and New Company Car of the Year for the 3 Series and Best Executive Car for the 5 Series.

On awarding the Fleet Manufacturer of the Year title to BMW UK for the second consecutive year, Stephen Briers, Editor-in-chief of Fleet News, said: “Market leading products, strong engagement with the fleet sector, and a real understanding of the needs of leasing companies, fleet end users and company car drivers has taken BMW to back-to-back wins in this category. It continues to sit at the top of the fleet choice list.”

The 5 Series retained its title of Best Executive Car for the third consecutive year. The Fleet News judging panel praised it for its comfort, unrivalled driving experience and low running costs. Summing up, the judges commented: “Already the best car in the segment, the new mild hybrid option and RDE2 diesel simply strengthen the 5 Series’ hold on this award. The outstanding choice for fleets and drivers.”

Highlighting the new 3 Series as a clear winner in the Premium Car category, the judges were impressed with how it “blends refinement, efficiency and drivability into a package that no rivals can beat.” Stephen Briers, Editor-in-chief of Fleet News, added: “Best-in-class driving is a given, but BMW has greatly enhanced the interior quality and added a host of outstanding technology, including the plug-in 330e version to make the 3 Series the standout car in this category.”

Fleet News was equally complimentary of the new 1 Series. On the reasons for awarding the recently launched model, it commented: “Distinctive styling, strong driver appeal and with front-wheel drive transmission that makes it more accessible. The BMW 1 Series is an excellent choice for business fleets.”

Rob East, General Manager, Corporate Sales, BMW UK, said: “We are absolutely delighted to accept these awards, particularly Manufacturer Of The Year and New Company Car of the Year, which are decided by readers. It’s exceptionally pleasing to retain the Fleet Manufacturer of the Year title, an award which recognises our efforts to provide our business customers with a straightforward, hassle-free service that complements the very best products. Our core business-focused models have never been stronger, offering corporate customers the benefits of low running costs, optimum efficiency and attractive BIK, especially on our electrified models, while still delivering the unrivalled BMW driving experience.” 

The Fleet News trophies take BMW UK’s tally of industry award wins to nearly 20 since the start of the year.

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 2019, the BMW Group sold over 2,520,000 passenger vehicles and more than 175,000 motorcycles worldwide. The profit before tax in the financial year 2018 was € 9.815 billion on revenues amounting to € 97.480 billion. As of 31 December 2018, the BMW Group had a workforce of 134,682 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

The BMW 3 Series has once again trumped its competition and been named Executive Car of the Year at the Scottish Car of the Year awards 2012.  Voted for by members of the Association of Scottish Motoring Writers (ASMW), the BMW 3 Series was commended for offering sleek looks and a superb driving experience in a package that offers drivers affordable running costs.

Not content with the one award, the BMW 320d was picked as the jewel of the range, taking home the accolade for Diesel Car of the Year.  Fighting off stiff competition from all areas of the industry, the BMW 320d took home the gong for its uncompromised combination of frugality and driving dynamics.

Speaking of the win John Murdoch, ASMW President, said: “All of the shortlisted cars are exceptional in their own right, but the BMW 3 Series really does raise the game.  It proves that you can be a dashing executive yet still please the bean counters, meaning that there was really only ever going to be one winner.”  

BMW crowned Fleet Manufacturer of the Year at the GreenFleet Awards 2012           

For the fifth year in a row BMW Group has once again scooped the top prize at the GreenFleet Awards to be crowned Fleet Car Manufacturer of the Year. 

BMW Group is once again the car manufacturer that had shown the greatest improvements in its fleet’s CO2 emissions, expanding its range of low emission vehicles available to fleet customers.  This commitment is demonstrated by the introduction of vehicles such as the new BMW ActiveHybrid3, which has CO2 emissions of just 139g/km but still goes from zero to 62mph in 5.3 seconds.

In recognition of the fifth consecutive year of being awarded Fleet Car Manufacturer of the Year at the GreenFleet Awards, the BMW Group has also been honoured with the Outstanding Achievement Award for its pioneering EfficientDynamics technologies.  Fitted as standard to all BMWs, EfficientDynamics has been key to reducing CO2 levels across the range, helping to drive down running costs while still providing the dynamic driving experience expected of a BMW.

The Sunday Times Driving names BMW 3 Series Best Family Car

The award winning BMW 3 Series can add another prestigious title to its rapidly accumulating list of awards, Best Family Car, thanks to the Sunday Times Driving Top 100 Cars guide.   

In a highly competitive market place the BMW 3 Series held its ground, beating off stiff competition from traditional family saloon and estate models as well as a raft of crossovers and MPVs, to take the title of Best Family Car.  Commended for its all-round excellence the BMW 3 Series offers an unrivalled blend of performance and economy with superb driving dynamics and a spacious interior, perfect for family life.

James Mills, The Sunday Times Motoring Content Manager, said: “Just as it seemed that the rivals might catch up last year, BMW released an all-new 3 Series, and now its class lead seems as unassailable as ever. What’s most worrying for its opposition is that the 3 Series isn’t just outstanding in one or two areas. It is the excellence it exhibits across the board that makes it such an extraordinary competitor.” 

BMW Group Best Manufacturer in NADA Dealer Attitude Survey

BMW received the accolade of Best Manufacturer in the National Automobile Dealers Association (NADA) Dealer Attitude Survey 2012, in recognition of the significant improvements that it has made over the last few years.  The NADA Dealer Attitude Survey has been running since 1985 to capture dealers’ opinions on key industry issues that are affecting them. 

                                                        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, Husqvarna Motorcycles  and Rolls-Royce brands. As a global company, the BMW Group operates 29 production and assembly facilities in 14 countries and has a global sales network in more than 140 countries.

In 2011, the BMW Group sold about 1.67 million cars and more than 113,000 motorcycles worldwide. The profit before tax for the financial year 2011 was euro 7.38 billion on revenues amounting to euro 68.82 billion. At 31 December 2011, the BMW Group had a workforce of approximately 100,000 employees.

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 eight years.

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

Graham Biggs                      Corporate Communications Director

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

Main office number:           01344 480320

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

Customer website:             www.bmw.co.uk

The Institute of Customer Service has honoured BMW Group UK for its commitment to excellent and innovative customer satisfaction presenting the company with the prestigious Kcom Customer Feedback Strategy Award.  Presented to Richard Price, BMW Group UK’s first Customer Director, the award recognised in particular the customer service system in operation in all BMW and MINI UK dealerships that allows every customer to rate their experience on a five star scale and write specific comments on dealer websites.

“This award recognises our commitment to providing the very best service for our customers and there is absolutely no doubt that satisfied customers drive the success or failure of businesses,” said Tim Abbott, Managing Director of BMW Group UK.   “We are determined to put the customer at the heart of everything we do and Richard’s appointment to the new role of Customer Director is key in making sure this is a fundamental part of our overall business strategy.”

With eleven categories, award submissions are scored against pre-set criteria by a panel of industry experts and finalists are assessed by an independent group of judges selected for their business knowledge and acumen. 

Richard Price, Customer Director, BMW Group UK , added: “We are delighted by this award, particularly as BMW Group was the only automotive organisation across all categories to make it into the finals. Our star ratings, a first of its kind in the automotive industry, help all BMW and MINI customers to make informed choices and inspire everybody in the company and in our dealer network to strive constantly to provide better customer service.”

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The BMW Group

The BMW Group is one of the most successful manufacturers of automobiles and motorcycles in the world with its BMW, MINI, Husqvarna Motorcycles  and Rolls-Royce brands. As a global company, the BMW Group operates 25 production and assembly facilities in 14 countries and has a global sales network in more than 140 countries.

In 2011, the BMW Group sold about1.67 million cars and more than 113,000 motorcycles worldwide. The profit before tax for the financial year 2011 was euro 7.38 billion on revenues amounting to euro 68.82 billion. At 31 December 2011, the BMW Group had a workforce of approximately 100,000 employees.

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 seven years.

www.bmwgroup.com

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

Twitter: http://twitter.com/BMWGroup

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

For further information please contact:

Angela Stangroom              Group Communications Manager

Tel: 01344 480283             Email: Angela.Stangroom@bmw.co.uk

Wieland Bruch                      Corporate 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

Main office number:            01344 480320

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.”

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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

As recognition of the class-leading position BMW Group vehicles command, courtesy of EfficientDynamics technologies, the marque has once again scooped the top prize at the Green Fleet Awards to be crowned Fleet Car Manufacturer of the Year.

BMW Group was recognised, for the third year in a row, as the car manufacturer that had shown the greatest improvements in CO2 emissions, had expanded its range of low emission vehicles or offered alternative fuel vehicles to fleet customers.  This commitment is demonstrated by the introduction of vehicles such as the new BMW 5 Series, which has significantly lower CO2 emissions than its predecessor at 129g/km for the 520d, and the BMW 320d EfficientDynamics, with combined CO2 emissions of 109g/km.

Angela Pisanu, Editor of Green Fleet, said: “Through its EfficientDynamics initiative, BMW has continued to raise the bar in respect of delivering class leading reductions in carbon dioxide emissions whilst at the same time maintaining exceptional vehicle performance and economy.  BMW’s achievements in small, medium and in particular the upper fleet vehicle sector convinced us that the firm is once again a worthy winner.”

Stephen Chater, BMW Group Corporate Operations Manger, said: “It is great news that we have once again been crowned Fleet Car Manufacturer of the Year.  This award recognises BMW’s continued commitment to reducing emissions through its EfficientDynamics programme, across the whole range.”

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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                      Corporate 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

Main office number:            01344 480320

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

Customer website:             www.bmw.co.uk

BMW has won three accolades at the Environmental Transport Association’s Green Car Awards 2010.  This year the Environmental Transport Association examined over 5,000 vehicles to establish the greenest cars on the market for the Green Car Awards 2010.  With class wins in the large family, off-road and luxury car categories, BMW’s EfficientDynamics programme was praised for offering customers outstanding fuel economy and low emissions without compromising driving enjoyment, across the BMW range.

The BMW 7 Series successfully combines efficiency and opulence to take the award for greenest luxury car.  With only 181g/km CO2 emissions and returning a combined 40.9 mpg, the BMW 740d demonstrates that being green doesn’t have to involve sacrificing luxury.

Emitting just 128 g/km CO2, whilst returning 58.9 mpg made the BMW 320d Touring this years winner of the greenest large family car category.  It’s industry leading economy and family friendly flexibility has cemented the 320d Touring as a firm favourite in the 3 Series range.

The final winner, the newest member of the X family, has walked away with the award for the greenest off-road car.  The combination of efficient diesel engines, together with Brake Energy Regeneration, Auto Stop-Start and the choice of two or four-wheel-drive means that the X1 lives up to its title of the greenest off-road car.

All of the winning models benefit from BMW’s award-winning EfficientDynamics technologies, which have been offered as standard since 2007.  All the models receive a combination of innovative technologies involving a mixture of Auto Start / Stop, Brake Energy Regeneration, Active Aerodynamics, low rolling resistance tyres, Electric Power Steering, on-demand ancillary systems and optimum gearshift indicator features. 

Stephen Chater, BMW Group corporate operations manager, said: “To have three wins in the Green Car Awards is a phenomenal achievement.  It is a testament to the measures that we’ve implemented within our EfficientDynamics strategy into every BMW, meaning that we’re able to provide customers with the driving pleasure they expect from a BMW, while still meeting the stringent requirements for fuel-efficiency and low emissions.”

Andrew Davis, director at the Environmental Transport Association, said: “With the price of petrol at record levels and greater understanding about the threat to the environment there has never been a more important time to make fuel efficiency a deciding factor when choosing a car.”

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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. The pre-tax profit for 2009 was euro 413 million, 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 five 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

Renowned industry publication, Fleet News, has honoured BMW again for its widespread introduction of EfficientDynamics technologies, in their annual Fleet News Awards.  BMW’s EfficientDynamics programme reduces emissions and improves fuel consumption, while maintaining or increasing performance and driving enjoyment. 

Fleet News also gave the Best Luxury Car award to the BMW 7 Series, for the second year in a row, commending the car for an unsurpassed blend of high quality, performance and efficiency.  The BMW 5 Series and the BMW 3 Series were both highly commended in the Best Executive Car and Best Premium Car categories, concluding a successful night for BMW.

Sean Green, Sales Director of BMW UK, said: “These awards are great news for BMW and recognise the success of the EfficientDynamics programme in creating highly sustainable premium performance cars.  These technologies are designed-in to all our car and, with improved performance and cleaner driving, mean real benefits for both retail and corporate customers.”

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BMW Group’s EfficientDynamics programme gives customers outstanding fuel economy and low emissions without giving up driving enjoyment. This was recognised again this year at the What Car? Green Car Awards 2009. The MINI Cooper S won the Green Sports Car category for the second year in a row and the BMW 318d took the honours in the Executive Car category.

The MINI Cooper S has a punchy, turbocharged engine which powers it to 62 mph in just 7.1 seconds, but returns a combined fuel consumption figure of 45.6 mpg and CO2 emissions are just 149 g/km. Steve Fowler, Editor-in-Chief at What Car?, said: “The MINI Cooper S is a home-grown hot hatch that’s big on performance and style, yet treads far lighter than rivals because of its smaller carbon footprint.”

The BMW 318d Saloon is BMW’s most fuel efficient and least polluting 3 Series ever. A 318d Saloon records a combined consumption figure of 60.1mpg and CO2 emissions of 123g/km, while at the same time is capable of a zero to 62mph time of 9.3 seconds. It was the blend of these impressive performance figures that assured the parsimonious 3 Series model with top green honours.

BMW first offered EfficientDynamics as standard in 2007. A raft of models received Auto Start / Stop, Brake Energy Regeneration, Active Aerodynamics, low rolling resistance tyres, Electric Power Steering, on-demand ancillary systems and optimum gearshift indicator features.

These technologies built on the existing lightweight engineering principles and direct injection engine technology introduced over the previous years. Across virtually the entire MINI range, many of the same technologies are present under the MINIMALISM title and ensure the premium small car offers an unbeatable mix of fun and frugality.

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