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106th Annual General Meeting: Oliver Zipse hands over Chairmanship of the Board of Management of BMW AG to Milan Nedeljković

Wed, 13 May 2026 10:00:00 +0200

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

If you have any questions, please contact:

BMW Group Corporate Communications

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

Telephone: +49 89 382-24118

Email: Max-Morten.Borgmann@bmwgroup.com

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

Telephone: +49 151 601-51137

Email: Dominic.Stoiber@bmw.de

Lennart Wermke, Communications BMW Group Financial Services

Telephone: +49 151 601-98096

Email: Lennart.Wermke@bmwgroup.com

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

Email: presse@bmwgroup.com

The BMW Group

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Press Contact: Chris Overall
Tel: +447815370990
E-mail: chris.overall@bmw.co.uk

Solid start to the year: BMW Group achieves Group EBT margin at previous full-year level

Wed, 06 May 2026 08:08:03 +0200

Munich. Parallel to the ramp-up of the Neue Klasse, the BMW Group has released solid financial figures in the first quarter: The Munich-based premium automaker reported an EBT of € 2,348 million – surpassing the two previous quarters (Q3/Q4 2025). Group EBT margin of 7.6 % was on par with the figure for the full year 2025 (7.7 %). Free cash flow in the Automotive segment totalled € 777 million, significantly above the same quarter of the previous year (+88.1 %).

As such, the BMW Group has maintained its positive momentum from the previous year in the first quarter of 2026. The company’s attractive product portfolio, technology‑open approach and resilience in key global regions ensure it maintains its successful course.

“Once again, our earnings for the first quarter demonstrate the value of strategic consistency, operational strength and a high degree of flexibility. We are well positioned to deliver continued success, despite challenging conditions,” said Oliver Zipse, Chairman of the Board of Management of BMW AG.

Order intake in Europe reaches record levels

The BMW brand achieved its highest ever order intake figure for a single quarter in Sales Region Europe. From January to March, orders for all-electric vehicles increased by more than 60% in Europe compared to the previous year. The BMW iX3* alone secured more than 50,000 orders since its design premiere in September by the end of March.

“During the first three months on the year, we received more orders in Europe than in any other quarter in the Company’s history. The key to our success lies in our broad product range: with our strong brands, we serve key segments and allow customers to select from the full range of drivetrains,” said Zipse. “The successful launch of the BMW iX3 and the positive feedback on the BMW i3 confirm that we made the right decisions with the Neue Klasse. Every future BMW model will feature the new technology clusters and use the new design language – regardless of drivetrain. Thus, we are elevating our product portfolio to a whole new level.”

The BMW Group delivered a total of 565,780 vehicles to customers worldwide in the first quarter. This represents a slight decrease of -3.5% compared with the same period last year. The BMW brand delivered a total of 496,006 vehicles to customers across the world in the first quarter of 2026 (-4.6%). One in ten of all BMW units delivered was a BMW M model.

MINI maintains its growth trajectory

The MINI brand increased its global sales for the fifth consecutive quarter, delivering 68,503 vehicles – growth of +6.0%. BEVs accounted for 35.1% of all MINI deliveries.
The Rolls-Royce brand delivered a total of 1,271 vehicles to customers in the first quarter (-8.0%). BMW Motorrad delivered 42,735 motorcycles and scooters to customers over the same period (-4.2%).

BEV demand growing in Europe

The BMW Group’s vehicle deliveries increased by 3.1% across all drivetrains in Europe, its largest sales region. Battery‑electric vehicles accounted for 25.3% of all sales in Europe (global: 15.5%). The BMW Group remains confident that it will meet the EU (27 + 2) CO₂ targets for 2026.
In the Americas sales region, which slightly declined by -4.0%, the decline in deliveries of all-electric BMW automobiles was largely offset by increased deliveries of vehicles with combustion engines. In China, where the total market contracted sharply by -17.5%, BMW Group deliveries performed somewhat better, falling by -10.0% during the reporting period.

Currency effects weigh on revenues

Group revenues totalled € 31,007 million (2025: € 33,758 million; -8.1%; adjusted for currency translation effects: -4.3%) highlighting the persistently intense competition in the automotive sector – particularly in China – as well as the slight decline in sales. Furthermore, adverse currency effects had a negative impact, primarily the Chinese renminbi and the US dollar.

Disciplined cost management continues to deliver results

The BMW Group successfully delivered nominal costs reductions in the first quarter to tackle external challenges. The cost of sales went down by -6.4%, while administrative and sales expenses fell by -5.1% across the Group. As planned, the Company reduced its research & development expenditure from the 2024 peak to € 1,755 million (Q1/2025: € 1,984 million; -11.5%). The research & development expenditure ratio (German Commercial Code) fell to 5.7% (Q1/2025: 5.9%). Investments also decreased in the first quarter to € 1,723 million in line with planning (Q1/2025: € 2,819 million; -38.9%). The capital expenditure ratio came in at 2.0% (Q1/2025: 3.6%).

“Flexibility and speed of execution are two of the BMW Group’s strengths. That’s abundantly clear with the Neue Klasse – a stringent and comprehensive renewal of our entire vehicle portfolio in record time. The automotive innovations coming to market will strengthen our competitive position and improve our profitability,” said Chief Financial Officer Walter Mertl. “In a demanding economic environment, we remain highly focused on costs, leveraging multiple opportunities across the company with an approach designed to deliver sustained results.”

Share buyback on track

The Annual General Meeting in May 2025 authorised the Board of Management to buy back up to 10% of BMW AG’s share capital over the next five years. Based on this new authorisation, the Board of Management approved a third share buyback programme with a volume of up to € 2 billion, to be completed no later than 30 April 2027. The first tranche of shares worth € 750 million were repurchased by December 2025. The second tranche of shares, amounting to € 625 million, is on track to be purchased by 31 August 2026. On 31 March 2026, BMW AG held shares with a nominal value of € 12,225,269 million. This corresponds to 1.99% of the share capital on the same date.

Group EBT well over € 2 billion again despite the tariffs burden

The Group achieved earnings before tax (EBT) of € 2,348 million in the first three months of the year (Q1/2025: € 3,113 million; -24.6%). In doing so, the company delivered earnings of more than € 2 billion in a demanding economic environment once again. The EBT margin for the period was 7.6% (Q1/2025: 9.2%). Group net profit amounted to € 1,672 million (Q1/2025: € 2,173 million; -23.1%).

EBIT margin in the annual guidance corridor of 4–6%
The Automotive segment achieved an EBIT of € 1,345 million (Q1/2025: € 2,024 million; -33.5 %) and an EBIT margin of 5.0 % (Q1/2025: 6.9 %; -1.9 percentage points) – in the middle of the forecast annual range of 4–6% – and extra tariffs accounted for a 1.25 percentage point reduction in the EBIT margin in the quarter. This was a significantly larger hit than the same quarter in the previous year, in which only EU import tariffs were due on battery‑electric vehicles from China. The EBIT margin was also affected by depreciation and amortisation from the BBA purchase price allocation amounting to 1.2 percentage points.

Fierce competition across major automotive markets, especially in China, impacted pricing and sales volumes, weighing on EBIT. As anticipated, currency and raw material price effects dampened the company’s first‑quarter earnings performance.

Free cash flow in the Automotive segment increased significantly to € 777 million in the first three months of the year (Q1/2025: € 413 million). The marked reduction of capital expenditure compared with prior‑year figures had a positive impact on free cash flow. Conversely, the typical seasonal increase in inventories weighed on working capital. The segment’s free cash flow is expected to exceed
€ 4.5 billion for the full year.

Financial Services: slight growth in new contracts with end customers

The Financial Services segment secured 420,212 new credit financing and leasing contracts with end customersin the first quarter. The growth of 4.3 % compared to the same quarter last year is largely attributable to the changes in the competitive landscape in the Chinese market since mid‑2025. The penetration rate** – the share of BMW Group vehicles either leased or financed through the Financial Services segment – increased to 51.6% in the reporting period(Q1/2025: 43.0%; +8.6%).

The segment generated a profit before tax (PBT) of € 381 million in the first three months of the year (Q1/2025: € 650 million; –41.4%). The decline was primarily driven by an increase of the existing risk provision for cross-sector compensation schemes for motor finance customers in the United Kingdom.

Moreover, the income from the resale of end-of-lease vehicles was lower.

Outlook for the 2026 financial year confirmed

The BMW Group confirms its full‑year forecast after the first quarter, in a deteriorating economic environment. Forecasts for the global economy and automotive markets have been revised downwards in recent weeks. The global automotive market is now expected to see a slight decrease.

For the 2026 financial year, the BMW Group continues to expect a higher level of volatility related to tariffs. The company anticipates a negative impact from higher tariffs of around 1.25 percentage points on the EBIT margin in the Automotive segment.

The geopolitical situation in the Middle East is currently characterised by a high degree of uncertainty due to the ongoing conflict in the region. The outlook assumes that the conflict will not be enduring.

The BMW Group continues to see overall growth potential in Europe and the United States. In China, the company looks to balance sales volume, transaction prices and dealer profitability.

Globally, the company forecasts that deliveries will be on a par with the previous year and that fully-electric vehicles will account for the same share of sales as 2025.

The BMW Group remains disciplined in cost management. In the 2026 financial year, the company will further reduce capital expenditure, manufacturing costs, research & development spending, as well as sales & administrative expenses. Compared to the prior year, the BMW Group expects a lower additional burden from tariffs as previously outlined. This will be offset by increasing depreciation resulting from investments and the capitalization of development costs in previous years. Additionally, earnings will be negatively impacted by adverse currency and raw material effects, by pricing and product measures to stabilize transaction prices in China, by a significantly lower capitalization rate resulting from the development portfolio structure, and by overall lower revenues related to the used-car market. The BMW Group will partially offset these higher burdens through the afore-mentioned cost reductions.

Regarding forecast KPIs: The EBIT margin for the Automotive Segment is forecast to be within the range of 4–6%. Return on Capital Employed (RoCE) will be between 6–10%.

In the Financial Services Segment, Return on Equity (RoE) is projected to be between 13–16%.

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

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

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

BMW Group – overview Q1 2026		Q1 2026	Q1 2025	Change in %
Deliveries to customers
Automotive¹	units	565,780	586,117	-3.5
thereof: BMW	units	496,006	520,121	-4.6
MINI	units	68,503	64,615	6,0
Rolls-Royce	units	1,271	1,381	-8.0
Motorcycles	units	42,735	44,609	-4.2

Employees (as of 31 Dec. 2025)		154,540
EBIT margin Automotive Segment	percent	5.0	6.9	-1.9 %-pts.
EBIT margin Motorcycles Segment	percent	11.4	9.4	+2.0 %-pts.
EBT margin BMW Group²	percent	7.6	9.2	-1.6 %-pts.
Free cash flow Automotive Segment	€ million	777	413	88.1

Revenues	€ million	31,007	33,758	-8.1
thereof: Automotive	€ million	27,159	29,211	-7.0
Motorcycles	€ million	779	806	-3.3
Financial Services	€ million	9,837	10,126	-2.9
Other Entities	€ million	3	3	0.0
Eliminations	€ million	-6,771	-6,388	6.0

Profit before financial result (EBIT)	€ million	2,004	3,142	-36.2
thereof: Automotive	€ million	1,345	2,024	-33.5
Motorcycles	€ million	89	76	17.1
Financial Services	€ million	353	652	-45.9
Other Entities	€ million	2	-6	-
Eliminations	€ million	214	396	-46.0

Profit before tax (EBT)	€ million	2,348	3,113	-24.6
thereof: Automotive	€ million	1,266	1,904	-33.5
Motorcycles	€ million	88	75	17.3
Financial Services	€ million	381	650	-41.4
Other Entities	€ million	233	295	-21.0
Eliminations	€ million	70	189	-63.0

Group income taxes	€ million	-676	-940	28.1
Net profit	€ million	1,672	2,173	-23.1
Earnings per share (ordinary/preferred)³	€	2.68/2.68	3.38/3.38	-20.7

¹Deliveries include the joint venture BMW Brilliance Automotive Ltd., Shenyang.

²Ratio of Group earnings before taxes to Group revenues.

³ Earnings per share of preferred shares are calculated by distributing the earnings required to cover the additional dividend of € 0.02
per preferred share proportionally over the quarters of the corresponding financial year.

** Starting in the 2026 financial year, the penetration rate will also include financing and leasing contracts for young used vehicles that are sold to end customers for the first time in the reporting year.

GLOSSARY – explanatory comments on key performance indicators

Deliveries to customers

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

Payout ratio

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

EBIT

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

EBIT margin

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

EBT

EBIT plus financial result.

PHEV

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

If you have any questions, please contact:

BMW Group Corporate Communications

Dr Britta Ullrich, Finance Communications

Telephone: +49 89 382-18364

Email: britta.ullrich@bmwgroup.com

Sebastian Keßler, Communications BMW Group, Strategy

Telephone: +49 89 382-21616

Email: Sebastian.KE.Kessler@bmwgroup.com

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

Telephone: +49 89 382-24118

Email: Max-Morten.Borgmann@bmwgroup.com

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

Email: presse@bmwgroup.com

The BMW Group

www.bmwgroup.com

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

CO2 EMISSIONS & CONSUMPTION.

BMW iX3 50 xDrive: energy consumption combined: 17,9–15,1 kWh/100 km (WLTP); CO₂-emissions combined: 0 g/km (WLTP); CO₂ class(s): A; electrical range: 678–805 km (WLTP)

Press Contact: Chris Overall
Tel: +447815370990
E-mail: chris.overall@bmw.co.uk

MINI Timeline 2001 - 2026

Thu, 23 Apr 2026 09:00:00 +0200

2000	September – Decision to move production of MINI from Longbridge to Oxford
2001	26 April – Start of MINI Production at Plant Oxford 7 July – New MINI Hatch is launched in the UK (First Generation) MINI One and MINI Cooper go on sale on July 7 and come with a vast array of options to add a personal touch to each car. Mini owners have always enjoyed personalising their cars inside and out, and every Mini owner has a view on what represents the ideal specification. New MINI will continue the theme, offering over 40 options, 3 option packages, 3 different alloy wheels and 8 colours available to order at launch. 24 October – Cooper S unveiled at 2001 Tokyo Motor Show MINI Cooper S will be unveiled at the 2001 Tokyo Motor Show on October 24, hot on the heels of the successful UK launch of MINI One and MINI Cooper. The flagship model is due to set pulses racing next summer.
2002	16 May – Diesel MINI announced Following the MINI One and MINI Cooper launch in 2001 and the impending arrival of MINI Cooper S on June 8, it was confirmed today at BMW Group's Annual General Meeting that a diesel MINI will be available in 2003. 30 May– 100,000^th MINI built at Plant Oxford The 100,000^th MINI has come off the production line at BMW Group Plant Oxford today (30 May) just 13 months after the car went into volume production. The car, an electric blue MINI Cooper S, is one of more than 4,000 Cooper S models already ordered by UK customers even before the 163 bhp supercharged top-of-the range MINI goes on sale in the UK on 8 June. Following the launch of the MINI in the UK in July 2001, over 25,000 MINI One and MINI Cooper models have been sold in its home market.
2004	23 April - MINI Cooper S Convertible launched MINI UK is delighted to announce pricing and specification details of its new range topping MINI Cooper S Convertible. The MINI Cooper S Convertible will make its UK debut at The Sunday Times Motor Show Live on 25th May. It will be priced at £17,595 and will go on sale in the UK at the end of August. Just like the MINI One Convertible and MINI Cooper Convertible, the MINI Cooper S Convertible will be built at Plant Oxford in the UK. BMW Group announces £40 million investment at BMW Group Plant Swindon 25 August - 500,000^th MINI produced at Plant Oxford The 500,000th MINI has come off the production line at BMW Group Plant Oxford today, three years after the car first went on sale in July 2001.More than 375,000 of the 500,000 MINIs have been exported representing over 75 per cent of the total produced since the launch of the car. The UK car export market is worth approximately £11 billion per annum* and MINI is the UK's fifth largest car manufacturer.
2005	500,000 engines delivered by Hams Hall 15 November - Autocar names MINI Car Manufacturer of the Year 2005 Autocar magazine has named MINI Car Manufacturer of the Year 2005 at its annual award ceremony held in London on Monday 14th November 2005. Presenting the award, Autocar editor Rob Aherne said: "MINI has been a towering success every week of every year of its short life. The cars, which began production in 2001, have brilliantly echoed the appeal of the Issigonis original, while offering buyers a thoroughly modern design."
2006	21 February - MINI Cooper S with John Cooper Works GP Kit unveiled at Geneva Motor Show The MINI Cooper S with John Cooper Works (JCW) GP Kit will make its first public viewing at the Geneva Motor Show. The fastest, most powerful production MINI ever will reach 62mph in under 6.5 seconds and achieve a top speed of 146mph. The GP has a power output of 218bhp, a stunning 136bhp per litre, and a maximum torque of 245Nm. 14 August - Second Generation MINI Hatch launched The overwhelming success of its predecessor, launched in 2001, has paved the way for the new MINI to consolidate and expand its position in the premium segment it created. In five years it has sold over 800,000 around the world, and 200,000 in the UK alone. The external design of the new MINI has re mained true to its phenomenally successful forebear, yet every body panel is different. The MINI design team rightly deemed evolution preferable to revolution and MINI's styling remains instantly recognisable. Five years after its launch it still stands out, and this design explains why demand for the curre nt MINI is higher today than it has ever been. 19 September - Major investment & prince engine supplied to Oxford from Hams Hall, creating the Production Triangle for the first time + £200 million investment and 450 new jobs created by BMW Group. + UK-based suppliers invest £40 million and create 750 new jobs. + MINI production triangle in the UK established. + UK content for new MINI rises from 40 to 60 per cent. + Production capacity increases from 200,000 to 240,000 vehicles per annum in medium term. 16 November – New MINI on sale in the UK.
2007	16 January – MINI One and Cooper D introduced to the MINI UK range The new MINI hatch line-up will soon be complete, when the new MINI One and MINI Cooper D models are unveiled to the public at the International Geneva Motor Show on 8 March 2007. The entry-level One features a perky 95hp 1.4-litre petrol engine, while the Cooper D boasts performance and fuel efficiency from an all-new 1.6-litre 110hp turbodiesel powerplant. MINI Plant Oxford pioneers innovative paint technology Plant Oxford is the first BMW Group manufacturing site to use IPP (Integrated Paint Process). This highly innovative system brings energy savings and emissions reductions of well over 10 per cent in the painting of body shells. As well as enhancing the efficiency of the entire paint process, IPP also supports BMW Group's environmental objectives by dispensing with a solvent-based primer-surfacer. BMW Group launches Strategy Number ONE 30 July - MINI Clubman launched for the first time The new MINI Clubman will go on sale in the UK on Saturday 10 November 2007. Based on a concept first shown at Frankfurt Motor Show in 2005, the new car is a modern interpretation of its famous Mini predecessors taking into account all the demands and technologies of the 21st century. Available from launch in three engine variants: Cooper D, Cooper and Cooper S, the new model offers flexible use of space, easier access through innovative door concepts, more space for rear passengers and high levels of safety and customisation options, all without compromising the MINI's revered driving dynamics.
2008	Tours begin at MINI Plant Oxford 1 December - Second generation MINI Convertible announced. The new MINI Convertible is set to make a welcome return to UK roads in 2009, with a completely new version of the British-built favourite due to go on sale on 28 March 2009. MINI Cooper and Cooper S derivatives featuring innovative engine technologies will be offered at launch, meaning fans of the compact, premium new MINI Convertible are guaranteed performance, frugality, minimal running costs and a unique image as standard.
2009	8 May – 50 Years of MINI Production at Plant Oxford Fifty years ago today, the first Mini rolled off the production line at Cowley, now called Plant Oxford. For the first time in half a century that very car is returning to its birthplace for a celebration of 50 years of production. The Mini Minor, finished in Old English White and carrying the registration number 621 AOK, is at Plant Oxford for the day to mark its birthday in style. 24 June - MINI E trials begin, backed by UK Government BMW Group’s successful application to the UK Government’s Technology Strategy Board followed an invitation for proposals outlining innovative, industry-led collaborative research projects involving ultra-low carbon vehicles. The objective of the Technology Strategy Board is to encourage manufacturers to develop ultra-low carbon vehicles that customers want to buy and bring them to market as rapidly as possible. MINI Olympic Torch passes through MINI Plant Oxford, held by associate Jodie Evans. September – MINI John Cooper Works GP announced
2010	20 January - MINI Countryman launched (produced in Graz, Austria) MINI is adding a fourth model to the family, opening up a new dimension of that unmistakable MINI feeling. As a genuine Crossover, the MINI Countryman bridges the gap between the classic concept of the MINI and a modern Sports Activity Vehicle. As the first model in the MINI range with four doors and a wide-opening rear lid, the MINI Countryman provides even greater freedom of space for truly versatile use, a slightly elevated seating position, and optimized driving comfort. In a nutshell, therefore, the MINI Countryman offers all the characteristic features of the brand in terms of design, premium quality, handling, efficiency and customisation in new, fascinating style. December 19 – MINI Paceman concept unveiled
2011	24 February - MINI Rocketman concept unveiled at Milan Fashion Week 2011 Underpinning this success has been the creative use of space, a principle that enters new territory with the MINI Rocketman Concept. The study car harks back to the classic Mini in terms of its exterior dimensions, while its technology points to the future of automotive design. A 3+1-seater with 3 doors and a length of just over 3 metres (approx. 10 ft.), the MINI Rocketman Concept responds to the fundamental requirements of mobile lifestyles in the big cities of the future by pooling the brand’s core values in concentrated form. Ingenious functionality, smile-inducing agility, exceptional efficiency and irresistible design come together into an extraordinarily attractive and ground-breaking, yet typically MINI, subcompact car concept for the premium segment. 23 September - MINI Coupé announced First two-seater sports car from MINI; - Typically MINI: characterful design, signature go-kart handling, high standard spec including unique active rear spoiler, extensive personalisation programme. - John Cooper Works variant has range-topping acceleration and top speed. - Four-model engine line-up; three petrol, one diesel. - Built in Britain at Plant Oxford. - On sale 1st October 2011 priced from £16,640 OTR.
2012	MINI London 2012 Edition announced 16 April - MINI Roadster announced The MINI Roadster is the first premium model of its kind in the small car segment, offering buyers a unique package that will bring the joy of MINI ownership to a passionate and demanding group of new customers. Selling alongside the Hatch, Convertible, Clubman, Countryman and Coupé, the MINI Roadster is in UK showrooms now. 15 November – MINI breaks World Record, squeezing 28 MINI Fans into a 2012 MINI.
2013	8 March – Celebrating 100 years of car-making in Oxford 12 March – 250,000^th MINI Countryman leaves the factory 21 March - MINI Paceman unveiled A sporty new exterior design, lowered suspension for a dynamic ride and an exciting reinterpretation of the familiar interior – feast your eyes on the all-new MINI Paceman. Styled as a coupé interpretation of the Countryman, five versions are available from launch, including the MINI Cooper S Paceman which has a 0-62mph of just 7.5 seconds. The seventh unique member of the family, it sells alongside the Hatch, Clubman, Convertible, Countryman, Coupé and Roadster. November 18 – David Cameron visits Plant Oxford to see worldwide debut of Third Generation MINI The new MINI has made its worldwide debut today (18 November) at MINI’s UK production plant in Oxford and features all-new vehicle architecture , an evolutionary design and a range of new fuel-efficient engines to give owners even more fun behind the wheel. A £750 million investment across three of BMW Group’s UK manufacturing facilities marks the launch of the new car, with a new 1,000-robot body shop at Plant Oxford.
2014	13 March - Third Generation MINI Hatch launched Even though the new MINI Hatch is instantly recognisable – something which comes from having such a globally identifiable design – the car is completely new from the ground up. Every component has been back to the drawing board in an effort to optimise its function, performance and style. The result is ‘The New Original’, a MINI which is distinctly familiar but enhanced in every single way. It features significant improvements in technology, engine efficiency and power delivery, driving dynamics, quality and – of course – personalisation. Inside, the new MINI Hatch is quieter than the outgoing model, with improvements to acoustic refinement inside the cabin. 4 June - First ever five-door Hatch unveiled Just months after launching the new MINI Hatch, MINI has today expanded its model range with the addition of an entirely new body variant – the MINI 5-door Hatch. It’s the first time in the history of the brand that the Hatch has been offered with two rear doors, and the new model promises to combine the hallmark driving fun, distinctive character and refinement of its 3-door sibling with enhanced practicality. This brand new model features enhanced interior comfort and practicality thanks to the extended wheelbase. Rear passengers now have 72 millimetres more legroom compared to the 3-door Hatch, while the increased space also provides room for a third seat in the back row. The two rear doors make access to the enhanced rear seating more comfortable. 1 July – First 5-Door Hatch rolls off production line at Plant Oxford One of the UK’s largest roof-mounted solar farms is installed at MINI Plant Oxford. On the roof of the bodyshop, the solar farm has more than 11,500 panels, covering 20,000 square metres (five football pitches). It generates enough electricity to power the equivalent of 850 households (over 3 megawatts). This allows Plant Oxford to reduce its carbon footprint by approximately 1,500 tonnes of C02 per year.
2015	25 June – MINI gets a new logo Building Cars: Secrets of the Assembly Line for BBC1 filmed live across two evenings at Plant Oxford. First aired in August 2015. 3 November - Second generation MINI Clubman launched Following the success of the re-energised MINI 3-door Hatch and the successful launch of the MINI 5-door Hatch, the new model offers customers a premium vehicle featuring the highest level of ride refinement ever seen in a MINI. The car’s much-loved signature design feature – its split rear doors – are retained, while accessibility and everyday usability are further enhanced thanks to four full-sized side doors. Second generation MINI John Cooper Works GP launched at Paris Motor Show (2,000 units globally)
2016	23 January - Third generation MINI Convertible announced On sale in the UK from March 2016, it follows hugely successful model launches in 2004 and 2009. Since 2011 until 2015, 29,415 MINI Convertible models have been sold in the UK making it the best-selling convertible in the country. It remains the only premium soft-top four-seater convertible in the small car segment, and the UK continues to be the largest market worldwide for the new MINI Convertible. Plant Oxford celebrates 15^th anniversary 6 April – Plant Oxford joins Instagram 20 June – Prime Minister David Cameron & Harriet Harman visit Plant Oxford BMW Group celebrates centenary BMW Group launches Strategy NUMBER ONE > NEXT 2 December - Plant Oxford celebrates 3,000,000^th MINI rolling off the assembly line since production began in 2001.
2017	The Drum Social Buzz award for ‘MINI Plant Oxford Instagram’ 17 January - Second generation MINI Countryman unveiled The new MINI Countryman is the biggest and most versatile model to be launched in the brand’s 57-year history. With its larger external dimensions, and increases in space throughout the cabin and luggage area, it offers occupants even greater comfort and a genuinely premium ambience. Useful new features such as electric tailgate control with touch-free opening and unique options, including a fold down picnic bench at the rear, add to the ownership experience. 30 August - MINI Electric concept announced at Frankfurt Motor Show Almost 10 years after MINI E laid the foundations for production-standard battery electric vehicles within the BMW Group, MINI is now offering a window on the future of urban electric mobility. With a focus on driving excitement and inspiring design, it moves the brand’s urban tradition into the electric age and in doing so spices up the conventional notion of electric mobility. A production version of the MINI ELECTRIC CONCEPT will be unveiled in 2019.
2018	BMW Group launches UK apprenticeship programme at Plant Oxford, Swindon and Hams Hall
2019	MINI celebrates 60 Years of MINI 19 June - Italian Job 50^th anniversary celebrated at Plant Oxford Tonight at its home in Oxford, MINI will gather the cars and the stars of The Italian Job for a unique double celebration and charity screening of the much-loved film. This year marks 60 years since the first Mini rolled off the lines at Oxford and 50 years since The Italian Job premiered in London in June 1969. 9 July - MINI Electric announced MINI has today unveiled the new MINI Electric at the Oxford plant, the home of the brand where the very first Mini was built 60 years ago. After 15,000 potential customers already expressed an interest in the car, the official order books are opened today. Manufacturing will begin in late 2019, with first deliveries in the spring of 2020 and exports headed around the world. 9 August - 10,000,000^th MINI built at MINI Plant Oxford As MINI continues to celebrate its 60^th anniversary, the brand has achieved a new feat as the ten millionth MINI produced globally since 1959 rolled off the assembly line. The landmark car – a MINI 60 Years Anniversary Edition – was built on July 24^th 2019 at MINI Plant Oxford and will take pride of place in today ’ s special event at Oxford. 25 September - Hams Hall celebrates 5,000,000^th engine production across both BMW and MINI 20 November - 3rd MINI John Cooper Works GP announced Following the success of the two previous MINI GP model generations, it will be built in Plant Oxford in a limited run of 3,000 vehicles globally, 575 of which are for UK customers. MINI Plant Oxford given “Best Told Story” accolade from the official tourism agency for England, Visit England (won again in 2020)
2020	January – MINI Electric customer production begins at Plant Oxford . The MINI Electric is fully integrated into the production process at Plant Oxford, making it the first BMW Group Plant to have electric running down the same line as the combustion engine models, allowing flexibility in production according to global demand. By the end of 2020, a total of 17,580 were sold and delivered to customers around the world, 3,385 of which in the UK. No production output from 23 March to 18 May due to Coronavirus Pandemic MINI Plant Oxford given “Best Told Story” accolade from the official tourism agency for England, Visit England 30 July - Plant Oxford achieves production milestone, producing 11,000 MINI Electric models • MINI Plant Oxford has built more than 11,000 MINI Electrics since production began • More than 3,000 MINI Electric orders in the UK to date. 27 October - MINI reveals future product plans and new strategy focusing on electromobility, crossovers and production of models in China from 2023.
2021	30 March – MINI announces MINI Electric Pacesetter car for Formula E, inspired by John Cooper Works. The MINI Electric Pacesetter inspired by JCW is the new Safety Car for the ABB FIA Formula E World Championship race series. As such, it connects the brand’s electrified future with the rich racing history of John Cooper Works. The car was created out of the new MINI Electric as part of an unprecedented collaboration between MINI Design, BMW Motorsport, the FIA and the Formula E. 26 April – 20 Years of the Modern MINI 8 June – His Royal Highness, The Prince of Wales visits MINI Plant Oxford, celebrating 20 years of production 12 August – The new MINI Strip: Sustainable design with a twist, by Paul Smith MINI x Paul Smith shines a spotlight on the issue of sustainability automotive design and manufacturing with a custom-made, one off-model. 15 September – MINI delivers it’s one-millionth car sold in the UK, just over 20 years since the start of modern MINI production began in 2001.
2022	19 April – MINI John Cooper Works returns to the 24hr race at the Nurburgring MINI returned to the 24hr race in May 2022 after a 10 year break, competing in the SP3T class. 7 June – MINI Recharged and Paul Smith: an icon sustainable reinvented The British designer converts a classic Mini 1998 MINI Paul Smith Edition, transforming the vehicle in a modernised electric car for emission-free driving. 31 July – The new MINI Multitone Edition 21 December – Celebrating 30 Years of the MINI Convertible: The Seaside Edition
2023	15 February – The first all-electric MINI Convertible A small-series of all-electric MINI Convertible models, offered with a fixed specification and two exterior paint options, with just 999 units available globally. 1 March – MINI Countryman production moves to BMW Group plant Leipzig 22 March – The MINI Clubman Final Edition A limited edition model celebrating the iconic model as part of the MINI family, with just 100 units destined for the UK market. 17 April – MINI Plant Oxford celebrates 1 millionth current generation 3-Door In 2013, MINI presented the current reinterpretation of the compact 3-door for the first time. Now, in 2023, the one millionth vehicle of the iconic model will roll off the production line at the MINI plant in Oxford, which fittingly is celebrating its 110th anniversary this year. 18 May – MINI John Cooper Works 1to6 Edition Offered exclusively with a six-speed manual transmission, just 999 units globally with 150 for the UK market. 1 September – The all-new MINI Countryman Available for the first time with both a combustion and all-electric powertrain, offering up to 287 miles of electric range* , the new MINI Countryman features the world’s first touch display with a 24cm fully usable circular central instrument display. The model grows in size, gaining 6cm in height and 13 centimetres in length. 1 September – The new all-electric MINI Cooper Fifth generation, all-electric MINI Cooper unveiled at the IAA in Munich. Offered in either E or SE outputs offering 190 or 250 miles of electric range, with three new exterior colours; Blazing Blue, Sunnyside Yellow and Legend Grey. 9 November – The new MINI John Cooper Works Countryman
2024	5 February – The Split Doors Close on an Icon: Farewell MINI Clubman The last MINI Clubman rolls off the production line at MINI Plant Oxford, having produced over 550,000 vehicles during the model’s 55 year history. 7 February – The new MINI Cooper is announced A choice of two petrol engines, two brand new exterior colours Sunny Side Yellow and Ocean Wave Green and built at the home of MINI, Plant Oxford. 11 March – MINI Convertible production returns to MINI Plant Oxford, with ambassador Charlie Cooper driving first model off the production line 19 April – The new MINI Aceman A brand new model for the MINI Family, the all-electric crossover positioned between the MINI Cooper and MINI Countryman, the MINI Aceman was debuted at Auto China 2024 and will launch in the UK in November. 12 June – The new MINI Cooper 5-Door is unveiled 9 October – The MINI Cooper Convertible Completing the new MINI family is the new MINI Cooper Convertible, offered in two engines, three trims and new model exclusive colours. 11 October – MINI Cooper named The Sun’s 2024 Car of the Year October – Wider MINI family get John Cooper Works treatment 18 November – First MINI Cooper Convertible rolls off MINI Plant Oxford production line
2025	March – MINI Cooper secures 5 Star Euro NCAP rating 23 June – MINI JCW takes podium finish at 24 Hours of Nürburgring 31 July – New MINI Cooper Electric and MINI Aceman Monochrome Available across E derivatives, models are offered with a fixed specification in either Midnight Black or Nanuq White exterior paint options. Increased level of standard features, including 17” or 18” wheel options, model exclusive multitone interior fabric, heated front seats, Cruise Control, Driving & Parking Assistant and a Rear-View Camera. 27 August – MINI turns 66 years old 3 October – MINI JCW Convertible named The Sunday Times 2025 Car of the Year 29 October – Introducing the new MINI Paul Smith Edition New MINI Paul Smith Edition marks the next step in the collaboration between two British icons. To debut on MINI Cooper Electric, followed by MINI Cooper 3-door, 5-door and Cooper Convertible models. Exclusive exterior design offering three paint options including two edition-exclusive colours; Statement Grey and Inspired White, two roof options offered - Jet Black or Nottingham Green – and 18” Night Spoke alloys in Dark Steel.
2026	12 January – MINI hits 100,000 fully electric vehicles delivered in 2025 28 January – Range boost for the MINI Countryman, now delivering up to 307 miles of electric range

E nds

The BMW Group

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

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

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

www.bmwgroup.com
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For more information please contact :

Helen Wilson
Corporate and Brand Media Relations Manager
Tel: 07815 372480
Email: Helen.Wilson@bmw.co.uk

Chris Overall
Head of Corporate, Brand and Internal Communications
Tel: 07815 370 990
Email: Chris.Overall@bmw.co.uk

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

Press Contact: Helen Wilson
Tel: +44-1252-92-1928
E-mail: helen.wilson@bmw.co.uk

CONCORSO D’ELEGANZA VILLA D’ESTE 2026

Thu, 26 Mar 2026 10:25:27 +0100

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Class H The Pace Race: The Supercar Comes of Age

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

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

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

BMW ALPINA was introduced in early 2026 as a manufacturer of automobiles for enthusiasts who appreciate the extraordinary. The traditional Concorso d'Eleganza Villa d'Este is the perfect setting for the independent, exclusive brand within the BMW Group. Following the presentation of the new word mark and the new brand emblem, BMW ALPINA will present itself directly to the public for the first time at Lake Como.

Once again this year, BMW Motorrad will present a spectacular vision vehicle at the Concorso d`Eleganza Villa d`Este that sets new standards in exclusive performance and modern design.

The celebrations of the already announced anniversaries will be complemented by the spectacular special exhibition "Touring Car Legends" on the occasion of "40 Years of the BMW M3". Not only legendary BMW M3 (E30) racing touring cars will be presented on the grounds of Villa Erba, but also the respective contemporary competition vehicles from the touring car scene. Racing drivers Johnny Cecotto (VEN), Emanuele Pirro (IT) and Roberto Ravaglia (IT) will be on site to recount anecdotes from their active time as BMW works drivers and answer visitors' questions. A corresponding "fan talk format" will be realized.

On Sunday, May 17, the "Concorso d'Eleganza Villa d'Este Public Day - Il Festival" will once again give the general public the opportunity to experience the Concorso d'Eleganza Villa d'Este vehicle parade. In addition, the events at Villa Erba will offer a wide range of entertainment for every age.

The "Amici & Automobili - Wheels & Weisswürscht" event format, which is well-known from Munich and also established on Lake Como, will once again be an integral part of the automobile weekend on Lake Como in 2026. On Saturday, May 16, car enthusiasts, automobile clubs and communities from all over the world will be on the grounds of Villa Erba with around 120 vehicles to show off their automotive highlights. The range of vehicles is huge, open to all brands and offers an interesting mix of different vehicles from various decades and concepts. The "40 years of the BMW M3" anniversary will also be honored here with a large number of vehicles on display. The areas by the lake will then become the BMW M3 meadow with all generations of the icon.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Stay informed on these channels:
Concorso d'Eleganza Villa d'Este App for iOS and Android (please download the latest version)
Concorso d'Eleganza Villa d'Este website: https://www.concorsodeleganzavilladeste.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/concorsodeleganza_vde/
BMW Group Classic Media Server für Downloads:
https://bmwgroupclassic-downloads.com/Events/2026/

Press Contact: Helen Wilson
Tel: +44-1252-92-1928
E-mail: helen.wilson@bmw.co.uk

BMW Group on track to meet full-year targets

Wed, 05 Nov 2025 11:07:34 +0100

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

Munich. The BMW Group’s performance in the year to date has been characterised by robust global sales development, disciplined cost management and a consistent strategic framework.

The Automotive Segment EBIT margin remained within the full-year target range for both the first nine months and the third quarter – despite continuing geopolitical challenges and intensifying competition. Customer deliveries rose slightly year-to-to date at the end of September, while free cash flow in the Automotive Segment stood at € 2,688 million after nine months. On Wednesday, based on these results, the Munich premium manufacturer confirmed its adjusted financial full-year targets announced in October.

“In the third quarter, we once again proved that our business model is robust and resilient”, said Oliver Zipse, Chairman of the Board of Management of BMW AG. “We have all the right factors for continued success: a technology-neutral approach, exciting products, a strong global presence and outstanding innovation capabilities throughout the entire value chain. Thanks to our broad model and drive train portfolio, we were able to increase our global sales – with BMW M and our electrified vehicles as the main growth drivers. At the same time, we remain fully on track to meet Europe's ambitious CO₂ targets for 2025 – without relying on flexibility mechanisms or pooling. This demonstrates that our technology-neutral approach is working and delivering strong results.”

Growth in electrified vehicles and M models
Year-on-year, the BMW Group achieved a slight +2.4% increase in deliveries, reaching a total of 1,795,734 vehicles in the YTD September (2024: 1,754,157vehicles). In the third quarter, the premium manufacturer delivered 588,140 BMW, MINI and Rolls-Royce vehicles to customers (2024: 540,881 vehicles/+8.7%).

The success of the BMW Group's technology-neutral strategy was particularly evident at both ends of the drive train line-up: In the first nine months, the strongest growth came from BMW M models (+7.9%) and from electrified vehicles (+15%). In the year to the end of September, electrified models accounted for 26.2% of total sales (2024: 23.3%), with BEVs representing 18.0% (2024: 16.8%).

In Europe, electrified vehicles gained even higher shares: they made up no less than 40.9% (301,947 units) of all sales while fully-electric vehicles comprised a quarter during the same period (189,269 units; 25,5%).

The BMW Group expects further positive growth momentum in 2026 from the all-new BMW iX3*, the first model of the Neue Klasse.

“The response to the BMW iX3 has been extremely positive: In Europe, new orders significantly exceed our expectations, confirming the strong customer interest,” said CEO Zipse. “With the Neue Klasse, we are making a major leap forward – in technology, driving experience and design. Our entire product line-up will benefit from these innovations within a short timeframe: Between now and 2027, we will bring 40 new and updated models to market – across all segments and drive train variants. Next year, we will already celebrate the next premiere, with the BMW i3, as we electrify the heart of BMW.”

During the nine-month period, the BMW Group benefited from its globally balanced footprint, which helps the company offset differences in sales performance across key regions worldwide. Excluding Chinese sales, the BMW Group brands achieved growth of +8.2%, with solid increases in the key regions of Europe (+8.6%) and the Americas (+9.5%).

In the third quarter, the BMW Group posted revenues of € 32,314 million (Q3 2024: € 32,406 million/-0.3%, adjusted for currency translation effects +3.4%). Year-to-date at the end of September, revenues were lower than the previous year, at € 99,999 million (2024: € 105,964/-5.6%; adjusted for currency translation effects -3.9%).

Significantly lower R&D spending and capital expenditure

As previously announced, the BMW Group has transitioned from last year's record levels of future investment, which were required for electrification and digitalisation of the portfolio across all model series, as well as for development of the Neue Klasse.

Expenditure for research and development was down significantly in the first nine months, at € 5,941 million (2024: € 6,642 million/-10.6%; Q3: € 1,921 million;Q3 2024: € 2,473 million/-22.3%) – despite the ongoing product offensive and ramped-up preparations for the first models of the Neue Klasse. The R&D ratio decreased to 5.9% in September MTD as well as YTD (2024: 6.3%/-0.4 percentage points; in Q3 2024: 7,6%).

As planned, capital expenditure was also significantly lower, at € 4,410 million for the nine-month period and € 1,674 million for the third quarter (2024: € 5,641 million/-21,8%; Q3 2024: € 2,185 million/-23,4%). The capex ratio stood at 4.4% for the year to the end of September and 5.2% for the third quarter (2024: 5.3%; Q3 2024: 6.7%).

A capex ratio of less than 6% is forecast for the full year, moving closer to the company’s long-term target range of below 5%, as planned.

The BMW Group also achieved a moderate reduction in sales and administrative expenses, in line with forecasts, bringing costs down to € 6,077 million for the year to the end of September (2024: € 6,587 million/-7.7%; in Q3: € 1,995 million; Q3 2024: € 2,188 million/-8.8%).

“As previously announced, this expenditure was lower than last year in every quarter. We are reaping the benefits of having invested in the future early, with the peak now already behind us. In the fourth quarter, we expect further cost reductions, as well as lower research and development spending and capital expenditure. We are systematically managing costs with a measured approach, aiming to continue delivering captivating, innovative premium vehicles – and being consistently profitable,” said Walter Mertl, member of the Board of Management responsible for Finance.

Group pre-tax earnings exceed € 8.0 billion
Group earnings before tax (EBT) totalled € 8,056 million for the first nine months (2024: € 8,861 million/-9.1%)and € 2,329 million for the third quarter (Q3 2024: € 838 million).

The Group EBT margin came in at 8.1% for the YTD September and 7.2% for the third quarter (2024: 8.4%/-0.3 percentage points; Q3 2024: 2.6%/+4.6% percentage points). Group net profit amounted to € 5,712 million in the year to the end of September (2024: € 6,132 million/-6.8%; in Q3: € 1,697 million; Q3 2024: € 476 million).

In the first nine months, the Automotive Segment generated revenues of € 87,164 million (2024: € 90,863 million/-4.1%, adjusted for currency translation effects -2.2%; in Q3: € 28,510 million; Q3 2024: € 27,854 million/+2.4%, adjusted for currency translation effects +6.4%). Headwinds resulted from intensified global competition and financial measures aimed at supporting and strengthening dealer profitability in the challenging China market. Volume growth predominantly takes place there in the price segment below RMB 150,000 (~€ 18,000) and the growing product offer of local manufacturers leads to fierce competition across the entire market.

Additionally, negative currency translation effects, particularly from the US dollar, South Korean won and Chinese renminbi, have dampened income.

The segment’s earnings before financial result (EBIT) totalled € 5,120 million for the first nine months (2024: € 6,028 million/-15.1%; Q3: € 1,494 million; Q32024: € 634 million/+135.6%). In the prior-year quarter, sales and revenues were affected by technical campaigns related to the Integrated Brake System (IBS).

The EBIT margin for the YTD September came in at 5.9% (2024: 6.6%/-0.7 percentage points; in Q3: 5.2%; Q3 2024: 2.3%/+2.9 percentage points).

Excluding depreciation resulting from the purchase price allocation of BBA of around 1.1 percentage points, the EBIT margin was 7.0% for the year to the end of September and 6.3% for the third quarter. Expenses resulting from higher import tariffs in the United States and the European Union further weighed on these margins: amounting to approx. 1.5 percentage points in the first nine months and around 1.75 percentage points in the third quarter.

Pre-tax earnings and lower capital expenditure boost free cash flow
Free cash flow improved year-on-year, bolstered by higher cash inflows from operating activities, significantly lower investment activity (- € 1.4 billion) and reduced inventory levels, reaching € 2,688 million at the end of the nine-month period. In the third quarter, free cash flow totalled € 343 million (2024: - € 191 million; Q3 2024: - € 2,480 million). For the full year, the segment's free cash flow is now expected to be > € 2.5 billion (previously: > € 5 billion).

The BMW Group is implementing its share buyback programme with continuity and consistency: Following the renewed authorisation of the Annual General Meeting on 14 May 2025, the Board of Management has approved a third share buyback programme, with a volume of up to € 2 billion, to be completed by 30 April 2027. Acquisition of the first tranche of € 750 million began in May 2025 and will be completed no later than 8 December 2025.

As of 30 September 2025, BMW AG held more than 6.2 million treasury shares from the third buyback programme. Based on the authorisation granted at the Annual General Meeting of 14 May 2025, as of 30 September 2025, BMW AG had purchased shares equivalent to 1.01% of the share capital.

“With the third share buyback programme since 2022, the BMW Group is consistently implementing its shareholder return strategy. We remain committed to our shareholders and stand by the announcements we have made. Our employee share programme will also continue,” said CFO Mertl. “At the same time, we are maintaining our payout ratio of 30-40% of net income attributable to BMW AG shareholders.”

Financial Services Segment sees continued new business growth
In the Financial Services Segment, the number of new financing and leasing contracts concluded in the first nine months of the year rose slightly to 1,275,607 (2024: 1,252,251 contracts/+1.9%). This significant growth in new business in the third quarter (450,935 contracts/+12.1%) was mainly due to a shift in the Chinese competitive landscape, where local banks have substantially reduced their commission rates for brokering financial and insurance products to retail customers.

The segment's volume of new business also increased slightly to € 48,500 million after nine months (2024: € 46,531 million/+4.2%). This reflects growth in new contracts, with a higher financing amount per contract. The penetration rate increased to 46.4% (2024: 42.3%/+4.1 percentage points).

For the year to the end of September, the segment reported pre-tax earnings (EBT) of € 1,836 million (2024: € 2,146 million/-14.4%). This dampening effect was mainly due to lower income from the resale of end-of-lease vehicles, with the number of returned vehicles below the previous year's level. For the nine-month period, the credit loss ratio was in line with the previous year, at 0.26%, across the entire finance portfolio (2024: 0.26%).

BMW Motorrad posts higher margin in YTD September

With 159,156 deliveries in the year to the end of September, BMW Motorrad achieved an EBIT margin of 10.8% (2024: 9.5%/+1.3 percentage points).

Full-year guidance for 2025
On 7 October, the BMW Group adjusted its annual guidance for the following KPIs:

Group earnings before tax** are projected to decline slightly (previously: on a par with the previous year).
RoCE in the Automotive Segment is expected in the range of 8-10% (previously: 9% to 13%).

Despite lower volume expectations for the Chinese market in the fourth quarter, the BMW Group is still targeting slight sales growth for the full year.

In the Automotive Segment, the EBIT margin for 2025 is still forecast to be within the guided target range of 5-7%, more specifically in the range of 5% to 6% in light of the earnings headwinds mentioned previously.

In the Financial Services Segment, Return on Equity is projected to be between 13-16%.

In the Motorcycles Segment, an EBIT margin within the range of 5.5-7.5%is forecast as before, with a RoCE of 13-17%. The segment is now anticipating a slight decrease in customer deliveries (previously: slight increase).

The BMW Group’s actual business performance may deviate from the expectations outlined above – for example, due to changes in political and macroeconomic conditions. Risks to earnings could arise, among other factors, from changes in tariff policy or Chinese export restrictions affecting rare earths, battery cell production or semiconductors. At the same time, opportunities could result from a reduction in existing tariffs or a shorter period of validity. The company continues to monitor macroeconomic developments very closely.

The BMW Group will continue to benefit from its young and attractive product line-up and from its proven technology-neutral approach. At the same time, thanks to its flexibility, globally balanced footprint and strong financial position, the company is able to adapt to dynamic market conditions, while consistently pursuing long-term success.

The BMW Group – an overview: IN Q3 2025		IN Q3 2025	IN Q3 2024	Change in %
Deliveries to customers
Automotive¹	units	588,140	540,881	8.7
thereof: BMW	units	514,422	487,080	5.6
MINI	units	72,414	52,650	37.5
Rolls-Royce	units	1,304	1,151	13.3
Motorcycles	units	53,247	50,364	5.7

Employees (as of 31 Dec. 2024)		159,104
EBIT margin Automotive Segment	percent	5.2	2.3	+2.9 %-points
EBIT margin Motorcycles Segment	percent	7.9	3.8	+4.1 %-points
EBT margin BMW Group²	percent	7.2	2.6	+4.6 %-points

Revenues	€ million	32,314	32,406	-0.3
thereof: Automotive	€ million	28,510	27,854	2.4
Motorcycles	€ million	755	702	7.5
Financial Services	€ million	9,607	9,331	3.0
Other Entities	€ million	3	3	0.0
Eliminations	€ million	-6,561	-5,484	19.6

Profit before financial result (EBIT)	€ million	2,261	1,696	33.3
thereof: Automotive	€ million	1,494	634	135.6
Motorcycles	€ million	60	27	122.2
Financial Services	€ million	624	760	-17.9
Other Entities	€ million	0	0	-
Eliminations	€ million	83	275	-69.8

Profit before tax (EBT)	€ million	2,329	838	177.9
thereof: Automotive	€ million	1,388	433	220.6
Motorcycles	€ million	59	28	110.7
Financial Services	€ million	644	665	-3.2
Other Entities	€ million	300	-317	-194.6
Eliminations	€ million	-62	29	-313.8

Group income taxes	€ million	-632	-362	74.6
Net profit	€ million	1,697	476	256.5
Earnings per share of common stock	€	2.74	0.64	328.1
Earnings per share of preferred stock³	€	2.74	0.64	328.1
¹Deliveries include the joint venture BMW Brilliance Automotive Ltd., Shenyang.
²Ratio of Group earnings before taxes to Group revenues.
³ Common/preferred shares. Earnings per share of preferred stock are calculated by distributing the earnings required to cover the additional dividend of € 0.02 per preferred share proportionally over the quarters of the corresponding financial year.

The BMW Group – an overview: YTD Q3 2025		YTD Q3 2025	YTD Q3 2024	Change in %
Deliveries to customers
Automotive¹	units	1,795,734	1,754,157	2.4
thereof: BMW	units	1,585,382	1,583,503	0.1
MINI	units	206,252	166,684	23.7
Rolls-Royce	units	4,100	3,970	3.3
Motorcycles	units	159,156	163,436	-2.6

Employees (as of 31 Dec. 2024)		159,104
EBIT margin Automotive Segment	percent	5.9	6.6	-0.7 %-points
EBIT margin Motorcycles Segment	percent	10.8	9.5	+1.3 %-points
EBT margin BMW Group²	percent	8.1	8.4	-0.3 %-points

Revenues	€ million	99,999	105,964	-5.6
thereof: Automotive	€ million	87,164	90,863	-4.1
Motorcycles	€ million	2,522	2,563	-1.6
Financial Services	€ million	29,711	28,598	3.9
Other Entities	€ million	9	10	-10.0
Eliminations	€ million	-19,407	-16,070	20.8

Profit before financial result (EBIT)	€ million	8,064	9,627	-16.2
thereof: Automotive	€ million	5,120	6,028	-15.1
Motorcycles	€ million	272	243	11.9
Financial Services	€ million	1,867	2,199	-15.1
Other Entities	€ million	-9	-13	-30.8
Eliminations	€ million	814	1,170	-30.4

Profit before tax (EBT)	€ million	8,056	8,861	-9.1
thereof: Automotive	€ million	4,905	5,763	-14.9
Motorcycles	€ million	270	244	10.7
Financial Services	€ million	1,836	2,146	-14.4
Other Entities	€ million	772	379	103.7
Eliminations	€ million	273	329	-17.0

Group income taxes	€ million	-2,344	-2,729	-14.1
Net profit	€ million	5,712	6,132	-6.8
Earnings per share of common stock	€	8.97	9.21	-2.6
Earnings per share of preferred stock³	€	8.98	9.22	-2.6
¹ Deliveries include the joint venture BMW Brilliance Automotive Ltd., Shenyang.
²Ratio of Group earnings before taxes to Group revenues.
³ Common/preferred shares. Earnings per share of preferred stock are calculated by distributing the earnings required to cover the additional dividend of € 0.02 per preferred share proportionally over the quarters of the corresponding financial year.

**As of 1 January 2025, the forecast range for Group EBT has been adjusted. For details, please refer to the glossary in the BMW Group Report 2024.

GLOSSARY – explanatory comments on key performance indicators

BEV
Battery Electric Vehicle.

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

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

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

EBT
EBIT plus financial result.

EBT Margin
Profit/loss as a percentage of revenues.

PHEV
Plug-in-hybrid electric vehicle.

RoCE
Return on capital employed (RoCE). RoCE in the Automotive and Motorcycles segments is measured on the basis of relevant segment profit before financial result and the average amount of capital employed – at the end of the last five quarters – in the segment concerned. Capital employed corresponds to the sum of all current and non-current operational assets, less liabilities that generally do not incur interest.

RoE
Return on equity (RoE). RoE in the Financial Services segment is calculated as segment profit before taxes, divided by the average amount of equity capital – at the end of the last five quarters – attributable to the Financial Services segment.

If you have any questions, please contact:

BMW Group Corporate Communications
Dr Britta Ullrich, Finance Communications
Telephone: +49 89 382-18364
Email: britta.ullrich@bmwgroup.com

Max-Morten Borgmann, Head of Communications BMW Group, Finance, Sales
Telephone: +49 89 382-24118
mail: max-morten.borgmann@bmwgroup.com

Media website: https://newsroom.bmwgroup.com/global/en
Email: presse@bmwgroup.com

The BMW Group

With its four brands, BMW, MINI, Rolls-Royce and BMW Motorrad, the BMW Group is the world’s leading premium manufacturer of automobiles and motorcycles and also provides premium financial 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 2024, the BMW Group sold 2.45 million passenger vehicles and more than 210,000 motorcycles worldwide. The profit before tax in the financial year 2024 was € 11.0 billion on revenues amounting to € 142.4 billion. As of 31 December 2024, the BMW Group had a workforce of 159,104 employees.

The success of the BMW Group has always been based on long-term thinking and responsible action. Sustainability is a key component of the BMW Group’s corporate strategy – 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

CO2 EMISSIONS & CONSUMPTION.

BMW iX3 50 xDrive: energy consumption combined: 17,9–15,1 kWh/100 km (WLTP); CO₂ emissions combined: 0 g/km (WLTP); CO₂ class: A

Press Contact: Christina Burnham-Hepe
Tel: +44-1252-92-1738
E-mail: christina.burnham-hepe@bmw.co.uk

MINI at the IAA Mobility 2025: World premiere of two showcars and spectacular Open Space in Munich.

Wed, 06 Aug 2025 00:01:00 +0200

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

Munich. At the IAA Mobility in Munich from 9 to 14 September, MINI will transform the city into its own stage at two well-known locations: an impressive Open Space at Max-Joseph-Platz, and a central brand appearance in the MINI Pavillion at Lenbachplatz, presenting MINI’s brand DNA at the world's largest mobility event. The highlight is the world premiere of two exclusive JCW showcars, created as part of an exciting collaboration.

MINI Pavillion: MINI unveils exclusive JCW showcars.
MINI's racing background is not only evident from its recent success at the 24-hour race at the Nürburgring: motorsport has been part of the brand's essence from the very beginning. As part of the IAA, two unique MINI John Cooper Works showcars are celebrating their world premiere, the result of an inspiring collaboration.

For the duration of the IAA, the MINI Pavillion puts the models centre stage in a spectacular display. The showcars, which combine the brand's unmistakable racing enthusiasm with the spirit of a world-famous lifestyle brand, can be admired at Lenbachplatz. For this, the MINI Pavillion will be extensively remodeled, and dedicated entirely to the John Cooper Works brand.

MINI Pavillon: Lenbachplatz 7a, 80333 München

MINI at Open Space: Heritage and humour at Max-Joseph-Platz.
A metropolis within a metropolis: With its appearance at the Open Space, MINI brings the vibrant city centre of London to the noble Max-Joseph-Platz in Munich's old town. An elaborately staged backdrop recreates the heart of the city and presents the brand’s British identity, including its humour in many details.

With the Bayerische Staatsoper and the Residenztheater in the background, the focus of Open Space is the all-electric models of the new MINI family, the high-performance MINI John Cooper Works Electric, MINI Service and MINI Experience Modes.

With the MINI John Cooper Works Electric, MINI Aceman SE and MINI Countryman SE ALL 4, visitors will be able to experience three all-electric MINI models up close. Max-Joseph-Platz is also the starting point for test drives in cooperation with SIXT: true to the motto "Only MINI Can Do", visitors can take all-electric MINIs from the new MINI family out onto the city's streets from here.

MINI Open Space: Max-Joseph-Platz 2, 80539 München

MINI at the IAA: Community Day unites fans of the brand.
Fans of MINI can also become part of the IAA Mobility this year: at the "Community Day" on 13 September, MINI clubs will come together for a drive with their personal MINIs. Starting at Gut Kaltenbrunn on Lake Tegernsee, the route leads through Munich and ends with an inspiring get-together with music, BBQ and dialogue with the community in the MINI Pavillion.

The IAA: a platform for experts and enthusiasts.
As one of the largest and most important international automotive trade fairs, the International Motor Show (IAA) offers manufacturers, journalists and other enthusiasts a platform for dialogue on the topics of mobility, innovation and technology every two years. The IAA Mobility 2025 is organised under the slogan "It's All About Mobility". As part of the event, innovations and concepts will be presented in four formats - at the IAA Summit, the IAA Conference, the IAA Open Space and the IAA Experience - as well as at MINI in the MINI Pavillion at Lenbachplatz. Over half a million visitors were counted at the last IAA 2023 in Munich.

ENDS

^{The BMW Group} ^{With its four brands BMW, MINI, Rolls-Royce and BMW Motorrad, the
BMW Group is the world’s leading premium manufacturer of automobiles
and motorcycles and also provides premium financial services. The
BMW Group production network comprises over 30 production sites
worldwide; the company has a global sales network in more than 140 countries.} ^{In 2024, the BMW Group sold over 2.45 million passenger vehicles
and more than 210,000 motorcycles worldwide. The profit before tax
in the financial year 2024 was € 11.0 billion on revenues amounting
to € 142.4 billion. As of 31 December 2024, the BMW Group had a
workforce of 159,104 employees.} ^{The economic success of the BMW Group has always been based on
long-term thinking and responsible action. Sustainability is a key
element of the BMW Group’s corporate strategy and covers all
products from the supply chain and production to the end of their
useful life.} ^{www.bmwgroup.com}
^{LinkedIn: http://www.linkedin.com/company/bmw-group/}
^{YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/bmwgroup}
^{Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bmwgroup}
^{Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/bmwgroup}
^{X: https://www.x.com/bmwgroup}

CO2 EMISSIONS & CONSUMPTION.

MINI John Cooper Works Electric (electricity consumption combined: 15,6 – 15,3 kWh/100 km according to WLTP; CO2 emissions combined: 0 g/km; CO2-class: A; Range in km according to WLTP: 371 – 363).

MINI Aceman SE (WLTP combined: Power consumption 14,8-14,0 kWh/100 km; CO2 emissions 0 g/km; CO2 class A).

MINI Countryman SE ALL4 (electricity consumption combined: 18.5 - 16.8 kWh/100 km according to WLTP; CO2 emissions combined: 0 g/km; CO2-class: A; Range in km according to WLTP: 399 - 432).

Press Contact: Helen Wilson
Tel: +44-1252-92-1928
E-mail: helen.wilson@bmw.co.uk

The BMW Group at IAA Mobility 2025: the new BMW iX3 celebrates its world premiere.

Tue, 05 Aug 2025 12:00:00 +0200

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

Munich. BMW, MINI and BMW Motorrad will present their new arrivals at two central locations during the IAA Mobility 2025 show, just like at the 2021 and 2023 editions of the event: The IAA Mobility Summit will take place at Munich’s exhibition centre (Messe München) – the BMW Group stand is in Hall A1 – and the BMW Group’s Open Space can be found at Max-Joseph-Platz square, under the gaze of the opera house. The generously proportioned Open Space, which covers an area of 3,000 m², is open to visitors free of charge on Tuesday, 9 September (the official opening day) from 11.00 a.m. to 9.00 p.m. CET, on Wednesday, 10 September – Saturday, 13 September from 11.00 a.m. to 11.00 p.m. CET and on Sunday, 14 September from 10.00 a.m. to 5.00 p.m. CET. BMW Welt and the BMW Museum will also be playing their part in the most important event of the year for the automotive and mobility sector with exhibitions and concepts of their own. The official opening of the IAA Mobility Summit will take place at the exhibition centre on Monday, 8 September at 8.00 a.m. CET. It is aimed primarily at trade visitors and is open every day until Friday, 12 September from 9.00 a.m. to 6.00 p.m. CET.

The premiere of the Neue Klasse.
The BMW Group is presenting one of the most significant new models in its history at IAA Mobility 2025 in Munch, its home city. The BMW iX3, the first model from the new Neue Klasse family, will celebrate its public unveiling at the event. Revealed alongside the Neue Klasse will be a host of new technologies that will play a revolutionary and trailblazing role across the BMW Group in the future. The new BMW iX3 gives the public their first glimpse of the huge technological leap forward made by BMW in many areas: electric mobility, display and control/operation, digitalisation, connectivity, design, sustainability and technological openness. All upcoming BMW models will benefit from the innovations in the Neue Klasse – regardless of the drive system type used to power them.

Focusing on the new BMW iX3 and myriad innovations.
As BMW’s star of the IAA 2025, the new BMW iX3 will take centre stage event-wide. As well as the presentation of several examples of the global newcomer, the central stage in the shadow of Munich’s opera house at Max-Joseph-Platz will also host daily “Masterclasses” featuring the new model. On each of the six days of the event, there will also be demonstrations of the new display system BMW Panoramic Vision – including the new BMW Operating System X – developed entirely in-house at BMW. These innovations from the BMW iX3 will likewise find their way into all future BMW models as part of a gradual process.

BMW Charging debuts bidirectional charging.
A dedicated area of the Open Space will focus on BMW Charging, with the help of current BMW electric vehicles like the new BMW iX and the BMW i5. The assembled experts here will provide the low-down on both public charging and the BMW Charging offering for home charging using various BMW Wallboxes. BMW Charging will present the bidirectional charging available in the BMW iX3 for the first time at the IAA Mobility show. This technology allows the iX3 to feed energy from its high-voltage battery into the customer’s home power supply (Vehicle-to-Home – V2H) or the public grid (Vehicle-to-Grid – V2G).

Models from BMW, MINI and BMW Motorrad at the Open Space.
Beyond the IAA Mobility show’s focus on the BMW iX3 as the first Neue Klasse vehicle, fans of the other BMW models and aficionados of the MINI, BMW M and BMW Motorrad brands are also well catered for, needless to say. Among the models on the bill at the Open Space are the battery-electric BMW i4, BMW i5, BMW i7 and BMW iX, the BMW X3 30e xDrive (WLTP, combined – in accordance with the EnVKV [German Passenger Car Energy Labelling Regulation]*: energy consumption weighted: 16.7 kWh/100 km and 3.3 l/100 km [85.6 mpg imp]; CO₂ emissions weighted: 76 g/km; CO₂ classes: with discharged battery G; weighted B; fuel consumption with discharged battery: 8.2 l/100 km [34.5 mpg imp]) and the BMW M5 Touring with plug-in hybrid drive system (WLTP, combined – in accordance with the EnVKV: energy consumption weighted: 27.6 kWh/100 km and 2.0 l/100 km [141.2 mpg imp]; CO₂ emissions weighted: 45 g/km (WLTP); CO₂ classes: with discharged battery G, weighted B; fuel consumption with discharged battery: 10.9 l/100 km [25.9 mpg imp]).

BMW Motorrad is presenting the BMW CE 02 and BMW CE 04 electric premium scooters – for electric mobility majoring in manoeuvrability – at the city-centre location. And with the BMW Vision CE, the brand also offers a fascinating look ahead to how developers and designers are envisaging the future of fully electric scooters for the big city.

MINI: show cars and “Britishness” launch a stage takeover.
MINI will spread its IAA Mobility 2025 presence across two locations in the heart of Munich. Its spectacular Open Space set at Max-Joseph-Platz and central brand appearance at the MINI Pavillon on Lenbachplatz will provide insights deep into the DNA of the brand. Plus, two eye-catching JCW show cars will celebrate their world premieres in Munich as part of a suitably gripping presentation. The Bavarian capital will turn into one huge stage for the iconic British brand during IAA Mobility 2025.

The JCW show cars will bring attention-grabbing presence to the MINI Pavillon and provide visual evidence of motor sport as a defining element of MINI DNA. The British icon and racing competition certainly go hand in hand, as confirmed most recently by the brand’s latest success in the Nürburgring 24-hour race. The show cars will be on display at Lenbachplatz for the duration of the IAA, locking into the spirit of world-renowned fashion and lifestyle brand Deus Ex Machina. The MINI Pavillon will be extensively refurbished for the occasion and dedicated entirely to the John Cooper Works sub-brand.

Entertainment for families at the Open Space.
In 2025, as in previous years, the Family Area at the Open Space invites visitors to get involved and enjoy a spot of relaxation at the same time. Children, teenagers and families can look forward to creative attractions such as LEGO build areas, a Disney+ Dance Challenge with Lilo & Stitch, craft activities and a water station. Other highlights – e.g. on the roof terrace – only add to the richly varied family programme.

Events at the exhibition centre, BMW Welt and BMW Museum.
Expanding on its star turn at the Open Space on Max-Joseph-Platz, the BMW iX3 also holds sway at the BMW Group’s 2,000 m² stand in the exhibition centre – which is located in Riem, in the eastern part of Munich. Alongside the spread of vehicles on display here at the Summit, innovations including BMW Panoramic iDrive, sixth-generation high-voltage batteries and electric drive systems, and driving dynamics management technology – courtesy of the “Heart of Joy” high-performance computer – will be front and centre of presentations and talks by experts. The most important elements of BMW Panoramic iDrive are the display surface spanning the full width of the lower windscreen, the new multifunction steering wheel with shy-tech technology, and the Central Display. All play their part in an impressive large-scale animation. The experts at the Summit will also shed light on areas such as fuel cells, alternative fuels, plug-in hybrid drive systems and charging technology.

1961 Neue Klasse also makes an appearance at the show.
The BMW Group’s stand at the exhibition centre will be showcasing a celebrity car from years past, as BMW Classic winds back the clock to a BMW 1500 from the 1960s – the first model in the original Neue Klasse line-up. The 1500 was the headline act at the 1961 IAA in Frankfurt, a genuine breakthrough star that wrote the opening lines for an international success story. The Neue Klasse laid the foundations for the BMW Group to become the world’s most successful maker of premium automobiles. And now the BMW iX3 of 2025 takes us full circle – a car with all the tools to build on this growth and the first model in another new era.

Visitors to the exhibition centre will also encounter a selection of current models, including a BMW M5 Touring, a BMW X3 20d xDrive (WLTP, combined (EnVKV)*: fuel consumption 6.5 l/100 km [43.5 mpg imp]; CO₂ emissions 171 g/km; CO₂ class: F) and a BMW iX5 Hydrogen* (consumption as per WLTP: 1.19 kg H₂/100 km; consumption, combined as per NEDC: –; CO₂ emissions, combined as per WLTP: 0 g/km; range as per WLTP: 504 km [313 miles]; CO₂ class: A).

BMW Welt switches on a new type of charging hub.
As well as its appearances at the Open Space in the city centre and the exhibition centre, the BMW iX3 will also be on show at BMW Welt in the north of Munich from 6 September. Under the spotlight here along with the new fully electric BMW model are innovations such as BMW Panoramic iDrive and services like BMW Charging. During the IAA, customers stopping to top up their vehicles at the BMW Welt charging stations will be treated to a refreshing surprise and, if desired, a free personal tour of all things BMW iX3 and BMW Charging.

Shortly before IAA Mobility 2025 opens to visitors, a new vehicle charging hub will go into service outside BMW Welt. The BMW Welt High-Power Charging station will provide eight charging points for electric vehicles. Created by Designworks, BMW’s innovation studio, the hub fits in neatly with the unique architecture of the overall building. Expert talks and presentations will accompany the introduction of the new charging facility from 8 September and continue throughout IAA Mobility 2025.

DigiTour: interactive experiences at the BMW Museum.
The BMW Museum will greet visitors to IAA Mobility 2025 with a new digital attraction: the BMW Museum DigiTour. This web-based app, which can be accessed without downloading, provides a modern, fascinating and interactive offering for the visitors from around the world. This new digital visitor experience brings the history and allure of the BMW brand to life. A highlights tour of classic BMWs (from the early days to the present day) will be presented here in digital form, as will shortly the Museum’s temporary exhibition “Belle Macchine – Italian Automotive Design at BMW.” Additional tours are planned, including options for families and kids. The BMW Museum DigiTour is free of charge, opens a window into rarely shown archive material and is available in several different languages.

The BMW Group: sustainability and circular economy across all areas.
As an integral part of the BMW Group’s strategy at IAA Mobility 2025, the theme of sustainability stands tall in an array of world premieres and innovations. Alongside the electrification of its drive systems, the BMW Group has adopted a holistic approach to achieving its goals in this area. The focus here is on reducing CO₂ emissions throughout a vehicle’s life cycle, and the development of the Neue Klasse has seen BMW doubling down on its commitment to these objectives. From the development of a product, use of secondary materials, procurement of raw materials and production, to the product’s use phase and eventual recycling, the BMW Group adheres to consistently circular thinking. This engagement with circularity can also been seen across the BMW Group’s stands at IAA Mobility 2025. Around 80 per cent of the installations, fixtures and materials in the Open Space at Max-Joseph-Platz are either already being reused or have been procured explicitly for extended use at other events as well. Plants, robots, concrete barriers and much of the event technology have largely been hired. The presentation at the Summit involves an even greater commitment to reusing materials. Single usage is therefore restricted primarily to graphics and materials placed under heavy stresses, such as floor coverings and wall surfaces.

*Consumption and emissions figures:
The figures for fuel consumption, CO₂ emissions, electric power consumption and range refer to vehicles in the German market. All figures are calculated based on the new WLTP test cycle. Fuel consumption and emissions data refers to the German Passenger Car Energy Labelling Regulation (PKW-EnVKV).

In the event of enquiries please contact:

Corporate Communications

Cypselus von Frankenberg, Product Communication BMW Automobiles

Telephone: +49-89-382-30641

E-mail: Cypselus.von-Frankenberg@bmw.de

Alexandra Landers, Head of Product and Brand Communication BMW

Telephone: +49-89-382-30871

E-mail: Alexandra.landers@bmw.de

Internet: https://newsroom.bmwgroup.com/global/en

E-mail: presse@bmw.de

The BMW Group

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

In 2024, the BMW Group sold 2.45 million passenger vehicles and more than 210,000 motorcycles worldwide. The profit before tax in the financial year 2024 was € 11.0 billion on revenues amounting to € 142.4 billion. As of 31 December 2024, the BMW Group had a workforce of 159,104 employees.

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

www.bmwgroup.com

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

X: https://www.x.com/bmwgroup

Press Contact: Chris Overall
Tel: +447815370990
E-mail: chris.overall@bmw.co.uk

PHOTO GALLERY: BMW presents The Ultimate Driving Machine – past, present and future at Goodwood Festival of Speed 2025.

Fri, 11 Jul 2025 09:06:00 +0200

Please find attached on location pictures from BMW UK at the Goodwood Festival of Speed 2025.

For more information on BMW at Goodwood Festival of Speed 2025, click here.

Follow the latest from BMW at Goodwood Festival of Speed on BMW UK social channels (Instagram / Facebook / X).

Press Contact: Chris Overall
Tel: +447815370990
E-mail: chris.overall@bmw.co.uk

BMW presents The Ultimate Driving Machine – past, present and future at Goodwood Festival of Speed 2025.

Wed, 25 Jun 2025 16:00:00 +0200

The 2025 Goodwood Festival of Speed sets the stage for BMW to bring The Ultimate Driving Machine philosophy to life, with four exciting UK premieres spanning the brand’s innovation, performance, heritage and luxury.

Returning to the Goodwood Estate from 10 - 13 July, the motoring extravaganza will host the UK debut of the BMW Vision Driving Experience, BMW Vision Neue Klasse X, BMW Concept Speedtop and the highly anticipated second-generation BMW M2 CS. The event will also pay tribute to one of the brand’s most iconic nameplates with a celebration of 50 years of the BMW 3 Series.

The Ultimate Innovation.
Designed to push driving dynamics to the physical limits, the BMW Vision Driving Experience will make its UK debut at the Goodwood Festival of Speed. First revealed at Auto Shanghai - where it successfully scaled a 55-degree ramp – this high-performance test vehicle is now poised to unleash up to 18,000 Nm of torque on the famed Goodwood hill climb.

Festivalgoers can get a closer look at the BMW Vision Driving Experience in the Future Lab. While not destined for series production, the vehicle serves as a rolling test rig, engineered to stress test the drivetrain and driving dynamics management technology developed for the Neue Klasse. Known as the Heart of Joy, this technology will debut in the first Neue Klasse series production model from autumn 2025.

Also making its UK premiere is the BMW Vision Neue Klasse X, offering a first look at the Neue Klasse in SAV form. It combines the familiar two-box silhouette of a BMW X model with a paired-back, modern design language, and it sets the stage for forthcoming BMW iX3.

The BMW Vision Neue Klasse, showcasing the design form of BMW’s future saloon models, will also take its place at BMW’s Home of the Ultimate Driving Machine stand.

The Ultimate Performance.
Closely following its global debut at the Concorso d'Eleganza Villa d'Este, the highly anticipated all-new BMW M2 CS will make its first UK appearance at the Goodwood Festival of Speed. Combining thrilling performance, superior driving dynamics and a distinctive design, the latest special edition from BMW M GmbH will be seen thundering up the hill and taking pride of place on the BMW stand. Also joining it on the hill will be the first-ever BMW M3 CS Touring. The fast touring will feature on prominent display on the top floor of the stand, offering guests panoramic views of the festival from the driver’s seat – The Ultimate Seat in the House.

Alongside these CS models, a formidable line-up of BMW M cars will feature on the stand, including the recently updated BMW XM Label, BMW M5 Touring and BMW M135 xDrive. Festivalgoers can also look forward to thrills on two wheels as they take to the BMW Motorrad rolling road with the BMW G 310 R. A range of BMW M motorcycles will additionally feature on display. Previewing the next generation of BMW RR superbikes, the recently unveiled BMW Motorrad Concept RR will be driven up the hill by the CEO of BMW Motorrad, Markus Flasch.

Guests who wish to demonstrate their racing prowess can do so with The Ultimate Racing Machine – a sim racing garage where fans can go head-to-head around Spa-Francorchamps in the BMW M Hybrid V8 prototype race car.

The Ultimate Heritage.
BMW Group Classic will join the Goodwood Festival of Speed with a spectacular line-up of race cars and drivers to celebrate two special anniversaries: 50 years of the BMW 3 series and 75 years of Formula 1.

The most famous race car generations of the BMW 3 series, including the “BMW 320 Group 5 Junior Team, E21”, the “BMW 318i touring car, E36” and the “BMW M3 GTR, E46” will take on the hill climb. Guiding them up the 1.16-mile course will be Swiss Formula One driver, Marc Surer, German touring car professional, Dirk Adorf and local-hero and touring car legend Andy Priaulx. Marc Surer will additionally drive the fabled “Brabham BMW BT 52 Turbo” – the 1983 Formula 1 World Championship-winning car – as part of a major celebration of F1.

Meanwhile on two wheels, the “BMW R 80 G/S Paris-Dakar” will highlight the success at the famous Paris-Dakar-Rallye in 1985 performing several hill climbs.

The Ultimate Luxury.
The fourth and final UK premiere at Goodwood will be the unveiling of the BMW Concept Speedtop. With its elegant proportions and exquisite craftsmanship, this striking shooting brake paves the way for a limited series production of just 70 units globally. Visitors can view this exclusive model in the BMW Individual Lounge, which also houses the range-topping BMW i7 M70 xDrive. The lounge offers guests the chance to explore bespoke personalisation options using the BMW Individual Configurator.

Elsewhere on the stand, festivalgoers can enjoy a series of live conversations at the Sounds and Stories studio, powered Bowers & Wilkins. Expect appearances from racing driver Charlie Martin and motoring journalist, presenter and former racing driver, Vicki Butler-Henderson, alongside a line-up of well-known podcasters.

The Goodwood Festival of Speed is being held over four days from 10 - 13 July 2025.

Ends

The BMW Group

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

In 2024, the BMW Group sold over 2.45 million passenger vehicles and more than 210,000 motorcycles worldwide. The profit before tax in the financial year 2024 was € 11.0 billion on revenues amounting to € 142.4 billion. As of 31 December 2024, the BMW Group had a workforce of 159,104 employees.

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

www.bmwgroup.com
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For further information please contact:

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

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

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

Press Contact: Chris Overall
Tel: +447815370990
E-mail: chris.overall@bmw.co.uk

MINI Sponsors 'She Inspires Me' Car Boot Sale for Women For Women International.

Mon, 19 May 2025 16:00:00 +0200

MINI is proud to have once again helped support the annual She Inspires Me Car Boot Sale, created in partnership with, and to fundraise for, Women For Women International. Taking place on Saturday 17 May at the iconic Selfridges in Central London, the ‘chicest car boot sale ever’ offered visitors new, past-season, vintage and pre-loved designer fashion donated by luxury brands.

Since it’s inauguration in 1993, Women For Women International has invested in over 575,000 women across 17 conflict-affected countries, with the aim to teach them the skills they need to rebuild their families and communities. From its launch in 2016, the She Inspires Me Car Boot Sale has raised over £1.2 million to support women living in some of the world’s most dangerous places.

Visitors to this year’s event found six MINI Countryman boots bursting with pre-loved fashion and new season must haves, alongside a MINI photo opportunity inspired by iconic movie moments from the 1950s and 1960s, and two dedicated brand spaces for the MINI Cooper and MINI John Cooper Works.

Guests had the chance to try their luck in a boot-based game to win a range of prizes, including MINI branded merchandise or tickets to the 2025 Goodwood Festival of Speed or The Devil Wears Prada in London.

Alongside this, members of the new MINI family including the new MINI Cooper Convertible, MINI Cooper, MINI Cooper Electric John Cooper Works, MINI Aceman John Cooper Works and MINI Countryman John Cooper Works were on display.

For more information about Women For Women, please click here.

Ends

The BMW Group

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

In 2024, the BMW Group sold over 2.45 million passenger vehicles and more than 210,000 motorcycles worldwide. The profit before tax in the financial year 2024 was € 11.0 billion on revenues amounting to € 142.4 billion. As of 31 December 2024, the BMW Group had a workforce of 159,104 employees.

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

http://www.bmwgroup.com

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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
Corporate Communications Director
Tel: 07815 371206
Email: Christina.Burnham-Hepe@bmw.co.uk

Media website:
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Press Contact: Helen Wilson
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The end of an era: Dr. Norbert Reithofer steps down after 38 years at the BMW Group

Wed, 14 May 2025 10:11:23 +0200

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

Munich . An important chapter in the history of the BMW Group is coming to an end: Dr. Norbert Reithofer, Chairman of the Supervisory Board of BMW AG since 2015 and closely associated with the company for nearly four decades, is stepping down from his position, effective today.

“After 38 years, it is time for me to say goodbye to the BMW Group. It has been an honour to be a part of this exceptional company. I would like to thank all our associates, shareholders and stakeholders for your trust and support,” said Reithofer. “Together, we have overcome tremendous challenges and celebrated unparalleled successes. I firmly believe that the BMW Group will continue to follow its own, unique BMW path.”

Dr. Reithofer has held various managerial positions at the company since 1 October 1987, starting out as head of Maintenance Planning. From March 2000, he served as a member of the Board of Management, responsible for the Production division. In September 2006, Reithofer was appointed Chairman of the Board of Management, taking over from Helmut Panke. In May 2015, he succeeded Prof. Joachim Milberg as Chairman of the Supervisory Board.

The BMW Group’s success in recent decades is inseparable from the efforts of Dr. Reithofer. The extensive tribute to Reithofer's achievements at the 105th Annual General Meeting of BMW AG reflected this.

Stefan Quandt, Deputy Chairman of the Supervisory Board of BMW AG honoured Reithofer’s outstanding service to the company: “On behalf of my family and all our shareholders, I would like to thank you for your outstanding entrepreneurial achievements, which have brought the company to the position it is in today. I can say with absolute conviction: It is truly the end of an era.”

Far-reaching vision,international growth and electromobility

During his tenure as Chairman of the Board of Management, Reithofer paved the way for the company’s long-term success with Strategy “Number ONE”, which laid the foundation for the BMW Group’s international growth. Under his leadership, the company successfully navigated the 2008/09 global financial crisis, becoming the world’s leading premium manufacturer and continuing to expand its position.

With far-reaching vision, Reithofer launched the BMW i electromobility brand, accelerated digitalisation and played a key role in driving international expansion, particularly in the growth market of China. He established sustainability and resource efficiency as key elements of the BMW Group's corporate strategy early on.

Oliver Zipse, Chairman of the Board of Management of BMW AG, emphasised Reithofer’s significance to the BMW Group as a whole: “Dr. Reithofer is a major architect of the BMW Group’s success today. During his time as Chairman of the Board of Management, he elevated all the company's relevant key figures to a new level. As Chairman of the Supervisory Board, he always served as a valuable source of momentum and guidance, supporting the work of the Board of Management in a constructive, critical and motivating way. His successful efforts will continue to shape the course of the company well beyond the end of his tenure.”

BMW AG extends its sincere thanks to Dr. Reithofer for his visionary leadership, tireless commitment and entrepreneurial, pioneering spirit.

Supervisory Board sets course for continuity at the company

As Reithofer's successor, the Supervisory Board proposed Dr. Nicolas Peter for election to the Supervisory Board of BMW AG at the Annual General Meeting and, subject to his election, supported the proposal to appoint him as Chairman of the Supervisory Board following the Annual General Meeting 2025.

Dr. Nicolas Peter served as the BMW AG Board of Management member responsible for the Finance division from January 2017 to May 2023. He has extensive experience in the automotive industry, combined with many years in a wide range of management positions at the BMW Group.

Dr. Peter has not held any position within BMW AG since 11 May 2023 and has therefore completed the two-year cooling-off period required by the German Corporate Governance Code.

Ends

The BMW Group

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

In 2024, the BMW Group sold over 2.45 million passenger vehicles and more than 210,000 motorcycles worldwide. The profit before tax in the financial year 2024 was € 11.0 billion on revenues amounting to € 142.4 billion. As of 31 December 2024, the BMW Group had a workforce of 159,104 employees.

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

www.bmwgroup.com

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

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

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Press Contact: Chris Overall
Tel: +447815370990
E-mail: chris.overall@bmw.co.uk

Concorso d'Eleganza Villa d'Este 2025

Thu, 03 Apr 2025 11:24:42 +0200

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

Munich/Cernobbio. On 23 – 25 May 2025, BMW Group Classic will host the legendary Concorso d’Eleganza Villa d’Este in cooperation with the Villa d’Este luxury hotel. The partnership has been running for 20 years in its current form.

Around 50 of the most spectacular cars of their eras will do battle in the following competition classes for the coveted prizes. Most prestigious of all is the “Trofeo BMW Group”, awarded by the high-calibre Jury to the overall winner of the Concorso d’Eleganza.

Class A
Glorious Excess: The Evolution of the ‘Money no Object’ Motor Car, 1920-1940

Class B
Sculpture in Motion: The Decade of the automotive Arms Race, 1928-1938

Class C
Renaissance: The Post-War European Sports Car comes of Age

Class D
Titans of the Track: When the Boss says “Let´s race!”

Class E
Frozen in Time: Preservation ‘Time Capsules’ from 1900-1973 which have survived in unrestored State

Class F
“Go Big or Go Home”: Automotive Excess of the ‘80s to the new Millenium, when nothing seemed too fast, expensive or bold

Class G
Vanishing act: Gone but proudly not forgotten

Class H
Style matters: Opulence meets Elegance before Times change forever

Prizes will also be awarded once again to spectacular concept cars from a variety of manufacturers competing in a separate class with a rich tradition.

The Concorso d’Eleganza parade on the terrace of Villa d’Este will take place in customary style on the Saturday of the event. Beyond the “Trofeo BMW Group - Best of Show” top prize, the participants and competing vehicles at the Concorso will each battle it out for victory in their individual categories, for the “Coppa d’Oro” prize awarded by Public Referendum and for an array of other distinctions such as the “Trofeo del Presidente”, which will be presented by Helmut Käs, Head of BMW Group Classic and President of the Concorso d’Eleganza Villa d’Este. Star opera singer and BMW Group Classic brand ambassador Jonas Kaufmann will again present the “Trofeo Il Canto del Motore” for the best engine sound, as chosen by the Jury.

The Concorso d’Eleganza Villa d’Este will provide the stage for spectacular BMW Group world premieres once more this year. The BMW brand will celebrate the premiere of an elegantly sporting one-off designed to provide motoring pleasure for two; BMW Motorrad will present a case study in unbridled adrenalin on two wheels; and BMW M GmbH will bring several high-performance models to Lake Como, including a world premiere.

The 2025 calendar contains a multitude of anniversaries that will be honoured in suitable style at the Concorso d’Eleganza Villa d’Este. This will be the first time that all of the still-surviving original body variants of the BMW 328 that lined up for the 1940 Mille Miglia have come together to be displayed – so it is a truly unique occurrence. The cars include the victorious BMW 328 Touring Coupé and the legendary BMW 328 “Mille Miglia” Series 1 roadster (nicknamed the “Trouser Crease Roadster”). BMW finished the race in 1st, 3rd, 5th and 6th places, and also won the prize for regularity and the team award in all classes.

BMW Group Classic will bring a number of cars from its collection to Cernobbio to help mark a handful of other anniversaries. One of the headline acts in the crowd-pulling grounds of Villa Erba will be an array of different BMW 3 Series models of all generations reflecting 50 years of the 3 Series. Meanwhile, a pair of BMW icons from the 1950s – the BMW 507 and 503 – notch up their 70th birthdays this year and will be integrated across the event programme in fitting style. Not to be forgotten and likewise on the Lake Como bill will be the BMW Isetta, itself turning 70 in 2025. The 50th anniversary of the legendary BMW Art Cars will be embodied by Sandro Chia’s Art Car no. 13 (a BMW M3 GTR). Rolls-Royce Motor Cars is also celebrating a special milestone, the centenary of the launch of the very first Phantom – the pinnacle model in the marque’s portfolio.

On Sunday, 25 May, the “Concorso d’Eleganza Villa d’Este Public Day – Il Festival” will once again give the wider public the opportunity to experience the parade of all the cars in the Concorso d’Eleganza Villa d’Este. This fascinating day in the divine gardens of the nearby Villa Erba will lay on an automotive feast for all ages.

The “Amici & Automobili – Wheels & Weisswürscht” event format familiar to many from its Munich roots and now also an established fixture on the shores of Lake Como will also be part of the festival weekend in 2025. On Saturday, 24 May, automotive enthusiasts, and car clubs & communities from around the world will show off their automotive gems in the grounds of Villa Erba. 150 vehicles are expected – rich in variety, spread across brands and including Italian classics from the Veteran Car Club Como.

The “Trofeo BMW Group – Best of Show” winner will be the recipient of a special timepiece from A. Lange & Söhne: the unique 1815 CHRONOGRAPH in 18-carat white gold with solid pink gold dial and hand-engraved Concorso d’Eleganza Villa d‘Este crest on the hinged cuvette. Through its partnership with the Concorso d'Eleganza Villa d’Este, which began in 2012, the German watchmaker focuses on the historic links between motor sport and timekeeping. The cooperation is also characterised by a shared commitment to tradition, handcraftsmanship and mechanical innovation.

Broad Arrow Auctions – a Hagerty (NYSE: HGTY) company – is the official auction house partner of the Concorso d'Eleganza Villa d'Este. In this its first year in the role, it will auction a selection of extraordinary collectors’ vehicles. The auction will take place over two days in the grounds of Villa Erba. An independent auction focusing on BMW cars will be held on the evening of Saturday, 24 May. Among the examples in the sale will be a BMW 507 Series II from 1958, a 1981 BMW M1 and a BMW Z8 from model year 2000. The main auction – open to all brands – is scheduled for Sunday, 25 May. Consignors wanting to offer exceptional vehicles for auction at the Concorso d'Eleganza Villa d'Este are asked to contact a Broad Arrow Auctions specialist on +44 20 4592 0169 (UK/Europe) or +1 313 312 0780 (North America), or via e-mail at info@broadarrowauctions.com. A wide selection of collector cars on offer are already available for viewing at broadarrowauctions.com.

BMW Group Classic thanks its partners A. Lange & Söhne, Broad Arrow Auctions, VRANKEN-POMMERY MONOPOLE and Schedoni Luxury Goods SRL for their support.

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

“This year’s edition of the Concorso d’Eleganza Villa d’Este is set to be another wonderful event featuring myriad highlights. The vehicles entered in the concours and their owners represent the focal points and centrepiece of the event. Awaiting us is an exciting competition for the coveted prizes, first and foremost the “Trofeo BMW Group – Best of Show”. But that’s not all: we have three world premieres from BMW to look forward to and will be celebrating several fantastic anniversaries. The special exhibition of all the surviving cars that raced to glorious overall victory for BMW in the 1940 Mille-Miglia is particularly close to my heart. Guests can experience this and much more – not only at Villa d’Este but also once again on the public days in the gardens of Villa Erba.”

Davide Bertilaccio, CEO Villa d'Este Hotels:

“The Concorso d'Eleganza has been part of the history and tradition of Villa d'Este for almost a century now, and we feel honoured to be able to welcome vehicle owners from around the world – together with cars of rare beauty and value – year in, year out. It all represents the perfect match for the elegance and scenic allure of this timeless setting on the shores of Lake Como. We are proud of our ongoing collaboration with BMW Group Classic and will be pulling out all the stops to offer our guests and classic vehicle enthusiasts an unforgettable weekend.”

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

Keep up to speed via the following channels:

Concorso d’Eleganza Villa d‘Este App for iOS and Android

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

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

BMW Group Classic Media Server for downloads:

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

Please do also download the official app in your trusted app store.

Press Contact: Martin Harrison
Tel: +44-1252-92-1259
E-mail: martin.harrison@bmw.co.uk

Charge faster, drive further: BMW Group reveals revolutionary electric drive concept with 800V technology for the Neue Klasse

Fri, 21 Feb 2025 00:01:00 +0100

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

Munich/Landshut. The BMW Group is presenting its next leap forward in the field of electric drive technology – and in the process ushering in a new era of all-electric driving. At the Tech Days event in Landshut, the company has provided some initial insights into the development and production of high-voltage batteries and electric drive systems using the sixth generation of BMW eDrive technology. Every fully electric Neue Klasse vehicle will enjoy the benefits. The first Neue Klasse model will go into series production later this year at Plant Debrecen in Hungary. Below is an overview of the technology highlights:

The Energy Master intelligent central control unit on the high-voltage battery – developed by the BMW Group and produced at Plant Landshut.
A new high-voltage battery concept that, together with the BMW cylindrical cell, promises to bring about a technological quantum leap – including significant improvements in energy density, charging speed and range.
The BMW Group also demonstrates its technology-openness with electric drive systems – through the use of different electric motor types: SSM and ASM.
A modular approach to electric motor production gives the BMW Group an exceptional degree of flexibility.
The BMW Group pools together expertise from the entire electric mobility value chain in Bavaria and Austria – from development, via purchasing and production, to recycling.
The BMW Group demonstrates both technology-openness and full expertise across all areas of electric mobility.

Adopting a technology-open approach while setting the pace in electric mobility

“For the BMW Group, electric mobility is the future and a key area of growth. We are leading the way with this drivetrain technology. At the same time, we are deliberately taking a technology-open approach, recognizing that mobility needs vary between different regions of the world,” explains Dr Joachim Post, Member of the Board of Management of BMW AG, Purchasing and Supplier Network. “We want to offer our customers the best drive concept for every need. It is possible to do both: offer the best drive technology for every need and be at the forefront of electric mobility.”

Slimmer, faster, further: the high-voltage batteries for Gen6

With the new sixth-generation BMW eDrive technology (Gen6 for short), the BMW Group is making a technological quantum leap. Improvements on the product side include a 30% faster charging speed and 30% increase in range, with certain models achieving even higher figures. Added to which, the Gen6 high-voltage battery concept benefits from the new 800V technology. Gen6 will make its debut this year in the Neue Klasse and subsequently be used to drive models across the BMW Group’s fully electric product range. The concept for the Gen6 high-voltage batteries is fundamentally new and will find applications in all vehicle segments – right up to the high-performance models from BMW M GmbH. Its new, even slimmer design allows the high-voltage battery to be integrated into a spread of different models, regardless of vehicle height. The high-voltage battery takes on the role of a structural component in the bodies of the Neue Klasse models (“pack-to-open-body”), and the new cylindrical cells will be integrated directly into the high-voltage battery (“cell-to-pack”). The new BMW cylindrical cell has a 20% greater energy density than its predecessor, the Gen5 prismatic battery cell. And charging in both directions will be possible: the BMW Group has confirmed bidirectional charging as standard for Gen6.

Highly intelligent central control unit: the BMW Energy Master

All of the elements that enable this technological leap forward come together in the BMW Energy Master. This central control unit is positioned on the high-voltage battery and provides the interface for high- and low-voltage power supply and for data from the high-voltage battery. It also controls the power supply for the electric motor and vehicle electrical system and ensures the safe and intelligent operation of the high-voltage battery. The BMW Group has filed a whole series of new patent applications for the vehicle electrical system, including its electronic fuses. Both the hardware and software of the Energy Master were developed fully in-house at the BMW Group. This ensures technological developments and updates for vehicles can be implemented independently and in real time via Remote Software Upgrades, providing a particular benefit for customers.

“Local for local” approach for high-voltage battery assembly and supplier network

The high-voltage batteries for the Neue Klasse are assembled in five new production facilities that the BMW Group has located close to its vehicle plants as part of a “local for local” approach. For example, cutting-edge assembly locations for Gen6 high-voltage batteries are taking shape in Irlbach-Straßkirchen (Lower Bavaria), Debrecen (Hungary), Shenyang (China), San Luis Potosí (Mexico) and Woodruff, near Spartanburg (USA). This approach safeguards production even in the event of unforeseen political and economic events. In addition, the existing locations are being strengthened, with jobs both secured and created. The “local for local” principle continues in the supplier network for battery cells: in order to cover the demand for Gen6, the BMW Group has reached contractual agreements for five battery cell factories – spread across Europe, China and the USA – with various partners.

“Cell-to-pack” and “pack-to-open-body”

Production of the Gen6 high-voltage batteries follows the “cell-to-pack” and “pack-to-open-body” principles. “Cell-to-pack” involves positioning the cylindrical cells – manufactured by the suppliers according to BMW Group specifications – directly in the housing of the high-voltage battery, without the intermediate step of a module being produced. “Pack-to-open-body” refers to the high-voltage battery’s new role as a structural component in the vehicle architecture. Numerous innovations patented by the BMW Group can be found here.

Know-how from Bavaria and Austria – in demand around the world

Before series production of the high-voltage batteries gets underway worldwide, the production processes will be developed and pre-series batteries subjected to thorough testing. This will happen at the BMW Group pilot plants for high-voltage batteries in Parsdorf, Hallbergmoos and Munich. The new series production plants around the world will then be ready. The product and process expertise is centred in Bavaria. Production of the Energy Master will take place at Plant Landshut, which will then supply all the high-voltage battery assembly plants around the world. There, the highly intelligent control unit will be installed on the high-voltage battery. The electric motor with sixth-generation BMW eDrive technology is produced at Plant Steyr in Austria, which is also home to a development centre for electric drive systems and thermal management.

Production of the Energy Master at BMW Group Plant Landshut  

A state-of-the-art production system for the BMW Energy Master is taking shape at Plant Landshut. The plant is currently producing the highly complex control unit in pre-series. Series production on the first production line will begin in August 2025, with a further expansion stage to follow in mid-2026. This is the first time the development and production of this central control unit has taken place in-house at the BMW Group. “As the company’s largest in-house component manufacturer, Landshut plays an important role for the Neue Klasse,” says Dr Joachim Post. “The plant is an innovation hub and a driver of transformation.” Around 200 people will be employed in the Energy Master production area at Landshut when production begins, rising to as many as 700 people as it ramps up further. The BMW Group has channelled investment in the high hundreds of millions of euros into the expansion of electric mobility at Plant Landshut since 2020, strengthening both the production facility itself and Germany’s status as an industrial powerhouse for the long term. The modular manufacturing system used to produce the Energy Master was also designed fully in-house by the BMW Group. It is supplied with subcomponents by a supply chain set up by the BMW Group. This extends to the n-tier supply chain for supply-critical components such as semiconductors. The benefits of this set-up can be seen in terms of both costs and supply security. The scalable production system enables the company to respond quickly and flexibly to market requirements. The high degree of automation, involving up to 400 robots in the final expansion stage, maximises efficiency. Comprehensive in-process monitoring, which includes the use of AI-based camera systems, and 100-per-cent end-of-line system checks in a clean-room environment ensure optimum quality.

Different recycling processes within the value chain

As electric mobility ramps up, there is an increasing focus on recycling of high-voltage batteries at the end of their lifecycle. Under a long-term partnership with SK tes – a leading provider of innovative technology lifecycle solutions – cobalt, nickel and lithium from end-of-life batteries are recovered from the BMW Group and integrated into the supply chain for the manufacture of new batteries. This closed-loop approach increases the efficiency and resilience of the BMW Group as part of a circular economy. The BMW Group will follow a similar path in the USA, Mexico and Canada up to 2026 with a separate partnership.

Innovative direct recycling at the BMW Group

The BMW Group is also exploring other recycling options in the value creation process. One example of this is the direct recycling method developed in-house. The BMW Group is working with its joint venture Encory to set up a competence centre for battery cell recycling in Lower Bavaria, where the company will put its direct recycling ideas into practice. This innovative process will enable residual materials from battery cell production and whole battery cells to be mechanically broken down into their valuable constituent components. The raw materials obtained in this way will be re-used directly in the pilot production process for battery cells at the company’s competence centres.

Technology-open approach for electric mobility: the new e-drive system of Gen6

The BMW Group has retained the principle of an electrically excited synchronous motor (EESM) for its Gen6 power unit. On this type of synchronous motor, the magnetic field in the rotor is generated by windings fed with direct current rather than permanent magnets. In this way, the strength of the rotor’s magnetic field can be optimally adjusted to the prevailing load conditions. This results in both excellent levels of efficiency at customer-relevant operating points and constant power output at high rotational speeds. As with the Gen5 version, the synchronous motor will be positioned above the rear axle and feature a compact housing incorporating the electric drive unit, power electronics and transmission. Many of the motor’s technical details were created with the help of patented expertise, with the non-potted rotor alone accounting for more than ten patent applications.

Neue Klasse additionally incorporates ASM technology

The Gen6 powertrain employs a second, additional electric motor technology in the form of the asynchronous motor (ASM). Here, instead of being generated by permanent magnets (PSM) or electrical excitation (EESM), the rotor’s magnetic field is induced by the stator. On this type of motor, the rotor takes the form of a metal cage. The asynchronous motor offers the advantage of a more compact design and superior cost efficiency. The ASM motor variants will be fitted at the front axle of Neue Klasse cars with BMW xDrive.

Extensive improvements to EESM technology

Besides the addition of ASM technology, the EESM technology has also undergone a major upgrade for Gen6: rotor, stator and inverter have all been fully designed for the new 800V architecture of the Gen6 tech in order to maximise drive system performance and efficiency. This has been further helped by a complete redesign of the oil and water cooling systems. In addition to this, the experts from the BMW Group have also succeeded in improving the electric motor and central housing in terms of their weight and rigidity too. The transmission still uses a two-stage helical design, but has been further optimised by enhancements to its geometry and cooling, lower friction levels and more pleasant acoustics. The electrically excited synchronous motor’s “brain”, the inverter, now features 800V technology along with silicon carbide (SiC) semiconductors to boost efficiency. The inverter is completely integrated into the electric motor’s housing. Its task is to convert the DC power supply from the high-voltage battery to AC for use in the electric motor. The inverter was developed in-house by the BMW Group and is produced at Plant Steyr in Austria.

Lower weight, costs and energy losses – greater efficiency in the vehicle

The results obtained from intelligently incorporating new technologies into the electric powertrain while consistently enhancing existing systems make impressive reading. When compared to a Gen5 xDrive model, a future Neue Klasse model complete with EESM and ASM technology boasts the following improvements: energy losses have been reduced by 40%, costs by 20% and weight by 10%. By combining different types of electric motor, the BMW Group’s technology-open approach is therefore clearly in evidence within the field of electric mobility. In future, customers will be able to choose from models equipped with one, two, three or four electric motors to suit their individual preferences and requirements. The sixth generation BMW eDrive technology is a significant factor in the gain in overall vehicle efficiency of around 20 per cent for the Neue Klasse. This figure is based on a comparison with the current generation of all-electric vehicles from the BMW Group.

Modular concept provides crucial advantage for manufacturing electric motors

The manufacturing concept for the Gen6 electric drive system uses the principle of modular building blocks. This forms the basis for highly flexible manufacturing of various electric drive variants across the entire Neue Klasse model range. The modular "building block” concept leads to positive economies of scale and cost savings in development and production. It also has the effect of improving the scalability of production volumes. The modular approach ensures a high degree of flexibility in production, the supply networks and procurement.

The Gen6 electric drive systems: made in Steyr

Series production of the Gen6 electric drive systems will commence at BMW Group Plant Steyr in summer 2025. Pre-production already got underway at the Austrian facility in September 2024. The pre-production motors are undergoing rigorous testing and some are already being fitted in Neue Klasse test vehicles from Plant Debrecen. By 2030, the BMW Group will have invested over one billion euros at the site since the project’s launch in 2022 to expand its development and production expertise for electric drive systems. Thanks to the increase in capacity, the plant will retain its status as the BMW Group’s leading facility for drive systems. The plant has been developing and building combustion engines for the BMW and MINI brands for over 40 years. Plant Steyr’s many years of experience and high level of expertise in the field of drive systems make it the ideal site for manufacturing the Gen6 electric motors. It has an annual production capacity of 600,000 electric drive units. Diesel and petrol engines continue to be manufactured there alongside the electric motors. By 2030, around half of the on-site employees should be working in electric mobility – a vital step for safeguarding the more than 4,700 jobs at the plant in the long term. In future, all key components of the innovative, highly integrated electric drive unit – i.e. the rotor, stator, transmission, inverter and housing – will be produced at Steyr. This will include manufacturing the inverters in an in-house clean room environment for the first time, thereby taking the engine plant into the realm of electrical engineering. The electric drive components will be built on two new assembly lines at Steyr.

Thermal management: complex interaction, crucial for performance
Thermal management involves highly complex interaction between various systems in an electric vehicle and is of critical importance for a host of performance parameters, including range, real-world consumption, acceleration and charging time. Thermal management is a question of constantly keeping the temperature of the electric motor, power electronics and high-voltage battery in the optimum range, while maintaining standards of passenger comfort at the same time. Efficient thermal management is important for fast charging too. Here, the battery temperature must be kept within a defined window in order to make optimum use of the available charging capacity. Unlike combustion engines, electric motors give off little heat. This means that, depending on the operating state, the battery and the passenger cell have to be not only cooled, but heated too. The Steyr site develops the thermal management systems for all electric vehicles from the BMW Group. The plant’s development centre is also responsible for the brain at the heart of the electric motor – the inverter.

BMW Group Plant Landshut – a multi-talented component manufacturer

BMW Group Plant Landshut is the BMW Group’s largest component plant anywhere in the world, supplying components to all the company’s vehicle and drive system plants. Its workforce of around 3,700 employees produces a broad spectrum of cutting-edge components for vehicles from the BMW Group. Working closely with the BMW Group’s Research and Innovation Centre (FIZ) in Munich, Plant Landshut plays a pivotal role as a hub of innovation for the automotive industry. It develops pioneering technologies and manufacturing processes that serve to maintain the company’s competitive edge. Over the course of the Neue Klasse project, the site is investing some €200 million in its light metal foundry to increase annual production capacity for the electric motor housings. The Injector Casting (ICA) process developed and patented in Landshut is a prime example of the plant’s innovative strength. This globally unique process is used to manufacture the electric motors’ highly complex aluminium housings that set new standards for lightweight design and functional integration.

In the event of enquiries please contact:

Corporate Communications

Christian Marxt

Spokesperson Production Network, Powertrain and High-voltage Batteries

Mobile: +49-151-601-79158

E-mail: Christian.Marxt@bmwgroup.com

Carolin Seidel

Spokesperson BMW Group Plant Landshut

Mobile: +49-151-601-90340

E-mail: Carolin.Seidel@bmwgroup.com

Florian Moser

Team Lead Purchasing and Supplier Network, Spokesperson Dr Joachim Post

Mobile: +49-151-601-62847

E-mail: Florian.Moser@bmwgroup.com

Bernhard Ederer

Spokesperson Drive Technology, Battery, Charging, Efficient Dynamics

Mobile: +49-176-601-28556

E-mail: Bernhard.Ederer@bmwgroup.com

Diana Schaidnagel

Spokesperson Sustainability

Mobile: +49-151-601-38407

E-mail: Diana.Schaidnagel@bmw.de

The BMW Group

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

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

Press Contact: Chris Overall
Tel: +447815370990
E-mail: chris.overall@bmw.co.uk

PHOTO GALLERY: World premiere of the seventh generation BMW M5 Saloon at the 2024 Goodwood Festival of Speed.

Fri, 12 Jul 2024 11:57:09 +0200

Please find attached on location pictures from BMW UK at the Goodwood Festival of Speed 2024, including the World Premiere of the seventh generation BMW M5 Saloon

For more information on BMW at Goodwood Festival of Speed 2024, click here. The all-new BMW M5 Saloon press kit can be found here.

Follow the latest from BMW at Goodwood Festival of Speed on BMW UK social channels (Instagram / Facebook / X).

Press Contact: Chris Overall
Tel: +447815370990
E-mail: chris.overall@bmw.co.uk

BMW at the 2024 Goodwood Festival of Speed.

Fri, 21 Jun 2024 11:36:00 +0200

Media Information

21 June, 2024. Updated: 26 June, 2024.

BMW at the 2024 Goodwood Festival of Speed.

• Two world debuts, with the world premiere of the all-new BMW M5 and BMW X3
• New BMW M4 CS seen in the UK for the first time
• BMW’s Hypercar, the BMW M Hybrid V8, to storm up the hill
• The BMW Vision Neue Klasse, BMW Concept Skytop and one-of-a-kind BMW i5 Flow NOSTOKANA on display at the Stable Yard
• An array of historic racing cars from BMW Group Classic to participate in the Hillclimb including the iconic BMW V12 LMR
• The BMW R20 concept, BMW Motorrad’s bold mechanical masterpiece, to take to the hill

All eyes will be on BMW at the 2024 Goodwood Festival of Speed to witness the world premiere of the new all-new BMW M5 and BMW X3. Both cars will be unveiled at BMW’s Trackside stand from 10:30 am (BST) on Thursday 11 July.

Also seen for the first time in the UK will be the new and exclusive BMW M4 CS, which will be joined on the hill by the ground-breaking BMW XM Label. Festivalgoers will be able to see the spectacular BMW M Hybrid V8 and BMW R20 concept in action as well, whilst the Stable Yard will provide the perfect stage for BMW’s Vision Neue Klasse, the luxurious BMW Concept Skytop and the BMW i5 Flow NOSTOKANA with colour-change technology. The latest models from BMW M will be on display at Trackside, including the new BMW M135, the facelifted BMW M2 and BMW M3 Touring and - taking centre stage - the BMW M Hybrid V8 LMDh.

A highlight moment for BMW M at the 2024 Goodwood Festival of Speed will undoubtedly be the global debut of the all-new BMW M5. With 40 years of history, the legendary high-performance saloon from BMW M GmbH is entering its seventh generation with an electrified drive system for the first time. The combination of a high-revving V8 engine with M TwinPower Turbo technology and an electric motor, plus power transfer courtesy of an eight-speed M Steptronic transmission and M xDrive all-wheel drive, enables acceleration from 0 to 62 mph in 3.5 seconds. In addition to its constant static presence at the BMW M stand at Trackside, the all-new BMW M5 will also be seen by spectators on Goodwood’s legendary hill climb multiple times per day throughout the event.

The new BMW X3 M50 xDrive will also be unveiled to the world at Goodwood and is the fourth generation SAV, adding another chapter to the BMW X3 success story which began over 20 years ago. The range-topping model boasts greater sporting appeal, visual impact, and versatility than ever before and features the most powerful six-cylinder in-line petrol engine yet fitted in an M Performance model. The 3.0-litre M TwinPower Turbo unit links up with 48V mild hybrid technology. Its maximum output of 398 hp is channelled to the road via an eight-speed Steptronic Sport transmission and BMW xDrive intelligent all-wheel drive. The BMW X3 M50 xDrive powers to 62 mph from rest in 4.6 seconds.

Tackling the famous 1.16-mile course in the ‘First Glance’ category will be the new BMW M4 CS. Powered by a high-revving six-cylinder in-line 3.0-litre engine with M TwinPower Turbo technology, the race-focussed BMW M4 CS has an increased engine output of 550 hp and features model-specific chassis tuning and lightweight design elements. Instantaneous power delivery and optimised traction enable acceleration of 0 to 62 mph in just 3.4 seconds.

Fresh from racing at the legendary 24 Hours of Le Mans, the stunning BMW M Hybrid V8 will also take to the hill. The return of the BMW brand to the top category of Le Mans in the Hypercar class came exactly 25 years after the victory of the BMW V12 LMR in 1999. To acknowledge this historic moment BMW Group Classic will drive the iconic V12 up the hill. The team will also bring two additional famous racing cars to Goodwood’s Hillclimb - the BMW 318i touring car, driven by famed racing driver Johnny Cecotto, and the BMW2002 TIK, with HRH Leopold Prince of Bavaria at the wheel.

Festivalgoers will also be able to see a BMW M Hybrid V8 LMDh at Trackside, whilst visitors to the stand can learn more about the 20th BMW Art Car - the Hypercar designed by the internationally renowned artist Julie Mehretu - that played a very special role at this year’s Le Mans.

BMW will storm up the hill on two wheels as well. BMW Motorrad recently unveiled its latest design masterpiece, the BMW R20 concept, at Concorso d'Eleganza Villa d'Este and will bring it to this year’s Festival. Presented as a piece of art and as the epitome of expressive and cool design, the BMW R20 concept showcases the legendary air-oil cooled Big Boxer engine at its centre. The R20 can be seen in the ‘First Glance and Road Bikes’ category, whilst a wonderful BMW R255/1 Compressor from BMW Group Classic will feature in ‘Batch 4’.

The Stable Yard – once again dedicated to BMW – will be transformed into a tranquil location showcasing luxury and technology: from the BMW Concept Skytop, an open top two-seater demonstrating truly unique and exotic design, to the BMW i5 Flow NOSTOKANA, a one-of-a-kind vehicle that combines colour-change technology developed by BMW with the artistic language of South African artist Esther Mahlangu. For many however, the BMW Vision Neue Klasse will form the focal point of the display - the Neue Klasse showcases the breadth of BMW’s future model line-up.

BMW’s latest range of luxury cars will also be on display in the Stable Yard including the BMW i7, the brand’s flagship saloon that has redefined the luxury segment with new levels of electrification and digitalisation. The recently launched BMW i5 Touring will take centre stage in this tranquil space, alongside two e-vehicles from BMW Motorrad – the BMW CE 02 and BMW CE 04 - that provide a breath of fresh air for urban electric mobility on two wheels.

The Goodwood Festival of Speed is being held over four days from 11-14 July 2024.

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

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For further information please contact:

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

Press Contact: Martin Harrison
Tel: +44-1252-92-1259
E-mail: martin.harrison@bmw.co.uk

World premiere in Cannes: the BMW XM Mystique Allure, inspired by Naomi Campbell.

Thu, 16 May 2024 10:00:00 +0200

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

Munich/Cannes. Glittering movie premieres, stars gracing the red carpet and a high-performance vehicle that looks like nothing else: this is the Cannes Film Festival and yesterday it hosted the world premiere of the BMW XM Mystique Allure. This one-off creation is based on the first high-performance sports car from BMW M GmbH powered by the M HYBRID drive system. Blending progressive luxury with extravagant looks, it is inspired by British supermodel Naomi Campbell, was designed using exclusive materials from the world of haute couture and has a unique soundtrack devised in cooperation with film score composer Hans Zimmer.

The BMW XM Mystique Allure is the latest product of the collaboration between BMW and Naomi Campbell. The partnership took its first steps last year with the “Dare to be You” launch campaign for the BMW XM, which puts the confidence to be yourself and go your own way at centre stage.

The BMW XM Mystique Allure and Naomi Campbell: making a grand entrance at Cannes.
The 77th Cannes Film Festival was the ideal choice of setting for the world premiere of the BMW XM Mystique Allure. Against the stunning backdrop of the French portside resort, Naomi Campbell presented the one-of-a-kind creation inspired by her to an audience of selected guests, before making her way in the car to the red carpet outside the Palais des Festivals et des Congrès. “Witnessing BMW's vision for the BMW XM Mystique Allure come to life has been truly incredible,” says Naomi. “I feel deeply honoured to have sparked the inspiration for their first-ever high-fashion show car, which stands as a unique masterpiece in every aspect.”

This is the third year in succession that BMW has stepped up as Official Automotive Partner of the Cannes Film Festival. And it will lay on an exclusive shuttle service of more than 200 vehicles – among them the all-electric BMW i7, BMW iX and BMW i5, and the plug-in-hybrid BMW XM – to give participants and guests at the event the experience of locally emission-free premium mobility.

First BMW designed with high-fashion materials.
The BMW XM Mystique Allure is the first vehicle in the brand’s history to be designed using materials from the high fashion industry. This unusual tie-up showcases the BMW XM in a whole new light: expressive, avant-garde – and stylish and luxurious in equal measure.

Inspired by Naomi’s favourite colour, the vehicle’s exterior boasts a deeply saturated ultramarine shade, accentuated by a lustrous matte finish. A contemporary translation of high-fashion materials from luxury textile manufacturers, the design seamlessly brings the inside to the outside, featuring rich velvet and shimmering Frozen metallic sequins casting hues ranging from intense violet to deep ultramarine.

The iridescent surfaces were created with precise handcraftsmanship and a fine eye for detail. They take their cues from the eye-catching geometric forms of the BMW XM and bring a special visual richness to the car’s extrovert aesthetic. The design of the BMW XM Mystique Allure provides a meeting point for high performance and haute couture, and paints a unique picture of progressive luxury that continues into the interior. All of the surfaces inside the car, including the M Lounge in the rear, are covered in purple velvet.

BMW IconicSounds Electric: exclusive driving sound from the collaboration with Hans Zimmer.
The bold appearance of the BMW XM Mystique Allure is complemented by an acoustic character also very much its own. At its heart is a bespoke adaptation of the BMW IconicSounds Electric developed as part of the collaboration between BMW Group Sound Design and film score composer Hans Zimmer.

The driving track created for the Naomi Campbell-inspired one-off projects the supreme confidence of the car’s exterior design onto the soundscape of locally emission-free driving. In the M HYBRID drive system’s all-electric operating mode, every movement of the accelerator is accompanied by an emotionally engaging sound that authentically represents the car’s outstanding performance and magnetic visual allure.

The BMW XM: the most powerful series-produced model from BMW M GmbH.
The BMW XM is the first model since the legendary BMW M1 to be conceived solely as a standalone high-performance car from BMW M GmbH. It blends dynamic potency with innovative luxury and an enticingly extravagant design composed of muscular proportions and powerful contours. Two-piece split headlight units, Iconic Glow contour lighting for the BMW kidney grille, accent bands along the sides of the car, light-alloy wheels up to 23 inches in size and the vertically stacked and hexagonally formed pairs of exhaust tailpipes integrated into the rear apron ensure the exterior of the XM has an inimitable visual presence.

The BMW XM is also breaking new ground with its M HYBRID system, which has made the XM the first high-performance car from BMW M GmbH to feature an electrified drive system. In BMW XM Label Red form (electric power and petrol consumption – weighted, combined: 33.5 kWh/100 km and 2.0 l/100 km [141.2 mpg imp]; CO₂ emissions – weighted, combined: 45 g/km (WLTP); fuel consumption with discharged battery: 12.9 l/100 km [21.9 mpg imp] as per WLTP; CO₂ classes: with discharged battery G; weighted, combined B), the plug-in hybrid model – with its maximum output of 550 kW/748 hp – is also the most powerful series-produced, road-legal car yet produced by BMW M GmbH.

Official fuel consumption, CO₂ emissions, electric power consumption and electric range figures were determined based on the prescribed measurement procedure in accordance with European Regulation (EC) 2007/715 in the version applicable. Where a range is shown, the WLTP figures take into account the impact of any optional extras.

Only official figures based on the WLTP procedure are available for new models that have been type tested since 01.01.2021. In addition, according to EU Regulation 2022/195, the NEDC values will no longer be included in the EC certificates of conformity as of 01.01.2023. Further information on the WLTP and NEDC measurement procedures can also be found at www.bmw.de/wltp.

Further information on official fuel consumption figures and specific CO₂ emission values of new passenger cars is included in the following guideline: 'Leitfaden über den Kraftstoffverbrauch, die CO2-Emissionen and den Stromverbrauch neuer Personenkraftwagen' (Guide to the fuel economy, CO₂ emissions and electric power consumption of new passenger cars), which can be obtained free of charge from all dealerships, from Deutsche Automobil Treuhand GmbH (DAT), Hellmuth-Hirth-Str. 1. 73760 Ostfildern-Scharnhausen and at https://www.dat.de/co2.

The BMW Group
With its four brands BMW, MINI, Rolls-Royce and BMW Motorrad, the BMW Group is the world’s leading premium manufacturer of automobiles and motorcycles and also provides premium financial and mobility services. The BMW Group production network comprises 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
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CO2 EMISSIONS & CONSUMPTION.

Electric power and petrol consumption – weighted, combined: 33.5 kWh/100 km and 2.0 l/100 km [141.2 mpg imp]; CO₂ emissions – weighted, combined: 45 g/km (WLTP); fuel consumption with discharged battery: 12.9 l/100 km [21.9 mpg imp] as per WLTP; CO₂ classes: with discharged battery G; weighted, combined B.

Press Contact: Chris Overall
Tel: +447815370990
E-mail: chris.overall@bmw.co.uk

BMW continues its partnership with the Cannes Film Festival and presents a special one-off creation in the French resort.

Wed, 08 May 2024 10:00:00 +0200

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

Munich/Cannes. BMW has signed up as Official Automotive Partner of the Cannes Film Festival for the third year in a row. This means visitors to the festival will once again be able to enjoy an exclusive shuttle service featuring luxury vehicles from the premium carmaker’s current range. BMW is also using its Cannes spotlight for a special vehicle presentation. Following the successful world premiere of the BMW Films production The Calm last year, BMW will now introduce a one-off creation based on the BMW XM as part of the creative collaboration with British supermodel Naomi Campbell.

Now in its 77th year, the prestigious Cannes Film Festival will once again attract a plentiful cast of filmmakers, actors and cinema lovers from all over the world to the Côte d’Azur on 14 – 25 May 2024. But the presentation of the coveted Palme d’Or is not the only show in town; during the festival, heads increasingly turn towards the lifestyle chic and glamour of the Croisette and many other Cannes hotspots. For premium brand BMW, the event therefore provides the ideal stage on which to exhibit its latest luxury-segment models to a discerning international audience.

To this end, organisers and guests alike will have locally emission-free premium mobility at their disposal. The exclusive fleet of shuttles chauffeuring the stars and VIPs over the roads around the Palais des Festivals et des Congrès will also be available to the festival organisers and some of its Official Partners. It includes more than 200 vehicles, among them the all-electric BMW i7, BMW iX and BMW i5, plus the BMW XM with plug-in hybrid drive system.

Creative collaboration with Naomi Campbell produces one-of-a-kind result.

BMW has extended the partnership with Naomi Campbell that it launched last year. The latest product of this creative collaboration is the BMW XM Mystique Allure. Inspired by the supermodel, this unique take on the XM will make a very special appearance in Cannes on 15 May.

The collaboration took its first steps last year with the “Dare to be You” launch campaign for the BMW XM. Alongside her successful catwalk career, Naomi Campbell has also established herself as an actor and creative visionary, and has become one of the most influential figures on the global fashion scene. Her commitment to increasing diversity in the industry has made her a standard-bearer for the next generation of up-and-coming talent in the creative and fashion worlds.

The BMW XM and Naomi Campbell: trailblazers specialising in visual extravagance.

An enduring pioneering spirit and the ability to project poise and confidence are attributes shared by Naomi Campbell and the BMW XM. With its iconic design language, an interior permeated by high comfort and the M HYBRID drive system making its debut in a series-produced model, the BMW XM creates a whole new level of connection between luxury and high performance.

The plug-in hybrid system’s electric motor teams up with either a muscular six-cylinder in-line engine or punchy petrol V8, depending on the model variant. In BMW XM Label Red form (electric power and petrol consumption – weighted, combined: 33.5 kWh/100 km and 2.0 l/100 km [141.2 mpg imp]; CO₂ emissions – weighted, combined: 45 g/km (WLTP); fuel consumption with discharged battery: 12.9 l/100 km [21.9 mpg imp] as per WLTP; CO₂ classes: with discharged battery G; weighted, combined B), the plug-in hybrid model is the most powerful series-produced, road-legal car yet produced by BMW M GmbH.

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.

X: http://twitter.com/BMWGroup

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

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

Press Contact: Chris Overall
Tel: +447815370990
E-mail: chris.overall@bmw.co.uk

MINI INTRODUCES EMILY COXHEAD AS FIRST-EVER HAPPINESS AMBASSADOR, SERVING UP POSITIVI-TEA AT IMMERSIVE LONDON POP UP.

Tue, 01 Aug 2023 10:00:00 +0200

To celebrate the arrival of International Happiness Month, MINI is pleased to unveil Emily Coxhead as the brand’s first official ‘Happiness Ambassador’.

Best known as the creator of The Happy Newspaper – a platform celebrating positive news and wonderful people – the British illustrator joins MINI on its Big Love mission to make life brighter, launching the MINI Positivi-Tea Room at Westfields, White City, this August.

Serving up nothing but positivity (and tea) on Friday 4th and Saturday 5th August, the immersive pop-up is designed to restore, reinvigorate, and recharge passersby, with visitors treated to good vibes and complimentary tea. Designed by Emily, the Positivi-Tea Room is the ultimate space for busy shoppers to relax and take a break from their busy day, with copies of ‘The Happy Newspaper’ available for guests to read or take with them.

Passionate about making the world a happier place, Emily launched The Happy Newspaper in 2015, when the then 22-year-old entrepreneur realised the negative effect news was having on her. Today, the quarterly newspaper boasts over 400,000 followers on Instagram and 20,000 subscribers across 30 countries, as Emily continues her pursuit to ‘sprinkle happiness over the planet’.

With a MINI Electric Convertible on display at the pop-up, shoppers will be able to see for themselves why MINI Electric drivers can embrace more feel-good joy than ever before, with the electrified droptop offering the same fun-filled, joyful driving the iconic Convertible is famous for, while emitting zero driving emissions.

Sharing Emily’s optimistic attitude to life, MINI aims to inspire a world of positive action through its Big Love ethos. From planting Tiny Forests across the UK to supporting Joe Wicks as he endeavours to improve mental wellbeing through exercise, MINI’s Big Love initiatives exist to build a brighter future for people, their communities, and the planet.

On partnering with MINI, Emily Coxhead said, “I’m so excited to be working with MINI as their first Happiness Ambassador, sharing their passion for spreading positivity, happiness and Big Love. MINI has always been special to me and my family as my dad refurbed by Mum’s first car, her pride and joy classic Mini, turning it into a yellow ray of sunshine called Daisy that is spoken about to this day.

"Combining my words and doodles with cups of tea to spread some Big Love to anyone who needs it, is sure to make people smile, which is what MINI’s mission is all about.”

The MINI Positivi-Tea Room will be at Westfields, White City, (North Atrium) on Friday 4th and Saturday 5th August 2023.

To learn more about Emily Coxhead, or subscribe to The Happy Newspaper, click here. To see what else MINI is doing to spread Big Love, visit the Big Love Hub here.

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
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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 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

Press Contact: Helen Wilson
Tel: +44-1252-92-1928
E-mail: helen.wilson@bmw.co.uk

BMW announces a completely new Head-up Display for the "Neue Klasse".

Thu, 05 Jan 2023 22:24:45 +0100

Las Vegas / Munich. As part of the CES 2023, the Chairman of the Board of Management of BMW AG, Oliver Zipse, announced a new generation of Head-up displays for the "Neue Klasse" in his keynote speech.
"It is more than a vision. We bring this innovation into the "Neue Klasse". As early as 2025 – the year after next – our customers will be able to experience this completely new technology in their vehicles,” said Oliver Zipse at CES 2023 in Las Vegas.

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

Press Contact: Chris Overall
Tel: +447815370990
E-mail: chris.overall@bmw.co.uk

BMW Group accelerates CO2 reduction and focuses consistently on a circular economy with the Neue Klasse

Thu, 02 Sep 2021 10:00:00 +0200

Zipse: “We are committed to a clear course to achieve the 1.5 degree target”
50% reduction in global CO2 use-phase emissions by 2030
Over 40% reduction in CO2 emissions during life cycle
Ten million all-electric vehicles within ten years
Secondary first: Up to 50% use of secondary material planned – initiatives to develop the market are required
Cooperation with BASF and ALBA on plastic recycling
Resource scarcity and social responsibility: BMW Group focussed on circular economy for sustainable materials
RE:BMW – circular economy at the IAA Mobility in Munich

Munich. The BMW Group is increasing the pace of its efforts to combat climate change. Looking ahead to the introduction of the Neue Klasse, the company is further strengthening its self-defined objectives, announced in summer last year, to significantly reduce CO2 emissions, whilst also committing itself to a clear course that supports the 1.5 degree target for the limitation of global warming. The Neue Klasse will also see the BMW Group hugely increase its use of secondary materials with a firm focus on the principles of the circular economy, whilst also promoting better framework conditions for establishing a market for secondary materials.

To achieve a further reduction in CO2 emissions, the focus is on the utilisation phase of vehicles, which account for 70% of the BMW Group’s CO2 footprint. By 2030, the CO2 emissions per vehicle and kilometre driven will be at least halved from 2019 levels. The commitment of all manufacturers when it comes to combatting climate change can best be compared when looking at the entire life cycle of a vehicle, including production and upstream supply chain. Here, the BMW Group is planning a reduction of CO2 emission per vehicle of at least 40%.

“How companies are dealing with CO2 emissions has become a major factor when it comes to judging corporate action. The decisive factor in the fight against global warming is how strongly we can improve the carbon footprint of vehicles over their entire life span. This is why we are setting ourselves transparent and ambitious goals for the substantial reduction of CO2 emissions; these are validated by the Science Based Targets Initiative and will deliver an effective and measurable contribution,” said Oliver Zipse, Chairman of the Board of Management of BMW AG, in Munich on Thursday. “With the Neue Klasse we are significantly sharpening our commitment and also committing ourselves to a clear course for achieving the 1.5 degree target.”

The BMW Group is the first German carmaker to join the Business Ambition for 1.5°C of the Science Based Targets Initiative and is committed to the goal of full climate neutrality over the entire value-added chain by 2050 at the latest. This means that the company is also part of the international Race to Zero Initiative. The company is convinced that this can be achieved using innovation, rather than any overall ban on individual technologies.

The most powerful driver on this path to climate neutrality is electric mobility, with the BMW Group’s Neue Klasse set to provide significant further momentum to the market. During the next ten years or so, the company will be putting around ten million all-electric vehicles on the road. As early as 2030, at least half of global BMW Group sales will be all-electric vehicles, with the MINI brand offering exclusively all-electric vehicles from 2030.

The BMW Group continues to comply with the stringent criteria of the Science Based Targets Initiative, when it comes to measuring the reduction of worldwide CO2 emissions of the company’s vehicles whilst they are being driven on the roads. For example, emissions from the production of fuel or electricity are included in the calculation and consumption is based on the WLTP cycle plus ten percent. With its current product and electrification strategy, the company is on track to meet the EU fleet target for 2030.

Beyond green electricity: Stronger focus on use of resources in future

BMW Group is clear that simply increasing the number of electric vehicles on the road does not automatically lead to climate-friendly mobility. The company understands that it is also crucial to reduce the use of primary material and the related environmentally harmful exploitation of resources and their often CO2-intensive processing – especially when it comes to car manufacturing, one of the most resource-intensive industries.

“2017 was the first time the world’s population consumed more than 100 billion tons of resources within a single year - a trend which we in the automotive industry must also counteract,” Zipse demanded. “This is a strategic issue, concerning not only ecological but also economic sustainability; the current development of commodity prices demonstrates the impact an industry that is dependent on limited resources must expect.”

With the number of battery-powered vehicles growing, there is increasing demand for many commodities such as cobalt, nickel and aluminium, which are required for the vehicles’ high-voltage batteries. However there is great potential for the reuse of materials in the sense of a circular economy and together with specialist partners, the BMW Group has already demonstrated that it’s technological feasible to achieve a recycling efficiency of over 90 percent.

The amount of secondary nickel used for the high-voltage battery in the BMW iX is already as high as 50 percent, with the battery housing containing up to 30 percent secondary aluminium. The BMW Group aims to improve these figures even further for future product generations.

In addition to the increasingly scare availability of primary materials and resulting commodity price increases, there are many sustainability reasons to use more secondary materials and move towards a circular economy.

The supply of secondary materials is considerably less CO2-intensive than is the case with primary materials and can significantly improve the CO2 footprint, especially within the supply chain. In the case of secondary aluminium, the CO2 saving compared with primary material constitutes a factor of approximately 4 to 6, whilst steel and thermoplastics lie between around 2 and 5.

The extraction of resources for primary materials – particularly through mining – has a significant impact on the basic regenerative capacity of ecosystems. This impact can be greatly reduced by increasing the use of secondary materials.

The mining and trading of conflict materials carries the possible risk of associated infringements of environmental and social standards. The BMW Group has established numerous measures to counteract this risk, including membership of the Responsible Minerals Initiative. However, the most efficient strategy for avoiding risks is to minimise the mining of such primary materials.

‘ Secondary First’: Crucial vehicle materials with high secondary content

As part of its holistic approach to sustainability, the BMW Group aims to increase significantly the percentage of secondary materials in its vehicles. On average, current vehicles are manufactured using almost 30 percent recycled and reusable materials. With the ‘ Secondary First’ approach, BMW Group plans to successively raise this figure to 50 percent.

Of course it’s crucial that the quality, safety and reliability of the materials comply with the same high standards as those existing for primary materials – and so it’s essential that the market availability of such high-quality materials increases considerably. In order to achieve this, cross-industry approaches and political initiatives are necessary.

Based on the four principles Re:think, Re:duce, Re:use, Re:cycle, the BMW Group is boosting its activities in the field of circular economy, an area where it’s carrying out pioneering work. For instance, vehicle production now involves the increased separation and recycling of crucial material groups, so these can be reused by the industry within the framework of ‘closed loops’.

Cooperation with BASF and the ALBA Group

Within the supply chain and depending on market availability, secondary materials are increasingly being used in BMW Group vehicles. Moreover, together with its partners, the company is providing important impetus when it comes to developing secondary materials. One example is the company’s pilot project with BASF and the ALBA Group for the increased recycling of plastics used in cars.

The aim of the project is to reduce the use of primary plastics by means of a comprehensive recycling system. To this end, the ALBA Group analyses end-of-life BMW Group vehicles to establish whether a car-to-car reuse of the plastic is possible. In a second step, BASF assesses whether chemical recycling of the pre-sorted waste can be used in order to obtain pyrolysis oil. This can be then used as a basis for new products made of plastic. In the future, a new door trim or other components could be manufactured from a used instrument panel, for example.

Closed loop rather than downcycling: ‘Circular Design’ as the basis of a circular economy

In order to achieve higher recycling rates and whilst also guaranteeing the high quality of secondary materials, the materials must be extracted in their purest form as early as possibly during the recycling process. For example, the onboard wiring systems must be easy to remove, in order to avoid mixing steel with copper from the cable harnesses in the vehicles. If this mixing does take place, the secondary steel loses its essential material properties and therefore no longer meets the high safety requirements of the automotive industry. To support this early and easy extraction of materials, the interior of a car must increasingly be made of monomaterials, so that at the end of the car’s lifecycle, as much as possible can be transferred back into the usable material cycle. Basically, reducing the number of materials can help to improve the quality of recycled materials. Currently, vehicles consist of about 8,000 to 10,000 different materials.

To achieve this, the BMW Group is now focusing on a ‘Circular Design’ concept, which is designed to guarantee the economical dismantling capacity of vehicles. It is essential that disassembly of the vehicle and its individual components is fast and cost-efficient to ensure that prices of secondary materials are competitive. It all starts with the construction of the vehicle, which must be done in such a way that allows materials to be removed at the end of the vehicle’s service life without different types of material being mixed with each other.

RE:BMW at the IAA Mobility – a visionary outlook on circular economy

The BMW Group is putting circular economy at the centre of its presence at the IAA Mobility 2021 in Munich, where the company will offer a visionary outlook on the potentials of a circular economy and sustainable mobility. The BMW i Vision Circular embodies the company’s ambitious claim to be the most sustainable manufacturer for individual premium mobility.

This visionary vehicle, designed according to the four principles of the circular economy Re:think, Re:duce, Re:use, Re:cycle, shows how individual, sustainable and luxurious urban mobility could look in 2040. The BMW i Vision Circular is manufactured from 100 percent secondary materials or renewable raw materials, and is 100 percent recyclable.

This car demonstrates that climate protection and individual mobility do not necessarily contradict each other. On the contrary, it shows that using new technologies and innovation, the BMW Group can fulfill the planet’s requirements for greater sustainability without customers having to forgo individual mobility.

The BMW Group

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

In 2020, the BMW Group sold over 2.3 million passenger vehicles and more than 169,000 motorcycles worldwide. The profit before tax in the financial year 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.

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/

Press Contact: Christina Burnham-Hepe
Tel: +44-1252-92-1738
E-mail: christina.burnham-hepe@bmw.co.uk

New cell technology for Neue Klasse: BMW Group strengthens battery expertise as part of the European Battery Innovation initiative.

Mon, 19 Apr 2021 13:30:00 +0200

Munich. The BMW Group is accelerating its development for the battery technology of the future, thereby supporting the ramp-up of a European cell and battery value chain. In this context, Oliver Zipse, Chairman of the Board of Management of BMW AG, today received a grant decision from the Federal Minister of Economics and Energy, Peter Altmaier, as well as from the Bavarian Minister of State for Economic Affairs, Regional Development and Energy, Hubert Aiwanger, in support of the BMW Group's battery projects within the framework of the battery IPCEI (Important Project of Common European Intertest).

For the BMW Group, it is clear that high-performance and sustainable energy storage systems are the key success factor for the individual mobility of the future. The development of highly innovative and sustainable battery cells is therefore one key element of a high-performance European cell and battery value chain.

This aspiration is reflected in the Neue Klasse, which the BMW Group first presented at its annual conference in March. This new generation of vehicles, which will be launched by the middle of this decade, will be uncompromisingly electric, digital, circular – and clearly focused on all-electric drivetrains.

For the Neue Klasse, the BMW Group is developing the next generation of its battery technology – combined with a clear aspiration: "With the Neue Klasse, we will make a big leap in technology in electric drive," said Oliver Zipse, Chairman of the Board of Management of BMW AG, in Munich on Monday. "We want to significantly increase the energy density of the cells and reduce the costs of material use and production at the same time. We will also significantly reduce the use of primary material to ensure a truly 'green' battery."

With the Neue Klasse, the BMW Group aims at the level of state-of-the-art internal combustion engines in terms of range and manufacturing costs. For example, electric mobility "engineered by BMW" is intended to appeal to and convince new groups of buyers worldwide. For this sixth generation of BMW e-drive technology, the company evaluates correspondingly different cell formats, cell chemistry and also cell modules in the current development phase. A key goal is to create truly green, low-carbon and recyclable batteries.

Solid-state battery for serial use – demonstrator vehicle well before 2025
However, the BMW Group is already planning further into the future beyond this next generation: By the end of the decade, the energy density of battery cells is expected to increase by at least a mid-double-digit percentage range – from an already high level today.

Frank Weber, Member of the Board of Management of BMW AG, Development: "The greenest electric car in the world will be a BMW – sustainable from the initial idea to recycling after its use phase. We are developing the battery cell of the future: it will be powerful, safe, cost-effective, and recyclable - from material selection to recyclability after the use in the vehicle. All of this will be created in a European value chain." Weber continues: "We are doing intensive research on solid-state battery technology. By the end of the decade, we will be implementing an automotive-compatible solid-state battery for series production. We plan to show a first demonstrator vehicle featuring this technology well before 2025."

The BMW Group has had extensive in-house expertise in the complete value chain of electric drive for years and has optimized its battery cell technology from generation to generation. Cell chemistry has also been consistently further developed: for example, the proportion of cobalt in cathode material in the transition from Gen3 from the BMW i3 to Gen5, which was introduced in 2020 with the BMW iX3, was significantly reduced from 33 percent to 10 percent – at the same time, the nickel content rose to around 80 percent. In order to minimize the consumption of primary resources, up to 50 percent recycled nickel is already used in the high-voltage battery pack of the new BMW iX.

Electric offensive in full swing
Thanks to intelligent vehicle architectures and a highly flexible production network, the BMW Group will have around a dozen all-electric models on the road as early as 2023. In addition to the BMW i3, MINI Cooper SE and BMW iX3, which are already on the market, two key innovation drivers, the BMW i4 and the BMW iX will be put on the road this year– the BMW i4 even three months earlier than originally planned.

In the coming years, all-electric versions of the high-volume BMW 5 Series and the BMW X1 will follow. In addition, there will be an all-electric BMW 7 Series as well as the successor to the MINI Countryman and other models. As early as 2023, the BMW Group will have at least one all-electric model on the road in around 90 percent of its current market segments.

By 2025, the BMW Group will increase sales of all-electric models by an average of significantly more than 50 percent per year – more than ten times more than in 2020. In total, the company will have delivered around two million all-electric vehicles to customers by the end of 2025.

Based on current market expectations, the BMW Group is planning that by 2030 at least 50 percent of its global sales will consist of all-electric vehicles. In total, the company will bring about ten million all-electric vehicles onto the road over the approximately next ten years. This also means that the BMW Group is strategically on target of achieving the EU's ambitious CO2 reduction targets in 2025 and 2030.

The BMW Group commitment to IPCEI.
Within the framework of the two battery IPCEI (Important Projects of Common European Interest), the BMW Group is developing highly innovative, sustainable, function-optimized and cost-effective battery cells as a key element of a European cell and battery value chain.

The Federal Ministry of Economics and the Bavarian State Ministry for Economic Affairs, Regional Development and Energy, support the project within the framework of the European funding process IPCEI.

Federal Minister Altmaier: "With the joint European projects, we have successfully built up the battery value chain in Germany and Europe and secured sustainable jobs. We support BMW in two concrete projects in the field of battery technology. Both projects are central to the further expansion of electromobility in Germany."

Bavaria's Minister of Economic Affairs Hubert Aiwanger: "The development of battery cells is an ideal fit for Bavaria's automotive industry and tech-industry as a whole. Bavaria is supporting this IPCEI project from BMW with co-financing in order to secure added value in a central high-tech field with great future potential. Because electromobility is becoming increasingly important, we have to produce the battery cells needed here in Germany, preferably in Bavaria. Our aim must be to participate economically in this climate-friendly technology and to make Europe more independent of suppliers from third countries."

Following the development of a next generation of lithium-ion cells as well as an innovative battery module and battery system concept in the first IPCEI, the focus of BMW's work in the second IPCEI is on the development of the next generation of lithium-ion cells, the development and optimization of process technologies as well as the construction of a prototype production plant for innovative battery modules and systems.

The BMW Group is also focusing on the recycling and the recyclability of battery materials, with the main aim of achieving a fully cyclable battery.

Through the research and validation of future technologies such as solid-state batteries (so-called "All-Solid-State-Battery", ASSB), the company not only strengthens its own competence, but also the industrial location Germany. The BMW Group sees ASSB technology as a game changer in the automotive field.

Following the holistic approach of a closed innovation and development cycle, BMW will develop innovative products from the areas of battery cell as well as battery modules and systems with a focus on improved functionality and a significantly improved cost structure. The recycling and the usability of the batteries after their automotive use are also taken into account.

The BMW Group is more involved in the research, development and industrialization of battery value chains in Germany than any other vehicle manufacturer. The research results achieved by the BMW Group and the partners involved in the IPCEI project strengthen the development of an integrated European battery value chain. In addition, various concepts for solid-state batteries are being researched together with European R&D partners and the most promising prototype is being implemented. In doing so, the company is paving the way for successful battery cell development and production in Europe.

Press Contact: Christina Burnham-Hepe
Tel: +44-1252-92-1738
E-mail: christina.burnham-hepe@bmw.co.uk

Virtual World Premiere of BMW Concept i4

Fri, 28 Feb 2020 13:55:00 +0100

Munich. Due to the current situation the Geneva International Motor Show 2020 has been cancelled. Of course we understand this decision, but we also regret that the show cannot take place as usual.

Instead, the BMW Group will present the programme planned for Geneva, including the world premiere of the BMW Concept i4, at a digital press conference with the Chairman of the Board of Management of BMW AG, Oliver Zipse, in Munich at the originally planned time:

Tuesday, 3 March 2020, 8.15 a.m.

You can follow the world premiere live at www.live.bmwgroup.com

You can also follow the @BMWGroup social media channels for the live broadcast.

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

Twitter: http://twitter.com/BMWGroup

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

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

The digital press conference can also be received via satellite:

Technical data TV satellite transmission 3rd March 2020

Satellite: EUT 16 A
Pos.: 16,0° East
Txp: F1
Slot: B+

Downlink Freq.:          12.519,170 MHz
Pol.: X (horizontal)

Modulation:       DVB-S2 / 8PSK 25% roll-off, pilot ON
FEC:      3/4
Sym.Rate: 7.2 MSym./s
MPEG 4: 4.2.0
Aspect Ratio:    HD 16:9
Encryption:      No Encryption
Video Standard:      HD 1080i/50 Hz
Audio Channels:     Audio: 1 Pairs (2ch)

Contact SNG: Tel. +49-172-856 63 38 (Alexander Neumann)

Press Contact: Chris Overall
Tel: +447815370990
E-mail: chris.overall@bmw.co.uk

BMW at The Goodwood Festival of Speed 2019.

Tue, 02 Jul 2019 14:35:00 +0200

The BMW M8 Competition will be seen for first time in the UK at the 2019 Goodwood Festival of Speed. The new high-performance sports car, fitted with M Performance Accessories, will take to the hill along with another exciting offering from BMW - the BMW X4 M Competition – BMW M’s all-new Sports Activity Coupé. A trio of cars from BMW’s past will also steer their way up Goodwood’s famous 1.16-mile course to celebrate the theme for this year’s festival: ‘Speed Kings – Motorsport’s Record Breakers’.

Featuring the most powerful engine ever developed for a BMW M GmbH car, a high-revving V8 unit with M TwinPower Turbo technology developing 625hp, the BMW M8 Competition Coupé sprints from zero to 62mph in 3.2 seconds and from zero to 124mph in 10.6 seconds. Visitors to the festival will see the car roar up the hill in the ‘Supercar’ category whilst its BMW M sibling, BMW X4 M Competition, will be seen and heard in the ‘First Glance’ category. Powered by the latest M TwinPower Turbo technology, with its cylinder head core manufactured using 3D printing, the 3.0-litre in-line petrol engine generates 510hp and a peak torque of 600Nm – with a dual-branch exhaust system to help to deliver an intoxicating soundtrack.

Goodwood’s hill climb will witness runs from three famous cars from BMW Group Classic. The BMW V12 LMR with a 580hp 12-cylinder engine, that celebrated overall victory at the 1999 Le Mans, will be driven by one of the UK’s best ever international racing drivers – Steve Soper. Alongside the V12 will be the BMW M3 E30, the most successful touring car ever fielded by BMW Motorsport, and the BMW 328 Mille Miglia Touring Coupé. In 1940, this car took overall victory at the Mille Miglia in a then record time.

Festival goers will not only be able to see BMW models in action but also on display in the ‘BMW Boulevard’, a unique area at the Goodwood Stable Yard once again dedicated to BMW. It will showcase the latest expressions of luxury from the BMW brand including the new BMW M8 Competition Convertible, the BMW X7 M50i and BMW M850i Gran Coupé. The cars will also be presented on a curated runway, whilst visitors will be able to enjoy refreshments in the ‘Behind the Boulevard’ hospitality area.

Giving valuable insight into the new design language of the BMW Group will be Matthias Junghanns, Head of BMW i Interior Design, and responsible for the BMW iX, Vision I Next and Vision M Next design concepts. Junghanns, who managed the debut of the BMW X7 and other luxury models within the BMW Group, will be able to share his philosophy and design direction in a series of interviews at the ‘BMW Boulevard’ on Friday (10.00am, 2.00pm and 4.30pm) and Saturday (11.30am, 2.00pm and 3.30pm).

The home of the marque during the festival will be ‘BMW M Town’ – offering an unparalleled array of BMW product and experiences and epitomising the festival’s ‘Speed Kings – Motorsport’s Record Breakers’ theme. The stars of the stand will be the historic BMW M1, the exciting new BMW M135i , BMW M340i and BMW X3 M Competition – BMW M’s new midsize SUV – along with an out-of-this-world BMW M850i Night Sky.

Visitors to the stand will be able to experience the thrill of the BMW Motorrad Rolling Road and pre-invited guests can also relax in the exclusive trackside ‘VIP ROAR Club’. The latest BMW Motorsport collection will be available, along with a chance to see the new BMW M Bike and a BMW M2 Competition Taxi fitted with carbon accessories. Drivers and guest stars will make appearances throughout the festival, with live interviews and autograph sessions running every day - with a series of live performances that will bring ‘BMW M Town’ to life.

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 2018, the BMW Group sold over 2,490,000 passenger vehicles and more than 165,000 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:

Martin Harrison
BMW Press Officer
Tel: 07815 377083
Email: martin.harrison@bmw.co.uk

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

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

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

Press Contact: Martin Harrison
Tel: +44-1252-92-1259
E-mail: martin.harrison@bmw.co.uk

Fully charged, two years ahead of schedule: BMW Group steps up the pace of e-mobility expansion

Tue, 25 Jun 2019 10:30:00 +0200

· Two years early: 25 electrified models in 2023

· Steep growth curve: sales of electrified vehicles to climb more than 30 percent per year up to 2025

· Sales of electrified vehicles set to more than double between 2019 and 2021

· World premieres at #NEXTGen: BMW Vision M NEXT and BMW Motorrad Vision DC Roadster showcase next-generation e-mobility

· BMW eDrive Zones function fitted as standard in BMW plug-in hybrids from 2020

· Krüger: “Moving sustainable mobility up a gear”

Munich. Fully charged as it accelerates along its Future Highway 2025, the BMW Group is adjusting frequency to up the tempo of its electromobility expansion programme. The company will now achieve the total of 25 electrified models previously announced for 2025 two years earlier, in 2023. Thanks to flexible vehicle architectures for fully-electric, plug-in hybrid and combustion engine drive trains, the company is able to respond quickly to changing conditions. More than half of the 25 models will be fully electric.

“We are moving up a gear in the transformation towards sustainable mobility, thereby making our company fit for the future: Over the past two years, we have consistently taken numerous decisions that we are now bringing to the roads. By 2021, we will have doubled our sales of electrified vehicles compared with 2019,” said Harald Krüger, Chairman of the Board of Management of BMW AG, in Munich on Tuesday. “We will offer 25 electrified vehicles already in 2023 – two years earlier than originally planned. We expect to see a steep growth curve towards 2025: Sales of our electrified vehicles should increase by an average of 30 percent every year.”

As part of the new #NEXTGen communications format, the BMW Group is showcasing the next generation of mobility and next steps it’s taking in that direction. The BMW Vision M NEXT provides a glimpse of the dynamic future of the BMW brand in the form of a striking electrified sportscar. The BMW Vision M NEXT is clearly focused on the person driving the vehicle, with intelligent technology to transform them into the ultimate driver. The BMW Motorrad Vision DC Roadster previews the future of BMW Motorrad with alternative drive forms. This highly emotional motorcycle preserves the identity and iconic BMW Motorrad appearance, but also offers a new form of driving fun.

“Our vision is clear: sustainable mobility, produced in a sustainable manner. We have set ourselves the goal of only buying electricity from renewable energy sources for all our locations worldwide from 2020,” said Krüger. “We fulfil our social responsibility – in all its different facets. We are firmly committed to emission-free driving. At the same time, we stand by our corporate responsibility towards our employees, shareholders and investors.”

The BMW Group: a pioneer in electromobility

As an e-mobility pioneer, the BMW Group is already a leading supplier of electrified vehicles. By the end of 2019, the company aims to have more than half a million vehicles with fully-electric or plug-in hybrid drive trains on the roads. Within two years, the company will offer five fully-electric series-production vehicles: Alongside the BMW i3, with more than 150,000 units built to date, this year will see the start of production of the fully-electric MINI at Plant Oxford (UK). This will be followed in 2020 by the fully-electric BMW iX3 from Shenyang (China) and, in 2021, by the BMW iNEXT, which will be produced in Dingolfing (Germany), and the BMW i4 from Plant Munich (Germany).

Including its extensive fleet of plug-in hybrids, the BMW Group has the widest range of electrified vehicles on the market. Updated, extended electric-range plug-in-hybrid versions of the BMW 3 Series, BMW 7 Series and BMW X5 were presented alongside the new BMW X3 plug-in hybrid at this year’s Geneva Motor Show. A few weeks later, the updated plug-in hybrid variant of the BMW X1 Long Wheelbase Version, which is produced locally for the Chinese market, was shown at the Shanghai Auto Show. Later this summer, plug-in hybrid versions of the BMW 5 Series and BMW 2 Series Active Tourer with next-generation technology and longer electric range will also be released. These will be followed next year by the BMW X1 and the BMW 3 Series Touring as plug-in hybrid models. This diversity of electrified drive concepts underlines the importance of technology openness on the road to sustainable mobility.

The BMW Group has always promoted emission-free mobility and advocated for its effective support. However, the demands of future mobility will be multifaceted. There will not be just one single solution that meets the mobility needs of all customers around the world. People living in rural areas, for instance, need different technological solutions for mobility than those in cities.

BMW eDrive Zones standard in plug-in hybrids from 2020

The effective role plug-in hybrids can play in achieving emission-free mobility in cities is demonstrated by the BMW eDrive Zones function, which will be standard in BMW plug-in hybrids from 2020: In cities that establish “green zones” solely for emission-free driving, geofencing technology will be able to recognise these automatically. When the vehicle enters one of these zones, it will automatically switch to pure electric driving mode. In this way, BMW is paving the way for plug-in hybrids to receive the same access rights to green zones as fully-electric vehicles, since they behave the same in these areas.

This new type of operating strategy significantly boosts the potential of plug-in hybrid vehicles to reduce emissions. Increasing the use of electric driving not only optimises efficiency, but also helps reduce operating costs for customers – especially in city traffic. After the idea was born, the first real-life test for the BMW eDrive Zones function is the BMW Group’s “Electric City Drive” pilot project, in conjunction with the City of Rotterdam and the local Erasmus University.

New #NEXTGen communications format

With the “BMW Group #NEXTGen” format, the company is taking a new approach to presenting its future technologies, services and products. The BMW Group invited international journalists, analysts and other stakeholders to the BMW Welt in Munich to experience six world premieres and two highly emotional vision vehicles. The programme will be rounded off with a Global Influencer Day on 26 June.

In this way, the company is building on its existing global commitment to international auto shows and tech and future fairs with a regular independent format for individual mobility “made by the BMW Group”. In addition to world premieres of new models, a particular focus will be on experiencing the latest technological developments from all D+ACES areas of the company: Design, Autonomous Driving, Connectivity, Electrification, Services.

If you have any questions, please contact:

Corporate Communications

Max-Morten Borgmann, Corporate Communications

Telephone: +49 89 382-24118, Max-Morten.Borgmann@bmwgroup.com

Mathias Schmidt, head of Corporate and Culture Communications

Telephone: +49 89 382-24544, Mathias.M.Schmidt@bmw.de

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

Email: presse@bmwgroup.com

The BMW Group

With its four brands BMW, MINI, Rolls-Royce and BMW Motorrad, the BMW Group is the world’s leading premium manufacturer of automobiles and motorcycles and also provides premium financial 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.

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

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

CO2 EMISSIONS & CONSUMPTION.

BMW i3 (120 Ah): power consumption combined 13.1 kWh/100 km; CO2 emissions combined 0 g/km

BMW i3s (120 Ah): power consumption combined 14.6-14.0 kWh/100 km; CO2 emissions combined 0 g/km

BMW 330e Sedan: fuel consumption combined: 1.9-1.6 l/100 km; power consumption combined: 15.4-14.8 kWh/100 km; CO2 emissions combined: 43-37 g/km

BMW 745e Sedan: fuel consumption combined: 2.3-2.1 l/100 km; power consumption combined: 15.6-15.1 kWh/100 km, CO2 emissions combined: 52-48 g/km

BMW X5 xDrive45e: fuel consumption combined: 2.1 l/100 km; power consumption combined: 23.0 kWh/100 km; CO2 emissions combined: 49 g/km (provisional figures)

BMW X3 xDrive30e: fuel consumption combined: from 2.4 l/100 km; power consumption combined: from 22.7 kWh/100 km, CO2 emissions combined: from 56 g/km (provisional figures)

BMW X1 xDrive25Le: fuel consumption combined: 1.3 l/100 km; power consumption combined: 15.6 kWh/100 km, CO2 emissions combined: 31 g/km

BMW 530e iPerformance Sedan: fuel consumption combined: 1.8-1.6 l/100 km; power consumption combined: 14.5-13.6 kWh/100 km, CO2 emissions combined: 41-36 g/km

BMW 225xe iPerformance Active Tourer: fuel consumption combined: 2.5-2.3 l/100 km; power consumption combined: 13.7-13.4 kWh/100 km; CO2 emissions combined: 57-52 g/km

Press Contact: Max-Morten Borgmann
Tel: +49-89-382-24118
E-mail: max-morten.borgmann@bmw.de

BMW i official partner of Coachella Valley Music and Arts Festival 2019.

Wed, 10 Apr 2019 10:00:00 +0200

Munich. BMW i is once again one of the official partners of the Coachella Valley Music and Arts Festival in 2019. For the last two years, BMW i has been building up to the festival on social media with #roadtocoachella and is also showcasing a unique Coachella design for its BMW i models. The striking look featuring flames and the image of a wolf is inspired by the current album cover of global superstar Khalid.

"The variety of live concerts at Coachella Festival is a great playground for creativity. At Coachella, the internationally most famous stars of the industry meet the most enthusiastic audience. Innovation and inspiration are the values that BMW i shares with the iconic festival, making it an ideal partner. We look forward to working with the festival and Khalid, one of the most exciting artists of contemporary soul music and a passionate BMW driver“, says Stefan Ponikva, Head of BMW Brand Experience Shows & Events.

Khalid is one of the most popular artists of his generation. It is therefore no surprise that Khalid is one of the headline acts at the upcoming Coachella festival. He inspired the festival fleet of vehicles for BMW i based on the cover of his new album ‘Free Spirit’. The Road to Coachella embodies the Free Spirit mentality of a fun road trip with friends to one of the greatest music festivals.

‘I love road-tripping, hopping in my car and driving back home to El Paso is 12 hours each way from LA. To me, BMW, especially BMW i8, is the embodiment of freedom on the road. I really feel like a free spirit when I’m driving and listening to music. I love making music that you can crank up and drive to with the windows down’, says Khalid.

Some of the best-known international names will travel to the venue with BMW i a day before the festival begins to experience the design of the BMW i Coachella fleet for themselves and to explore Palm Springs. Follow the hashtag #roadtocoachella to virtually join Paris Hilton, Lena Gercke, Laura Marano and other influencers.

In addition to the actual festival programme, there is also something special in store for fans of Khalid. Together with BMW i, the singer will open a ‘Pit Stop’, where exclusive merchandise will be available for purchase. BMW of Palm Springs (3737 E Palm Canyon Dr, Palm Springs, CA 92264 USA) will be transformed into a must see fan experience away from the festival site with music, a food truck and other lifestyle initiatives. Khalid will announce the exact opening times himself on social media.

The creative design interpretation of BMW i electric vehicles reflects the special, diverse spirit of the festival. Coachella is once again taking place at the Empire Polo Club in Indio, California. BMW i is supporting the event over the entire period from 12 to 21 April 2019. Almost 200 acts will thrill thousands of international visitors over the two weekends.

Press Contact: Cypselus von Frankenberg
Tel: +49-89-382-30641
E-mail: cypselus.von-frankenberg@bmw.de

BMW at The Goodwood Festival of Speed 2018.

Mon, 02 Jul 2018 16:39:00 +0200

The BMW 8 Series Coupé will be seen for first time in the UK at the 2018 Goodwood Festival of Speed. The sensational new sports car will take to the hill along with its racing car sibling - the BMW M8 GTE, fresh from its debut at the 2018 Le Mans 24 Hours – and the new BMW i8 Roadster. The stunning BMW Concept M8 Gran Coupé, unveiled at this year’s Concorso d’Eleganza Villa d’Este, will also make its UK premiere, whilst a trio of cars from BMW’s past will steer their way up Goodwood’s famous 1.16-mile course to celebrate its return to Le Mans and success in motorsport.

With outstanding performance, emotion-stirring design, state-of-the-art luxury and advanced equipment technology, the new BMW 8 Series Coupé is one of the most exciting new models to emerge in recent years and will launch in November 2018. Visitors to the festival will not only be able to see the car in action in the ‘First Glance’ category but also on display in the Stable Yard - a unique area at Goodwood (once again dedicated to BMW) which this year will focus on luxury, presented in cooperation with the Cass Sculpture Foundation.

The area will showcase the BMW Concept M8 Gran Coupé, a car that embodies a new expression of luxury for the BMW brand – ultra-sporty, extrovert and polarising – and serves as a taster for the BMW 8 Series Gran Coupé and BMW M8 Gran Coupé that will launch in 2019. Alongside both cars will be the beautiful new BMW i8 Roadster and a BMW 740Le, in an Individual Moonstone finish. Accompanying these will be David Hockney’s 1995 Art Car, a BMW 850CSi painted to show the inside of the car on the outside - everything from internal engine parts to a dog in the back is revealed.

BMW Motorsport took to the Le Mans starting grid this year for the first time since 2011, with the BMW M8 GTE competing in the fiercely-fought GTE Pro Class. To celebrate BMW’s return to the world’s most exciting and prestigious event in endurance sports car racing, the BMW M8 GTE will be in action at Goodwood with British born factory BMW GTE driver, Alexander Sims, at the wheel.

Joining the BMW M8 GTE will be three cars from BMW Group Classic to mark BMW’s past success at Le Mans and in touring car racing. This includes the BMW V12 LMR, with a 580hp 12-cylinder engine, that celebrated overall victory at the 1999 Le Mans race; the BMW 3.0 CSL Replica that went on to become series winner in touring car racing during the 1970s and the “Wirtshaus” BMW M1 Procar – a 470 hp racer that that took part in the specially created Procar series in 1979 and 1980.

Fans of F1 are in for a real treat too as a WilliamsF1 BMW FW26 from 2004 will also roar up the hill. In collaboration with BMW Group Classic and engineers from BMW, Williams Heritage has fully restored a FW26 race car in time for Goodwood. With its new aerodynamic concept and striking nose cone, the car featured one of the most powerful and highest-revving engines ever in F1 – the BMW P84. Capable of achieving over 20.000 rpm, the BMW 3.0 V10 engine represented the pinnacle of natural aspiration in F1.

Seen for the first time ever at Goodwood, and representing a unique expression of the BMW M philosophy, will be the M2 M Performance Parts Concept. The car will take to the hill and features exclusive M Performance Parts to help reduce weight, improve driving dynamics and enhance visual appeal.

It’s not just the famous cars from BMW’s past and present that can be seen and heard in anger. Pier Luigi Martini will be reunited with the BMW V12 LMR that he helped steer to victory at Le Mans in 1999, while former European Touring Car Championship, Dieter Quester, will drive the BMW 3.0 CSL and Karun Chandhok will pilot the WilliamsF1 BMW FW26. Driving the BMW 8 Series Coupé and BMW i8 Roadster will be double British Touring Car champion driver Colin Turkington, along with Team BMW teammate Rob Collard and BTCC driver Paul O’Neil.

Visitors to the BMW Pavilion, the home of the marque during the festival, will also be able to see an unparalleled array of BMW product and experiences epitomising an ‘Every Second Counts’ theme. The star of the stand will be the BMW Concept Z4 - a car that encapsulates BMW Group’s vision of a modern roadster and looks ahead to the series-production version of the car set to be unveiled later this year. Exciting new BMW M GmbH cars will be on show too, including the BMW M2 Competition, the BMW M3 CS and an M5 in a striking Java Green finish.

Visitors will also be able win prizes and BMW experiences and, once again this year, BMW owners will be able to access the exclusive Owners’ Lounge on the top floor terrace of the Pavilion to enjoy refreshments and view of the festival’s famous Hillclimb. Drivers and guest stars, will make appearances on the BMW Pavilion throughout the festival, with live interviews broadcast to assembled visitors. On Friday, legendary Formula 1 commentator Murray Walker will be on stand.

Ends

The BMW Group

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

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

Facebook: BMW UK

Twitter: @BMW_UK

Instagram: BMWUK

LinkedIn: BMW Group UK Limited

YouTube: BMW UK

For further information please contact:

Martin Harrison BMW Media Relations Officer

Tel: 07815 377083

Email: Martin.Harrison@bmw.co.uk

Lauren Prema BMW Media Relations Executive

Tel: 07815 370746

Email: Lauren.Prema@bmw.co.uk

Gavin Ward BMW Media Relations Manager

Tel: 01252 921261

Email: Gavin.Ward@bmw.co.uk

Piers Scott General Manager, Product and Internal Communications

Tel: 01252 921265

Email: Piers.Scott@bmw.co.uk

Graham Biggs Corporate Communications Director

Tel: 01252 921256

Email: Graham.Biggs@bmw.co.uk

Press Contact: Martin Harrison
Tel: +44-1252-92-1259
E-mail: martin.harrison@bmw.co.uk

The new BMW X4

Wed, 27 Jun 2018 07:00:00 +0200

BMW is proud to launch the second generation of one of the world’s most recognisable Sports Activity Coupé – the BMW X4.

It brings together the hallmark features of a BMW X model with the sporting elegance of a coupé - a formula that saw its predecessor achieve over 200,000 global sales since its debut in 2014. The new X4 gains enhanced driving dynamics, standout exterior design with a strong coupé silhouette and even more refinement, along with state-of-the-art driver assistance systems and connectivity.

The range is also enhanced by the addition of two new M Performance models – the BMW X4 M40i and M40d – to further underscore the high performance of the vehicle and cater to customer tastes.

Model	Power (hp)	Torque (Nm)	0 – 62mph (Seconds)	Top Speed (mph)	Combined (mpg)	CO2 Emissions (g/km)	From (OTR)
BMW X4 M40i	360	500	4.8	155	31.4	209	£55,725
BMW X4 20d	190	400	8.0	132	52.3	142	£42,900
BMW X4 30d	265	620	5.8	149	47.9	156	£48,715
BMW X4 M40d	326	680	4.9	155	44.1	170	£55,315

Exterior design: Muscular dynamics and presence.
The all-new BMW X4 is 81mm longer than its predecessor, with 54mm added to the wheelbase and 37mm extra width. It is also lower by 3mm. All of these elements come together to give it dynamically stretched proportions that emphasise its perfect 50:50 weight distribution and hint at the enhanced performance potential.

It retains the brand’s trademark BMW kidney grille and twin headlight units, while the new horizontal LED fog lights integrated into the outer air intakes form a new interpretation of the familiar X model face. All models feature Adaptive LED headlights as standard.

The side profile is marked out by a sweeping shoulder line, with clearly defined haunches and distinctive wheel arches, while the lean coupé roofline is enhanced by a smoothly rising sill line and an elongated take on the Hofmeister kink “counter-swing” at the base of the C-pillars.

Clearly structured surfaces and horizontal lines shape the car’s tail. The L-shaped LED rear lights, with their three-dimensional housing, are slim in design and positioned at the extreme edges of the rear. Together with the twin exhaust tailpipes (shared by all engine variants), they magnify the width of the rear end.

M Sport and M Sport X model variants.
Two optional model variants allow drivers to tailor the appearance of the all-new BMW X4 to reflect their personal tastes. Each comes with standalone design features as well as model-specific 19-inch light-alloy wheels.

The M Sport model has a more dynamic look, clearly stating its eagerness to deliver performance on the road with its aerodynamically optimised front/rear aprons and side skirts, and accents in High-gloss Black. The newly designed M Sport X model radiates an air of off-road-focused sportiness, thanks to styling accents in Frozen Grey (a colour with rally racing connotations), as well as the individually designed air intakes, side skirts and rear underguard. The standard specification of ‘Sport’ marks the entry point to X4 ownership.

In addition, the new X4 can now also be specified with options from the BMW Individual portfolio. Extras designed to give the exterior design an exceptionally exclusive feel include the BMW Individual paint finish Sunstone metallic and 21-inch BMW Individual light-alloy wheels.

Interior design: Sporting character with a modern, premium feel.
Awaiting the driver and passengers inside the all-new BMW X4 is a cabin with a modern, premium feel, which exudes an air of high-class elegance. All the controls are clearly arranged, while the slightly raised seating position typical of BMW X models afford drivers a superb view of the road ahead.

The driver-focused layout of the cockpit – a BMW tradition - helps to create a supremely assured and wonderfully sporty driving experience at all times. Redesigned sports seats with boldly contoured side bolsters provide outstanding lateral support even in extreme handling situations.

Top-class materials, precise build quality and a host of meticulously crafted details set the tone for the modern and individual premium character of the X4. The surfaces of the instrument panel and door panels merge smoothly into one another, while the X logos embossed into the electroplated surfaces of the front and rear doors are further eye-catching details.

The electric window buttons, the Start/Stop button, the multifunction buttons on the sports steering wheel and the controls on the centre console can also be embellished with galvanic detailing as an option. Meanwhile, ambient lighting, adding extra light sources around the centre console and instrument panel, in the door panelling and in the footwells, enhances the sense of wellbeing. The lighting mood can be adjusted by the driver, with a choice of six colours.

Large stowage trays, roomy door pockets, cupholders and various storage compartments add extra practicality.

The specification of each of the M Sport and M Sport X models includes exclusive interior design features which set them apart.

The M Sport model also comes with M-specific sports seats in Vernasca leather, an M leather steering wheel and an anthracite-coloured BMW Individual headliner, complemented by interior trim strips in Aluminium Rhombicle with accent strips in Pearl-effect Chrome. The M Sport X model features all of the M Sport interior content with a unique Aluminium Rhombicle Dark with Pearl-effect Chrome accent trim.

Vernasca leather upholstery is standard on all UK models and is now also available in Tacora Red alongside a new black with red contrast stitching option, both exclusive to the all-new BMW X4.

The BMW Individual portfolio offers an additional number of model-specific options. These highly exclusive options include BMW Individual extended Merino leather upholstery (in the colour combinations Ivory White/Black, Fiona Red/Black and Tartufo/Black), BMW Individual interior trim in Piano Black and door sill strips with BMW Individual lettering.

Top-quality options for made-to-measure comfort and functionality.
A far wider choice of optional extras compared to the outgoing model offers greater scope for customers to increase both the comfort and functionality of their X4.

The range includes electrically adjustable seats, heat seating for the front and rear and active seat ventilation. A panoramic glass roof with much larger dimensions than the predecessors can also be chosen as an option. The two-section glass has an overall length of 924 millimetres and a width of 890 millimetres, allowing the amount of light in the interior and the supply of fresh air to be altered as required. The sun blind is electrically operated, as is the front section of the glass roof.

The standard acoustic glass for the windscreen reduces noise levels while driving, while the front side windows can be specified with this type of glass as an option.

Another new option is the BMW Display Key. Fuel level, remaining range and service information are all shown on its 2.2-inch touch display, while the key can also be used to lock the doors, close the windows and operate the optional auxiliary heating system.

Space to relax.
Three full-size seats are fitted in the rear compartment of the X4, providing passengers with an additional 27 millimetres of legroom over the previous model. The boot has a capacity of 525 litres and the load space can be expanded to a maximum of 1,430 litres by folding down the sections of the rear backrest, with its standard 40:20:40 split.

Finally, there is also the option of Extended Storage, comprising of features such as additional hinged compartments, USB ports and 12V sockets, as well as multifunctional hooks and lashing rails in the boot.

Driving Experience.
The new X4 will be launched with a choice of latest-generation power units comprising of two diesel engines – xDrive20d and M40d. Their advanced BMW TwinPower Turbo technology promises dynamic power delivery accompanied by remarkably low fuel consumption and emissions.

Joining the BMW M Performance model of the M40d will be the petrol-powered six-cylinder in-line engine M40i as well as another straight-six diesel unit - xDrive30d. All model variants direct their engine’s power to the road via an eight-speed Steptronic transmission and BMW xDrive intelligent all-wheel drive as standard, resulting in effortless progress over smooth roads and rough terrain alike. Gear selections can be made manually using the shift paddles on the steering wheel.

The BMW M Performance models and the BMW X4 xDrive30d are equipped with an eight-speed Steptronic Sport transmission offering exceptionally fast gear changes as well as a Launch Control function. The standard-fit Driving Experience Control switch lets drivers choose from SPORT, COMFORT and ECO PRO set-ups, while the BMW X4 M40i, BMW X4 M40d and BMW X4 xDrive30d models also add a SPORT+ mode.

The BMW TwinPower Turbo technology for the petrol engine comprises a twin-scroll turbocharger, High Precision Injection, VALVETRONIC fully variable valve timing and Double-VANOS variable camshaft control. On the diesel side, the raft of technological measures includes turbochargers with variable inlet geometry and common-rail direct injection systems operating at pressures of up to 2,500 bar. The system of emission control for the petrol engine includes a particulate filter that cuts down particulate emissions, while the diesel models boast BMW BluePerformance technology comprising a particulate filter, an oxidation catalyst, a NOx adsorption catalyst, as well as an SCR catalyst with AdBlue injection.

Reduced weight, enhanced aerodynamic properties.
An intelligent material mix has made it possible to bring about a substantial weight saving, not just in the chassis design but also in the body’s construction and other areas.

BMW EfficientLightweight measures include a further increase in the proportion of aluminium as well as high-strength and ultra-high-strength grades of steel. The body structure is more solid than ever, serving up benefits for both vehicle agility and occupant protection. At the same time, the all-new BMW X4 weighs up to 50kg less than its predecessor (allowing for equipment variations and depending on the engine variant). The car has a significantly lower centre of gravity than the new X3, and this enhances the Sports Activity Coupé’s cornering dynamics, in particular.

Another factor contributing to the BMW X4’s dynamics and efficiency is a reduction in aerodynamic drag of around 10 per cent. This advance has been achieved by streamlining the body at the same time as incorporating a raft of additional measures, including active air flap control, the ‘Air Curtains’ in the front apron and additional underbody cladding. The X4 sets a new benchmark in its segment with a drag coefficient (Cd) of 0.30.

BMW xDrive: precise distribution of power with optimal efficiency.
The versatile sportiness of the X4 is down in no small part to the standard BMW xDrive all-wheel-drive system.

The latest generation of the system adds less weight, while its internal efficiency has been increased. Plus, the wonderfully precise electronic control of the intelligent all- wheel drive also splits drive power to maximise sporting performance; the rear-biased set-up produces a highly rewarding driving experience, especially when powering through corners.

Besides offering superior handling stability, BMW xDrive also enhances traction over loose terrain, endowing the X4 with off-road capability. With a ground clearance of 204 millimetres, a fording depth of 500 millimetres, breakover angle of 19.4° and angles of approach and departure of 25.7° and 22.6° respectively, the Sports Activity Coupé takes everything in its stride, from crests and bumps in the road to gravel tracks, deep snow and steep slopes when leaving the asphalt behind.

First-class chassis technology with bespoke set-up.
The all-new BMW X4 boasts a marked increase in agility combined with a high degree of ride comfort, courtesy of chassis technology that has been systematically refined and honed for the specific requirements of the Sports Activity Coupé.

The design principle of a double-joint spring strut axle at the front and five-link rear axle forms the ideal basis for a blend of dynamism and comfort, whilst the use of aluminium swivel bearings, lightweight tubular anti-roll bars and new wheel location components at the front axle has brought about a considerable reduction in unsprung mass.

Standard specification for the all-new BMW X4 includes not only M Sport suspension but also variable sport steering. Specially tuned to deliver extra-dynamic handling qualities, this version of the Electric Power Steering system ensures precision through keenly taken corners and supreme straight-line stability. The speed-sensitive Servotronic power assistance, meanwhile, makes light work of manoeuvring.

The car’s impressively sporty and sure-footed handling characteristics are further helped by the powerful lightweight braking system and Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) system, whose features includes an Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Dynamic Traction Control (DTC), Automatic Differential Brake (ADB-X), Cornering Brake Control (CBC), Dynamic Brake Control (DBC), Start-Off Assistant and Hill Descent Control (HDC).

The Performance Control function, also included as standard, gives the X4 even sharper handling by varying the distribution of drive torque to the rear wheels according to the situation at hand. 18-inch light-alloy wheels also form part of standard specification, while further wheel options up to 21 inches in size can be found on the list of extras.

Customised dynamic driving: M Sport brakes, Adaptive Suspension.
The optional M Sport brakes (standard on xDrive30d M Sport, M Sport X and M Performance Models) allow drivers to enjoy exceptionally dynamic handling with phenomenal stopping power.

The system comprises of extra-large brake discs and blue-painted callipers. The various suspension systems that are optionally available include Adaptive Suspension, featuring electronically controlled dampers, the responses of which adjust to the nature of the road and driving style. Drivers can choose between a sportier or more comfortable basic setting by activating the relevant performance maps using the Driving Experience Control switch.

BMW X4 M40i and BMW X4 M40d – a dynamic duo.
The model line-up is spearheaded by a dynamic duo that gives the BMW X4 an extra edge. There are now two BMW M Performance models available for the first time, their exclusive status is rooted not just in their six-cylinder in-line engines, but also in chassis technology that has been precisely tuned to handle the high drive power, and model-specific design and equipment features both inside and out.

A six-cylinder in-line petrol engine in the all-new BMW X4 M40i and a straight-six diesel unit in the all-new BMW X4 M40d provide the underpinnings for an exhilarating form of driving pleasure. The engines under the bonnets of the two BMW M Performance Automobiles stand out with their instantaneous response and tireless power delivery.

With its trademark free-revving performance, maximum output of 360hp and peak torque of 500Nm, the power unit in the X4 M40i enables it to accelerate from zero to 62 mph in just 4.8 seconds. Combined fuel consumption stands at 31.4mpg imp*, equating to CO2 emissions of 209g/km.*

The all-new BMW X4 M40d makes its mark on the road with prodigious pulling power. Its BMW M Performance diesel engine generates output of 326hp and peak torque of 680Nm. The BMW X4 M40d darts to 62mph from rest in 4.9 seconds, but also blends its sporty essence with excellent efficiency, as demonstrated by average fuel consumption of 44.1mpg and a CO2 figure of 170g/km.*

BMW X4 xDrive30d and BMW X4 xDrive20d: efficient pulling power.
A latest-generation six-cylinder in-line diesel engine gives the all-new BMW X4 xDrive30d vast reserves of pulling power.

The maximum output of 265hp and peak torque of 620Nm propel it to 62mph from rest in 5.8 seconds, with combined fuel consumption of 47.9mpg*, equating to CO2 emissions of 156g/km*.

The X4 xDrive20d is powered by a 190hp diesel engine whose torque peaks at 400Nm. It accelerates in 8.0 seconds from zero to 62mph and returns an average consumption of 52.3mpg and CO2 emissions of 142g/km*.

^{* Provisional fuel consumption and emissions figures as per the
EU test cycle, may vary depending on the tyre format specified.} M sports exhaust system produces unmistakable sound, M Sport differential serves up dynamic cornering.
The sensational power delivery of the six-cylinder in-line engines is accompanied by a soundtrack to match. The flap-controlled M sports exhaust system on the BMW M Performance models doesn’t just make a great impression acoustically, its trapezoidal tailpipes in black chrome form a stunning visual highlight.

Power is relayed to the wheels via an eight-speed Steptronic Sport transmission including standard Launch Control. The sporty nature of the two BMW M Performance models is further helped by the rear- biased set-up of the BMW xDrive all-wheel drive and the Performance Control function. The M Sport differential (also standard) generates a precise locking effect at the rear wheels, priming the car perfectly to power out of corners.

Assistance Systems: Innovations for comfortable, safe motoring.
The X4 comes with the latest version of the iDrive operating system, designed to offer even more flexible and ergonomic control of vehicle, navigation, communication and infotainment functions.

Its Control Display now takes the form of a freestanding monitor with a 6.5-inch screen, while the high-resolution display that comes with the Professional Navigation System measures 10.25 inches in size and includes touchscreen functionality and a Semi Digital Cockpit (Standard on all M Sport, M Sport X and M Performance Models). The intuitive touch control is further facilitated by a tile-style menu layout with live content.

The voice control system has also been improved and can now follow freely formulated instructions. There is also the option of using BMW gesture control, allowing certain functions to be operated with simple movements of the hand or fingers, which are registered by a 3D sensor in the centre console and translated into the relevant commands.

Another option is the new-generation BMW Head-Up Display, with a 70 per cent larger projection area.

The X4 is equipped as standard with Cruise Control with braking function as well as Collision and Pedestrian Warning with City Collision Mitigation. The optional semi-autonomous Active Cruise Control with Stop & Go function is capable of braking the vehicle to a halt and setting off again automatically.

The Driving Assistant Plus safety package – unmatched by any rival – offers X4 drivers even more extensive assistance. Its features include the Steering and Lane Control assistant operational at speeds between 0 and 210 km/h (0 – 130 mph), Lane Keeping Assistant with active side collision protection, and Crossing Traffic Warning and Crossroads Warning systems.

Another new feature, Parking Assistant Plus, helps drivers select and manoeuvre into parallel and perpendicular parking spaces. The system comprises Top View, Panorama View and 3D View functions, which combine to depict a 360º image of the vehicle and the surrounding area on the Control Display. The Remote 3D View function additionally gives drivers the ability to call up a three-dimensional live image of their vehicle and its immediate vicinity on their smartphone.

Intelligent connectivity.
The state-of-the-art character of the X4 shines through in the wealth of digital services on offer through BMW ConnectedDrive. Intelligent connectivity between car, driver and the outside world increases the level of both driving pleasure and comfort, expands the infotainment offer and assists with journey planning.

Using a flexible Open Mobility Cloud platform, BMW Connected works alongside Apple iPhones and Watches, smartphones and smartwatches running the Android operating system, and the Amazon Alexa voice-controlled personal assistants.

BMW Connected enables route planning to be carried out on any device, based on calendar entries, while taking real-time traffic information into account and making allowance for a refuelling stop if necessary. It then transfers the data to the car’s navigation system when it is time to set off. A message notifying the user of the ideal departure time is sent to their smartphone or chosen device. In addition, the personal mobility assistant also lets customers call up vehicle data such as fuel level and range via their device or lock the vehicle via Remote Services, a feature which comes as standard.

Other features of BMW Connected+ offer an even greater degree of personalisation with new functions, including sharing of the current trip status by text message and live link (Share Live Trip Status), and seamless transfer of route guidance to a smartphone or smartwatch once the car has been parked, allowing full Door-to-Door navigation.

The standard built-in SIM card also allows drivers to use both Intelligent Emergency Call with automatic location and accident severity detection, and BMW Teleservices.

With the new BMW Teleservice Accident Assistance, the vehicle also detects low-speed collisions below the threshold for airbag deployment. The driver receives a message in the iDrive display offering to contact the BMW Accident Assistance service directly. A push of a button is all it takes to obtain professional support from the BMW Accident Assistance team, who put the customer in touch with a BMW Service Partner if necessary. Also available as options are a WiFi hotspot enabling rapid online connectivity for digital devices, along with wireless charging for compatible smartphones.

The standard ConnectedDrive services provide the basis for accessing features such as Real Time Traffic Information and On-Street Parking Information. They are also required for using the optional Concierge Services, Online Entertainment service and wireless Apple CarPlay.

BMW is the first carmaker to offer a secure server connection for exchanging and editing emails, calendar entries and contact details, thanks to the Microsoft Office 365 function that users can select from the ConnectedDrive Store. This means that addresses from appointment entries can be imported straight into the navigation system and telephone numbers can be dialled from an integrated mobile phone.

The new BMW X4 goes on sales on 15 February 2018. Prices start at £42,900 OTR.

Ends

^{The BMW Group}

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

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

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

^{Facebook: BMW UK}

^{Twitter: @BMW_UK}

^{Instagram: BMWUK}

^{LinkedIn: BMW Group UK Limited}

^{YouTube: BMW UK}

^{For further information please contact:}

^{Gavin Ward BMW Media
Relations Manager}

^{Tel: 01252 921261}

^{Email: Gavin.Ward@bmw.co.uk}

^{Lauren Prema BMW Media
Relations Executive}

^{Tel: 07815 370746}

^{Email: Lauren.Prema@bmw.co.uk}

^{Piers Scott General
Manager, Product and Internal Communications}

^{Tel: 01252 921265}

^{Email: Piers.Scott@bmw.co.uk}

^{Graham Biggs Corporate
Communications Director}

^{Tel: 01252 921256}

^{Email: Graham.Biggs@bmw.co.uk}

Press Contact: Chris Overall
Tel: +447815370990
E-mail: chris.overall@bmw.co.uk

BMW i8 and i3 showcased in the capital.

Fri, 04 Nov 2016 14:31:46 +0100

More than 100,000 BMW purely electric-powered cars and plug-in hybrids have been sold to customers worldwide with the BMW i3 accounting for more than 60,000 units. This makes the BMW i3 the most successful electric vehicle in the premium compact segment. In the UK, close to 6,000 units of the BMW i3 have been sold since its launch in 2013. The BMW i3 with Range Extender remains the volume model however since the launch of the BMW i3 94Ah, the pure electric model has increased in popularity.

Meanwhile, the BMW i8 ranks first among electrified sports cars, with more than 10,000 delivered worldwide since the middle of 2014, of which 17 per cent are UK sales. Additionally, there are the approximately 30,000 plug-in hybrids sold to date; known today under the label BMW iPerformance. These reflect the successful broad-based transfer of BMW i technology.

The Regent Street Motor Show is a free motor show in central London. The street is fully pedestrianised from Piccadilly Circus to Oxford Circus. Displaying over 300 cars spanning 125 years of motoring, from the earliest 19th Century veterans to the cars of the future.

BMW’s presence at The Regent Street Motor Show comes as part of our continued commitment to the Go Ultra Low campaign, which exists to help motorists understand the benefits, cost savings and capabilities of the raft of electric vehicles on the market. The collaborative campaign is the first of its kind, bringing together a consortium of vehicle manufacturers, government and the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders.

Ends

Press Contact: Chris Overall
Tel: +447815370990
E-mail: chris.overall@bmw.co.uk

BMW i8 and i3 showcased in the capital.

Fri, 04 Nov 2016 14:22:56 +0100

On Saturday 5 November, BMW will be making an appearance as part of the Go Ultra Low stand at the Regent Street Motor Show. The stand will showcase the latest electric and plug-in hybrid vehicles including the BMW i3 Battery Electric Vehicle and BMW’s most advanced sports car, the BMW i8.

More than 100,000 BMW purely electric-powered cars and plug-in hybrids have been sold to customers worldwide with the BMW i3 accounting for more than 60,000 units. This makes the BMW i3 the most successful electric vehicle in the premium compact segment. In the UK, close to 6,000 units of the BMW i3 have been sold since its launch in 2013. The BMW i3 with Range Extender remains the volume model however since the launch of the BMW i3 94Ah, the pure electric model has increased in popularity.

Meanwhile, the BMW i8 ranks first among electrified sports cars, with more than 10,000 delivered worldwide since the middle of 2014, of which 17 per cent are UK sales. Additionally, there are the approximately 30,000 plug-in hybrids sold to date; known today under the label BMW iPerformance. These reflect the successful broad-based transfer of BMW i technology.

The Regent Street Motor Show is a free motor show in central London. The street is fully pedestrianised from Piccadilly Circus to Oxford Circus. Displaying over 300 cars spanning 125 years of motoring, from the earliest 19th Century veterans to the cars of the future.

BMW’s presence at The Regent Street Motor Show comes as part of our continued commitment to the Go Ultra Low campaign, which exists to help motorists understand the benefits, cost savings and capabilities of the raft of electric vehicles on the market. The collaborative campaign is the first of its kind, bringing together a consortium of vehicle manufacturers, government and the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders.

Ends

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

Facebook: BMW UK

Twitter: @BMW_UK

Instagram: BMWUK

LinkedIn: BMW Group UK Limited

YouTube: BMW UK

For further information please contact:
Gavin Ward BMW Media Relations Manager

Tel: 01252 921261

Email: Gavin.Ward@bmw.co.uk

Lauren Prema BMW Media Relations Executive

Tel: 07815 370746

Email: Lauren.Prema@bmw.co.uk

Piers Scott General Manager, Product and Internal Communications

Tel: 01252 921265

Email: Piers.Scott@bmw.co.uk

Graham Biggs Corporate Communications Director

Tel: 01252 921256

Email: Graham.Biggs@bmw.co.uk

Press Contact: Chris Overall
Tel: +447815370990
E-mail: chris.overall@bmw.co.uk

BMW at the 2016 Goodwood Festival of Speed

Wed, 15 Jun 2016 13:00:00 +0200

In only a few days BMW will take centre stage at the world’s most prestigious motoring festival - the 2016 Goodwood Festival of Speed. In its centenary year, the company will be the Central Feature Marque showcasing famous cars and drivers from throughout its illustrious history

Epitomising this year’s Festival of Speed theme – ‘Full Throttle – The Endless Pursuit of Power’ – the Central Feature will celebrate BMW’s myriad of motorsport successes. Taking a starring role on the sculpture created by Gerry Judah will be the legendary BMW 328 Mille Miglia Roadster, the Gordon Murray-designed Brabham-BMW BT52, and the Le Mans-winning BMW V12 LMP.

The event will also offer the chance to see the stunning 2002 Hommage for the first time since its global debut at the 2016 Concorso d’Eleganza at Villa d’Este. Taking its inspiration from the original 2002 turbo of 1973, the 2002 Hommage offers an inspiring tribute to this turbocharging pioneer, re-imagined as a design study for the 21st century.

As the honoured marque, it’s entirely fitting that Lord March should ‘open the hill’ at the wheel of a beautiful 1957 BMW 507. Other BMW legends being driven up Goodwood’s famous 1.16-mile course include the Mille Miglia-winning BMW 328 Touring Coupé from 1940, and a 1965 BMW 1800 TiSA – an early example of BMW’s unparalleled success in touring car racing.

It’s not just the famous cars from BMW’s past and present that can be seen and heard in anger, but also the drivers associated with their successes. Ex-F1 driver Riccardo Patrese will drive his one-time teammate Nelson Piquet’s M1 Procar; Yannick Dalmas will be reunited with the V12 LMP that he helped steer to victory in the 1999 Le Mans 24-hours; and DTM legends Johnny Cecotto and Roberto Ravaglia will drive BMW M touring cars, old and new, while former double Indycar champion and Paralympic handcycling gold medallist Alex Zanardi will drive a Z4 GT3 car.

Meanwhile, motorbike enthusiasts will be treated to an array of classic and modern bikes including a 1966 BMW R50 S Kaczor, a 1976 BMW R90 S 76 and legendary WR 750 Kompressor from 1929. Star riders present will include ‘Ringmeister Helmut Dahne and former World Superbike Champion Troy Corser.

This summer’s festival also promises one of the most exciting displays ever for BMW Motorsport GmbH. Representing the most recent expression of the BMW M philosophy, the BMW M4 GTS will be seen for the first time at Goodwood – both up the hill and on display – powered by a six-cylinder in-line engine that develops 500hp with the help of a new water injection system. British Touring Car Championship (BTCC) stars Rob Collard and Jack Goff will be at the helm, whilst one lucky Twitter follower- @BMWUKMotorsport - will be able to join Jack in the first Supercar run of the weekend.

In fact, fans of BMW M are in for a treat, as a unique ‘M Avenue’ over on the ‘cricket pitch’ will celebrate iconic BMW M cars from the last 40 years alongside the hottest new M products. These will include everything from the original M1 supercar to the new BMW M2 - the latest compact sports coupé in a long line of legendary road and racing BMWs.

The BMW Pavilion will be the home of the marque during the festival and is a celebration of the next 100 years of the brand. The history wall takes visitors through our past, a fleet of road cars shows our present including BMW iPerformance models, and the presence of the BMW Vision NEXT 100 shows where the future may lie. Visitors to the BMW Pavilion are able to have their photo taken with the BMW Vision NEXT 100 at the Vision Gate, and win prizes and BMW experiences.

Guest stars and drivers will make appearances on the stand, with live interviews broadcast to assembled visitors. All schedules will be displayed daily or available through Twitter @BMWUKMotorsport, which will be dedicated to the festival all week. BMW owners can also access the exclusive Owners’ Lounge on the top floor terrace of the Pavilion to enjoy refreshments and an unrivalled view of the festival’s famous Hillclimb.

Finally, those BMW enthusiasts looking for a quieter moment away from the energy and excitement of the Festival can enjoy a tranquil, relaxed environment at ‘The Stable Yard’. Here they’ll find two of the iconic BMW Art Cars: the Frank Stella BMW 3.0 CSL from 1976 and the Roy Lichtenstein BMW 320i from 1977. Also in the Stable Yard, and in the UK for the first time, will be the BMW i Vision Future concept - a BMW i8 Spyder packed with the latest BMW in-car innovations including BMW Airtouch, the next generation of gesture control, BMW Connected and Cloud connectivity. The BMW i Vision Future concept was first shown earlier this year, at the CES Show in Las Vegas.

The Goodwood Festival of Speed is being held from 23-26 June 2016, beginning with Press Preview Day featuring the Moving Motor Show on Thursday 23 June. The BMW M2 and BMW i8 will be in action for (pre-booked) test drives, and the new BMW i3 with more powerful battery will be on static display. Visitors can even experience what it’s like to drive a BMW touring car in the BTCC with a virtual reality ride courtesy of Team IHG® Rewards Club BMW BTCC Virtual Reality Race Experience. Using an Oculus Rift, it will be possible to sit alongside BTCC driver Jack Goff as he tackles the first round of the 2016 championship held at Brands Hatch. Jack, along with all our drivers, will also be on hand on Thursday and throughout the festival to meet fans.

Ends

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

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

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

www.bmwgroup.com

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

For further information please contact:

Martin Harrison BMW Media Relations Officer

Tel: 01252921259

Email: Martin.Harrison@bmw.co.uk

Gavin Ward BMW Media Relations Manager
Tel: 07815 371512

Email: Gavin.Ward@bmw.co.uk

Piers Scott General Manager, Product and Internal Communications

Tel: 07815 378190

Email: Piers.Scott@bmw.co.uk

Graham Biggs Corporate Communications Director

Tel: 07815 376867

Email: Graham.Biggs@bmw.co.uk

Press Contact: Martin Harrison
Tel: +44-1252-92-1259
E-mail: martin.harrison@bmw.co.uk

BMW 2002 Hommage. 50 years of pure driving pleasure.

Fri, 20 May 2016 19:00:00 +0200

Munich/Cernobbio. The BMW Group has created a very special car for this year’s Concorso d’Eleganza Villa d’Este to pay tribute to one of the most significant models in its history. First and foremost, the BMW 2002 Hommage celebrates the extraordinary feats of engineering behind the BMW 2002 turbo – and re-imagines them as a design study for our times.

“Exactly 50 years ago, the 02 range kick-started an era of success for BMW. This compact coupe is one of the vehicles which made the brand what it is today,” explains Adrian van Hooydonk, Senior Vice President BMW Group Design. “The 2002 sat at the top of the range and was the first series-produced car anywhere in Europe to come with turbo technology. That set the seal on the coupe as a genuine sports car. At the same time, the 2002 turbo was at the technological vanguard of engine development at BMW. The BMW 2002 Hommage is our way of raising a glass to all these achievements.”

A confident statement of unadulterated driving joy.

“The eye-catching design of the BMW 2002 Hommage employs a very dynamic, striking use of forms for its own take on what is, for me, one of the most iconic vehicles in BMW history,” says Karim Habib, Head of Design BMW Automobiles. “At the same time, it encapsulates BMW’s major motor sport triumphs, which were made possible by turbo technology. As such, the Hommage car brings together the past and future of BMW into a confident statement of unadulterated driving joy.”

The sporting silhouette of the BMW 2002 Hommage lies low against the road. Its compact proportions, complete with long wheelbase, short overhangs and prominent “shark nose”, promise a driving experience that thrills with irresistible dynamics and agility. Aerodynamic details like the large spoilers at the front and rear team up with the profusion of air intakes to optimise airflow around the car and maximise downforce in every driving situation.

Historic details with a modern twist.

Inspired by the signature chrome strip that ringed the 02 in its day, a horizontal carbon band wraps itself around the shoulderline of the BMW 2002 Hommage and splits the body visually into separate sections. The upper tranche of roof, bonnet and boot lid has matt paintwork to prevent reflection of the sun’s rays –
in a reference to racing cars of yore. The body’s lines here are minimalist, clearly drawn and flowing in nature. The lower section creates a definite contrast, with its high-gloss paintwork, very bold, sculptural surfaces, and distinctive lines that infuse the flanks with a contemporary flavour and draw the eye to the driven rear wheels. The Space Race Metal paintwork drapes itself over the BMW 2002 Hommage like liquid metal. In both its matt and gloss form, the light metallic blue finish changes in appearance from a brightly fluorescent blue to grey, depending on the incidence of light, and lends the surfacing a dynamic sense of depth. As a result, the car’s whole body brims with power and energy.

A particularly striking feature of the car’s flanks are the voluminously moulded wheel arches, which frame the body like four brackets and add stature. In the process, they recall the homologated version of the BMW 2002 turbo, which needed broad extensions bolted onto its body to accommodate a significantly wider track. The Hommage car integrates this detail neatly into flanks designed with clear dedication to the job at hand. Slick surfacing and precisely chiselled lines envelop the powerful wheel arches and hand them a starring role. 20-inch light-alloy wheels in bi-colour design round off the styling as the car meets the road. The modern looks of these lavishly milled, multi-spoke items recall the racing rims of bygone eras, while gold-coloured brake callipers bearing the M logo add an extra stamp of class.

Fronted by 50 years of BMW history.

The front end of the BMW 2002 Hommage is a confident and extravagantly dynamic affair; its styling bridges a gap of 50 years in combining the characteristic, horizontal graphic of the 02 range with modern elements of BMW design. The front end is framed visually by the prominent wheel arches. And the wide track and low-slung body provide an ample canvas for generously-sized surfaces. In its lines and form, the bonnet references the “spear” contour stretching down the centre of the 02 models that swells slightly into a surround for the BMW logo as it approaches the kidney grille. Further precise lines lend structure and definition to the matt surface.

Occupying centre stage at the front end is the familiar BMW kidney grille.
Here, it takes the form of a low-standing, connected unit, offering a flesh slant on the kidneys’ historical rendering as a cohesive design element. Sculpted, black double-bars add finesse to the details of the broad-set grille. Like the BMW 2002, the BMW 2002 Hommage also has two single headlights that provide the striking front end with its outer limits. The headlights are bordered by reflectors, whose gold colouring is a pointer to the “golden” 50th anniversary of the BMW 2002’s launch. The reflectors also reprise the yellow hue commonly found in the headlights of racing cars back in the day. An unbroken black strip creates a fitting visual platform for the kidneys and headlights, brings together the stylistic elements of the front end and, in so doing, underlines the car’s wide and athletic stance. Those with a keen eye will also pick out the turn signal repeaters, which – like those of the car’s forebear – are located separately from the headlights and embedded into a full-width strip (in carbon on the Hommage car) above them.

The large front apron, a stylistic nod to those models of the 1970s, shortens the visual distance between the BMW 2002 Hommage and the road and shines a bright spotlight on its driver focus. Together with the car’s wide, sporting stance, this technically innovative, forward-thinking design sends out a message of top-class roadholding and handling flair through fast corners. Now, as in the heyday of the BMW 2002, design excellence and turbo technology bring unsurpassed levels of fun to twisty race tracks, country roads and mountain passes alike. The BMW Motorsport livery of the front apron and its “turbo” lettering in mirror writing casts the mind back to the original decals of the 2002 turbo, as does the exterior mirror cap on the driver’s side. Accent surfaces in exposed carbon mark the point where the front apron and side skirts hand over to the road, and also provide a technically alluring contrast to the body-coloured surfaces.

Bringing matters to a sporting conclusion.

The rear-end design of the BMW 2002 Hommage also calls on elements of the 2002 turbo. For example, the horizontal sub-division of the car’s generous surfaces and its clear lines make a width-emphasising and thus suitably dynamic statement, laced with modern feel. The form of the rear lights is inspired by the same historical blueprint. The almost rectangular lights provide a stylistic border for the rear end. The glass covers have a contemporary black-panel look and only offer a view of the inner workings when the lights illuminate. All you can see when they are dormant is an unbroken black surface. As at the front of the car, this strengthens the impression of a strip wrapped around the car.
The BMW logo to the right of the license plate between the two rear lights is likewise a characteristic element of 02 rear styling. The muscular wheel arches bookend the rear section and accentuate the wide track, while precise spoiler lips bring a modern edge to the car’s detailing. A carbon diffuser integrates the now familiar two sets of twin exhaust tailpipes and wraps up the rear styling with a sporting flourish.

BMW’s fresh interpretation of the BMW 2002 adopts the form of a compact sports coupe in the classical tradition of BMW Hommage cars. But more than that, the BMW 2002 Hommage represents a clear statement of how pure driving pleasure is defined in 2016.

Press Contact: Matthias Bode
Tel: +49-151-601-61742
E-mail: matthias.bode@bmwgroup.com

BMW – Honoured Marque at the 2016 Goodwood Festival of Speed

Thu, 07 Apr 2016 17:07:00 +0200

BMW – Honoured Marque at the 2016 Goodwood Festival of Speed

BMW will be the Central Feature Marque at the 2016 Goodwood Festival of Speed. In its centenary year, the company will take centre stage at the world’s most prestigious motoring festival. Showcasing the diversity of its brands - BMW, MINI, Rolls-Royce and BMW Motorrad - BMW Group will celebrate its illustrious sporting past, alongside the stylish cars and bikes of its current range.

Epitomising this year’s Festival of Speed theme – ‘Full Throttle – The Endless Pursuit of Power’ – the Central Feature will celebrate BMW’s myriad of motorsport successes. Taking a starring role on the sculpture created by Gerry Judah will be the legendary BMW 328 Mille Miglia Roadster, the Gordon Murray-designed Brabham-BMW BT52, and the Le Mans-winning BMW V12 LMR.

Visitors will be able to see and hear many products from BMW’s past that continue to make their mark on the company today. Cars steering their way up Goodwood’s famous 1.16-mile course include a beautiful 1957 BMW 507, the Mille Miglia-winning BMW 328 Touring Coupé from 1940, and a 1965 BMW 1800 TiSA – an early example of BMW’s unparalleled success in touring car racing. Meanwhile, motorbike enthusiasts will be treated to an array of classic and modern bikes including a 1966 BMW R50 S Kaczor, a 1976 BMW R90 S 76 and legendary WR 750 Kompressor from 1929.

This summer’s festival also promises one of the most exciting displays ever for BMW Motorsport GmbH. Representing the most recent expression of the BMW M philosophy, the BMW M4 GTS will be seen for the first time at Goodwood – both up the hill and on display – powered by a six-cylinder in-line engine that develops 500hp with the help of a new water injection system.

A unique ‘M Avenue’ will celebrate iconic BMW M cars from the last 40 years alongside the hottest new M products, including the new BMW M2 - the latest compact sports coupé in a long line of legendary road and racing BMWs. Meanwhile, visitors will be enticed to the BMW Pavilion to see the Bavarian manufacturer’s newest models, including the special edition BMW i8 Protonic Red Edition.

Graeme Grieve, BMW Group UK’s Chief Executive Officer, said: “Throughout our 100 year history, BMW has always proved to be a highly innovative company which has defined change and looked to the future. From our first racing success in 1924 through to our plug-in hybrid model BMW i8, BMW Group has played a pioneering role in the automotive world. I am delighted that we will be celebrating our landmarks and achievements at Goodwood this year.”

The Earl of March, Chairman of the Goodwood Group of Companies said, “In its 100-year history, BMW has created many landmark cars, and has an exceptional motorsport heritage in Formula 1, Formula 2, at Le Mans, and in a variety of touring car series around the world. BMW has been one of the Festival’s most loyal and enthusiastic partners for 19 years. I am thrilled to be celebrating their centenary, and our long-standing relationship, with a BMW Central Feature. The sculpture will feature three cars which epitomise BMW's competitive instincts and pursuit of technology in creating the ultimate driving machine.”

The Goodwood Festival of Speed is being held from 23-26 June 2016, beginning with Press Preview Day featuring the Moving Motor Show on Thursday 23 June.

Ends

The BMW Group

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

For further information please contact:

Martin Harrison BMW Media Relations Officer

Tel: 01252921259

Email: Martin.Harrison@bmw.co.uk

Gavin Ward BMW Media Relations Manager
Tel: 07815 371512

Email: Gavin.Ward@bmw.co.uk

Piers Scott General Manager, Product and Internal Communications

Tel: 07815 378190

Email: Piers.Scott@bmw.co.uk

Graham Biggs Corporate Communications Director

Tel: 07815 376867

Email: Graham.Biggs@bmw.co.uk

Goodwood Festival of Speed

Staged every summer since 1993, the Goodwood Festival of Speed is the world’s largest automotive garden party; set against the spectacular backdrop of Goodwood House in West Sussex, UK. Over 600 cars and motorcycles spanning the phenomenal history of motoring and motor sport take part with some of the most legendary figures from the sport as well as international celebrities regularly attending.

For all Media enquiries, please contact Laura Gilbert-Burke or Gema Bernaldo de Quiros at the Goodwood Motor Sport Press Office:

Telephone: +44 (0)1243 755000

E-mail: laura.gilbert-burke@goodwood.com or gema.bernaldo@goodwood.com

Goodwood Motor Sport on social media:

YouTube: http://youtube.com/goodwoodtv

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

Twitter: http://twitter.com/goodwoodrrrc

Press Contact: Martin Harrison
Tel: +44-1252-92-1259
E-mail: martin.harrison@bmw.co.uk

BMW eDrive meets BMW xDrive – an innovative combination designed to deliver efficient driving pleasure: The BMW Concept X5 eDrive.

Thu, 22 Aug 2013 00:00:00 +0200

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

Munich. The new BMW X5 raises efficiency to another new level in the world of the luxurious Sports Activity Vehicle (SAV). BMW is using the 2013 Frankfurt International Motor Show (IAA) to present the logical next step towards landmark efficiency in the SAV segment. The BMW Concept X5 eDrive combines the brand of driving pleasure for which the xDrive intelligent all-wheel-drive system is renowned and a luxurious ambience within the variable-use interior with a plug-in hybrid drive concept. Its innovative BMW eDrive technology guarantees the hallmark sporting ability of a BMW, while at the same time opening the door to speeds of up to 120 km/h (75 mph), a maximum range of 30 kilometres (19 miles) on electric power alone and average fuel consumption in the EU test cycle of 3.8 litres per 100 kilometres (74.3 mpg imp).

The concept study’s BMW eDrive system consists of a four-cylinder combustion engine with BMW TwinPower Turbo technology and an electric motor which is also the work of the BMW Group. The 70 kW/95 hp motor sources its energy from a high-voltage lithium-ion battery. It can be charged from any domestic power socket and has sufficient capacity to enable the car to travel up to 30 kilometres (19 miles) solely on electric power, generating zero local emissions in the process. The high-voltage battery developed for the BMW Concept X5 eDrive is mounted in a particularly crash-safe position underneath the load area, whose capacity remains virtually unchanged as a result. There is a choice of three driving modes, depending on requirements and situation – the intelligent hybrid drive option for an optimum balance between sportiness and efficiency; pure electric and therefore emission-free driving; or Safe Battery mode to maintain the current battery charge.

The groundbreaking character of the BMW Concept X5 eDrive is highlighted by understated but precisely arranged design accents. For example, the kidney grille slats, air intake bars and the inlay in the rear bumper – all in the BMW i Blue colour developed for the BMW i brand – present an appealing contrast to the Silverflake metallic exterior paintwork. The BMW Concept X5 eDrive also comes with specially designed roof rails, a connector for the charging cable that lights up during charging, and 21-inch light-alloy wheels in an exclusive, aerodynamically optimised design.

BMW eDrive in a Sports Activity Vehicle: intelligent hybrid technology delivers outstanding efficiency and characteristic driving pleasure.
Electrification of the powertrain allows BMW to unlock impressive potential for reducing fuel consumption and emissions. The BMW eDrive technology developed by the BMW Group to this end comes in various forms, each tailored precisely to the vehicle concept at hand. The BMW Group’s first purely electrically powered vehicle to go into series production – the BMW i3 – celebrates its world premiere at the IAA 2013. And taking to the stage alongside the i3 will be the BMW Concept X5 eDrive, which follows in the tyre tracks of the BMW Concept Active Tourer unveiled in 2012 as the second plug-in hybrid vehicle to feature BMW eDrive.

BMW eDrive technology hooks up with the intelligent all-wheel-drive system BMW xDrive for the first time in the BMW Concept X5 eDrive. The new study vehicle offers superior driving characteristics underpinned by the electronically controlled and fully variable distribution of drive between its front and rear wheels. Regardless of the driving mode selected, the power generated by the electric motor, combustion engine or the two units together is channelled quickly and precisely to the wheels where it can be converted most effectively into propulsion. This allows the BMW Concept X5 eDrive to demonstrate the typical qualities of an SAV – assured traction and optimised stability in all weather and road conditions, coupled with increased agility through dynamically taken corners – in outstandingly efficient fashion. The versatile and sporty driving attributes of the BMW Concept X5 eDrive are complemented by average fuel consumption in the EU test cycle of 3.8 litres per 100 kilometres (74.3 mpg imp) and CO2 emissions of under 90 grams per kilometre.

The electric motor in the BMW Concept X5 eDrive generates maximum output of 70 kW/95 hp and – thanks to impressive torque available from the word go – demonstrates the instantaneous power delivery that has become a hallmark of electric drive systems. All of which elevates driving pleasure and efficiency to another level. The synchronous electric motor developed by the BMW Group also maintains a steady flow of power into the upper reaches of its load range and keeps weight low. The motor alone can propel the BMW Concept X5 eDrive to a top speed of 120 km/h (75 mph). As part of the boost function, it can also be used to give the combustion engine a noticeable hit of extra energy during acceleration and during dynamic mid-range sprints. The BMW Concept X5 eDrive can complete the sprint from rest to 100 km/h (62 mph) in under 7.0 seconds.

ECO PRO mode and all-electric driving: efficiency on demand.
Like members of the current series-produced BMW line-up, the BMW Concept X5 eDrive also offers ECO PRO mode, which is activated using the Driving Experience Control switch and encourages a particularly efficient driving style. This default mode is engaged when the car is started and offers intelligent hybrid functionality, whereby the energy management system tailors the interplay of combustion engine and electric drive system to most efficient effect. Drivers can also enjoy the services of the hybrid-specific Proactive Driving Assistant, which teams up with the navigation system to incorporate factors such as route profile, speed restrictions and the traffic situation into the driving mode selection.

Drivers can also switch to the all-electric driving mode. With the battery fully charged, the car can cover up to 30 kilometres (19 miles) on electric power alone and therefore with zero local emissions. Another option is the Safe Battery mode, which allows the battery’s energy capacity to be maintained – for example, if the driver wants to cover the final stretch of a longer journey through town on purely electric power.

Everyday usability: flexible charging scenarios and viability.
In order to allow the extra efficiency of its electric powertrain to be utilised as widely as possible, the BMW Concept X5 eDrive is designed as a plug-in hybrid vehicle. Its high-voltage battery can be recharged from any domestic power socket, a Wallbox designed to offer stronger currents or a public charging station. The impressive degree of flexibility drivers can look forward to when choosing a charging point is enhanced by the charging cable stored in the load area below the flat storage compartment. The battery unit is located a level lower still, which means the car’s overall load-carrying capacity is only slightly reduced. The boot offers space for two large suitcases or four 46-inch golf bags, and the SAV’s high level of variability – thanks in part to its 40 : 20 : 40 split/folding rear seat backrest – is retained, as are the generous levels of space and comfort over long journeys that it offers in all five seats.

Intelligent connectivity for greater efficiency.
Innovative functions from BMW ConnectedDrive help drivers to maximise the number of journeys they complete on electric power alone. For example, in the BMW Concept X5 eDrive, the electric range available is shown as a numerical value. The car’s dynamic range display uses intelligent connectivity to keep a constant eye on all the factors affecting range, such as traffic conditions, route profile and driving style.

When the route guidance function is activated, the location of public charging stations is added to the points of interest shown on the navigation map. Drivers can call up stations located along their route or at their destination, and the system also tells them how much charging time is required to fully top up the battery once again.

All information concerning battery charge and electric range can also be viewed on the driver’s Smartphone. A Remote app from BMW ConnectedDrive developed specially to meet the requirements of electric mobility enables owners to control the charging process from their phone. It also allows the vehicle to be pre-programmed while it is connected to an electricity source. For example, the heating and climate control system can be activated remotely to ensure a pleasant temperature inside the car before the driver sets off.

In the event of enquires please contact:

Christophe Koenig, Product Communications BMW Automobiles,

Telephone: +49-89-382-56097, Fax: +49-89- 382-20626

Ralph Huber, Head of Product Communications BMW Automobiles

Telephone: +49-89-382-68778, Fax: +49-89-382-20626

Internet: https://newsroom.bmwgroup.com/global/en

E-Mail: presse@bmw.de

The BMW Group

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

In 2012, the BMW Group sold about 1.85 million cars and more than 117,000 motorcycles worldwide. The profit before tax for the financial year 2012 was euro 7.82 billion on revenues amounting to euro 76.85 billion. At 31 December 2012, the BMW Group had a workforce of 105,876 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.

Press Contact: Chris Overall
Tel: +447815370990
E-mail: chris.overall@bmw.co.uk

Revolutionary BMW i3 welcomed by UK Government Minister and Mayor of London

Tue, 30 Jul 2013 14:29:00 +0200

The all-new electric BMW i3 was revealed today in London to over 250 representatives from a wide range of European bodies and organisations responsible for shaping the future of sustainable urban mobility and creating the framework conditions for the take-up of electric vehicles. Guest of honour, Transport Secretary Patrick McLoughlin MP, reinforced the commitment of the UK Government to support industry in its efforts to develop and deploy a growing range of innovative low-carbon vehicles and mobility services that will help to decarbonise the transport sector and make urban mobility increasingly sustainable.

Ian Robertson, Member of the Board of Management, Sales and Marketing BMW, unveiled the BMW i3 to an audience that included government policy officials, representatives from London borough councils, energy companies and infrastructure providers, financial analysts, investment advisors and non-governmental organisations. Participants from France, Germany, Italy, Netherlands, Poland, Spain and Sweden were among the attendees at an international event that explored the important contributions being made by car manufacturers, policy-makers, academic institutions and many other organisations to accelerate the transition to a low carbon future.

Robertson said: ‘The BMW i3 heralds the dawn of a new era for individual mobility and for the BMW Group. True to a genuine BMW, the BMW i3 has strong emotional appeal, outstanding product substance and a guarantee of sheer driving pleasure. Working together with governments, city mayors and other key partners, we are confident that this exciting new solution for urban mobility will provide customers with an attractive offer for electromobility and successfully address the environmental challenges facing a growing number of megacities around the world.’

Transport Secretary Patrick McLoughlin said: ‘It is fantastic to see a great brand like BMW introducing such a striking electric vehicle to the mainstream market. This shows that, like Government, industry is serious about this technology. We have just announced an extra £500m to drive the growing market for ultra-low emission vehicles. That announcement underscores our ambitions for this sector and will help to create a stable and buoyant industry to support it. This is some of the most long-sighted and comprehensive support for these vehicles anywhere in the world and will put Britain in the vanguard of this growing market.’

London is leading the way in electric car use in the UK. With funding from the UK Government, in 2011, the Mayor of London launched ‘Source London’, the UK’s first city-wide electric vehicle charging point network and membership scheme, as part of his on-going commitment to increase electric car use in the capital in order to improve air quality and reduce carbon. He also has plans to introduce the world’s first Ultra Low Emission Zone in central London from 2020 which would see dramatic benefits in air quality and provide a major spur for the further development and mass take-up of zero and low emission vehicles in the capital.

The Mayor of London, Boris Johnson, said: “We have to get the conditions right to ensure motorists can comfortably take up the option of electric vehicle motoring and this latest innovation should help to make zero-emission vehicles a more common choice for consumers. In the capital we’ve also introduced Source London, a city-wide public charging network, to make the transition to electric even easier, helping to drive down pollution and improve quality of life.”

A panel discussion involving experts from five different European countries looked at the effectiveness of tax incentives, the growing charging infrastructure network, the introduction of innovative car-sharing schemes and the use of renewable energy to power electric vehicles as key factors in determining the future success of electromobility.

The all-new BMW i3 will be delivered to UK customers in November 2013. It is the world’s first premium electric vehicle designed from the ground up to be powered by an electric drive system. It is also a world first by virtue of bringing together visionary design, pioneering technology and an innovative vehicle concept that includes a passenger cell made of carbon-fibre-reinforced plastic (CFRP).

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The BMW Group

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Office for Low Emission Vehicles
Through its cross-departmental Office for Low Emission Vehicles (OLEV), the UK Government has created a wide-ranging programme to position the UK as a world leader in ultra low emission vehicles. OLEV is investing around £400 million to 2015 to support research and development and infrastructure for this sector, as well as providing an incentive for vehicle buyers worth up to £5,000 for cars and £8,000 for vans. Beyond 2015, the Government recently announced that it will provide over £500 million of additional capital investment to further consolidate the UK’s position. The UK Government will publish a strategy later this year setting out its ambitions for the ultra low emission vehicle sector.

Mayor of London

On 26 May 2011, the Mayor of London launched Source London, the UK’s first city-wide electric vehicle charging point network and membership scheme. On 30 April 2013, Transport for London delivered the Mayor’s aspiration to create 1,300 public charge points across the city, making it even easier for electric vehicle owners to plug in whilst on the move in London. This means there are more charging points than petrol stations in London – giving Londoners the confidence that they can charge their vehicle easily and conveniently at charge points located at both on-street and off-street locations such as supermarkets, public car parks and shopping and leisure centres.

On 13 February 2013. the Mayor of London announced his intention to create the world’s first Ultra Low Emission Zone in central London. The ULEZ will, he believes, deliver dramatic benefits in air quality and provide a major spur for the further development and mass take-up of zero and low emission vehicles. Transport for London are looking at the feasibility of vehicles driving in the centre of the capital from 2020 being zero or low emission.

For further information please contact:

Piers Scott General Manager, Product and Internal Communications

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

Graham Biggs Corporate Communications Director

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

Press office fax: 01344 480306

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

Press Contact: Christina Burnham-Hepe
Tel: +44-1252-92-1738
E-mail: christina.burnham-hepe@bmw.co.uk

BMW and MINI at The Goodwood Festival of Speed

Tue, 09 Jul 2013 12:53:48 +0200

• Nelson Piquet to drive F1 Brabham BT52, 30 years after Championship victory
• UK premiere of the BMW Pininfarina Gran Lusso Coupé
• MINI dodgem cars jostle for position on a packed MINI stand
• BMW in the Moving Motor Show

The Goodwood Festival of Speed 11 – 14 July 2013 will provide the perfect setting to celebrate the 30th anniversary of Nelson Piquet wining the 1983 Formula 1 World Championship in a BMW-powered Brabham BT52. Nelson Piquet, will drive up the famous 1.16 mile hill in a car fully restored by BMW Group Classic to mark the occasion. Meanwhile the BMW pavilion will showcase the UK premiere of the BMW Pininfarina Gran Lusso Coupé along with a selection of the Bavarian manufacturer’s hottest current M cars.

MINI has its own attractions and will feature a dodgem track with 10 MINI dodgem cars to entice visitors to an already exciting stand featuring a ‘Best of British’ themed area that will feature a current MINI and classic Mini side by side.

The Brabham BT52 breathes again

In a corner of BMW Group Classic’s workshop in Munich, a group of retired engineers used the latest F1 technology to rebuild a Brabham BT52 to help mark the first Formula 1 title for a turbocharged engine. Designed by legendary BMW engineer Paul Rosche, the BT52’s turbocharged 1.5 litre inline four-cylinder BMW powerplant was capable of producing 1,500bhp in Gordon Murray’s stunning car.

Nelson Piquet will reacquaint himself with his championship-winning car with runs up the hill in the ‘The Turbo Era & Beyond’ class at The Festival of Speed. Widely accepted as one of the greatest ever Formula 1 drivers, Piquet will also be in the BMW pavilion for interviews and autographs.

Storming its way up Goodwood’s hill will be another car familiar to three-time F1 World Champion Piquet – the M1 Procar. This 470 hp racer was piloted in the specially created Procar series in 1980 by the Brazilian born racer. More recently it has been a regular sight to fans of DTM - one of the world’s most exciting and competitive touring car championships. BMW Group Classic has run an M1 Procar as a ‘race taxi’ to add even greater appeal to this year’s DTM season.

Joining the Brabham BT52 and M1Procar, will be a car which added another chapter to BMW’s long history of racing success. The BMW V12 LMR, with a 580 hp 12-cylinder engine, celebrated overall victory in the 1999 Le Mans 24 Hours– one of the world’s toughest and most exhausting car races. At the wheel will be former F1 driver Marc Surer and, one of the UK’s best ever international racing drivers, Steve Soper.

The UK premiere of the BMW Pininfarina Gran Lusso Coupé

Seen for the first time in the UK, the BMW pavilion will host the BMW Pininfarina Gran Lusso Coupé. This is a one-off and exclusive interpretation of a luxurious BMW Coupé as seen through the eyes of Pininfarina. Working in close consultation, the two design teams created a new automotive concept brimming with character – typically BMW while sporting the distinctive signature of Pininfarina.

Alongside this spectacular vehicle, the BMW pavilion will be the eagerly anticipated new M6 Gran Coupé. The new BMW M GmbH flagship costs £94,180 OTR and is powered by a high-revving V8 engine that boasts M TwinPower Turbo technology, develops 560hp and propels the BMW M6 Gran Coupé from 0 to 62 mph in 4.2 seconds.

On stand too will be the updated M5 Saloon, with subtle revisions to the styling and further advances to BMW technology with enhanced ConnectedDrive functionality. Also on display will be the potent M6 Convertible and another true M Performance vehicle, the M135i.

Visitors to the BMW Pavilion will be able to meet the BBC’s former expert anchor for Formula 1 coverage, and new presenter for BT Vision’s Premier League football coverage, Jake Humphreys. Joining Jake on stand for interviews and autographs will be Steve Soper, and one of the UK’s best known television presenters and ex-racing driver, Tiff Needell.

Tiff will also bring a frisson of colour and brightness to the Sussex countryside, as he steers a striking Sakihr Orange coloured M6 Gran Coupé up Goodwood’s hill in the ‘First Glance’ category.

Once again this year, BMW and MINI owners will be able to access the exclusive BMW Owners’ Lounge, on the first floor of the Pavilion, by presenting their keys at the entrance.

MINI dodgem cars and a packed MINI stand

MINI always does things a little differently at The Goodwood Festival of Speed and this year is no exception. For 2013 MINI will feature a dodgem track with 10 MINI dodgem cars for visitors to the stand to enjoy.

MINI fans will also be able to experience the MINI range including the new MINI Paceman. Featuring a sporty exterior design, lowered suspension for a dynamic ride and an exciting reinterpretation of MINI’s familiar interior, the MINI Cooper Paceman starts at £18,975 OTR.

Motorsport fans will be treated to a trio of John Cooper Works models - John Cooper Works Paceman, John Cooper Works Roadster, and John Cooper Works Countryman - and will have the opportunity to meet a legend. Paddy Hopkirk, winner of the 1964 Monte Carlo rally, will be on the MINI stand on Saturday to answer questions and sign autographs. Questions can be submitted ahead of Saturday on MINI UK’s Facebook page or via @MINIUK on Twitter.

Every car on display will feature a totem with details of the model and a QR code, which visitors can scan via their smartphone to see the car in action.

Finally, in a year when MINI Plant Oxford led the celebrations of a centenary of car-making in Oxford, MINI has a ‘Best of British’ themed area that will have a current MINI and classic Mini side by side. Following a competition held on MINI UK’s Facebook page, a classic Mini was selected by a panel of esteemed judges to showcase on the stand which will be displayed over the course of the festival.

BMW in the Moving Motor Show

Once again, The Goodwood Festival of Speed will present the Moving Motor Show. This exclusive event, on Thursday 11 July, enables participating manufacturers to invite selected customers, media and corporate clients to a privileged preview of the Festival and to drive production cars up the hill.

This year the M5 Saloon and M6 Coupé will be in action whilst at the BMW Moving Motor Show stand, the BMW M3 DTM race car will be on display. Currently competing in the 2013 DTM season, the BMW M3 DTM raced to victory last year in the DTM race series after an absence of nearly 20 years.

Also on display will be a BMW 1800 TI/SA. Produced in 1965 specifically for works teams, only 200 such cars were built featuring twin carburettors, a higher compression ratio and a five speed gearbox. The 130bhp TI/SA won many races including a second place finish the 24 Hours of Spa. The car will next make an appearance at the Silverstone Classic, 26-28 July 2013, when it will driven by BMW M3 DTM driver Andy Priaulx.

The Goodwood Festival of Speed is being held from 11-14 July 2013. Representing BMW Group UK will be Martin Harrison, Media Relations Officer, on 07815 377083.

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For further information please contact:

Martin Harrison Media Relations Officer

Tel: 01344 480493 Email: Martin.Harrison@bmw.co.uk

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

Sarah Heaney                       MINI Media Relations Manager
Tel: 01344 480110            Email: Sarah.Heaney@mini.co.uk

Piers Scott General Manager for Product and Internal Communications

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

Graham Biggs Corporate Communications Director

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

Press office fax: 01344 480306

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

The BMW Group

Press Contact: Martin Harrison
Tel: +44-1252-92-1259
E-mail: martin.harrison@bmw.co.uk

The BMW Concept X4. The next chapter in the Sports Activity Coupé story.

Fri, 05 Apr 2013 00:00:00 +0200

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

Munich. Every new BMW X model is a trailblazer. Indeed, the world premiere of the first BMW X model (the BMW X5) in 1999 saw the BMW Group call into being the Sports Activity Vehicle (SAV) segment – one in which BMW X models remain the market leaders. The BMW X3 and BMW X1 were likewise the first SAVs in their class and continue to set the pace among their rivals today. This development took on a new dimension in May 2008 with the introduction of the BMW X6 – the first Sports Activity Coupé (SAC). This still unique concept brought together the rugged looks of a BMW X model with the emotion and sporting character of a BMW Coupé for the first time. The enduring popularity of BMW’s first SAC is demonstrated by its consistently high sales figures. The short history of the BMW X range is already a successful one. Since the first BMW X model took to the stage, average sales across the BMW X line-up have been on a constant upward curve: one in four new BMW cars globally is now a BMW X model.

With the BMW Concept X4, the BMW Group offers a preview of the future of the BMW X family. It takes no more than a glance to see how smoothly the qualities of a BMW X model can blend with the genes of a BMW Coupé. The new Sports Activity Coupé concept from BMW is poised to continue the success story of the BMW X6 in a new vehicle class. Eye-catching proportions, tight contours and high-quality details produce an unrivalled product character brimming with emotional appeal, dynamism and the sturdiness you would expect from a BMW X model, while at the same time holding out the promise of out-standing performance and driving dynamics. All of this can be experienced when the BMW X4 production model rolls out of the factory for its market launch, scheduled for 2014. The second Sporty Activity Coupé in the brand´s model range will be built at BMW Plant Spartanburg in the USA, the competence centre for BMW X models which also produces the BMW X5, BMW X6 and BMW X3.

The sporting character of the BMW Concept X4 is articulated by its dynamic lines as well as its proportions. With a body length of 4,648mm, a width of 1,915mm and a height of 1,622mm, its exterior dimensions signal sporting elegance and powerful robustness. In addition to a long bonnet, short overhangs and set back passenger cell, its signature BMW features include a long wheel-base measuring 2,810mm, while 21-inch light-alloy wheels lend an added flourish to the athletic bearing of this Sports Activity Coupé.

A front end with urban sporting presence.

The front-end styling of the BMW Concept X4 exudes hallmark BMW dynamics and the rugged purpose and presence of a BMW X model in equal measure. Classic BMW features such as the kidney grille and stylised twin circular head-lights give the front end a clear identity and ensure it shines out as a BMW the first time you set eyes on it. The BMW Concept X4 lavishes both these front-end design icons with meticulous detail and three-dimensional depth. The large kidney grille stretches out within a solid-looking surround. The high-gloss frame is open to the sides and at its lower extreme, lending it an almost “floating” appearance in the centre of the front end. The grille features prominently sculptured bars with stylish detailing. The hollowed out, high-gloss black bars have a milled lower third with a matt finishing, which lends the kidney structure extra visual depth. And the grille also comprises additional air apertures to ensure an increased supply of cooling air to the engine.

The kidney grille is flanked by dynamically contoured full-LED headlights. Inside the light units, a flowing, hexagonal interpretation of the familiar BMW twin circular appearance points to an unwavering focus on the road ahead. The horizontal continuation of the inner light elements creates a visual connection with the grille, accentuating once again the width of the front end.

This dynamic impression extends to the front apron. In keeping with BMW Coupé tradition, the side air intakes are larger than the inner units and make a visual feature of the increased cooling air requirement – while satisfying that need. Together with the car’s wide track and low centre of gravity, the intakes represent a promise of exceptional performance capability. The side air intakes pick up on a stylistic theme from the kidney grille; their black horizontal bars are, like the grille’s, partly milled out but boast gleaming chrome edges. It all makes for an enticing contrast of materials, a fusion of high-end quality with the characteristic robustness of BMW X vehicles. This design theme concludes in the under-ride protection, where three milled out, gleaming chrome elements present a high-quality take on the modern preference for minimalist solidity.

Side view with an extrovert edge.

The qualities of a BMW X model merge with the values of a BMW Coupé in the muscular silhouette of the BMW Concept X4. Its proportions present a persuasive case for the BMW Concept X4 as the most dynamic vehicle in its segment. In hallmark BMW style, a longer wheelbase, relatively long bonnet, short over-hangs and a set-back glasshouse lend the car an undeniable dynamism even when standing still. The striking interplay of surfaces creates a vibrant contrast of light and shadow that exudes a feeling of agility and power. Prominently rising lines mould the flanks into a wedge shape and give the car as a whole a forward-surging momentum.

The coupé-style roofline sweeps elegantly downwards and makes the car appear longer. Below, the windows extend well to the rear, where they are bordered by a dynamic interpretation of BMW’s signature Hofmeister kink. The stretched and shallow band of glass creates a persuasively dynamic link between the glasshouse and vehicle body, the slim glass surface giving the body a powerful appearance. At the same time the visual centre of gravity is lowered, underlining the sporting mission statement summed up by the car’s flanks.

The BMW Concept X4’s contours include a new interpretation of the familiar BMW swage line, a pair of dynamic lines defining the eye-catching impact of the side view. A concave area under each swage line lends the flanks an almost sculptural expression – at once robust and dynamic. The surface volumes and definition of the contours deepen as they extend towards the tail and imbue the rear end with added stature. Here, the powerfully flared wheel arches team up with the concave surface below the rear swage line to visualise the power rippling through the rear wheels. The radiant exterior paint shade Long Beach Blue is a perfect match for the elaborately structured volumes and contours, and brings particular depth to the expressive design language.

Fitting the BMW X template, the wheel arches of the BMW Concept X4 are large and almost square in design. This prominent emphasis on the wheels draws further attention to the car’s planted stance and long wheelbase, while at the same time providing a visual showcase for the xDrive intelligent all-wheel-drive system. The pared-back, matt black protective cladding provides the final element of bodywork before the BMW Concept X4 meets the road.

Expressive 21-inch bi-colour light-alloy wheels round off the car’s appearance when viewed from the side. Intricate, high-gloss polished spokes provide visual allure, while behind them dark-coloured flame surfaces contribute an impressive feeling of depth.

Cutting-edge presence for the rear.

The rear of the BMW Concept X4 takes the sporting, width-accentuating elements of the front-end design and reproduces them with an emphatically horizontal flavour. The body’s lines and the slim LED tail lights positioned at the outer edges of the rear emphasise the muscular wheel arches and wide track. Below, horizontal lines split the rear visually into sections, while light surfaces reduce the car’s visual height and underline its width.

The shallow rear window gives the vehicle body an even more powerful impression and its broad shoulders a show-stealing presence. Looking further down, the L-shaped rear lights of the BMW Concept X4 underscore its consummate stance on the road. A full-sized inner element in the tail lights, meanwhile, replicates the signature BMW “L” shape in three-dimensional form with impressive depth.

The most striking element at the back of the car is the rear apron, which provides a wide, full-length interpretation of the front apron’s large outer air intakes. The apron’s cut-out picks up the two exhaust tailpipes in a dynamic sweep before diverting the gaze to the wheels. Body-colour elements reaching well down towards the road surface provide a high-quality border for the rear end and re-emphasize the road-focused proposition of the BMW Concept X4.

The under-ride protection acts as the body’s lowest edge. Matt black surfaces lower the car’s perceived height and accentuate the robust BMW X character of the rear. At the front of the car, three milled elements in gleaming chrome add a sophisticated touch to the under-ride protection.

Ends

The BMW Group

For further information please contact:

Krystyna Kozlowska BMW Media Relations Executive

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

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

Piers Scott General Manager, Product and Internal Communications

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

Graham Biggs Corporate Communications Director

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

Press office fax: 01344 480306

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

Press Contact: Chris Overall
Tel: +447815370990
E-mail: chris.overall@bmw.co.uk

BMW at The Goodwood Festival of Speed

Mon, 25 Jun 2012 13:06:46 +0200

The new BMW M6 Coupé and M6 Convertible will be seen for the first time in the UK at The Goodwood Festival of Speed 28 June - 1 July 2012. Powered by the latest V8 M TwinPower Turbo engine producing 560hp, both new models will run up the famous 1.16 mile hill and will help mark the 40th anniversary of BMW’s high-performance M division. Along with a selection of the Bavarian manufacturer’s hottest current M cars showcased in the BMW pavilion, Goodwood will provide the perfect stage to celebrate 40 years of M.

The new BMW M6 Coupé and M6 Convertible models represent the most recent expression of the BMW M philosophy. These bold 6 Series flagship models offer searing performance and sporting dynamics, combined with supreme long-distance touring manners and everyday usability. With near 50:50 weight distribution and optimised aerodynamics the latest BMW M6 offers an intense M experience.

Bespoke M design, a driver-focused cabin and cutting edge in-car technology, makes the new M6 the most desirable yet, whether ordered with the lightweight carbon-fibre roof or the elegant retractable soft top.

The new BMW M6 Coupé and M6 Convertible are equipped with the same high-revving, turbocharged V8 engine as the M5 Saloon. This revolutionary powerplant not only produces 53hp more than its ten-cylinder predecessor at 560hp, but it also benefits from a greatly improved torque output over a broad band of revs. It’s this 680Nm, available from as low as 1,500rpm to 5,750rpm, that not only gives the new M6 its stunning outright acceleration, but also its commanding flexibility on-road.

The result is a 0-62mph sprint of just 4.2 seconds for the M6 Coupé, with the M6 Convertible following at 4.3 seconds. Both versions have a top speed limited to 155mph. The new M6 Coupé and Convertible go on sale in the UK on 15 September 2012, with the Coupé costing £93,820 and the Convertible £99,020.

Driving the M6 Convertible in the super car run will be one of the UK’s best known television presenters and ex-racing driver, Tiff Needell. Steering the M6 Coupé up the hill will be British Touring Car Championship driver, Tom Onslow-Cole.

Whilst Tiff and Tom will be aiming for a quick run up the hill, they will also be in the BMW pavilion for interviews and autographs. They will be joined by legendary Formula 1 commentator, Murray Walker, and by one of the UK’s best ever international racing drivers, Steve Soper. On stand too will be Superbike World Champion, Troy Corser, when he’s not riding the BMW R90S TT up Goodwood’s famous hill.

BMW celebrates 40 years of M

For 40 years, BMW M has brought the thrill and flair of motor-racing to the road with the world's most powerful letter – M. Racetrack performance and road dominance has given BMW M owners the unique reward of having the best of both worlds. Since its creation in 1972, BMW M has grown to become the most successful high-performance division in the automotive world.

To celebrate this key anniversary a plethora of M models, including the new M6 Coupé, will showcase in the BMW pavilion together with other new and potent models from the BMW range.

The BMW pavilion will host three unique examples of the BMW M3. The first is the BMW M3 DTM race car, currently competing in the 2012 DTM season - one of the world’s most exciting and competitive touring car championships. The BMW M3 DTM heralds the return of BMW to the DTM race series after an absence of nearly 20 years.

Alongside this spectacular racing car, but also not for sale, is the M3 Chrome Bullet – a show car finished in a full chrome exterior and accentuated with BMW Motorsport stripes. Complementing the M3 line up is a new BMW M3 Performance Edition. Built by BMW M GmbH solely for the UK market, and costing £74,080 OTR, just thirty of these exclusive cars are available to buy.

Also on display will be a new BMW 1 Series 3-door M135i. Costing £29,995 OTR, the M135i is a true M Performance vehicle - designed with aerodynamics in mind while also exhibiting BMW M design flair. The powerful M Performance unit, the 3.0-litre M Performance TwinPower Turbo engine, is not only exceptionally powerful but also lag-free, high revving and efficient. The result is an impressive 320hp at 5,800rpm and torque peaking over a wide rev band: 450Nm from 1,300-4,500rpm. Such performance gives the M135i a 0-62mph time of just 5.1 seconds (4.9 seconds with the optional sports automatic transmission) and a top speed electronically limited to 155mph.

The eagerly anticipated BMW 3 Series with M Sport trim will also be at Goodwood. M Sport trim specification builds on the striking styling of the 3 Series and its agile and dynamic character, through a combination of unique interior and exterior design changes and suspension upgrades. M Sport is now available across the majority of variants of the BMW 3 Series Saloon for £3,000 over the cost of the SE model.

On stand too will be a potent BMW X6 M50d, an example from the new performance range from BMW which is designed to bridge the gap between M Sport variants and the outright M high-performance models. The BMW X6 M50d, costs from £62,280 OTR, and features the most powerful diesel ever to come from BMW. The 2,993cc six-cylinder in-line engine has three turbochargers and offers 381hp and an impressive 740Nm of torque, with a 0-62mph of only 5.3 seconds.

BMW in the Moving Motor Show

Once again, The Goodwood Festival of Speed will present the Moving Motor Show. This exclusive event, on Thursday 28 June, enables participating manufacturers to invite selected customers, media and corporate clients to a privileged preview of the Festival and to drive production cars up the hill.

This year, and to reflect the 40 years of M theme, the M5 Saloon will be in action whilst at the BMW Moving Motor Show stand, the legendary M1 will be showcased with two unique examples of M product– a BMW M3 Group A DTM race car (kindly provided by amateur racing driver, Andrew Busby) and a BMW M635CSi (generously loaned by BMW Car Club).

The M3 was the most successful racing car of all time winning a huge number of races and over 40 championships between 1987 and 1992, whilst the classical M635CSi proved to be a real wolf in sheep’s clothing. Using a more powerful version of the BMW M1 engine, this was the third model to bear the now famous M badge and was powered by BMW’s thoroughbred 24-valve, six cylinder engine.

The Goodwood Festival of Speed is being held from 28 June - 1 July 2012. Representing BMW Group UK will be Martin Harrison, Media Relations Officer, on 07525 977083. Additional members of the team will be available on the following days:

Thursday:

Gavin Ward, BMW Media Relations Manager + 44 7901 951 512

Friday:

Wieland Bruch, Corporate Communications Manager + 44 7525 977 067

Sunday:

Sarah Heaney, MINI Media Relations Manager + 44 7824 417 597

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 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 2010 was euro 4.8 billion on revenues amounting to euro 60.5 billion. At 31 December 2010, the BMW Group had a workforce of approximately 95,500 employees.

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