news = new Array();
news['article_9'] = new Array();
news['article_9']['articleId'] = 9;
news['article_9']['category_name'] = 'BMW Updates';
news['article_9']['day'] = '07';
news['article_9']['month'] = '03';
news['article_9']['year'] = '2007';
news['article_9']['title'] = 'BMW Group Ireland: ';
news['article_9']['subtitle'] = 'Submission on the issue of VRT and CO2';
news['article_9']['content'] = 'BMW Group Ireland believes the most equitable and effective way of dealing with the VRT and CO2 issue is to make a direct link between the items. In this way the owners of the cars with the cleanest emissions benefit the most and manufacturers will be encouraged to improve the performance of future models. It doesn’t matter if the benefits are produced by more efficient engines, hybrid technologies or bio-fuels – everyone benefits. Consequently the continued use of a system based on cubic capacity is an unnecessary complication.
In summary BMW Group Ireland proposes the following initiatives relating to any VRT system changes:
1. Removal of engine capacity as a determinant of VRT rates
2. Introduction of new VRT rates based solely on CO2 emissions
3. Deletion of OMSP complication from the VRT process
4. Discontinuation of Hybrid VRT reduction
1. Removal of engine capacity as a determinant of VRT rates.
BMW Group Ireland recommends that VRT is linked directly to CO2 emissions. This encourages the introduction of CO2 efficient vehicles. Whilst engine size remains a determinant of VRT in combination with CO2 emissions a situation will arise where some car purchasers will be penalised for purchasing a “cleaner” car with a larger engine.
For example the current 318d saloon emits 150 g/km but as a 2.0 litre engine falls into the highest VRT rate. By contrast the 316i saloon emits 184 g/km using a 1.6 litre engine and therefore enjoys a 5% VRT advantage.
2. Introduction of new VRT rates based solely on CO2 emissions.
We agree with the department’s current proposal of having seven CO2 bands, however we recommend a more equitable distribution of bands e.g.:
Proposed Labelling System
CO2 Emissions Band
FROM, TO, BAND
0, 100, A
101, 120, B
121,150, C
151, 165, D
166,185, E
186, 225, F
226, +, G
This structure would serve to encourage the introduction of lower emission vehicles.
3. Deletion of OMSP complication from the VRT process
BMW Group Ireland recommends the removal of the unnecessary complication of OMSP (Open Market Selling Price) from the VRT calculation. This would greatly simplify the administration of the VRT system and ensure a level playing field among all competitors.
Mindful of the fact that any change must retain a revenue neutral position for the exchequer we would also propose to reduce all VRT rates appropriately to maintain the revenue status quo.
4. Discontinuation of Hybrid VRT reduction
BMW Group Ireland recognises the positive impact of Hybrid technologies in the reduction of CO2 emissions. However, the current concession enjoyed by Hybrid type vehicles does not accurately reflect actual CO2 levels emitted by these particular vehicles which do not offer significant advantages over diesel powered vehicles. For this reason BMW Group Ireland recommends the removal of the Hybrid VRT concession.
BMW Group Strategy – effectively reducing CO2 emissions
BMW Group has long been aware of its responsibilities to the environment and has taken up a pioneering role among premium manufacturers. The ground-breaking drive technologies recently announced across our model range go far beyond simple hybrid technology and will reduce BMW fleet consumption significantly. Innovations like Brake Energy Regeneration through intelligent Generator Control and Auto Start Stop, reduce CO2 emissions in a way that is considerably greater than that of other manufacturers whose only contribution is through individual hybrid models.
The new BMW EfficientDynamics features are yet another step on the way to the declared long-term BMW vision of ensuring eco-friendly personal mobility using internal combustion engines burning hydrogen (BMW CleanEnergy). BMW EfficientDynamics is unique in today’s automotive industry that reduces fuel consumption and CO2 emissions while also increasing dynamic performance.
BMW Group is currently investing heavily in Hybrid technology as an interim solution. However BMW CleanEnergy, our hydrogen based technology is BMW’s long-term vision for the mobility of the future. Hydrogen is the most eco-friendly energy source, making it a realistic alternative to fossil fuels. It makes driving with carbon-free fuel and zero CO2 emissions a reality. The BMW Group has demonstrated the practical feasibility of this fuel on many occasions and recently introduced a Hydrogen power BMW 7 Series in a select number of markets on a pilot basis.
The VRT structure that we are proposing would automatically benefit CleanEnergy powered cars and encourage manufacturers to invest further in production of a wider range of vehicles of this type.
In the event that these proposals are not accepted, BMW Group Ireland fully supports the SIMI’s proposal on this topic.
For further information please contact
Michael Nugent: Sales & Marketing Director
(01) 8628221
Babette Zingel: Corporate Communications Executive
(01) 8628232
';
news['article_10'] = new Array();
news['article_10']['articleId'] = 10;
news['article_10']['category_name'] = 'BMW Updates';
news['article_10']['day'] = '12';
news['article_10']['month'] = '04';
news['article_10']['year'] = '2007';
news['article_10']['title'] = 'The new BMW M3 Coupé';
news['article_10']['subtitle'] = 'The re-birth of an icon';
news['article_10']['content'] = 'BMW Ireland has announced details of the new BMW M3 Coupé, a model that 21 years ago created an entirely new segment for super-high-performance compact cars. In the past two decades and three previous generations, the M3 has proved a success on road and track. Originally powered by BMW’s first 16-valve four-cylinder engine and subsequently by 3.0-litre and 3.2-litre powerplants, BMW M3 engines took top category honours on a record six successive occasions in the Engine of the Year awards. Racing derivatives have also won more Touring Car titles than any other car as well as numerous Endurance races.
Engine and Drivetrain
With DNA connecting the new M3’s engine to that of the BMW Sauber F1 Team, the racing link is maintained in the fourth generation M3. The new M3 Coupé engine develops 420hp at 8,300rpm and 400Nm of torque at 3,900rpm from its 3,999cc V8-power unit, and red-lines at 8,400rpm. To highlight the flexibility of the engine, 85 per cent of torque is available from 6,500rpm. Power is transferred to the road by BMW M’s six-speed manual gearbox and variable M differential which conveys up to 100 per cent of available power to the wheel with most grip.
Like its predecessor, the new V8-powered BMW M3 easily breaks through the magical 100hp per litre barrier, offering 105hp per litre. This engine powers the car from 0 to 100 km/h in 4.8 seconds and on to a limited top speed of 250 km/h. However, these supercar levels of performance do not compromise economy with the car still delivering 12.4l/100km on the combined cycle, being an eight per cent improvement over the outgoing car.
BMW EfficientDynamics
This relative frugal economy is delivered, in part, thanks to BMW’s EfficientDynamics programme. Far from only influencing the smaller-engined cars in the range, EfficientDynamics offers benefits to one of the most sporting cars offered by BMW, courtesy of Brake Energy Regeneration. This technology uses an Intelligent Alternator Control and Absorbent Glass Mat battery to recognise when the engine is on over-run and activates the alternator to charge the battery with what would previously have been wasted energy.
Another facet of BMW’s EfficientDynamics programme is lightweight technology. The previous-generation M3 CSL showed how carbon-fibre could be used by BMW in limited-volume production cars. The new M3 Coupé is the first full production car in its class to feature a carbon-fibre-reinforced plastic roof panel with exposed weave. In isolation, the carbon-fibre roof panel saves 5kgs over a conventional roof panel but it also lowers the centre of gravity to contribute to the M3’s benchmark driving dynamics.
The drivetrain in the new M3 Coupé features lightweight, but high-strength, materials. Using an engine block manufactured alongside F1 engines at BMW’s light-alloy foundry at Landshut, Germany, the new V8 powerplant weighs a mere 202kgs, 15kgs less than the six-cylinder engine it replaces. To further highlight the weight advantages, the crankshaft in the new engine is made from one complete forging and weighs only 20kgs. Additionally, the front axle components are constructed entirely from aluminium. Even the five-link rear axle, normally constructed from high-strength steel, has aluminium components to save weight. The control arms and dampers alone are 2.5kgs lighter than conventional parts.
Personalised settings
Like the larger BMW M5 and M6 models, the new M3 Coupé also features an MDrive button that brings together numerous personalised functions of the car. The settings for the optional Electronic Damper Control (Normal, Comfort and Sport), three DSC+ traction control settings and three specific engine control maps, plus the response rate of the Servotronic power steering can be controlled with one button on the steering wheel. Once the desired settings are created in the iDrive menu, part of the standard Professional navigation system, one push of the MDrive button transforms the M3 from a car to drive to the shops to a track day special.
All of these power, technology and lightweight innovations combine in the new BMW M3 Coupé to offer a car that is significantly faster around the infamous northern loop of the Nordschliefe. The outgoing M3 was capable of an 8mins 15secs lap but an official lap time for the V8-engined M3 Coupé has yet to be announced.
Coupé design but with BMW M flair
The new BMW M3 Coupé shares many design cues and components with the ‘standard’ 3 Series Coupé model. Only the doors, bootlid, windows and front / rear lamps are carried over. However, a number of subtle performance enhancements combine to deliver an unmistakably sporting outline. A striking powerdome and two air intakes in the aluminium bonnet cover the new V8-engine and help engine cooling. Primarily, the design of the front of the car is created by the need for significant volumes of air for the induction system. As a result, three large air ducts in the front lower valance keep the engine breathing.
In profile, the new M3 Coupé features 18-inch double-spoke light-alloy wheels as standard, with a striking 19-inch wheel available as an option. Another BMW M trait, a side gill in the front wing, also includes the side direction indicator and the M3 logo. Such is the performance of the new car, even the exterior door mirrors enhance the aerodynamic characteristics of the car and provide a degree of downforce.
From the rear, an aerodynamically-efficient diffuser emphasises BMW M’s trademark twin double exhaust pipes protruding from beneath the valance. The bootlid also features a discreet lip spoiler.
The new BMW M3 Coupé goes on sale in September 2007 and prices will be announced nearer the launch date.
';
news['article_10']['image'] = '/ie/en/insights/news/M3Coupe.jpg';
news['article_11'] = new Array();
news['article_11']['articleId'] = 11;
news['article_11']['category_name'] = 'BMW Updates';
news['article_11']['day'] = '09';
news['article_11']['month'] = '05';
news['article_11']['year'] = '2007';
news['article_11']['title'] = 'BMW wins International Engine of the Year ';
news['article_11']['subtitle'] = 'again... and again';
news['article_11']['content'] = 'For an unprecedented third year in succession, BMW has been named the outright winner of the acclaimed International Engine of the Year, this time for its 3.0-litre twin-turbocharged petrol engine fitted to BMW 335i models. Following successes in 2005 and 2006, with the 5.0-litre V10 engine powering the M5 and M6 models, this year it was the turn of the six-cylinder. The engine was originally launched in the BMW 335i Coupé and is now available in Saloon, Touring and Convertible models.
BMW Group Ireland’s managing director, Sean Green, said: “BMW is immensely proud to receive this significant award for a third successive year, and the timing of the award couldn’t be better. The 3.0-litre twin-turbocharged engine perfectly encapsulates BMW’s new EfficientDynamics programme, delivering power, performance with impressive consumption and emissions figures.”
“With its two turbochargers, the six-cylinder engine delivers the power and torque normally associated with a larger V8, but with the economy and emissions expected of a 2.5-litre car. As a result, owners can benefit from the dynamic driving experience expected of any BMW, yet potentially save hundreds, if not thousands, of Euro in fuel costs throughout their ownership.”
BMW took more category honours than any other manufacturer winning a total of seven awards for four engines. As well as winning the overall title, the 3.0-litre twin-turbocharged unit took ‘Best new engine of the year 2007’ as well as ‘Best engine 2.5-3.0-litre 2007’. The winner of the top honour for the last two years (the V10 5.0-litre) was, this year, awarded two honours - ‘Best performance engine 2007’ and ‘Best engine – 4.0-litres and over 2007’.
In the smaller engine categories, BMW’s 2.5-litre six-cylinder engine used in the BMW X3 2.5si and Z4 2.5si Roadster models won ‘Best engine 2.0-2.5-litre 2007’ while, for the first time, an engine powering a MINI was successful.
In the 1.4-1.8-litre category, the trophy was awarded jointly to BMW Group and PSA Peugeot Citroen for the 1.6-litre turbo engine in the new MINI Cooper S and Peugeot 207. The innovative twin-scroll turbo technology with direct fuel injection has a power output of 175hp, while achieving nearly 41mpg combined fuel consumption.
';
news['article_12'] = new Array();
news['article_12']['articleId'] = 12;
news['article_12']['category_name'] = 'BMW Updates';
news['article_12']['day'] = '17';
news['article_12']['month'] = '10';
news['article_12']['year'] = '2007';
news['article_12']['title'] = 'The new BMW M3 Saloon';
news['article_12']['subtitle'] = 'Supercar performance with four-door practicality';
news['article_12']['content'] = 'Hot on the heels of the arrival of a new M3 Coupé, BMW Ireland has announced details of the four-door M3 Saloon.
While four generations of M3 have been built, this is only the second time an M3 Saloon has been offered. Thirteen years after the launch of the original M3 Saloon, the new car offers the same levels of scintillating performance as the latest Coupé. With the added practicality of the four-door bodyshell, the new M3 Saloon will appeal to an even broader audience.
Class-leading engine and drivetrain
Like the Coupé, the engine in the new M3 Saloon develops 420hp at 8,300rpm and 400Nm of torque at 3,900rpm. The 3,999cc V8-power unit red-lines at 8,400rpm but to highlight the real-world driving flexibility of the engine, 85 per cent of torque is available over an engine range of 6,500rpm. Power is transferred to the road by BMW M’s six-speed manual gearbox and variable M differential. This conveys up to 100 per cent of available power to the wheel with most grip.
The M3 Saloon completes the sprint from zero to 100 km/h in 4.9 seconds, only 0.1 seconds slower than the Coupé, before going onto a limited top speed of 250 km/h. BMW’s EfficientDynamics programme, however, ensures that these supercar levels of performance do not compromise economy with the car delivering 12.4 l/100km on the combined cycle.
BMW EfficientDynamics, even in M cars
In common with all new BMW models launched in 2007, the new M3 Saloon features Brake Energy Regeneration. This technology uses an Intelligent Alternator Control and Absorbent Glass Mat battery to recognise when the engine is on over-run and activates the alternator to charge the battery with what would previously have been wasted energy.
Another aspect of BMW’s EfficientDynamics programme is lightweight technology. Although not featuring the carbon-fibre roof panel from the Coupé, it does use other lightweight, but high-strength, materials. Using a light-alloy engine block manufactured alongside F1 engines at BMW’s foundry at Landshut, Germany, the new V8 powerplant weighs a mere 202kgs. To put this achievement into context, this is 15kgs less than the six-cylinder engine in the previous-generation M3.
To further highlight the weight advantages, the crankshaft in the new engine is made from one complete forging and weighs only 20kgs. Additionally, the front axle components are built entirely from aluminium. Even the five-link rear axle, normally constructed from high-strength steel, has aluminium components to save weight.
Personalised settings
Like the M3 Coupé, the Saloon variant also features an M Drive Manager that brings together numerous personalised functions of the car. The optional Electronic Damper Control (Normal, Comfort and Sport), three DSC+ traction control settings and three specific engine control maps, plus the response rate of the Servotronic power steering can be controlled with one button on the steering wheel. Once the desired settings are created in the iDrive menu, part of the standard Professional navigation system, one push of the MDrive button transforms the M3 from a car suitable to collect the kids from school in into supercar-beater.
Four doors but clearly an M car
BMW M’s philosophy of redesigning the ‘standard’ car from the ground up is showcased well in the new M3 Saloon. Although visually similar to the 3 Series Saloon, almost all the bodyshell parts are different with the emphasis on the sporting dynamics of the car. So much so that the M3 Saloon features the same, sleek front end design from the Coupé. This includes the lowered, sportier headlamp design and striking power dome in the bonnet. Primarily, the design of the front of the car is created by the need for significant volumes of air for the induction system. As a result, the M3 does without front fog lamps, whilst three large air ducts in the front lower valance keep the engine breathing.
Like the Coupé, the new M3 Saloon features 18-inch Dark Graphite double-spoke light-alloy wheels as standard, with a forged and polished 19-inch wheel available as an option. Another BMW M trait, the side gill in the front wing, has been elongated for the Saloon, mirroring the design from the M5. Also carried-over from the two-door are the aerodynamically-effective door mirrors.
From the rear, an aerodynamic diffuser emphasises BMW M’s trademark twin double exhaust pipes protruding from beneath the valance. The bootlid also features a discreet lip spoiler.
Details about the launch date and pricing of the M3 Saloon will be announced in the future.
';
news['article_12']['image'] = '/ie/en/insights/news/BMWM3Saloon.jpg';
news['article_13'] = new Array();
news['article_13']['articleId'] = 13;
news['article_13']['category_name'] = 'BMW Updates';
news['article_13']['day'] = '05';
news['article_13']['month'] = '10';
news['article_13']['year'] = '2007';
news['article_13']['title'] = 'The new BMW 1 Series Convertible';
news['article_13']['subtitle'] = 'BMW Ireland has announced the first details of the new BMW 1 Series Convertible, the world’s first premium convertible in the compact segment';
news['article_13']['content'] = 'Powered by four- and six-cylinder engines, from the entry-level 143hp 118i Convertible to the ‘bahn-storming 306hp 135i Convertible, the open-topped 1 Series uses elements of BMW’s EfficientDynamics programme to deliver high-performance, economical and low-emission, roof-down motoring.
Model, Horsepower(Hp), Torque(Nm), Acceleration 0-100km/h, Top Speed(Km/h), Economy(1/100km), Emissions CO2
BMW 118i Convertible, 143, 190, 9.3, 209, N/A, N/A
BMW 120i Convertible, 170, 210, 8.4, 218, 6.5, 158
BMW 120d Convertible, 177, 350, 8.1, 223, N/A, N/A
BMW 125i Convertible, 218, 270, 6.8, 238, 8.2, 195
BMW 135i Convertible, 306, 400, 5.6, 250*, N/A, N/A
*- electronically limited
The Convertible is the fourth derivative of 1 Series to be launched and will carry over much of the styling and technology from the recently-announced Coupé model. The obvious addition is an electro-hydraulic fabric roof that opens or closes in 22 seconds, and at speeds of up to 40 km/h. The convertible roof is available in classic black, beige or, as a world first, an innovative anthracite silver fleck which is a fabric material interwoven with fine shiny metallic fibres.
Exterior design – elongated and elegant.
Viewed from any angle, the BMW 1 Series genes are clear in the new Convertible. From the front, BMW’s trademark double headlamp unit and large kidney grilles dominate. In profile, the relationship to the Coupé is clear. Both cars share a virtually identical silhouette and the classic long bonnet, short overhangs and set-back greenhouse proportions. The distinctive, horizontal shoulder line runs from the front of the bonnet, through the long, frameless doors, and onto the end of the boot lid. This line visually connects the front and rear. It is complemented by the 1 Series’ typical lower swage line and contoured sill, both designed to visually elongate the appearance of the car.
From the rear, the boot lid finishes in a discrete lip spoiler that houses the integrated third brake light and typical L-shaped rear light clusters use LED-powered light conductors.
Also in common with Coupé models, purchasers of 135i Convertibles receive the M Sport aerodynamic package as standard. Visually striking and dynamically effective, the 135i Convertible features a redesigned, sporting front valance with large air intakes assisting engine breathing and brake cooling. Re-profiled sill panels and a rear diffuser integrated into the rear bumper add to the car’s sportiness. The 135i Convertible also features 17-inch light alloy wheels and six-pot brake callipers on the brakes (two-pot on the rear).
Interior design – options from further up the range.
The interior of the new BMW 1 Series Convertible features stretched horizontal lines that visually dominate the cockpit. With space for four occupants and 305 litres of boot space with the roof up (260 litres with the roof down), there is plenty of room to convey occupants and luggage over the longest of journeys.
In line with the recently launched 3 Series and 6 Series Convertible, owners of 1 Series Convertible models benefit from SunReflective Leather Technology whenever leather seat coverings are specified. BMW is the only manufacturer to offer this innovative technology that uses ‘cool pigments’ during production to reflect infrared rays of sunlight. This reduces the surface temperature of the seat surfaces by up to 20 degrees Celsius when compared to conventional leather upholstery.
Also carried over from the new BMW 3 Series Convertible are specific settings for the air conditioning system. Alongside the standard ‘gentle’, ‘medium’ and ‘intensive’ settings, the system recognises when the roof has been opened and defaults to a ‘convertible’ mode. In this situation, the ventilation control reacts less to the interior temperature and more to the outside temperature and sunlight factors to establish the intensity of the ventilation supplied.
Safety is of paramount importance for BMW and the 1 Series Convertible comes with an additional tier of protection in the event of a roll-over. A sensor registers an imminent danger and, alongside the relevant airbag deployment, two roll-over bars extend from behind the rear seats in a fraction of a second to protect the safety cell.
Engines – high-performance open-topped motoring.
At its launch, the new BMW 1 Series Convertible will be offered with four petrol and one diesel engine. The five launch models are -
BMW 135i Convertible.
Straight six cylinder petrol engine with Twin Turbo and High-precision direct injection.
Capacity: 2,979cc. Output: 306hp at 5,800 min. Torque: 400 Nm at 1,300–5,000 min. Acceleration from 0-100 km/h: 5.6 seconds. Top speed: 250km/h (electronically limited). Average consumption and CO2 emission figures not yet available.
BMW 125i Convertible.
Straight six cylinder petrol engine with magnesium aluminium alloy crankcase, double VANOS and VALVETRONIC. Capacity: 2,996cc. Output: 218hp at 6,100 min. Torque: 270 Nm at 2, 500min. Acceleration from 0-100 km/h: 6.8 seconds. Top speed: 238 km/h. Average consumption: 8.2l/100km with CO2 emissions: 195g/km.
BMW 120i Convertible.
In-line four cylinder petrol engine with High-precision direct injection. Capacity: 1,995cc. Output: 170hp at 6,700min. Torque: 210Nm at 4,250min. Acceleration from 0-62mph: 8.4 seconds. Top speed: 218km/h. Average consumption: 6.5 l/100km and CO2 emissions: 158g/km.
BMW 118i Convertible.
In-line four cylinder petrol engine with High Precision Direct Injection. Capacity: 1,995cc. Output: 143hp at 6,000min. Torque: 190Nm at 4, 250min. Acceleration 0-100 km/h: 9.3 seconds. Top speed: 209 km/h. Average consumption and CO2 emission figures not yet available.
BMW 120d Convertible.
In-line four cylinder diesel engine with turbo charge and common rail direct injection. Diesel Particulate Filter fitted as standard. Capacity: 1,995cc. Output: 177hp at 4,000min. Torque: 350 Nm at 1,750– 3,000min. Acceleration 0-100 km/h: 8.1 seconds. Top speed: 223 km/h. Average consumption and CO2 emission figures not yet available.
EfficientDynamics – balancing power, economy and emissions
The new BMW 1 Series Convertible is the latest in the line of BMW models announced in 2007 to benefit from a raft of performance and economy measures under the banner of BMW EfficientDynamics.
Brake Energy Regeneration features on all models and uses intelligent Alternator Control and an Absorbent Glass Matt battery to harness engine power that would normally have been lost during engine over-run or braking. An optimum gear shift indicator also features on all manual-gearbox cars to inform the driver of the appropriate gear for the most economical driving.
All models feature a new, clutched air conditioning pump. When not in use, the pump decouples and uses only 200 watts, or ten per cent, of the normal power needed to drive a conventional pump. In addition, other than the range-topping 135i Convertible, all models feature electronic power steering. In contrast to conventional hydraulic power steering, the 1 Series’ electronic system operates on an ‘on demand’ basis, reducing engine output normally needed to power the steering hydraulics.
All four-cylinder manual gearbox cars feature BMW’s Auto Start-Stop system as standard. In urban traffic, when the gear is deselected and the clutch pedal raised, the engine automatically cuts out, thus eliminating emissions and any fuel consumption while static. When the traffic starts moving, the clutch is depressed in order to select the gear to pull away and, immediately, the engine fires back into life.
Drivetrain and chassis - a supple yet sporting drive
All BMW 1 Series models feature a six-speed manual gearbox as standard with owners able to opt for a six-speed automatic gearbox on all models. Steering wheel-mounted paddles enabling manual shifts of the auto ‘box are standard on 135i cars and optional on 125i models.
Finally, in common with 135i Coupé customers, purchasers of 135i Convertible models also benefit from BMW’s electronic differential lock. Promoting a sporting and involving style of driving, the electronic differential lock works when the car is accelerating hard out of corners or tight bends. In this situation, it electronically slows the spinning inside rear wheel to enhance vehicle traction and ensure that all available power is transferred to the road.
Pricing and on-sale information of all new BMW 1 Series Convertible models will be announced at a later date.
';
news['article_13']['image'] = '/ie/en/insights/news/BMW1SeriesConvertible.jpg';
news['article_14'] = new Array();
news['article_14']['articleId'] = 14;
news['article_14']['category_name'] = 'BMW Updates';
news['article_14']['day'] = '16';
news['article_14']['month'] = '10';
news['article_14']['year'] = '2008';
news['article_14']['title'] = 'BMW are delighted to invite';
news['article_14']['subtitle'] = 'you to avail of a free winter health check.';
news['article_14']['content'] = 'Our factory trained BMW technicians would like to offer you a FREE winter check on your BMW.
This health check will ensure that you continue to experience “The Ultimate Driving Machine”.
Whilst this check is being carried out why not test drive the latest models, see our display of accessories and BMW lifestyle clothing. Refreshments will be available.
BMW staff will be on hand should you wish to ask them any questions.
This offer is open for a limited period* only and we encourage you to make an appointment with your dealership early as spaces are limited.
The winter check allows us to ensure that your BMW is in the best shape possible and thus keep you safe and secure this winter.
Listed below are just some of the items which our factory trained technicians will check on your vehicle:
- Check for recalls and campaigns outstanding
- Check fluid level in brake and clutch hydraulic system
- Check drive belt condition
- Check battery condition
- Check exhaust condition
- Check all lights
- Check steering oil and condition
- Check coolant level
- Check tyre pressure and thread depth
- Check brake fluid according to service indicator
- Check fluid levels and concentration of screeenwash
- Check engine oil level
For more information or to locate your nearest dealer please contact:
BMW Customer Service
1890 719 420
customerinformation@bmw.ie
We look forward to hearing from you.
* Offer open until 31st December 2008. Offer is valid at participating BMW Dealers and BMW Service Authorised Workshops only';
news['article_14']['image'] = '/ie/en/insights/news/_highend/winter_check.jpg';
news['article_15'] = new Array();
news['article_15']['articleId'] = 15;
news['article_15']['category_name'] = 'BMW Updates';
news['article_15']['day'] = '25';
news['article_15']['month'] = '03';
news['article_15']['year'] = '2008';
news['article_15']['title'] = 'World Green Car of the Year';
news['article_15']['subtitle'] = 'BMW EfficientDynamics a Story of Global Success: BMW 118d';
news['article_15']['content'] = 'On the eve of the New York International Auto Show 2008 the BMW 118d has been voted “World Green Car of the Year”. Presenting this outstanding award, the jury has convincingly acknowledged the significant impact and effect of the BMW EfficientDynamics development strategy giving the BMW 118d its outstandingly low consumption and emission ratings.
Securing this victory, BMW has continued the series of international awards for its ongoing strategy of enhanced efficiency throughout the current range of BMW Group models. BMW EfficientDynamics has already received a great number of awards in Europe, and this year BMW appeared in the list of winners for the World Car of the Year award not for the first time, with the current BMW 3 Series already winning the overall category in the most significant global automobile award in 2006.
The jury made up this year of 47 motor journalists from 24 countries awards the title “World Green Car of the Year” to vehicles and technologies able to make a particular contribution to the reduction of emissions and thus symbolising the outstanding environmental awareness of the winning car maker. The BMW 118d convinced the experts above all through its unparalleled balance of driving pleasure, on the one hand, and economy, on the other. The 2.0-litre four-cylinder diesel engine develops 105 kW/143 hp and accelerates the BMW 118d to 100 km/h in a mere 9.0 seconds. By contrast, average fuel consumption in the EU test cycle is just 4.5 litres/100 kilometres equal to 52.1 mpg and the CO2 rating is a mere 119 grams per kilometre.
The BMW 118d owes its exemplary consumption and emission standards to the latest achievements of the BMW EfficientDynamics development strategy. This strategy combines the most advanced engine technology with the most sophisticated efficiency-promoting technologies such as Brake Energy Regeneration, Auto Start Stop Function, a gearshift point indicator, on-demand management of ancillary units, tyres with reduced roll resistance, and optimised aerodynamics.
All BMW EfficientDynamics features available for the BMW 118d come as standard on this exemplary model, reflecting a principle which applies not just to the “World Green Car of the Year”, but rather to almost all new BMW models, thus contributing to the particularly broad impact of BMW EfficientDynamics in reducing emissions.
Recognised and acknowledged internationally:
BMW EfficientDynamics.
BMW has been honoured on several occasions by non-partisan experts in recent times for the consistent implementation of this cutting-edge strategy. In Germany BMW EfficientDynamics has received the “Green Steering Wheel” from a leading Sunday newspaper Bild am Sonntag, the “Paul Pietsch Award” from auto, motor und sport, one of Europe’s leading motor magazines, and the “Innovation Prize” in the Auto 1 of Europe Contest organised by the magazine Auto Bild.
In Austria the “Innovation Prize” proclaimed by Autorevue Award and the “Environmental Award” of the Austrian Federation of Car Drivers, Motorcycle and Bicycle Riders (ARBÖ) has gone to BMW. In the UK the British automobile magazine CAR has presented a “Green Award” to BMW EfficientDynamics, and the experts of the British magazine What Car?, in their search for “Green Heroes” in the automobile market, have declared no less than six BMW Group models the “Best Choice” in their respective segments of modern technologies reducing both fuel consumption and emissions.
Receiving the “World Green Car of the Year” Award, the BMW 118d is continuing a long story of success. This specific model already received the “2008 ECO TREND Automobile Environmental Certificate“ and ranks right at the top also in other current lists of the cleanest and most fuel-efficient cars. Coming right at the top of the “Automobil ForecastIndex” established by the market experts of Eurotax Schwacke, the BMW 118d likewise proves that it is first choice also in terms of cost aspects, and not “just” on account of its low fuel consumption: According to the latest analysis by Eurotax Schwacke, the BMW 118d is the best car in the German automobile market in retaining its value. And together with all further models in the BMW 1 Series, it is also among the most reliable cars, as is clearly borne out by the latest breakdown statistics compiled by ADAC, the leading German motoring club: In this list of cars hardly ever suffering a technical breakdown, the BMW 1 Series is No 3, within close sight of the overall winner in this year’s reliability ranking, the BMW X3.
Achieving such unique results in the “World Car of the Year” Award 2008, BMW once again proves the unique skill and competence of the company in developing cars absolutely appropriate for our day and age but nevertheless still fascinating in every respect. This is the result of a development strategy pursuing both sheer driving pleasure and consistently growing efficiency as equally important targets in today’s world. Operating on this foundation, BMW creates cars which are achieving growing success in the international car markets by offering a thrilling experience on the road and, at the same time, truly outstanding fuel economy and emission management.
';
news['article_16'] = new Array();
news['article_16']['articleId'] = 16;
news['article_16']['category_name'] = 'BMW Updates';
news['article_16']['day'] = '18';
news['article_16']['month'] = '08';
news['article_16']['year'] = '2008';
news['article_16']['title'] = 'BMW Group Ireland announce';
news['article_16']['subtitle'] = 'final changes to Dealer Network ';
news['article_16']['content'] = 'Following a strong start to the new VRT system with 2,097 new vehicle registrations since 1 July, BMW Group Ireland is pleased to announce the final changes to the company’s Irish dealer network structure.
From 1 October 2008 there will be new BMW and MINI representation in Athlone, Galway, Cork and Donegal. Colm Quinn BMW & MINI is the new Midlands dealer in Blyry Business and Commercial Park, Athlone, Tom Hogan Motors at Ballybrit, Galway will be the sales dealership in Galway. Mulroy Motors in Letterkenny is the new dealer in the North West, while Kearys will open a second dealership in Cork at Eastgate.
From 1 October there will be 16 BMW dealerships across Ireland, of which 13 will represent MINI. Additionally, there is one stand-alone BMW Motorrad dealer in Bray, Co Wicklow and two BMW / MINI Authorised Repairers in Galway and Co Monaghan. The departure of Maxwell Motors from the BMW network has created an opening in south Dublin and the company is actively seeking a replacement dealer to cover this key area.
The new dealership openings complement the significant investments made by existing BMW franchise partners of around €50m which have taken place over the last few years in the upgrading and renewal of facilities across the country.
Sean Green, Managing Director of BMW Group Ireland said, “We are very pleased with the choice of new and existing partners to represent BMW and MINI across Ireland. I’m confident that the rigorous review process means that the dealers in our network will set a new benchmark in providing customers with the very best ownership experience. With a fantastic product range benefiting from class-leading emissions and the lowest VRT rates in their respective classes, it is fitting to ensure that they are handled through the strongest partners in the country.”
The latest SIMI vehicle registration statistics for July and August, since the new VRT system came into effect, show BMW as the leading brand in the executive segment with 1,848 registrations since 1 July. Additionally, MINI had a very strong start to July and August with 249 registrations, over 300% higher than 2007.
The class-leading strategy known as BMW EfficientDynamics is the key reason for the post VRT-reform sales boost. Of the standard/entry level transmissions on the 253 BMW models, 172 have fallen in price, or 68% of the range. Known as MINImalism across the MINI range, of the 13 models 9 have been reduced or 69%.
Sean Green, Managing Director of BMW Group Ireland said, “It is certainly a great start to the second half of 2008. With some very positive price movements for our customers, we fully expected to be one of the biggest benefactors of the new VRT scheme from July. Being the first manufacturer to announce our post-July prices, ensured we were able to capture orders early and tailor our production to cater for the demand.”
For further information:
Sarah Heaney
Corporate Communications Manager
BMW Group Ireland
086 1742729
';
news['article_17'] = new Array();
news['article_17']['articleId'] = 17;
news['article_17']['category_name'] = 'BMW Updates';
news['article_17']['day'] = '01';
news['article_17']['month'] = '09';
news['article_17']['year'] = '2008';
news['article_17']['title'] = 'The BMW concept X1';
news['article_17']['subtitle'] = 'Description in Brief';
news['article_17']['content'] = 'Character:
• World debut of a concept BMW X model in the premium compact segment.
• BMW, the founder of the Sports Activity Vehicle segment, is consistently expanding the range of BMW X models.
• Authentic transition of the features and design language typical of a BMW X model into a new class of vehicles. A concept study offering a clear expression of modern style, agility, versatility and premium quality through its design alone.
• As an innovative vehicle concept in the premium compact segment, the BMW Concept X1 sets the standard for cool elegance, modern style, and variable function.
• The BMW Concept X1 offers ample room for spontaneous mobility in many different ways, clearly refl ecting the lifestyle of a modern and active target group. Numerous details on the Concept Car provide a clear hint as to the actual production of an appropriate series model within one year.
Exterior design:
• Typical features of a BMW X model combined with elegant, sleek proportions. This alone gives the BMW Concept X1 unique character within the range of BMW X models as a whole.
• The striking frontal view clearly expresses the robust and powerful character of the car by emphasising its sheer width. A fl oor protection element fi nished in a different colour gives additional emphasis to the wide track.
• The BMW Concept X1 comes with dual round headlights cut off at the top in the typical style of the BMW brand, complete with a white-coloured horizontal cover at the top edge. The position of the headlights and foglamps brings back the three-eye face of other BMW X models.
• Six contour lines and the three-dimensional shape defi ne the surface design of the engine compartment lid emanating a strong feeling of dynamic performance. The inner lines taper out sharply to the front towards the BMW kidney grille, the outer lines continue into the shoulder contours at the side.
• Through its centre of gravity visibly positioned right in the middle, the small distance between the front axle and the steering wheel, and the almost square contours of the wheel cutouts, the side view of the BMW Concept X1 draws a clear parallel to other BMW X models. Black body surrounds made of a special, robust synthetic material highlight the clear orientation towards the wheels. The sturdy, silver-coloured roof railing extends far to the rear, determining the course of the roofl ine together with the spoiler at the back.
• Characteristic rear end with L-shaped rear light clusters ensuring a homogeneous light effect thanks to LED light tubes. Raked to a low angle, the rear window gives the BMW Concept X1 a truly sporting touch, the horizontal lines emphasising the sheer width of the vehicle.
• As a special design feature specifi c to this model, three-dimensional surrounds encompass the headlights and rear light clusters and help to create the special graphics of the side windows.
For full information download the document below.';
news['article_17']['link1_target'] = '_blank';
news['article_17']['link1_url'] = 'http://external.bmw.ie/templates/BMW06/BMWConceptX1.pdf';
news['article_17']['link1_text'] = 'The BMW Concent X1';
news['article_18'] = new Array();
news['article_18']['articleId'] = 18;
news['article_18']['category_name'] = 'BMW Updates';
news['article_18']['day'] = '20';
news['article_18']['month'] = '10';
news['article_18']['year'] = '2008';
news['article_18']['title'] = 'The new BMW 7 Series';
news['article_18']['subtitle'] = 'The flagship of the BMW model range debuts in November ';
news['article_18']['content'] = 'World’s first Night Vision system with individual pedestrian recognition.
World’s first production car with front side view camera.
First BMW Saloon with speed-related Integral Active Steering.
First BMW with Lane Change Warning.
BMW 7 Series to feature EfficientDynamics for class-leading CO2 emissions and fuel consumption.
The launch of the fifth generation of the BMW 7 Series sets a new benchmark in automotive luxury, technical innovation and class-leading driving dynamics, combined with emissions reducing and fuel saving technology.
The flagship of the BMW model range debuts in November with a host of world firsts and will initially be offered with a choice of three engines, one diesel and two petrol engines. The two petrol-powered cars will be offered with a long-wheelbase body too. All three engines produce more power yet use less fuel and produce less emissions than the models they replace.
World firsts.
The BMW 7 Series’ drivetrain superiority is reinforced with a plethora of automotive firsts. All 7 Series can now be specified with the world’s first car available with a Side View camera system. In addition to Park Distance Control that aids slow speed manoeuvring, the front side view camera system provides another tier of driver awareness. With the touch of a button two forward facing cameras mounted in the front bumper can show an overview of traffic conditions on the iDrive display. This allows the driver to negotiate a partially obscured junction, leave a car park or drive through a narrow gate with absolute confidence.
The new BMW 7 Series can be specified with the world’s most advanced Night Vision system in a production car. BMW was the first manufacturer to fit Night Vision to a premium car and it has now upgraded this package to include a pedestrian recognition system in another world first. A control unit analyses video data of human behaviour as part of the Night Vision camera’s reach and can subsequently alert the driver if it detects a human is moving into the path of the vehicle.
Building on the impressive list of innovations, the 7 Series is the first BMW to feature Lane Change Warning combined with Lane Departure Warning. The latter is a system that first appeared on BMW 5 and 6 Series models and uses a camera to monitor road markings. Should the driver start to stray out of lane, a gentle vibration of the steering wheel provides an alert. However, courtesy of two radars located at either side of the rear bumper, Lane Change Warning adds another level of driver safety. The sensors constantly scan the blind spot either side of the vehicle, up to a distance of 60 metres, and alert the driver to the presence of another vehicle with a triangular symbol in the door mirror housing.
Cars that are specified with Head-up Display and Lane Departure Warning have the added driver benefit of a speed limit warning system. The camera used as part of the Lane Departure Warning system can now also scan oncoming road signs to alert the driver of any impending speed restriction. The current speed limit is then displayed in the Head-up Display. This is the first time a production car has been offered with a speed warning system that can read road signs.
Completing the host of innovations is speed-related Integral Active Steering. A car specified with this optional equipment allows the rear wheels to turn by up to 3º. At slow speeds it is highly manoeuvrable, while at a faster pace it offers enhanced composure and driving dynamics.
Tailormade driving dynamics
The latest generation BMW 7 Series is the first to have Drive Dynamic Control featuring Variable Damping Control as standard. Drive Dynamic Control is the umbrella function that lets a driver customise the characteristics of his or her car. As part of this Variable Damping Control can bet set in comfort, normal, sport, sport + modes. For the first time though these settings are infinitely variable depending on driving style and road surface condition. The selected mode now alters the throttle response, gear change speed and steering feel.
To aid driving dynamics and comfort the 7 Series is the first BMW Saloon to feature race car-like double-wishbone front suspension. This arrangement allows engineers to fine-tune the suspension for the best kinematic configuration. The rear suspension consists of a five-link arrangement made of aluminium which can be further optimised with the inclusion of Adaptive Air Suspension.
The BMW 7 Series comes as standard with Dynamic Stability Control + featuring additional functions such as Hill-Start Assistant, Brake Drying, Brake Pre-tensioning, Soft-stop and Brake Fade Compensation. Dynamic Traction Control can be activated via a button to enable spirited driving or greater traction of slippery surfaces such as snow and ice.
A new interior
The new BMW 7 Series comes with one of the most luxurious interiors of any premium car. In addition to a new iDrive controller and larger 10.2-inch screen, owners will be able to programme frequently selected radio stations or navigation destinations on favourite buttons located on the centre console. For the first time on a BMW the instrument cluster comprises a high-resolution colour display with Black Panel technology. This new style of display makes for greater character clarity and, when not in use, forms a smooth, homogenous black surface that gives the interior an added level of modern elegance.
The 7 Series is the first BMW to enable a customer to upload their favourite music to be stored on the vehicle courtesy of an 8Gb hard drive. In excess of 100 albums can be saved in this way for the driver’s enjoyment. Four-zone automatic air-conditioning is fitted as standard while, for the first time, the 7 Series can have a rear seat ventilation system combined with massage function. The air-conditioning system feeds cool air to the seat squab and backrest, while twelve massage bubbles gently kneed the occupants’ upper body.
The BMW 730d sets a new benchmark in terms of drivetrain performance. The new all-aluminium 3.0-litre straight-six cylinder diesel engine produces 245hp at 4,000rpm. Its effortless real world driving smoothness comes courtesy of a peak torque figure of 540Nm attained from 1,750rpm through to 3,000rpm.
The 2,993cc powerplant posts the lowest ever CO2 figure of any previous BMW 7 Series and it is also the most economical 7 Series ever. Its 192g/km emission figure is class-leading for conventionally powered luxury cars, while no other competitor comes close to its 39.2mpg combined consumption figure. It can accelerate from zero to 62mph in 7.2 seconds and has a 153mph top speed.
The impressive performance of the 730d is, in part, possible due to third-generation common-rail direct injection technology, incorporating piezo injectors, that operates at a peak pressure of 1,800 bar. This system ensures a near perfect combustion process. Weighing 185kgs the new six-cylinder diesel engine is also 5kgs lighter than its predecessor.
The BMW 730d is set to be the biggest seller in Ireland, accounting for approximately 85 per cent of sales.
The BMW 750i and 750Li are the range flagships. The new 4,395cc V8 engine from the recently launched X6, featuring twin-turbochargers and high-precision direct injection technology, produces 407hp from 5,500rpm to 6,400rpm. Impressive figures that are backed up by an equally stunning 600Nm of torque from 1,750rpm to 4,500rpm. Such breathtaking performance sees the BMW 750i accelerate from zero to 62mph in 5.2 seconds (5.3 seconds for the 750Li) before going on to an electronically-limited top speed of 155mph. Consumption on the combined cycle is 24.8mpg, while CO2 emissions equate to 266g/km.
The all-aluminium V8 engine powering the 750i and 750Li also features its own world first - twin-turbochargers and catalysts that are placed within the V-space of the engine block. This not only optimises packaging but the reduction in manifold length and larger cross sections mean the engine breathes better for enhanced performance. Double-VANOS variable valve technology and high-precision direct injection technology further aid engine performance to the degree that all the innovations combine to offer a V8 engine that has an equivalent output of a traditional 12-cylinder unit.
Aimed at customers who prefer the characteristics of a petrol-powered BMW six-cylinder engine, the BMW 740i and 740Li are also offered. Using an internationally-acclaimed 2,979cc powerplant, the BMW 740i musters 326hp and 450Nm of torque for rapid yet serene performance. The twin-turbocharged engine features high-precision direct injection and Double-VANOS variable valve technology to achieve optimum performance. The car accelerates from zero to 62mph in 5.9 seconds (6.0 seconds for the 740Li) before going on to an electronically-limited top speed of 155mph. The 3.0-litre BMW 740i and 740Li post combined fuel consumption figures of 28.5mpg and 28.2mpg respectively, while returning emissions figures of 232g/km and 235g/km.
All BMW 7 Series models come with a six-speed automatic gearbox as standard.
EfficientDynamics
The launch of the new 7 Series means the entire BMW range now comes equipped with EfficientDynamics technologies as standard. With its roof, doors, bonnet and side panels all made from aluminium to dovetail with the principle of lightweight engineering, the BMW 7 Series also has other innovative class-leading technology which improves engine performance, while cutting fuel consumption and emissions.
Brake Energy Regeneration uses the engine’s power on overrun, such as braking, to charge the battery for the car’s electrical circuit. When the driver is accelerating the alternator disengages so all of the engine’s power is channelled towards the car’s performance. Other ancillaries, such as the air-conditioning compressor, are also able to disengage to improve the all round performance of the car. This intelligent use of drivetrain power is why EfficientDynamics technology has helped the 7 Series become a class-leader in terms of performance, fuel consumption and emissions.
The BMW 7 Series comes with BMW ConnectedDrive. This facility features elements such as a dedicated call centre with a concierge service, automatic fault awareness and BMW Assist, the electronic safety net that automatically dials the emergency services in the event of an accident, free of charge for three years.
The BMW 7 Series goes on sale in Ireland on 15 November, 2008.';
news['article_19'] = new Array();
news['article_19']['articleId'] = 19;
news['article_19']['category_name'] = 'BMW Updates';
news['article_19']['day'] = '21';
news['article_19']['month'] = '10';
news['article_19']['year'] = '2008';
news['article_19']['title'] = 'The new BMW 3 Series.';
news['article_19']['subtitle'] = 'A Description in brief.';
news['article_19']['content'] = '• The new BMW 3 Series Saloon and the new BMW 3 Series Touring extend their lead further in terms of driving dynamics, premium quality and innovative technology.
• The new BMW 3 Series Saloon and the new BMW 3 Series Touring combine elegance with a driving experience which is unique within the competitive field.
• The extended range of engines and the application of BMW EfficientDynamics measures make the BMW 3 Series the benchmark for sheer driving pleasure in combination with exemplary fuel consumption and exhaust emission levels.
• A new vehicle front, a side view with greater emphasis of the dynamically elongated line, the rear section has a broader effect due to more detailed lines. New headlamps, rear lights with new contours characteristic of the brand, innovative lighting technology and 3D effects.
• Refinement of the interior trim with selected operating elements in a new design and newly harmonised choice of colours and materials. The characteristic combination of convex and concave surfaces characteristic of the exterior is continued in the interior. Ergonomically optimised positioning of the window lift operating panel on the driver side, new and enlarged storage facilities.
• New generation of the operating system BMW iDrive in conjunction with optional navigation systems: ergonomically optimised iDrive Controller for function selection and control by means of turning, pressing and tilting movements, blind operation of buttons on the Controller for fast and intuitive menu selection. Freely programmable functional bookmarks for even easier operation. Navigation system Professional with extended functions for destination entry, trip planning and map display. For the first time, routes freely planned on the internet can be fed into the navigation system using BMW ConnectedDrive. BMW ConnectedDrive world premiere: unlimited internet use inside the vehicle as an optional extra.
• Newly developed in-line 6-cylinder diesel engine in the BMW 330d: aluminium crankcase, common rail direct injection of the third generation with piezo injectors and maximum injection pressure of 1,800 bar, turbocharger with variable turbine geometry, output: 180 kW/245 bhp, maximum torque: 520 Nm, diesel particulate filter and oxidation catalytic converter as standard, exhaust gas norm EU 5, optional BMW BluePerformance technology with NOX storage catalytic converter for the reduction of nitrogen oxide emissions as a requirement for adherence to the threshold levels of the planned exhaust gas norm EU 6.
• Variety of engines which is unique within the vehicle segment: five petrol and five diesel engines, with output ranging from 105 kW/143 bhp in the BMW 318i and BMW 318d to 225 kW/306 bhp in the BMW 335i. All engine types with BMW EfficientDynamics measures: model-specific use of Brake Energy Regeneration, Auto Start/Stop Function, Shift Point Display, needs-related control of auxiliary units and active aerodynamics with Automatic Air Intake Flaps. All engine types with unsurpassed fuel consumption and exhaust emission levels as compared to the relevant competitors. BMW 318d, BMW320d, BMW 330d and BMW 330xd are within the threshold levels of the future exhaust
gas norm EU 5.
• 6-speed automatic transmission with optimised shift dynamics and minimised converter slip now optionally available for the BMW 318d too.
• Optimised all-wheel drive BMW xDrive enhances driving stability, driving dynamics and traction. New additional DSC function with controlled brake intervention including torque compensation increases driving stability on bends. BMW xDrive now optionally available for five engine types of the BMW 3 Series Saloon and the BMW 3 Series Touring, also for the BMW 320xd – the first ever combination of BMW xDrive with a 4-cylinder engine in the BMW 3 Series.
• For the first time, 7-speed sports automatic transmission with double clutch for the models BMW 335i Coupé and BMW 335i Convertible. The world’s first 7-speed double clutch transmission designed for high perfor-mance engines, shifting without interruption of traction for unequalled dynamic acceleration, optionally automated or manual, unique combination of the comfort of an automatic transmission with maximum dynamic performance, further optimised acceleration and fuel consumption figures.
Click on the link below for the full document.';
news['article_19']['link1_target'] = '_blank';
news['article_19']['link1_url'] = 'http://external.bmw.ie/templates/BMW06/BMW3Series.doc';
news['article_19']['link1_text'] = 'The new BMW 3 Series.';
news['article_20'] = new Array();
news['article_20']['articleId'] = 20;
news['article_20']['category_name'] = 'BMW Updates';
news['article_20']['day'] = '09';
news['article_20']['month'] = '12';
news['article_20']['year'] = '2008';
news['article_20']['title'] = 'Model Pricelists';
news['article_20']['subtitle'] = 'January 2009';
news['article_20']['content'] = 'In order to further reduce our carbon footprint, BMW Group Ireland offer digital pricelists through our national website. By putting more and more information online, we are reducing the need for printed pricelists & brochures while still maintaining a high degree of detail for all our customers.
To download one of the various pricelists simply click on the link below, then click the “Order a brochure” tab and finally click on the series or model you would like to get information on. Each brochure features not only the model & option pricing but will also show standard equipment, CO2 reducing features along with servicing and technical information.
';
news['article_20']['link1_target'] = '_blank';
news['article_20']['link1_url'] = 'http://external.bmw.ie/sausage/templates/BMW06/pricelists/BMW_Ireland_Model_Pricelist.pdf';
news['article_20']['link1_text'] = 'Click here to view Model Pricelists.';
news['article_21'] = new Array();
news['article_21']['articleId'] = 21;
news['article_21']['category_name'] = 'BMW Updates';
news['article_21']['day'] = '15';
news['article_21']['month'] = '04';
news['article_21']['year'] = '2009';
news['article_21']['title'] = 'The first BMW Art Car by Alexander Calder comes to IMMA';
news['article_21']['subtitle'] = '';
news['article_21']['content'] = 'The BMW 3.0 CSL, with which Alexander Calder laid the foundation stone for the BMW Art Car Collection in 1975, will be on display at the Irish Museum of Modern Art from I April – 21 June 2009. The car will be displayed alongside a collection of Calder’s jewellery which the artist designed between the 1920s and 1960s.The exhibition of the Calder car will be the first time one of the collection of 16 BMW Art Cars has been shown in Ireland.
In 1975 this Art Car designed by Alexander Calder was driven in the 24-hour race at Le Mans by the American Sam Posey as well as Jean Guichet and Hervé Poulain from France. It was the first and last time the car was used in racing. After seven hours the car had to give up due to a defective prop shaft. The car has been on display since then.
Since 1975, prominent artists from throughout the world have designed BMW automobiles of their times, all making extremely different artistic statements. The sixteen exhibits created for the Art Car Collection until now include works by well-known artists such as Frank Stella, Roy Lichtenstein, Andy Warhol, A.R. Penck, David Hockney, Olafur Eliasson, and Jenny Holzer. The Art Cars reflect the cultural and historical development of art, design, and technology.
It was originally the French racing driver Hervé Poulain who had the idea of letting an artist have his or her way with an automobile. Poulain commissioned American artist Alexander Calder to paint his BMW racing car in the early 70\'s; this was the spark which led BMW to establish the Art Car Collection.
As a sculptor who normally devised his own shapes, Calder managed to free himself from the formal structure of racing cars and, by painting them, aspired to give them his own distinctive mark. As in the case of his sculptures and mobiles, he used intensive colours and gracefully sweeping surfaces which he distributed generously over the wings, bonnet and roof.
Born in Philadelphia in 1898, Alexander Calder started his career as an engineer, only then to follow in his father’s and grandfather\'s footsteps as a sculptor. Feeling drawn equally towards art and technology, he developed his own completely unique form of sculpture, his constructions being enormous but nonetheless light and floating in appearance. He became famous for his abstract mobiles which were hailed by critics as the most innovative American sculptures of the 20th century. He died in New York in 1976 at the age of 78.
Commenting on partnership between IMMA and BMW, the Museum’s Director Enrique Juncosa said: “We are delighted to join with BMW in presenting this fascinating exhibition, which aims to shed new light on one of the 20th century’s most important artists, by exploring this wider dimension of his practice. I should like to thank BMW for their support for the exhibition, which I am sure will draw many new visitors to IMMA”.
Exhibition opening hours:
Tuesday to Saturday 10.00am to 5.30pm
except Wednesday 10.30am to 5.30pm
Sunday and Bank Holidays 12 noon to 5.30pm
Monday and Good Friday (10 April) closed.
';
news['article_21']['image'] = '/ie/en/insights/news/BMW-Alexander-Calder-Art-Ca.jpg';
news['article_22'] = new Array();
news['article_22']['articleId'] = 22;
news['article_22']['category_name'] = 'BMW Updates';
news['article_22']['day'] = '15';
news['article_22']['month'] = '04';
news['article_22']['year'] = '2009';
news['article_22']['title'] = 'The BMW X5 M & X6 M';
news['article_22']['subtitle'] = 'Description brief.';
news['article_22']['content'] = 'The BMW X5 M and the BMW X6 M for the first time carry over the high-performance character of those very special cars from BMW M GmbH into the segment of BMW X models. Indeed, the combination of BMW’s M philosophy with this innovative concept paves the way for a truly exclusive driving experience, both models setting new standards in their class in terms of dynamic performance borne out by supreme acceleration, lateral dynamics, steering behaviour, short stopping distances and efficiency, that is all the criteria so crucial to motorsport.
The superior driving qualities of the BMW X5 M and the BMW X6 M are clearly visualised by specific BMW M design: The BMW X5 M offers the convincing look of power and exclusivity, the BMW X6 M, through its design, reflects outstanding dynamism and athletic performance. Common design elements at the front of each model bear clear reference to the dynamic driving potential shared by both cars, while within the interior a truly luxurious ambience forms a perfect symbiosis with the cockpit design so typical of a BMW M Model. The fundamental message in creating the interior design in each case is to reflect the truly outstanding dynamism of both models in superior style.
Both the BMW X5 M and the BMW X6 M come with a new V8 high-performance power unit boasting performance features precisely tailored to the character of each model. Displacing 4,395 cubic centimetres, the engine delivers maximum output of 408 kW/555 hp from 5,750–6,000 rpm. The new M TwinPower Turbo engine is indeed the world’s first power unit with a common exhaust emission manifold joining both rows of cylinders as well as Twin Scroll Twin Turbo Technology. The turbocharger and the catalytic converters are positioned in the V-section between the two rows of cylinders ensuring the spontaneous and direct response so typical of BMW M as well as a linear surge of power for a consistent flow of torque at all times. As a result, peak torque of 680 Newton-metres or 501 lb-ft is maintained consistently all the way from 1,500–5,650 rpm.
Over and above their superior driving dynamics, both models offer by far the highest level of efficiency in their respective segments. In addition to the power unit optimised for efficiency by means of ¬High Precision Injection, proven and newly developed BMW ¬EfficientDynamics technologies serve to ensure this superiority in practice. These cutting-edge technologies comprise Brake Energy Regeneration as well as on-demand control of the electrical fuel pump, the detachable a/c compressor and the volume flow-controlled supply of hydraulic fluid to the anti-roll system introduced for the first time on the new BMW 7 Series. And last but not least, both models naturally comply with the EU5 and, respectively, the LEV II emission standards.
The M Sports Automatic transmission with six gears, optimised gearshift dynamics and outstanding gearshift comfort confirms the sporting orientation of both models. The innovative torque reduction concept is achieved by briefly cancelling out fuel injection and ignition for extremely short gearshift times. The driver himself shifts gears either via an electronic gear selector lever or, if he prefers, through aluminium shift paddles on the steering wheel again specific to BMW M. At the same time he can spontaneously intervene into the gearshift process whenever he wishes by operating one of the paddles also in the D Mode. The Launch Control function for maximum acceleration, in turn, may also be activated in the M Mode, while in the Power Mode, finally, the driver may vary the engine and transmission control, using either the Sport or the Efficiency driving programs.
Performance and fuel consumption of the BMW X5 M and BMW X6 M:
Acceleration 0–100 km/h: 4.7 seconds
Top speed: 250 km/h (155 mph) (275 km/h (171 mph) with optional
M Driver’s Package)
Average fuel consumption in the EU cycle: 13.9 litres/100 kilometres
(equal to 20.3 mpg imp), CO2 emissions in the EU cycle: 325 g/km.
The BMW X5 M and the BMW X6 M are the first all-wheel-drive models built by BMW M GmbH, combining BMW xDrive and Dynamic Performance Control with all the specific requirements and qualities of a high-performance vehicle in typical M style. The characteristic highlight of both models is their outstanding driving dynamics combined with supreme driving stability and excellent traction. Driving pleasure is further enhanced by a level of agility unparalleled in this segment and the unusually neutral steering behaviour.
Intelligent all-wheel drive ensures variable distribution of drive power front--to-rear. Dynamic performance control, in turn, varies the distribution of power between the two rear wheels and allows particularly dynamic acceleration when leaving a bend. BMW xDrive, Dynamic Performance Control, Dynamic Stability Control (DSC), Servotronic and Adaptive Drive are all coordinated by Integrated Chassis Management (ICM) as the central control unit. The result is an unusually high standard of driving dynamics and motoring safety in terms of agility, traction and driving stability.
The Servotronic steering developed specifically for the BMW X5 M and the BMW X6 M provides individual steering assistance related to the speed of the car and varied by two control maps. Substantial steering support at low speeds, for example, allows comfortable parking manoeuvres, while exact feedback through higher control forces at higher speeds ensures a superior style of motoring and greater steering precision when travelling fast. Apart from the standard configuration of the Servotronic steering, the driver is also able to call up the Sports Mode by means of the EDC or M Drive button, activating an uncompromisingly sporting control map for particularly dynamic requirements.
The suspension with its double-track control arm front axle and the integral IV rear axle comes with elastokinematics again boasting all the features of BMW M. Both the BMW X5 M and the BMW X6 M come as standard with air suspension and self-levelling on the rear axle as well as Adaptive Drive with electronically adjustable dampers (EDC) and active anti-roll control. The newly developed three-way support mounts give both the suspension and dampers a particularly sensitive response, and pressing either the EDC or the M Drive button the driver is able to choose either the Normal or Sports damper setting as well as the Servotronic control map. The special configuration of EDC and anti-roll control tailored again to BMW M ensures a linear build-up of lateral forces in fast and dynamic bends. And the high-performance brake system in lightweight technology, to mention yet another example, offers superior stopping power with virtually no fading and optimum control of the brakes.
The M Dynamic Mode (MDM) activated by the DSC button raises the control thresholds for intervention by the brakes and the reduction of engine power and provides that typical steering behaviour so characteristic of BMW M by shifting drive power to the rear in the xDrive setting and interacting appropriately with Dynamic Performance Control. MDM therefore allows maximum speeds in bends plus unrestricted safety when driving to the extreme. In the process the car remains absolutely neutral in following the steering, allowing the driver to take even fast bends in a controlled drift under maximum load in the bend apex.
Both the BMW X5 M and the BMW X6 M come with a special body structure designed and built for maximum occupant safety. The occupants are protected among other things by three-point inertia-reel seat belts on all seats, six airbags – frontal, side and head airbags – as well as crash-activated headrests at the front. Bi-xenon dual headlights including a daytime driving light function, adaptive brake lights and 20-inch light-alloy rims with different-sized runflat tyres front and rear all come as standard.
Innovative driver assistance systems raise the superior driving experience in the BMW X5 M and the BMW X6 M to an even higher level of perfection. These systems include, as an option, BMW’s Head-Up Display again tailored to BMW M, Adaptive Headlights, and a High-Beam Assistant. And to supplement Park Distance Control featured as standard, there is also an optional back-up camera complete with a Top View function.
The driver-oriented interior of the BMW X5 M and the BMW X6 M comes with M seats, an M leather steering wheel and an M footrest, as well as the M-specific cockpit including an instrument cluster with a variable pre-warning field in the rev counter, specific vehicle function displays, and white illumination of the display units.
The BMW X5 M and the BMW X6 M both feature the latest generation of BMW iDrive control serving to mastermind the navigation, infotainment, air conditioning and communication functions as well as the M Drive menu. The latter – the M Drive menu – comprises the various EDC settings including Servotronic, DSC, the Power Mode, and the optional Head-Up Display enabling the user to save his favourite configuration then retrieved by the M Drive button on the steering wheel.
High-quality materials and upholstery from the wide range of BMW Individual, numerous comfort functions and innovative entertainment options all underline the exclusive, M-specific character of both models. Standard features include electric seat adjustment complete with a memory function and seat heating at the front, two-zone automatic air conditioning, the BMW Individual instrument panel with leather padding, Merino leather covering additional surfaces and trim features, M entry trim, the M footrest, interior trim bars in brushed Aluminium Shadow, as well as automatic operation of the tailgate on the BMW X6 M. Optional features include the Professional navigation system, the BMW Individual High End audio system, four-zone automatic air conditioning, the M-specific Head-Up Display, Merino leather all round, active seat ventilation as well as a panorama glass roof (BMW X5 M) or, respectively, an electrically operated glass roof (BMW X6 M). And last but not least, the BMW X5 M is available with a towbar including an electrically swivelling ball head, while the BMW X6 M comes as an option with a towbar incorporating a removable ball head. Maximum trailer load in each case is a significant three tonnes.';
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news['article_23'] = new Array();
news['article_23']['articleId'] = 23;
news['article_23']['category_name'] = 'BMW Updates';
news['article_23']['day'] = '16';
news['article_23']['month'] = '04';
news['article_23']['year'] = '2009';
news['article_23']['title'] = 'The new BMW X3 xDrive 18d.';
news['article_23']['subtitle'] = 'Superior Agility, Supreme Efficiency.';
news['article_23']['content'] = 'The new, particularly economical entry-level version of BMW’s highly successful Sports Activity Vehicle – average fuel consumption to the EU standard 6.2 litres/100 kilometres (45.6 mpg imp), CO2 rating 165 g/km, emission standard EU5.
Munich. Fascinating agility on all kinds of terrain is now becoming more economical than ever before. Introducing a new entry-level version of the BMW X3, the world’s most successful manufacturer of premium all-wheel-drive vehicles is once again setting the standard for efficiency in a Sports Activity Vehicle.
The new BMW X3 xDrive18d is powered by a 2.0-litre four-cylinder diesel delivering an ample 105 kW/143 hp. Average fuel consumption of the new model in the EU test cycle is a mere 6.2 litres/100 kilometres, equal to 45.6 mpg imp. In CO2 emissions, this means a rating of just 165 grams per kilometre. This makes the BMW X3 the most fuel-efficient all-wheel-drive vehicle in its segment also in this performance class. And it almost goes without saying that the BMW X3 xDrive18d in series trim naturally fulfils the EU5 emission standard.
All-round driving pleasure and supreme efficiency have made the BMW X3 a genuine trendsetter, contributing significantly to the car’s worldwide success. Indeed, it was the BMW X3 which for the first time carried over the features and qualities typical of a Sports Activity Vehicle into a new segment, total sales of the X3 now amounting to more than 500,000 units. For a long time the BMW X3 was the only premium vehicle in its class, and to this day it remains the epitome of driving dynamics on the road as well as agility and supreme traction off the beaten track. And last but certainly not least, the BMW X3 offers an unparalleled balance of performance and fuel economy throughout the entire competition segment of BMW X models.
Superior all-wheel-drive technology, powerful traction and premium quality
now with even greater all-round economy.
The attractive combination of all these features is now borne out in yet another excellent rendition in the guise of the new BMW X3 xDrive18d. The benefits of BMW’s intelligent xDrive all-wheel-drive technology, the spontaneous development of power typical of BMW’s diesel engines, and the uncompromising quality of a genuine premium model now come with an even higher standard of economy.
The BMW X3 xDrive18d is powered by a four-cylinder diesel engine featuring an all-aluminium crankcase and common rail direct fuel injection developing maximum output of 105 kW/143 hp at 4,000 rpm. Maximum torque of 350 Newton-metres (258 lb-ft) at just 1,750 rpm ensures truly outstanding traction and pulling power at all times. The new BMW X3 xDrive18d accelerates from a standstill to 100 km/h in just 10.3 seconds and has a top speed of 195 km/h or 121 mph.
In conjunction with BMW EfficientDynamics naturally featured as standard, the superior all-round efficiency of the diesel engine ensures the outstanding economy of the BMW X3 xDrive18d. Offering average fuel consumption of just 6.2 litres/100 kilometres (equal to 45.6 mpg imp) and a CO2 rating of 165 grams per kilometre, the new model is even more economical and cleaner than the former leader on the efficiency scale, the 130 kW/177 hp BMW X3 xDrive20d (6.5 litres/43.5 mpg imp/172 grams). And just like its “bigger brother”, the new BMW X3 xDrive18d naturally fulfils the EU5 emission standard.
The highly successful BMW X3: efficient, lasting in value, reliable.
The introduction of the new BMW X3 xDrive18d increases the number of engine variants available in this SAV from BMW to no less than seven. The customer has the choice of three petrol-engine
models with power output ranging from 110 kW/150 hp to 200 kW/272 hp and four diesel models culminating in the 210 kW/286 hp BMW X3 xDrive35d as the most dynamic performer in the range.
Like all engine variants the new BMW X3 xDrive18d also comes as standard with BMW’s intelligent xDrive all-wheel-drive system. This permanent, electronically masterminded all-wheel drive ensures variable distribution of drive power front-to-rear, promoting both driving dynamics on the road and safe, secure traction off the beaten track, with drive power constantly going to the wheels where it can be converted most effectively into actual driving forces on the road.
Thanks to the outstanding and truly convincing qualities of xDrive also available in many other BMWs, BMW remained the world’s most successful manufacturer of all-wheel-drive vehicles in the premium segment also in 2008.
Over and above such outstanding efficiency and fascinating agility, the BMW X3 also offers truly excellent reliability. In 2009, for example, the X3 was lauded for the second time in a row with the renowned Yellow Angel Award by Germany’s and, indeed, the world’s largest motoring club, the Allgemeine Deutsche Automobilclub (ADAC), for outstanding all-round quality. Proceeding from the findings of ADAC’s breakdown helpers famous throughout Germany as “Yellow Angels”, this leading motoring club once again acknowledged the BMW X3 as the most reliable vehicle on the road in Germany.
Last but certainly not least, BMW’s SAV also comes right at the top in terms of lasting value. In the category of off-road vehicles the market observers at EurotaxSchwacke ranked the BMW X3 No 1 in their AutomobilForecastIndex 2008, confirming that of all vehicles in this segment BMW’s SAV shows the lowest decline in value.
';
news['article_23']['image'] = '/ie/en/insights/news/tn-X3-xDrive.jpg';
news['article_24'] = new Array();
news['article_24']['articleId'] = 24;
news['article_24']['category_name'] = 'BMW Updates';
news['article_24']['day'] = '20';
news['article_24']['month'] = '04';
news['article_24']['year'] = '2009';
news['article_24']['title'] = 'Chinese Grand Prix Shanghai, 19th April 2009 ';
news['article_24']['subtitle'] = '3rd of 17 World Championship races. BMW Sauber F1 Team emerge from rain-induced chaos empty-handed.';
news['article_24']['content'] = 'Shanghai (CN). In a Chinese Grand Prix best forgotten by the BMW Sauber F1 Team, the two F1.09 cars limped home battered, bruised and out of the points. Nick Heidfeld and Robert Kubica were caught up in a string of incidents during Sunday’s race, which started behind the Safety Car amid wind and rain. Toyota’s Timo Glock collided with Heidfeld, Kubica ploughed into the back of Glock’s team-mate Jarno Trulli, both drivers spun several times and Heidfeld’s car was hit by a stray wheel. All of which meant the German finished the third race of the 2009 F1 World Championship in 12th position, with Kubica one place further back.
At the front of the pack, Heidfeld’s compatriot Sebastian Vettel clinched his first win of the season ahead of fellow Red Bull driver Mark Webber (Australia) and Britain’s Jenson Button in a Brawn-Mercedes. For former BMW Sauber F1 Team test driver Vettel this was the second victory of a still fledgling career. Elsewhere, the two McLaren Mercedes both finished in the top eight for the first time in 2009, while Ferrari once again failed to score any points.
Button, on 21 points, continues to lead the Drivers’ Championship from his Brazilian team-mate Rubens Barrichello (15 points). Then come Vettel and Glock, each on 10 points. Heidfeld is lying seventh on four points, but Kubica has yet to get off the mark after three races.
BrawnGP top the constructors’ standings with 36 points, ahead of Red Bull (19.5) and Toyota (18.5). McLaren Mercedes are next up in fourth place (8 points), followed by the BMW Sauber F1 Team in fifth (4 points).
The team’s management and drivers were suitably disappointed with the outcome of the race. “There is not much to say about this Grand Prix. All we can do is put this race behind us as soon as possible and concentrate on Bahrain,” said BMW Motorsport Director Mario Theissen. And Willy Rampf, Head of Engineering, added: “Our only chance to get into the points given our starting positions was in a wet race, but even then we didn’t score at all. We have to improve as quickly as possible.”
Heidfeld cut a frustrated figure: “Of course I’m disappointed with the outcome of today’s race, but at the same time I feel I should be grateful I was able to finish it at all. The conditions in terms of visibility and aquaplaning were disastrous. In the beginning, after the Safety Car pulled off, my tyre pressures were too low so I struggled a lot. On lap 13 Timo Glock hit me, which caused damage to the car and certainly didn’t help. However, close to the end of the race I had the chance to score one or two points, but then there was a lot of debris on the track, including a wheel, from Adrian Sutil’s accident. I tried to find a way around it, but it was unpredictable which way it would go and it hit me. Afterwards the car felt very strange and I lost four places.”
Kubica was equally as downcast: “Driving was very dangerous today. We had aquaplaning nearly everywhere and the lack of visibility was a disaster. There were quite a lot of situations when I couldn’t see anything. All this also caused my heavy accident with Jarno Trulli. When Jarno braked into the corner I hit some standing water. Although I hit the brakes very hard the car still accelerated. I went quite high into the air after hitting his rear tyre, but fortunately nobody was hurt. After coming to the pits we had to change the front wing a second time as I felt some vibration and massively lost grip. This ruined my race.”
Practice and qualifying.
On the Wednesday before the third race of the season the FIA International Court of Appeal ruled that the “double-decker” diffusers run by the BrawnGP, Toyota and Williams teams were legal. As a result, it was clear that the other seven teams would have to try to upgrade their cars – a costly, tricky and time-consuming exercise. It is not just a question of copying and building in a particular component. In order to guide the airflow underneath the car to the rear in such a way that a double-decker-type diffuser does actually generate greater downforce, the entire aero package from the front wing to the rear has to be revised. Some of the teams – Renault and McLaren, in particular – lined up in Shanghai with modifications already in place, others announced revisions for the upcoming race in Bahrain. The F1.09 will feature an aero update in Barcelona, although this will not necessarily include a new diffuser solution.
Alongside the usual race preparations, Kubica used Friday’s two practice sessions to try KERS for the first time on a GP weekend. However, data analysis revealed that the system provided him personally with no advantage in terms of time – at the Shanghai International Circuit at least – and it was duly removed from the car again for Saturday. Although the system did not give Heidfeld an advantage, neither did it take anything away from him. And so the team decided to fit Heidfeld’s F1.09 with this system once again on account of its strategic benefits.
The lap times set by Kubica and Heidfeld on Friday saw them floating between positions 16 and 18. In the third free practice session on Saturday Heidfeld recorded the 11th-fastest and Kubica the 12th-best time, in qualifying trim in both cases. There was already some doubt over whether they would make it into the final period of qualifying – and in the end, neither managed to do so: for the first time since the 2006 German GP, the BMW Sauber F1 Team did not feature in the top ten.
Both the team’s drivers bemoaned a lack of grip with the option tyre. Added to which, a driver error meant that Kubica failed to make it out of Q1, recording only the 18th-best time. Heidfeld’s 12th-quickest time secured his participation in Q2 and an optimum lap put him on course for a place in the top ten. However, despite better track conditions, his second set of option tyres surprisingly did not produce a further improvement and he missed the cut for Q3 by one hundredth of a second.
Red Bull Racing were the surprise package of qualifying, Vettel and Webber securing pole position and third on the grid. The meat in the sandwich was Fernando Alonso in the upgraded Renault. The two BrawnGP cars of Rubens Barrichello and Jenson Button had to be content with fourth and fifth places on this occasion, and Toyota likewise slipped back from their recent qualifying performances; Jarno Trulli was sixth, Timo Glock 14th. Glock then had to take a five-place grid penalty for changing his gearbox, pushing Kubica up to 17th. Nico Rosberg qualified his Williams-Toyota in seventh. Like the BMW Sauber F1 Team, Ferrari (Raikkönen 8th, Massa 13th) and McLaren Mercedes (Hamilton 9th, Kovalainen 12th) fell short of expectations.
Start and finish.
The team decided to start Kubica from the pit lane, enabling them to at least send him off with a full tank of fuel (for a one-stop strategy) and a wet-weather set-up. Glock’s Toyota also lined up at the exit of the pits.
The race got underway behind the Safety Car. Yet even at this, by Formula One standards, leisurely pace the drivers were complaining of poor visibility in the spray and aquaplaning. No matter, the race director brought the Safety Car back in after eight laps to start the action in earnest. Alonso’s early pit stop left the Red Bull duo of Vettel and Webber leading the race from the two Brawn cars. It quickly became difficult to keep count of the spins and slides through the field and pretty much every driver was tripped up by the conditions at one stage or other.
Heidfeld was in 12th place when he was tagged by Glock on lap 13 and spun. Only when almost all of the remaining cars had sped past was he able to rejoin the field in last place but one. To add salt to the wounds, the underbody of his F1.09 was damaged in the incident.
Kubica was running 14th on lap 17 when he hit the back of Trulli’s Toyota and rode up spectacularly – and alarmingly high – on the Italian’s rear wheels. The heavy impact took place just a few metres from the entrance to the pit lane and did not initially appear on the TV coverage. When Kubica duly came in for urgent repairs the pit crew were therefore taken somewhat by surprise, but they still managed to change his nose section and tyres in double-quick time.
The pictures of the accident which we did eventually see may have been a factor in the Safety Car being sent out again at the end of lap 18. The cars were then released after 23 of the 56 laps, and the skidding and sliding promptly resumed. Kubica was making up lost ground and had moved into 10th position, ahead of Heidfeld, after 34 laps. However, he then started to slow, the front wing of the Pole’s F1.09 having shaken itself free. The 13.5-second stop to replace the offending section saw Kubica feed back into the field one from the back. Heidfeld’s subsequent improvements were wiped out six laps from the finish when his car sustained damaged after being hit by a stray wheel when running eighth.
Red Bull celebrated a blemish-free one-two finish. There was no controversy caused by idiosyncratic interpretation of the regulations and the team’s drivers did not profit from retirements elsewhere. The BrawnGP cars were second best on this occasion, ahead of the resurgent McLaren Mercedes.
Results and points.
1. Sebastian Vettel (Red Bull Racing), 56 laps in 1 hr 57:43.485 min
2. Mark Webber (Red Bull Racing), + 10.970 sec
3. Jenson Button (Brawn GP Formula 1 Team), + 44.975 sec
4. Rubens Barrichello (Brawn GP Formula 1 Team), + 63.704 sec
5. Heikki Kovalainen (Vodafone McLaren Mercedes), + 65.102 sec
6. Lewis Hamilton (Vodafone McLaren Mercedes), + 71.866 sec
7. Timo Glock (Panasonic Toyota Racing), + 74.476 sec
8. Sébastien Buemi (Scuderia Toro Rosso), + 76.439 sec
...
12. Nick Heidfeld (BMW Sauber F1 Team), + 95.834 sec
13. Robert Kubica (BMW Sauber F1 Team), + 106.853 sec
Drivers’ Championship:
1. Button 21 points
2. Barrichello 15
3. Vettel 10
Glock 10
5. Webber 9.5
6. Trulli 8.5
7. Heidfeld 4
Alonso 4
Kovalainen 4
Hamilton 4
11. Rosberg 3.5
12. Buemi 3
13. Bourdais 1
Constructors’ Championship:
1. Brawn GP Formula 1 Team 36 points
2. Red Bull Racing 19.5
3. Panasonic Toyota Racing 18.5
4. Vodafone McLaren Mercedes 8
5. BMW Sauber F1 Team 4
ING Renault F1 Team 4
Scuderia Toro Rosso 4
8. AT&T Williams 3.5
';
news['article_25'] = new Array();
news['article_25']['articleId'] = 25;
news['article_25']['category_name'] = 'BMW Updates';
news['article_25']['day'] = '20';
news['article_25']['month'] = '04';
news['article_25']['year'] = '2009';
news['article_25']['title'] = 'MINI E joins Government electric vehicle announcement';
news['article_25']['subtitle'] = 'BMW Group supports British Government plans for development of electric vehicle infrastructure';
news['article_25']['content'] = 'Ian Robertson, Sales and Marketing Director of BMW Group AG, today joined the British Business Secretary Peter Mandelson and Transport Secretary Geoff Hoon in Scotland as they launched the Government’s vision for ultra-low carbon transport in the UK.
Both ministers drove a MINI E electric car at the event as they announced plans to support motorists by providing help worth £2000-£5000 towards buying their first electric or plug-in hybrid car when they hit the showrooms.
BMW Group has announced that MINI E will go on a twelve-month field trial in Germany and the USA this year, to evaluate the technical and social aspects of living with an all-electric vehicle in a real world environment and plans to include the UK in this programme.
Ian Robertson said, “We believe the MINI E is an excellent vehicle for trialling this alternative form of sustainable mobility. And what better time to do this than in the year we celebrate the 50th birthday of MINI. We look forward to extending our German and American trials to the UK.”
“Such a trial cannot be conducted by any single organisation on its own,” he added, “as it goes far beyond the simple test of a prototype electric MINI. To make electric mobility a reality, organisations in both the private and public sectors will need to think differently and act together.\"
BMW Group recently applied to the UK Government’s Technology Strategy Board in response to a funding competition announced in December 2008. Proposals were invited for innovative, industry-led collaborative research projects involving ultra-low carbon vehicles.
The UK trial would bring together central and regional government departments, regional development organisations, energy infrastructure providers and academic partners. The common objective is to develop ultra-low carbon vehicles that customers want to buy – and bring them to market as rapidly as possible.
BMW has already established a number of key proposed partners for the UK trial.
Scottish and Southern Energy is the UK’s leading generator of energy from renewable sources and will be installing the private and public charging points required for the MINI E test vehicles.
Academic support will come from the Sustainable Vehicle Engineering Centre at Oxford Brookes University to carry out the data analysis and reporting the findings.
The MINI E research project supports the BMW Group goal of achieving emission-free driving and underlines its commitment to reducing CO2 emissions without compromising the driving experience. The company aims to begin series production of all-electric vehicles in the medium term as part of the company’s Strategy Number ONE. Know-how gained from the MINI E pilot projects around the world will play an important part in informing future strategic and technological decisions.
At the end of the one-year trial a comprehensive report documenting the main findings of the MINI E research project will be published. This will help inform those organisations seeking to create the political, technical and commercial framework necessary to enable sustainable mobility in a low carbon future to become reality.
The BMW Group is the most sustainable car company in the world – as the latest Dow Jones Sustainability Index (DJSI) recently confirmed for the fourth year in succession. The company already offers the most efficient cars in the premium segment, thanks to Efficient Dynamics technologies. The BMW 118d was named World Green Car of the Year 2008 and the Hydrogen7 has already made CO2-free driving a reality.
MINI E specification and performance
The MINI E’s electric drive train produces a peak torque of 220 Nm, and power is delivered to the front wheels via a single-stage helical gearbox. This unique engine and transmission arrangement powers the MINI E seamlessly to 62 mph in 8.5 seconds and on to an electronically-limited top speed of 95 mph.
Based on the current MINI Hatch, the car is available as a two-seater. The space normally inhabited by rear passengers is reserved for a lithium-ion battery.
When in use in the zero-emissions MINI E, the battery unit combines high output with ample storage capacity and remarkable power output. The lithium-ion storage unit will have a maximum capacity of 35 kilowatt hours (kWh) and transmit energy to the electric motor as direct current at a nominal 380 volts. The rechargeable battery is made up of 5,088 cells grouped into 48 modules. These modules are packaged into three battery elements that are compactly arranged inside the MINI E.
The energy storage unit’s components are based on technologies proven in power supply units for mobile phones and portable computers. The MINI E’s lithium-ion battery can be plugged into all standard power outlets. Its charge time is strongly dependent on the voltage and amperage of the electricity flowing through the grid. As with existing research projects in the USA and Berlin, users can recharge a battery that has been completely drained within a very short period of time using a wallbox that will be supplied as standard with every MINI E. With 240V/32A, charging time for the car will be around four hours. There is also an intention to establish a network of public charging stations.
The wallbox will be installed in the customer’s garage, enable higher amperage, and thus ensure extremely short charging times. Wallboxes fully recharge batteries in just two-and-a-half hours. Only lockable garages or similar buildings will qualify as suitable power stations for the MINI E.
Driven by electricity: zero emissions at minimal cost
A full recharge draws a maximum of 28 kilowatt hours of electricity from the grid. Based on the car’s range, a kilowatt hour translates into 5.4 miles. Besides the benefit of zero-emissions driving, the MINI E thus offers significant economic advantages over a vehicle powered by a conventional internal combustion engine. Fully re-charging the battery using off-peak electricity at current prices will cost around £1.50. Using higher-rate daytime electricity, the cost will still be less than £4.00.
The heavy-duty battery delivers its power to an electric motor, which is mounted transversely under the MINI E’s bonnet. This power unit is able to unleash its full thrust from a dead standstill and is complemented by its dynamic deceleration potential, which is directly coupled to the accelerator pedal.
As soon as the driver releases the accelerator pedal, the electric motor acts as a generator. This results in braking force and the power recovered from the kinetic energy is fed back to the battery. This ensures a comfortable and smooth driving experience. In city traffic, some 75 per cent of all deceleration can be done without the brakes. Making substantial use of this energy regeneration feature extends the car’s range by up to 20 per cent.
The MINI E’s brake system comes with a newly developed electric pump. Its Electrical Power Assisted Steering (EPS) is the same as the one used in series-produced MINIs.
The MINI E’s 1,465 kilograms is evenly distributed across the car. Modifications to the suspension system and the car’s Dynamic Stability Control (DSC), adapted to the car’s specific wheel loads, ensure safe and dynamic handling, typical of MINI.
Unique styling to mark out the new MINI E
Every MINI E produced for this pilot project will have the same paintwork and bear a serial number on the front bumper.
The MINI E’s coachwork is painted metallic Dark Silver on all panels but the roof, which is coloured Pure Silver. A special MINI E logo depicting a stylized yellow power plug in the shape of an “E” set against a silver background appears on the roof, front and rear wings and the charge point cover. The dashboard trim, and the door jamb, feature the same logo in slightly modified form. The colour of the roof edges, door mirrors, interior styling accents and seat seams will match the yellow of the “E” logo.
Inside, the central gauge and battery level indicator behind the wheel of the MINI E - which replaces the MINI’s rev counter - feature yellow lettering against a dark grey background. The battery level is displayed in percentage figures. The central gauge includes an LED display indicating power consumption in red and power recuperation in green.
Production in Oxford and Munich
The MINI E has already gone through the major phases of product development for series-produced vehicles and passed numerous crash tests on the way. The MINI E’s energy storage unit emerged completely unscathed from all of the crash tests mandated by European standards.
Production of the 40 cars for the UK trial will take place shortly at the company’s Oxford and Munich sites and is scheduled for completion before October 2009. MINI’s Plant Oxford will be responsible for manufacturing the entire vehicle on the standard production line, with the exception of the drive components and the lithium-ion battery. The vehicles will then be transferred to a specially equipped manufacturing facility situated on BMW plant.
';
news['article_25']['image'] = '/ie/en/insights/news/MINI-.JPG';
news['article_26'] = new Array();
news['article_26']['articleId'] = 26;
news['article_26']['category_name'] = 'BMW Updates';
news['article_26']['day'] = '21';
news['article_26']['month'] = '04';
news['article_26']['year'] = '2009';
news['article_26']['title'] = 'The future of beauty: concept ...';
news['article_26']['subtitle'] = 'The future of beauty: concept cars at the Concorso d’Eleganza Villa d’Este Three world premieres at Lake Como +++ BMW sends GINA Light as guest of honour on the Concorso’s 80th anniversary.';
news['article_26']['content'] = 'Munich/Milan. This year the Concorso d’Eleganza Villa d’Este once again invites contemporary concept cars and prototypes to compete alongside the historic models traditionally on display. To qualify for entry, concepts have to be driveable and no older than three years. As announced at the Concorso d’Eleganza Villa d’Este’s second press conference in Milan, eight such vehicles will attend the event at the end of April in a bid to be crowned the most beautiful contemporary concept car. The winner will be chosen not by the jury but by the public. In this, the Concorso perpetuates a tradition going back 80 years: as long ago as 1929 the public was already ranking the showcased models according to their looks. For ten years now, this beauty contest of worldwide acclaim has been held under the patronage of the BMW Group. Three world premieres and a further five sensational concept cars form the worthy framework for this anniversary Concorso.
GINA Light as guest of honour
BMW will be dispatching the sensational GINA Light study to Lake Como – hors concours – as a birthday guest. Ordinarily the GINA Light can only be viewed by visitors to the BMW Museum at the end of the special “BMW Concept Cars” exhibition. At the Concorso the design study will make its debut outdoor appearance and provide a first opportunity to view a number of concrete manifestations of the multifaceted GINA philosophy. With the GINA Light, the limits of contemporary materials and production processes are pushed far into the future. For all the innovations embodied in this vehicle, the focus is on the adaptability of forms and functions that are geared to the individual and situational needs of the driver as well as the relevant driving conditions.
That is the reason why both the exterior and the interior feature numerous components that are strikingly different from conventional solutions not just visually but also in terms of their basic conceptual attributes. For example, the GINA Light visionary model has a practically seamless outer skin made of an elastic textile material that is stretched over a moveable frame. Functions are only activated as and when required. Thanks to this utterly novel interpretation of familiar functionality and structure, the driver enjoys a very different experience behind the wheel of the car. The reduction to the essentials and adaptation to the needs of the driver enhance the emotional impact of the vehicle, fulfilling a key goal of the GINA philosophy.
World premieres: Stile Bertone, Morgan and Zagato
In recent years, world premieres have regularly been a key component of the Concorso d’Eleganza. Now the 80th anniversary occasion is about to set a record: for the first time three concepts will be unveiled before the eyes of the world at Lake Como.
Automobiles by Stile Bertone have always been very special, and that has naturally stoked the Concorso’s happy anticipation of the world premiere from the Italian styling house. Powered by a V8 engine, the car’s outer skin observes the laws of aerodynamics while the choice of carbon fibre sets benchmarks in lightweight construction. Morgan will also be presenting a two-seater at the Concorso. This study, built on the Morgan Aeromax platform, marks the centenary of the tradition-steeped British marque. Celebrating the 90th anniversary of a family tradition, meanwhile, is Andrea Zagato – likewise calling for a Concorso d’Eleganza Villa d’Este premiere hailing from his exclusive design studio.
No less spectacular than these world premieres are the five exceptional design studies heading for Lake Como following their official unveiling before the public:
Infiniti Essence
With its Essence model, presented as a concept at the 79th Geneva Motor Show, Infiniti celebrates its first 20 years as a manufacturer of premium automobiles while at the same time offering an exciting glimpse of what customers can expect from this luxury brand in the future.
A 600 hp coupé with a petrol/electric hybrid engine and rear-wheel drive, the Essence fuses superior design, technology and performance. An eloquent embodiment of the core attributes of the Infiniti marque, it spans an arc from the past to the automotive future.
Test bed and design study in one, the Essence points to the future of the Infiniti brand in terms of technology and style. Moreover, this concept for the first time showcases Infiniti’s guiding principle of “Inspired Performance” as applied to the exclusive segment of luxury super-coupés.
mindset
Not a city car, not an SUV, not a sports car. mindset is as unique as it is self-explanatory: a lightweight, powerful and efficient commuter for everyday use. Its “high heels” – meaning its large, slim wheels – raise the aerodynamic coupé body to the same level as other traffic. One, two or more passengers, bags and baggage, animals or kids in tow – entry and exit are easy, the interior provides a good view of the road, and progress is pacy and pleasant. A composed appearance exuding power but without aggression: for mindset that is the visual manifestation of a contemporary hybrid vehicle.
The specifications state that, as a two-seater high-powered electric car, the mindset can accelerate to 100 km/h in 7 seconds, its lithium-ion battery giving it a range of 180 kilometres. Top speed is governed at 140 km/h. A supplementary petrol engine is to be offered as a range extender. This generates electric power and boosts the range to 800 kilometres. Moreover, a second battery can be used or additional power generated by solar panels. Running purely on electric power, the mindset is emission-free. When using the range extender, CO2 emissions are just 79g/km.
Rinspeed iChange
With the iChange, the pioneering, out-of-the-box Swiss thinkers at Rinspeed present the first car in the world with a body that adapts to passenger space requirements. In a matter of seconds a streamlined sports car with room for just the driver can be transformed into a comfortable three-seater: at the touch of a button the rear end of the teardrop-shaped car pops up as if by magic.
The underlying concept of the iChange is that a vehicle’s energy requirements are largely dictated by weight, type of engine and aerodynamics. The upshot is an extremely lightweight car tipping the scales at just 1,050 kilograms. For the drive system, the Swiss company opted for an electric motor drawing its power from lithium-ion batteries that are available in two different battery packs for short- and long-distance journeys.
The fact that aerodynamics also plays a key role in energy consumption prompted the idea of the rising rear. While other cars have to carry their inflated bodies around in order to accommodate up to seven people if necessary, even if the driver is the sole occupant most of the time, the iChange boasts an adaptable body. The unaccompanied driver gets around wrapped snugly in a teardrop-shaped body and on less power, thanks to this streamlined shape. If passengers wish to come on board, the pop-up rear provides room for two companions. The resulting weight increase and less than optimal aerodynamics push up energy consumption – but only while the passengers are on board.
Aston Martin One-77
The Aston Martin One-77 first broke cover at the 2009 Geneva Motor Show as a non-driveable concept. The driveable prototype of this super-sports car will be unveiled at the Concorso for the first time. It unites future-oriented technology with traditional craftsmanship and combines beauty with power. For Aston Martin, the One-77 is the quintessence of the brand’s engineering and design experience and is seen as the ultimate sports car from the Aston Martin fold.
Underpinning the body is an extremely lightweight and rigid carbon-fibre chassis. The engine is based on the 12-cylinder unit with six litres’ displacement. The stated objective is to extract 700 hp from a displacement of 7.3 litres. The body allows for full power delivery: all wheels have double wishbones, and horizontally mounted shock absorbers permit a flatter profile. In a first for road cars, the dampers are adjusted by means of control valves. At delivery the suspension of the One-77 can be adjusted to the owner’s individual requirements, with a choice of comfortable GT or race car fit for the Nürburgring-Nordschleife. The car will weigh in at around 1,500 kilograms and cover the 0 to 100 km/h sprint in approx. 3.5 seconds, continuing on to a top speed of around 320 km/h.
Fisker Karma S
Fisker Automotive, Inc. took the wraps off its first production car, the Fisker Karma, at the North American International Auto Show 2009 in Detroit. The four-door four-seater Karma S combines the traditional, timeless styling of car designer and Fisker Automotive CEO, Henrik Fisker, with the plug-in hybrid drive concept Q-DRIVE® by Quantum Technologies to create the world’s first plug-in hybrid luxury car.
On a full charge from any standard 110-, 220- or 240-volt outlet, the Fisker Karma S manages up to 50 zero-emission miles. In Sport Mode the range extends to an estimated 300 miles thanks to the economical Ecotec® petrol engine driving a generator which in turn supplies the two electric motors on the rear differential. The Karma S is good for an annual average of more than 100 miles per gallon and a top speed of 125 mph. Zero to 60 mph acceleration is accomplished in 5.8 seconds.
The Concorso d’Eleganza Villa d’Este 2009
On the weekend of 24 – 26 April 2009 the glorious grounds of the Grand Hotel Villa d’Este and Villa Erba in Cernobbio on Lake Como will once more turn into a unique platform for the most beautiful automobiles from the past and the boldest concept cars of the present. First held in 1929 at the same location, today the Concorso d’Eleganza Villa d’Este ranks as the world’s most tradition-rich event of its kind.
After Saturday’s opening event for invited guests, on Sunday the Concorso once again offers all auto fans the opportunity to see these dreams on wheels close up in the adjacent parkland of Villa Erba. In addition to the cars presented on Saturday, special exhibitions will showcase many more high-profile classics. Admission to Villa Erba in Cernobbio on Lake Como is 12.50 euros (concessions 8 euros).
The main sponsor of this year’s Concorso d’Eleganza is Girard-Perregaux.
';
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news['article_27'] = new Array();
news['article_27']['articleId'] = 27;
news['article_27']['category_name'] = 'BMW Updates';
news['article_27']['day'] = '27';
news['article_27']['month'] = '04';
news['article_27']['year'] = '2009';
news['article_27']['title'] = 'Bahrain Grand Prix – Race, Sunday – 26.04.09';
news['article_27']['subtitle'] = '';
news['article_27']['content'] = 'The Chinese Grand Prix was bad, and the Bahrain GP even worse. Thanks to starting from rather hopeless grid positions, the BMW Sauber F1 Team drivers found themselves at the back of the pack after being involved in first corner incidents. Robert Kubica finished 18th and Nick Heidfeld 19th. The team now awaits the update of the F1.09 for the Spanish Grand Prix.
Robert Kubica: 18th
BMW Sauber F1.09-05 / BMW P86/9 (KERS)
Fastest lap: 1:35.706 min in lap 50 (13th fastest overall)
“My race was destroyed after corner one. I was between Nick and another car, we touched each other and I destroyed my front wing. Then after the crash there was a miscommunication with the pit crew. I asked to come in straight away, but was only able to pit after the second lap. Then the race was very difficult, as for a long time I was in a heavy car on prime tyres. We were really nowhere with our pace. I hope we make a big step forward in Barcelona.”
Nick Heidfeld: 19th
BMW Sauber F1.09-04 / BMW P86/9 (KERS)
Fastest lap: 1:35.924 min in lap 52 (16th fastest overall)
“The result is a disaster, although we were unlucky with the collision in the first corner. At first I thought the suspension was broken, but I only had to have a new nose fitted in the pits and then continued. The first half of the race with the harder tyres was difficult, but the softer compound made it a little bit easier. However, it is another race to forget and we all hope for improvements in Barcelona.”
Mario Theissen (BMW Motorsport Director):
“We knew it would be another difficult race weekend for us, and it was also clear the danger of a collision would be higher the further down the grid we were. As we feared, both our drivers had early collisions and as a result the race was practically over. During the pit stops we gave them a lot of fuel and sent them out with hard tyres, because the only chance of getting back into the race would have been during a safety-car period. But even if this had happened scoring a point would have been impossible. We are now concentrating on the next race in Barcelona, where we will compete with a new aero package.”
Willy Rampf (Head of Engineering):
“Our starting positions were not good at all. And then our race was practically over just after the start. After the collisions and the necessary repairs neither driver had a chance to really get back into the race. Now we have to look forward. In Barcelona we will have an improved car.”
Team-Website www.bmw-sauber-f1.com';
news['article_28'] = new Array();
news['article_28']['articleId'] = 28;
news['article_28']['category_name'] = 'BMW Updates';
news['article_28']['day'] = '27';
news['article_28']['month'] = '04';
news['article_28']['year'] = '2009';
news['article_28']['title'] = 'Brilliant winner lights up the Concorso d’Eleganza Villa d’Este 2009. 27.04.2009';
news['article_28']['subtitle'] = '';
news['article_28']['content'] = 'The Concorso d’Eleganza Villa d’Este 2009 has produced a brilliant winner. An Alfa Romeo 8C 2900B Berlinetta Touring claimed victory in the coveted Trofeo BMW Group, awarded by the Jury to the “best of show” at the Concorso. And it was not only the Jury who were won over by the 1938 Alfa – the two prizes awarded by public referendum, the traditionrich Coppa d’Oro Villa d’Este and the Trofeo BMW Group Italia, also went to the car owned by American Jon Shirley. In the Concorso d’Eleganza Design Award for concept cars and prototypes, the public voted for the Aston Martin Lagonda One – 77.
As in recent years, the car enthusiasts from all around the world were treated to glorious sunshine on Saturday. Although the sun was replaced by grey skies and continuous rain on Sunday, nothing could dampen the spirits of the more than 2.600 visitors who flocked to the grounds of Villa Erba in Cernobbio. “The great response from the public despite the poor weather shows how this event has become a firm fixture on the calendar of car aficionados from both this region and countries around the world,” said Karl Baumer, President of the Concorso d’Eleganza Villa d’Este and Director of BMW Group Classic. “The weather on Sunday could have been better for the 80th anniversary of the Concorso, but a sunny Saturday with this selection of cars provided a more than worthy setting for our anniversary Concorso,” added Jean-Marc Droulers, President of Villa d’Este S.p.A. ';
news['article_28']['image'] = '/ie/en/insights/news/Concorso.jpg';
news['article_29'] = new Array();
news['article_29']['articleId'] = 29;
news['article_29']['category_name'] = 'BMW Updates';
news['article_29']['day'] = '06';
news['article_29']['month'] = '05';
news['article_29']['year'] = '2009';
news['article_29']['title'] = 'BMW Group: First-quarter EBIT of minus euro 55 million';
news['article_29']['subtitle'] = '';
news['article_29']['content'] = 'Group liquidity further improved
Positive free cash flow of euro 220 million in first quarter
BMW Group continues to see 2009 as year of transition
The BMW Group asserted its position in the first quarter 2009 despite the weak state of the sales markets brought about by the global financial and economic crisis. “We have continued our forward-looking finance and cost management strategies with great determination during the opening quarter of the year”, stated Norbert Reithofer, Chairman of the Board of Management of BMW AG on Wednesday in Munich. “In view of the difficult conditions still prevailing on the financial markets, we remain focused in our efforts to improve our liquidity position”, continued Reithofer. Strengthening the liquidity base creates manoeuvring room and ensures that the BMW Group will be able to continue its policy of investing in the future.
The BMW Group’s first-quarter performance was nevertheless perceptibly impaired by the ongoing reluctance of consumers to spend and by high refinancing costs. Group revenues for the quarter fell by 13.4% to euro 11,509 million (first quarter 2008: euro 13,285 million) as a result of the drop in sales volumes. The Group reports a loss before financial result (EBIT) of euro 55 million (first quarter 2008: profit before financial result of euro 827 million). The loss before tax was euro 198 million (first quarter 2007: profit before tax of euro 641 million). The loss after tax was euro 152 million (first quarter 2008: profit after tax of euro 487 million).
A whole range of efficiency improvement measures are being implemented at great pace on both the cost and the revenues side to enable the BMW Group to overcome the current crisis. The BMW Group continued to improve its cost structures during the first three months of the year. It also managed to reduce inventory levels further and to cut back working capital in the Automobiles segment during the same period by euro 1,076 million. “We were able to generate a positive free cash flow of euro 220 million during the first quarter”, stated Reithofer. Group liquidity improved to a total of euro 10.025 billion by the end of the quarter.
BMW Group continues to see 2009 as year of transition
The BMW Group continues to see the current year as one of transition. In view of the fact that it is almost impossible to predict how the global economy will fare in the near future, it is still currently not feasible to give reliable earnings forecasts for the full year 2009. In view of the ongoing weakness of the markets, it is likely that the BMW Group’s worldwide sales volume will be lower than in the previous year. “We intend to maintain or further increase our market shares in the premium segment in the current year”, emphasised Reithofer.
From 2010 onwards, it is expected that the renewed product range will provide impetus for business. This trend should be fuelled further between 2010 and 2012 when the new versions of high-selling models come onto the markets. For the year 2012, the BMW Group continues to target a return on capital employed (ROCE) in excess of 26% and an EBIT margin of between 8% and 10% for its Automobile segment.
A number of new models are to be launched in the near future that will boost sales. The new BMW 7 Series has been available in Europe since the end of 2008. The BMW flagship, which is already the market leader in Western Europe, will be available to customers worldwide by spring 2009. Due to the longer period of availability in the current year, sales of the 7 Series are expected to be above the previous year’s level. The new BMW Z4 will be launched in May. The X1 and the 5 Series Gran Turismo will come onto the markets towards the end of the year. The new MINI Convertible has been available since March. The M variants of the BMW X5 and BMW X6 were presented at the beginning of April.
Consumer reluctance to spend hits Automobiles segment earnings
Weak automobile markets in the wake of the global financial and economic crisis resulted in a sharp sales volume decrease in the first quarter. The total number of BMW, MINI and Rolls-Royce brand vehicles delivered to customers fell by 21.2% to 277,264 units (first quarter 2008: 351,787 units). Despite the sharp decrease, the BMW Group nevertheless performed better than the premium segment as a whole. Sales of BMW brand cars dropped by 20.5% to 233,498 units (first quarter 2008: 293,550 units). The number of MINI brand cars sold fell by 24.9% to 43,592 units (first quarter 2008: 58,054 units). Rolls-Royce’s sales performance, with 174 units sold, remained close to the previous year’s high level (first quarter 2008: 183 units/-4.9%).
The BMW Group was able to defend its lead over competitors during the first three months of 2009. The BMW brand increased its market share of the worldwide premium segment to 20.7%. Market share was also increased on the BMW Group’s largest market, the USA.
Earnings of the Automobiles segment fell sharply due to lower sales volumes brought about by the economic crisis. The segment reports a negative EBIT of euro 251 million (first quarter 2008: positive EBIT of euro 619 million) and a loss before tax of euro 471 million (first quarter 2008: profit before tax of euro 539 million). Revenues decreased by 21.0% to euro 9,605 million (first quarter 2008: euro 12,162 million). Net financial assets of the Automobiles segment increased during the quarter by euro 119 million to euro 9,165 billion.
Sales volume decrease for BMW Motorrad in first quarter
Difficult business conditions also affected the performance of the Motorcycles segment. The BMW Group sold 17,232 BMW motorcycles during the first three months of 2009, 18.1% fewer than one year earlier (first quarter 2008: 21,046 units). Revenues fell by 15.9% to euro 290 million (first quarter 2008: euro 345 million). EBIT fell to euro 28 million (first quarter 2008: euro 36 million/-22.2%) and the profit before tax dropped to euro 26 million (first quarter 2008: euro 34 million/-23.5%).
The BMW Group continues to expand its motorcycle model range. The three K-series models (K1300 S/R/GT) presented in the previous year have been available to customers since the beginning of February 2009. The new F 800 R will be introduced to the markets in May and the road version of the S1000 RR racing machine will follow at the end of the year.
Financial services business affected by credit crisis
The international financial crisis continued to affect financial services business during the period under report. First-quarter segment revenues edged up by 3.8% to euro 4,003 million (first quarter 2008: euro 3,857 million). EBIT decreased to euro 70 million (first quarter 2008: euro 79 million/-11.4%), while the profit before tax fell to euro 72 million (first quarter 2008: euro 84 million /-14.3%).
The number of lease and financing contracts in place with dealers and retail customers rose by 11.3% to a total of 3,007,406 contracts. The business volume in balance sheet terms at 31 March 2009 totalled euro 60,986 million. The proportion of new cars of the BMW Group financed or leased by the Financial Services segment was 47.9%, 1.2 percentage points above the proportion recorded one year earlier. The proportion for the financial year 2008 had been 48.5%.
Workforce reduced
The number of employees decreased further during the period under review. The workforce was reduced in this period by 929 employees, of whom approximately 300 had signed voluntary severance contracts in the previous year and left the company during the first quarter of 2009. In addition, positions becoming free due to natural staff attrition were not filled. The BMW Group workforce comprised 99,112 employees worldwide at the end of the first quarter 2009 (31 March 2008: 106,887 employees), representing a 7.3% decrease on a year-on-year basis. Compared to 31 December 2008, the number of employees was decreased by 0.9%.
* * *
The full Quarterly Report to 31 March 2009 is available for download at www.bmwgroup.com/ir.
The BMW Group – an Overview
1st Quarter
2009 1st Quarter
2008 Change
in %
Vehicle production
Automobiles units 267,637 405,595 -34.0
Motorcycles units 29,111 28,589 1.8
Deliveries to customers
Automobiles units 277,264 351,787 -21.2
Thereof:
BMW units 233,498 293,550 -20.5
MINI units 43,592 58,054 -24.9
Rolls-Royce units 174 183 -4.9
Motorcycles units 17,232 21,046 -18.1
Workforce at period-end 99,112 106,887 -7.3
Operating cash flow euro million 1,122 1,063 5.6
Revenues euro million 11,509 13,285 -13.4
Profit/loss before financial result (EBIT) euro million -55 827 -
Thereof:
Automobiles euro million -251 619 -
Motorcycles euro million 28 36 -22.2
Financial Services euro million 70 79 -11.4
Other Entities euro million 12 36 -66.7
Eliminations euro million 86 57 -
Profit/loss before tax euro million -198 641
Thereof:
Automobiles euro million -471 539 -
Motorcycles euro million 26 34 -23.5
Financial Services euro million 72 84 -14.3
Other Entities euro million 24 -5 -
Eliminations euro million 151 -11 -
Income taxes euro million 46 -154 -
Net profit/loss euro million -152 487 -
Earnings per share euro -0.23/-0.23 0.74/0.74 -
';
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news['article_30']['articleId'] = 30;
news['article_30']['category_name'] = 'BMW Updates';
news['article_30']['day'] = '12';
news['article_30']['month'] = '05';
news['article_30']['year'] = '2009';
news['article_30']['title'] = 'BMW Sauber F1 Team - Spanish GP - Race';
news['article_30']['subtitle'] = '';
news['article_30']['content'] = 'Weather: dry and sunny, 24°C Air, 38-43°C Track
The BMW Sauber F1 Team scored two points at the Spanish Grand Prix on Sunday with Nick Heidfeld finishing seventh. While Heidfeld gained some places at the start, his team mate, Robert Kubica, lost several at this early stage and later in the race was stuck in traffic. He finished 11th. The new aero package on the F1.09 proved to be a clear improvement.
Nick Heidfeld: 7th
BMW Sauber F1.09-06 / BMW P86/9
Fastest lap 1:23.878 min on lap 29 (10th fastest overall)
”It was a tough race but I think it was one of my better ones. I had hoped for points as a birthday present, but honestly didn’t really believe in this as I was starting from 13th. The start was the decisive time when I gained four positions. In the first corner I was hit from behind but luckily my car wasn’t damaged. It was not easy to defend my position against Kimi Raikkonen later on in the race, and our fight slowed me down, so I lost the contact with the front runners. Our pit crew did a fantastic job and got me in front of Nico Rosberg at my second pit stop. It is a great result for us and the race pace proved the new aero package is a clear improvement, which is very good news for the rest of the season.”
Robert Kubica: 11th
BMW Sauber F1.09-03 / BMW P86/9
Fastest lap 1:24.078 min on lap 26 (11th fastest overall)
“At the start I lost several places due to a clutch problem. But that was only the beginning of a very difficult race. After the safety car period, my car had no grip at all. I just couldn’t push and the car was sliding all over the place. I really don’t understand what happened. Up to Q3 yesterday everything was going well, and the performance of the car was good, but today there was nothing I could do. We have to analyse what happened.”
Mario Theissen (BMW Motorsport Director):
“We made a come back for the start of the European season, although our situation after the first lap wasn’t that good. Robert got stuck in traffic at the start, lost five positions and was just able to avoid the early accident. Whereas Nick on the outside was able to gain some places. During the race it was our pit crew that did a great job and enabled Nick to get by another car with every pit stop. Two points for seventh place is not a big result, but it demonstrates the improved performance of the car with the new aero update. We can build on this.”
Willy Rampf (Head of Engineering):
“The significant modifications we made to the F1.09 obviously brought us one step forward. After the accident at the start Nick moved up from P13 to P9, and later he was able to gain another two positions. This was also thanks to the fantastic work by the pit crew with two excellent pit stops. Robert was unlucky as he was squeezed in at the start and lost a lot of positions. During the race he wasn’t able to drive at his true pace for most of the time because he was stuck in traffic. Now it’s all about bringing the next development steps onto the car as quickly as possible.\" ';
news['article_31'] = new Array();
news['article_31']['articleId'] = 31;
news['article_31']['category_name'] = 'BMW Updates';
news['article_31']['day'] = '24';
news['article_31']['month'] = '05';
news['article_31']['year'] = '2009';
news['article_31']['title'] = 'Monaco Grand Prix – Race, Sunday – 24.05.09';
news['article_31']['subtitle'] = '';
news['article_31']['content'] = 'Weather: dry and sunny, 25-26°C Air, 40-52°C Track
Monaco. The BMW Sauber F1 Team leaves Monaco empty handed. Nick Heidfeld finished 11th, while his team mate, Robert Kubica, retired after 29 laps because of brake problems.
Nick Heidfeld: 11th
BMW Sauber F1.09-06 / BMW P86/9
Fastest lap 1:16.268 min on lap 49 (15th fastest overall)
”I tried to make up positions at the start and on the first lap, but this time it just didn’t work out. It is too narrow here. I was stuck behind Adrian (Sutil) for quite a while. Apparently he had problems with his tyres, and once I even touched the rear of his car. In turn one Lewis (Hamilton) hit me, but I was happy I was able to continue. I was on a one stop strategy, and with the softer compound on the second stint I had degradation. We gave everything today but we were too slow here.”
Robert Kubica: Retired after 29 laps
BMW Sauber F1.09-03 / BMW P86/9
Fastest lap 1:17.558 min on lap 25 (17th fastest overall)
“We had difficulties over the entire weekend. I had a problem at the start and fell to the back of the grid. Then I had a puncture on my rear right tyre. After the necessary pit stop I was lapping well with a very heavy car – taking the car’s potential into account. In the end I had to retire as I had brake problems.”
Mario Theissen (BMW Motorsport Director):
“A better result was not possible for us here this weekend. At no point was our car competitive. No points are the result. We have to improve our speed of development significantly in order to match our own expectations. Robert had a damaged tyre on lap two and later on suffered from brake problems, which caused him to retire. Nick was the first driver to change to the softer tyre compound after a long first stint. Nobody else was on Option tyres for such a long period, and they degraded dramatically before recovering a little towards the end of the race.”
Willy Rampf (Head of Engineering):
“After the free practice and qualifying sessions it was clear that today’s race would be difficult. Nick’s race ran without any special incidents. In the closing laps he was able to defend his position against Lewis (Hamilton) with worn out soft tyres. Robert had a flat tyre early in the race. Surprisingly, he was then able to do good lap times with a very heavy car. We had to bring his car back to the pits early due to a brake problem. Overall, this was a disappointing weekend. It is now our goal to be competitive again in Istanbul. A lot of work lies ahead of us.\"
';
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news['article_32']['articleId'] = 32;
news['article_32']['category_name'] = 'BMW Updates';
news['article_32']['day'] = '29';
news['article_32']['month'] = '05';
news['article_32']['year'] = '2009';
news['article_32']['title'] = '75 years of the BMW Roadster. The BMW 315/1 and its Successors.';
news['article_32']['subtitle'] = '';
news['article_32']['content'] = 'The style has changed, but not the content: “Many German motorists see motoring not just as a comfortable and fast means of transport, but also as a sporting activity. These are people who, once they see an aerodynamic car body with a long and sleek engine compartment, as well as a speedometer extending all the way to 150 km/h, feel that strong yearning for wide open roads simply perfect for driving fast, for Alpine passes just begging to be conquered, and for ompetitors so easy to overtake.”
It was precisely with these words that BMW announced the Company’s first self-engineered roadster in 1934. And indeed, this concept with its six-cylinder power unit was destined to shape the future of the brand, extending all the way to the current BMW Z4.
The starting point for this development came at the Berlin Motor Show in May 1934. Here, together with the BMW 315 Saloon, BMW for the first time presented the prototype of a Sports Roadster with exceptionally attractive lines. Right behind the long and sleek engine compartment there were two sports seats tailored to the driver and front passenger protected by the low, raked windscreen and an mergency roof.
The rear end tapered out in an elegant sweep to the back of the car, adding a particular aerodynamic touch with excellent streamlining.
The radiator grille on this two-seater was inclined much further to the rear than on the Saloon, with mighty, sweeping front wheel arches extending on beneath the doors into the rear wheel arches. To reduce air drag to a minimum, the rear wheels were fully covered, while the body of the car itself rested on an electrically welded steel-pipe double frame with three crosswise box elements.
Front suspension was made up of the upper track spring, wishbones further down and hydraulic lever-type dampers. The rear wheels, in turn, were mounted on a live axle incorporating semi-elliptic springs and hydraulic lever-type dampers.
Small but hot: six-cylinder power unit displacing 1.2 litres.
Both the saloon and the sports car were powered by the same outstanding engine: a 1.5-litre straight-six developed out of the 1.2-litre originally featured in the former BMW 303. The crankcase and cylinder block of this outstanding engine were made of one single piece, the engine featured one camshaft beneath the block, with tappets operating the vertical hanging valves aligned in series via rocker arms. The intake and exhaust pipes, finally, were on the same side.
A feature quite unusual today is the different distances between the individual
cylinders, with the second and third and, respectively, the fourth and fifth cylinders being further apart, the space in between being used for the crankshaft and amshaft bearings.
The crankshaft without any counterweights therefore ran in four bearings, just like the camshaft.
This was however not the reason for this particular design and configuration, which was rather attributable to the assembly process at the time, with the crankshaft being completely pre-assembled together with the connecting rods and pistons. And since the pistons, as a result, had to be inserted from beneath, the main bearings for the crankshaft had to remain outside of the cylinders, not extending into their contour lines. As a result, the main bearings had to be accommodated between cylinders spaced out at a large distance.
While this power unit delivered maximum output of 34 hp on the saloon with its two carburettors, maximum output of the six-cylinder in the BMW 315/1 sports model was 40 hp. And the standard of efficiency offered was quite exceptional, BMW’s engineers proudly stating that “this beautiful and fast sports car consumes only 10–2 litres of fuel on 100 km, with oil consumption between 0.1 and 0.2 kg. So in terms of running costs, it is no more expensive than a small car far lower down in the market”.
With the public simply falling in love with the BMW 315/1, BMW decided to build the car in a small series – also because the Company wanted to make a more powerful entry into the prestigious world of motorsport. Starting in summer 1934, therefore, the very attractive BMW 315/1 was retailed at a substantial 5,200.– reichsmarks. The production model differed from the prototype primarily through the modified arrangement of the headlights and side ventilation grids taking the place of the bent openings originally featured on the first model.
Outstanding success in motorsport.
Reaching a top speed of 120 km/h or 75 mph, the BMW 315/1 Roadster was one of the really serious contenders in the sports car market at its time. Indeed, BMW’s story of success on the race track quickly took on even greater significance with this new model, the BMW 315/1 achieving its first significant success in the International 1934 Alpine Rally.
The starter grid for this rally in Nice was made up of 127 truly outstanding cars looking at daily race sections of 500–600 kilometres to be covered at a minimum speed. On the fourth day there was an additional speed test at Stilfser Joch.
After covering precisely 2,867 kilometres or 1,778 miles, 96 of the 127 cars which had originally entered the race reached the finish line in Munich – 66 thereof without having lost one point. The five cars entered by the BMW Works Team were the only cars in their class to complete the International Alpine Trophy without one single penalty point, the BMW 315/1 Team Richard Brenner/Albert Kandl/Ernst v. Delius finishing first in their category.
Only 230 units of the BMW 315/1 were completed by mid-1935, many of them going to private drivers. One of them was Ralph Roese, a BMW works driver for many years, who built himself a BMW 315/1 Special. This was a complete re-build of the 315/1, the highly modified engine ultimately developing no less than 136 hp in a brand-new race car body weighing just 380 kg or 838 lb.
Given qualities of this kind, it is no surprise that this racing car finished first in its very first race at Nürburgring in 1936, a staggering 17 kilometres ahead of the competition. Understandably, this special model remained a great success over the years until finally winning the German Road Racing Championship in 1939.
Achieving this kind of success, both the drivers and the Company soon started
looking for more: a car in the prestigious category up to two litres. And so it is no surprise that another, even more powerful version of the BMW Roadster – the 319/1 – entered the market in late 1934. Identical in its looks to the BMW 315/1 with the exception of the air vent on the engine compartment, the BMW 319/1 was powered by a 1.9-litre tuned to 55 hp and benefiting both from larger displacement and three larger downdraught carburettors.
Obviously, an engine like this was easily able to cope with a two-seater weighing just 780 kg, accelerating the roadster in standard trim to a top speed of pproximately 135 km/h or 84 mph. At the same time this was of course a truly exclusive car due to its retail price of 5,800 reichsmarks. Production from 1934–1936 therefore amounted to just 178 units, with the BMW 319/1 again bringing home outstanding success in motorsport.
The climax of the pre-war era: the BMW 328 Roadster.
In the mid-30s, production roadsters and competition cars were still very similar in technical terms – and motorsport was still the ideal place to prove the performance and reliability of a production car. But to keep up with the competition, BMW soon had to build cars with more power and muscle. So BMW’s engineers looked for ways and means to significantly increase engine output without increasing engine size. And they found the solution – the M328, the engine powering the legendary BMW 328 sports car in 1936.
Right from the start in its debut at Nürburgring on 14 June 1936, BMW’s new
roadster literally pulverised even the most powerful supercharged competitors. This outstanding success was attributable to the well-balanced combination of superior engine power and cutting-edge suspension technology characteristic of BMW roadsters to this day: 80 hp in the regular version and low weight of just 830 kg or 1,830 lb gave this elegant roadster superior performance still impressive today.
With the BMW 328 Roadster initially being restricted to motorsport as of mid-1936, production of the series model started in spring 1937. And so this high-performance sports car was driven not only by BMW’s works drivers, but also by private customers since, over and above racing, it was very well suited for everyday use. And with its top speed of 155 km/h or 96 mph, this was indeed one of the fastest cars on the road back then.
But again, the BMW 328 Roadster remained a very rare bird, with only 464 units
of this classic roadster being built up to 1940.
Comfort and elegance for all times: the BMW 507.
While the 328 paved the way for BMW’s sporting activities, the Company’s next two-seater sports car set new standards in design and elegance as of the mid-50s: the BMW 507.
When making its debut in New York in 1955 the 507 left both journalists and the public absolutely spellbound. The long and sleek engine compartment, the cockpit perfectly tailored to the driver and passenger, the short and muscular rear end, stretched side lines and gently sweeping curves gave the car absolutely beautiful, timeless design.
At the same time the 507 came with a brand-new, but nevertheless clear and
impressive BMW face: The double kidney grille was now vertical instead of
horizontal, sweeping elegantly between the headlights across the entire front end of the car. And the 507 also had a lot to offer within the engine compartment, boasting an aluminium V8 acknowledged to this day as the first light-alloy V8 in the world built in series production.
Finished in brilliant red, the sales brochure proudly presenting BMW’s new eight-cylinder sports car promised truly outstanding performance: 150 hp from 3.2 litres and top speed of 220 km/h or 136 mph. And as an option BMW somewhat later also offered an upgraded version, delivering approximately 165 hp maximum output.
This truly exclusive car went to exactly 251 proud owners between 1956 and 1959. And not all of them wanted to enjoy this beauty merely as a café cruiser,
racing driver and the “King of Hill-Climbing” Hans Stuck using a modified 507 in mountain races in Europe and winning a number of events in his eight-cylinder roadster.
A spearhead in technology built for the road: the BMW Z1.
With the roadster coming under increasing criticism in the ’60s and ’70s in terms of both safety and comfort, it took 29 years before the next roadster bearing the white-and-blue logo entered the market. This was the BMW Z1 launched – ahead of its time in technical terms – in 1988.
The body of the Z1 was a steel monocoque made of pressed and welded metal
panels and with its plastic floor bonded into place. The entire outer skin was made up of plastic elements and panels likewise bolted on to the car, with the doors retracting on request into the high side-sills even while driving.
The 170-horsepower 2.5-litre straight-six power unit and most of the car’s axle
components came from the 3 Series. With the engine being fi tted behind the front axle, the BMW Z1 was a front mid-engined car, to use the technical term.
Acceleration from a standstill to 100 km/h came in less than eight seconds and the car’s top speed was 225 km/h or 140 mph.
Through its extremely harmonious combination of materials and technologies, the BMW Z1, weighing just 1,250 kg or 2,756 lb, was a truly dynamic roadster still thrilling today in terms of stiffness, its low centre of gravity, and stability in bends. The first units of the car built largely by hand were delivered to customers as of January 1989, the base price of DM 80,000.– ensuring lasting exclusivity. Production of the BMW Z1 finally ended in June 1991, after a production run of exactly 8,000 units.
Sheer driving pleasure in large numbers: the BMW Z3.
The BMW Z1 was the breakthrough. More and more enthusiasts now showed
growing interest in an open BMW two-seater – and in response BMW launched
a roadster in 1995 built in large numbers for customers the world over. Very soon this compact performer became the epitome of BMW’s classic virtues, offering well-balanced technology within a truly attractive body and with a clear focus on driving pleasure.
The BMW Z3 entered the market with a choice of two engines. Featuring a 1.8-litre four-cylinder two-valve power unit developing maximum output of 115 hp, the “regular” model accelerated to 100 km/h in 10.5 seconds and reached a top speed of 194 km/h or 120 mph. The other option was a four-valve 1.9-litre four-cylinder delivering maximum output of 140 hp for acceleration to 100 km/h in 9.5 seconds and a top speed of 205 km/h or 127 mph.
With the Z3 proving to be a huge success, BMW was able in the course of time to offer a whole range of different engines meeting all kinds of different demands. Ultimately, therefore, the portfolio extended from the original 1.8-litre four-cylinder all the way to the 3.2-litre six-cylinder high-performance power unit carried over from the BMW M3, delivering up to 325 hp in the M Roadster and giving BMW’s compact sports car truly outstanding performance on the road.
A fascinating milestone in automotive technology: the BMW Z8.
Entering the new millennium, BMW proudly presented a very special new model: the BMW Z8. With its sleek proportions, classic lines and soft folding roof, the Z8 was truly one of the most outstanding cars of its time through its looks alone. Measuring 4.40 metres or 173.2\" in length, 1.83 metres or 72.0\" in width, and 1.31 metres or 51.6\" in height, this was indeed a modern interpretation of the former BMW 507.
Like its classic role model, BMW’s new roadster offered the very best technology available at the time in automobile production. Within the outer skin bolted on to the car, a monocoque aluminium frame, that is spaceframe technology, provided the load-bearing structure and gave the driver and passenger an extremely direct feeling of the road and the driving experience.
Within its engine compartment the BMW Z8 featured a high-performance five-litre V8 sports engine delivering no less than 400 hp. Combined with a manual six-speed gearbox, this supreme engine enabled the driver to enjoy the utmost in performance at all times and under all conditions. Indeed, this superiority translated into equally clear facts and figures, the ambitious driver being able to lap the 20-km Nord-schleife of Nürburgring in the Z8 in a remarkable 8:15 minutes.
An unmistakable athlete to this day: the BMW Z4.
The latest member of the BMW roadster family is the BMW Z4 presented for the first time at the Paris Motor Show in September 2002. From the start, this open two-seater not only marked a further highlight in BMW design language, but also set new standards in its class. The exciting design of the car was determined by the highly attractive interplay of convex and concave surfaces, hard edges and smooth, sweeping curves.
Available from the start with a choice of two high-torque straight-six power units, the Z4 – either in the guise of the 231-hp Z4 3.0i or as the 192-hp Z4 2.5i – guaranteed roadster motoring at its best.
The outstanding agility of the BMW Z4 is ensured by the car’s wide track, an
extremely low centre of gravity, optimum 50:50 axle load distribution, and the very precise electric power steering. Fading-free high-performance brakes, runflat tyres featured as standard, and Dynamic Stability Control (DSC III) with an add-on traction mode finally, guaranteed supreme driving safety under all conditions.
Style and performance: the new BMW Z4.
The modern interpretation of the classic roadster launched in spring 2009, the new BMW Z4, combines more power with more style than ever before. Indeed, this is the only car in its segment to combine classic roadster proportions with the seating position moved far back close to the rear axle, rear-wheel drive and a fully automatic retractable hardtop.
The new BMW Z4 offers all the driving pleasure of a BMW roadster in particularly refined style. Driving with the roof down, this outstanding two-seater provides a refreshing experience of the sun shining in and the wind rushing by, with the hardtop closed it ensures the same level of all-round comfort as a sporting coupé in the premium segment. So through its wide range of diverse qualities alone, the new BMW Z4 is indeed the re-birth of the roadster.
Here again, it is certainly appropriate to quote the “BMW Blätter”, the original BMW Leaflets in their description of the BMW 315/1 back in 1934: “In a nutshell you can describe BMW’s new sports car as the fast, beautiful and reliable car bound to give the ambitious sports driver one exhilarating experience after the other, at the same time combining all the advantages of an economical touring car.”
';
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news['article_33']['articleId'] = 33;
news['article_33']['category_name'] = 'BMW Updates';
news['article_33']['day'] = '29';
news['article_33']['month'] = '05';
news['article_33']['year'] = '2009';
news['article_33']['title'] = 'Supreme Performance, Exclusive Style: The BMW M3 Edition Models.';
news['article_33']['subtitle'] = '';
news['article_33']['content'] = 'Powerful, aesthetic design, supreme performance and exclusive style – the unique characteristics of the BMW M3 are now available in highly attractive Edition Models focusing on the most outstanding highlights of these outstanding cars.
Based on the BMW M3 Coupé, the M3 Edition Models offer a choice of no less than four highly individual cars boasting perfectly harmonised modifications in body design and interior features as well as special light-alloy wheels and an even lower chassis.
The BMW M3 Edition Models will be entering the market worldwide in July 2009 in Alpine White, Black, Dakar Yellow, and Monte Carlo Blue. In the interest of supreme exclusivity their production period is limited to just six months.
Individual highlights both outside and inside.
On the BMW M3 Edition Models the exterior paintwork and interior design are individually matched to one another. Depending on the respective Edition model, the body comes either in Alpine White Non-Metallic, Black Non-Metallic, Dakar Yellow Non-Metallic or Monte Carlo Blue Metallic. The combination with BMW Individual High-Gloss Satin Chrome accentuates the truly sophisticated character of the Edition Models.
The openings on the engine compartment lid on all models are finished in black, the BMW kidney grille, the side gills and the dual tailpipes on the exhaust system come in dark eloxy-plated chrome. The caps on the special BMW M exterior mirrors are likewise finished in black and are connected to the A-pillars by dual arms extending out of the mirror base finished in body colour.
Special colour highlights add an individual touch also to the interior of the BMW M3 Edition Models. The surfaces on the centre armrest, the centre console and the armrests on the door panels are finished in White on the Alpine White and Black models. At the same time these Edition Models come with interior trim in Carbon Structure Leather with white contrasting seams. The seats in Black Novillo Leather feature bespoke contrasting seams as well as vertical trim stripes on the upper section of the backrest and at the front of the legrest. On the Alpine White and Black models, these features come in white, on the Dakar Yellow and Monte Carlo Blue models they are in the appropriate exterior colour.
As a further feature the armrests and door closing handles at the inside on the Dakar Yellow and Monte Carlo Blue models come with yellow and, respectively, blue contrasting seams. And last but certainly not least, entry trim bars in Checkered Flag Design bearing the “M3“ model designation give all Edition Models yet another highlight.
Special rim design and lowered suspension.
To optimise the looks of the car, all four Edition Models come with specially designed light-alloy rims and a unique suspension: On all models the 19-inch forged M light-alloy rims in double-spoke design are available either in black or in the classic rim colour. And on the Alpine White, Black and Monte Carlo Blue models, the same rims are also available in a special white contrasting colour with polished spokes.
The suspension of the BMW M3 Edition Models adds to the sporting style of the cars, lowering the entire body by 10 millimetres or 0.4“.
BMW M3: supreme performance with eight cylinders and seven gears.
The BMW M3 Edition Models give this high-performance athlete a particularly striking look also reflected by the car’s supreme driving dynamics based on a unique all-round concept and drivetrain/suspension technology inspired by motorsport. The V8 high-speed power unit of the BMW M3 develops maximum output of 309 kW/420 hp from 4.0 litres.
Power is transmitted to the rear wheels either through the six-speed manual gearbox featured as standard or through the optional M double-clutch gearbox with Drivelogic enhancing both the dynamic performance and the all-round efficiency of the BMW M3 all in one. In this case acceleration to 100 km/h comes in 4.6 seconds (six-speed manual: 4.8 seconds) and average fuel consumption in the EU test cycle is 11.9 litres/23.7 mpg imp (six-speed manual: 12.4 litres/22.8 mpg imp)/100 kilometres.
The BMW M3 comes as standard with a lightweight carbon roof, while the options include Electronic Damper Control and the M Drive menu enabling the driver to configure individual, M-specific suspension and drivetrain functions just right for his personal style.
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news['article_35']['articleId'] = 35;
news['article_35']['category_name'] = 'BMW Updates';
news['article_35']['day'] = '11';
news['article_35']['month'] = '06';
news['article_35']['year'] = '2009';
news['article_35']['title'] = 'BMW named Which? Best Car Manufacturer 2009';
news['article_35']['subtitle'] = '';
news['article_35']['content'] = 'BMW has been named Best Car Manufacturer in the prestigious Which? Awards 2009, at the British Museum in London. The company was rated higher than its short listed rivals by the members of Which? who number more than a million. Which? is long established as a champion of the consumer and a trusted advisor to buyers of all manner of goods and services, lending particular weight to this award.
Chief Executive of Which?, Peter Vicary-Smith, said: “BMW drivers seem to love their cars with 87 per cent in our survey describing themselves as very satisfied with the ownership experience. The company’s vehicles always excel in our road tests, while BMW’s innovative EfficientDynamics measures mean some of the best cars to drive have also become incredibly fuel efficient.”
Accepting the award, BMW Group UK’s Managing Director, Tim Abbott, said: “We are delighted to have won such a prestigious award, particularly as it is our customers who have rated us so highly. We take great pains to ensure that the quality of service we offer both directly and through our dealers matches the excellence of our cars.”
The BMW Group is the most sustainable car company in the world – as the latest Dow Jones Sustainability Index (DJSI) recently confirmed for the fourth year in succession. The company offers the most efficient cars in the premium segment courtesy of EfficientDynamics technologies and the BMW 118d was named World Green Car of the Year 2008.
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news['article_36']['articleId'] = 36;
news['article_36']['category_name'] = 'BMW Updates';
news['article_36']['day'] = '15';
news['article_36']['month'] = '06';
news['article_36']['year'] = '2009';
news['article_36']['title'] = 'BMW Group takes two honours as EfficientDynamics technologies shine at What Car? Green Car Awards 2009';
news['article_36']['subtitle'] = '';
news['article_36']['content'] = 'BMW Group’s EfficientDynamics programme gives customers outstanding fuel economy and low emissions without giving up driving enjoyment. This was recognised again this year at the What Car? Green Car Awards 2009. The MINI Cooper S won the Green Sports Car category for the second year in a row and the BMW 318d took the honours in the Executive Car category.
The MINI Cooper S has a punchy, turbocharged engine which powers it to 62 mph in just 7.1 seconds, but returns a combined fuel consumption figure of 45.6 mpg and CO2 emissions are just 149 g/km. Steve Fowler, Editor-in-Chief at What Car?, said: “The MINI Cooper S is a home-grown hot hatch that’s big on performance and style, yet treads far lighter than rivals because of its smaller carbon footprint.”
The BMW 318d Saloon is BMW’s most fuel efficient and least polluting 3 Series ever. A 318d Saloon records a combined consumption figure of 60.1mpg and CO2 emissions of 123g/km, while at the same time is capable of a zero to 62mph time of 9.3 seconds. It was the blend of these impressive performance figures that assured the parsimonious 3 Series model with top green honours.
BMW first offered EfficientDynamics as standard in 2007. A raft of models received Auto Start / Stop, Brake Energy Regeneration, Active Aerodynamics, low rolling resistance tyres, Electric Power Steering, on-demand ancillary systems and optimum gearshift indicator features.
These technologies built on the existing lightweight engineering principles and direct injection engine technology introduced over the previous years. Across virtually the entire MINI range, many of the same technologies are present under the MINIMALISM title and ensure the premium small car offers an unbeatable mix of fun and frugality.
';
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news['article_37']['articleId'] = 37;
news['article_37']['category_name'] = 'BMW Updates';
news['article_37']['day'] = '17';
news['article_37']['month'] = '06';
news['article_37']['year'] = '2009';
news['article_37']['title'] = 'Engine of the Year Award 2009: Triple Victory with Four, Six and Eight Cylinders. BMW Group Continues Story of Success in the World’s Most Significant Engine Contest.';
news['article_37']['subtitle'] = '';
news['article_37']['content'] = 'Scoring outstanding wins in the three categories of the International Engine of the Year Award, the BMW Group once again highlights its top position this year as a manufacturer of particularly powerful and, at the same time, efficient engines. In the world’s most significant engine contest, the V8 power unit featured in the BMW M3, the straight-six with Twin Turbo Technology to be admired, among other models, in the BMW 3 Series, the BMW 1 Series and the BMW X6, as well as the four-cylinder twin-scroll turbocharged engine in the MINI Cooper S, have all scored triumphant victories in their respective classes.
The Awards were presented on 17 June 2009 at the Engine Expo in Stuttgart.
This triple victory continues the BMW Group’s story of success in the International Engine of the Year Award. In this contest held since 1999 BMW engines have brought home overall victory no less than six times, including the four last years in a row.
This year’s three winners once again thrilled the jury through their fascinating development of power as well as their up-to-date efficiency. This combination of such superior virtues is the result of the BMW EfficientDynamics development strategy characterising both the eight cylinder from BMW M GmbH, the straight-six from BMW, and the MINI four-cylinder.
In the engine category between 3.0 and 4.0 litres the V8 power unit featured in the BMW M3 successfully defended the title it had already won last year. Indeed, this 309 kW/420 hp 4.0-litre makes a substantial contribution to the success of BMW’s high-performance sports car in the market, now available in the guise of the BMW M3 Coupé, the BMW M3 Saloon, and the BMW M3 Convertible.
The 3.0-litre 225 kW/306 hp six-cylinder with Twin Turbo and High Precision Injection, in turn, this year dominates the engine category between 2.5 and 3.0 litres for the third time in a row.
Continuity has also been the name of the game in the engine category between 1.4 and 1.8 litres ever since the year 2007, with the 1.6-litre four-cylinder power unit in the MINI Cooper S with its twin-scroll turbocharger, direct gasoline injection and maximum output of 128 kW/175 hp still setting the standard.
The decisions on the International Engine of the Year Award are taken by an international jury made up of renowned motoring journalists. This year the team of no less than 65 experts came from 32 countries, awarding prizes in eight engine classes based on size and in three special categories, as well as the special award for the overall winner.
In the eleven contests held so far since 1999, the BMW Group has already brought home more than 40 trophies. This ongoing success in the world’s most significant engine contest is impressive proof of the BMW Group’s unique competence the world over in the area of powertrain development
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news['article_38']['articleId'] = 38;
news['article_38']['category_name'] = 'BMW Updates';
news['article_38']['day'] = '01';
news['article_38']['month'] = '07';
news['article_38']['year'] = '2009';
news['article_38']['title'] = 'The new BMW 316d ES Saloon';
news['article_38']['subtitle'] = 'Award-winning EfficientDynamics technologies spawn most fuel efficient and cleanest BMW 3 Series ';
news['article_38']['content'] = 'Band A VRT ranking & €104 Road Tax
June 2009 heralds the launch of the most fuel efficient and cleanest BMW 3 Series the marque has ever produced. The new BMW 316d ES Saloon sets a new benchmark in the premium sector with its heightened blend of high economy, low emissions yet rewarding driving experience.
The BMW 316d is powered by a 1,995cc four-cylinder diesel engine that records 4.5 l/100km (62.8mpg) on the combined cycle. This class-leading economy figure is enough to give the car a possible range in excess of 1280km between fill-ups. Factor in its CO2 emissions of just 118g/km and the vehicle becomes the most fuel efficient and cleanest BMW 3 Series ever.
However, every BMW still has to acquit itself in the performance stakes to meet customer expectations. A 116hp output figure and torque of 260Nm from 1,750rpm delivers a zero to 100 km/h time of 10.9 seconds. When combined with a top speed of 200 km/h and uncompromised dynamic performance this fulfils the promise of the EfficientDynamics programme. This efficiency comfortably eclipses competitor product from the likes of Audi and Mercedes. Power is transmitted to the road via a six-speed manual gearbox.
Low running costs are a key factor in the proposition of BMW 316d ownership. Aside from its parsimonious nature, the BMW 316d falls into VRT Band A and will cost €104 per year in Road Tax.
The BMW 316d ES Saloon comes as standard with the same specification as the current What Car? Green Car of the Year Executive Car category winner, the BMW 318d ES Saloon. This specification includes air-conditioning, multi-function leather steering wheel, front and rear ISOFIX child seat attachments, front foglights and the complete suite of BMW EfficientDynamics technologies as standard.
The new BMW 316d Saloon goes on sale in September priced at €37,315
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news['article_38']['link1_url'] = 'http://www.bmwsterlingcollection.ie ';
news['article_38']['link1_text'] = 'Further savings can be made on this class-leading vehicle when purchased via BMW Sterling Collection, www.bmwsterlingcollection.ie';
news['article_39'] = new Array();
news['article_39']['articleId'] = 39;
news['article_39']['category_name'] = 'BMW Updates';
news['article_39']['day'] = '02';
news['article_39']['month'] = '07';
news['article_39']['year'] = '2009';
news['article_39']['title'] = 'BMW created a new vehicle segment a decade ago';
news['article_39']['subtitle'] = 'The new BMW X1';
news['article_39']['content'] = 'BMW’s first compact Sports Activity Vehicle BMW’s first X model with Auto Start-Stop function as part of EfficientDynamics technologies Choice of two- and four-wheel-drive power when it launched the X5. That vehicle received critical acclaim at its launch and continues to this day as a market leader with 1.5million sold worldwide. The popular X3 followed in 2004 and the X6 spawned a new niche in 2008. Now BMW is poised to introduce the next derivative of the X model line-up with the X1.
The new BMW X1 takes its key styling cues and practicality from the X5 but shrinks it into a more compact and affordable package. The vehicle’s elegant lines and command driving position echo its larger stablemate, while the five-seat configuration and 1,350-litre boot space provide outstanding load-lugging capability. Power comes from a choice of three diesel engines and, for the first time on a BMW X product, the option to have rear-wheel-drive (sDrive) or four-wheel-drive (xDrive).
The dominance of diesel engines in other BMW SAVs, led BMW to decide only to offer diesel in Ireland. The BMW sDrive18d and the xDrive18d feature four-cylinder powerplants with an all-aluminium crankcase and a single turbocharger with variable intake geometry. Third generation common-rail diesel technology ensures optimum combustion.
The 1,995cc engine produces 143hp while peak torque is 320Nm from 1,750rpm through to 2,500rpm. This equates to a zero to 100 km/h time of 9.6 seconds and a top speed of 200 km/h for the rear-wheel-drive X1 sDrive18d SE. The X1 xDrive18d SE posts figures of 10.1 seconds and a 195 km/h top speed. Both models are exceptionally fuel efficient, capable of 5.2 l/100km (54.3mpg) and 5.7/100km (49.6mpg) on the combined cycle respectively. The engine is EU5 rated and records 136g/km and 150g/km CO2 emissions.
Offering a higher outright performance, the BMW sDrive20d SE and xDrive20d SE are also offered. Powered by the same 1,995cc engine but in a higher state of tune, these two models up the ante offering 177hp and 350Nm from 1,750rpm to 3,000rpm. This results in improved performance figures with zero to 100 km/h attained in 8.1 seconds (8.4 for the xDrive20d) and a top speed of 205 km/h.
As the flagship model the BMW xDrive23d SE is offered only as a four-wheel-drive variant. Still using a 2.0-litre engine, albeit with twin-turbocharger technology, this International Engine of the Year category winner provides rapid performance that defies the model’s Sports Activity Vehicle position. The 204hp engine accelerates the X1 to 100 km/h in just 7.3 seconds. The near flat torque curve with a peak output of 400Nm from 2,000rpm to 2,250rpm permits effortless overtaking. The xDrive23d SE is an EU5 rated vehicle that records 6.3l/100km (44.8mpg) on the combined cycle and CO2 emissions of 167g/km.
Most BMW X1s come as standard with a six-speed manual gearbox. However, buyers of the xDrive23d have a six-speed Sport automatic gearbox with gear change paddles located a finger tip away from the steering wheel for sporty changes.
Auto Start-Stop for greater fuel efficiency
EfficientDynamics plays a part in the BMW X1 story with the introduction of Auto Start-Stop technology on an X product for the first time. Available on all manual transmission cars the system improves fuel consumption figures. The BMW X1 also has the full suite of EfficientDynmamics technologies including Brake Energy Regeneration, optimised aerodynamics, optimum shift indicator and on-demand use of ancillary units to name a few.
The design of the new BMW X1 is stylish and sporting yet practical. Sleek lines blend into flared wheel arches to underscore the car’s dynamic capabilities as does the tapered roof line and wide track. Short overhangs front and rear, typical of every BMW, ensure the best basis for optimum handling. The profile of the car belies an interior space that sees five adults seated comfortably along with their luggage.
Inside, and all the main controls and dashboard displays are angled towards the driver. A range of storage compartments, trays and large door pockets provides a variety of places to keep personal effects. An owner that specifies one of the two available satellite navigation systems featuring the latest iDrive display, controller and Favourite Buttons gains a slightly revised interior layout to accommodate the system. The interior of the BMW X1 can be further enhanced by opting for the new Design package. This sees Sport seats in Oyster Nevada leather, Anthracite headlining and Fineline Wave wood trim. The Oyster theme continuing to the lower part of the dashboard, all of the centre console and leather piping on the floor mats.
The BMW X1 goes on sale in Ireland on 24 October, 2009 with the sDrive18d and xDrive18d variants following in December.
';
news['article_39']['image'] = '/ie/en/insights/news/P90048875-zoom.jpg';
news['article_40'] = new Array();
news['article_40']['articleId'] = 40;
news['article_40']['category_name'] = 'BMW Updates';
news['article_40']['day'] = '10';
news['article_40']['month'] = '08';
news['article_40']['year'] = '2009';
news['article_40']['title'] = 'BMW Group honoured with the most awards and commendations at the prestigious Auto Express New Car Awards 2009 ';
news['article_40']['subtitle'] = '';
news['article_40']['content'] = 'The BMW 3 Series Saloon and Convertible have scooped two high profile awards from the UK’s biggest selling weekly motoring magazine.
A panel of motoring experts from Auto Express assessed the latest vehicles on sale in the UK and crowned the BMW 3 Series Saloon ‘Best Compact Executive Car’ while the BMW 3 Series Convertible was awarded ‘Best Convertible’.
The Auto Express road test team said of the BMW 3 Series Saloon: “BMW’s superior dynamics won the day. A model range that includes everything from a diesel variant capable of 62.8mpg to the supercar-chasing 414bhp M3 is unbeatable.”
The BMW 3 Series Convertible received equally high praise with the team commenting: “The standard 3 Series is famed for its sharp handling rear-wheel-drive chassis and the Convertible is no different. It leaves the competition trailing with its agility, grip and balance, while the engine range includes BMW’s potent petrol and diesel units.”
In addition to scooping two outright wins BMW Group products were also commended in six other categories. The BMW Z4, 3 Series Coupé, 5 Series Saloon, 7 Series, X6 and MINI JCW hatch all received special praise. News of the awards comes after the BMW 3 Series had been crowned Best Fleet Car 2009 by Fleet World and the BMW 318d awarded top Executive Car in the What Car? Green Car Awards 2009. ';
news['article_41'] = new Array();
news['article_41']['articleId'] = 41;
news['article_41']['category_name'] = 'BMW Updates';
news['article_41']['day'] = '21';
news['article_41']['month'] = '08';
news['article_41']['year'] = '2009';
news['article_41']['title'] = 'The new BMW 320d EfficientDynamics Saloon ';
news['article_41']['subtitle'] = 'BMW’s most fuel efficient and greenest 3 Series ever to go on sale in 2010. First premium product in the sub 110g/km segment
';
news['article_41']['content'] = 'BMW is to offer the most fuel efficient and greenest 3 Series ever with the introduction of the new BMW 320d EfficientDynamics Saloon. The latest model to be offered by the marque sets a new benchmark in the premium segment by recording impressive CO2 emissions of 109g/km and a combined consumption figure of 4.1 l/100km (68.9mpg).
As the first sub 110g/km premium segment car, the BMW 320d EfficientDynamics Saloon will cost just €104 a year to tax courtesy of a Vehicle Registration Tax band A rank.
The new BMW 320d EfficientDynamics Saloon is powered by a mellifluous 1,995cc engine with class-leading performance figures. The single turbocharged diesel powerplant features an all-aluminium crankcase and third generation common-rail injection technology with piezo injectors to achieve its impressive consumption and emissions figures without diluting driver enjoyment.
The BMW 320d EfficientDynamics Saloon develops 163hp between 3,500rpm to 4,200rpm and 360Nm of torque from 1,750rpm to 3,000rpm. This equates to a zero to 100 km/h time of 8.2 seconds and a top speed of 220 km/h. Acceleration in fifth gear from 80 km/h to 120 km/h is also suitably swift taking just 9.6 seconds. The heightened performance of the BMW 320d EfficientDynamics Saloon has been made possible due to changes to the engine construction, a longer rear axle transmission ratio, lowered suspension and the use of specially designed aerodynamic alloy wheels with Michelin EnergySaver tyres.
The BMW 320d EfficientDynamics Saloon also comes with a dual mass flywheel with springs between the two parts to help smooth out any engine vibration through the drivetrain. This is enhanced with the fitting of new Centrifugal Pendulum Absorbers to improve smoothness further. This feature increases motoring comfort and should result in the driver using a highergear more often. This innovation combined with the longer transmission ratio thus serves to significantly reduce engine speed compared to a ‘standard’ 320d Saloon, benefiting fuel economy and emissions.
The new car still comes fitted with the existing suite of BMW EfficientDynamics technologies, including Auto Start Stop, Brake Energy Regeneration and Electric Power Steering for optimum performance, that have featured on all four-cylinder BMW 3 Series models since September 2007.
The BMW 320d EfficientDynamics Saloon will be unveiled at the Frankfurt Motor Show and go on sale in January, 2010. The specification of the car will be on a par with a BMW 320d SE* and includes two-zone air-conditioning, rear Park Distance Control, BMW Professional radio, multi-function leather steering wheel and Extended lighting. Pricing is likely to mirror the existing ‘standard’ BMW 320d SE Saloon, with reductions in VRT being passed on to the customer.
BMW Group was named the world’s most sustainable car manufacturer in the Dow Jones Sustainability Index for the fourth year in succession.
*SE specification 17-inch alloy wheel is replaced with 16-inch Aero alloy wheel.
';
news['article_41']['image'] = '/ie/en/insights/corporation/_shared/img/320d-EffDyn.jpg';
news['article_42'] = new Array();
news['article_42']['articleId'] = 42;
news['article_42']['category_name'] = 'BMW Updates';
news['article_42']['day'] = '02';
news['article_42']['month'] = '09';
news['article_42']['year'] = '2009';
news['article_42']['title'] = 'BMW ActiveHybrid – a New Path to Thrilling Dynamics: BMW Vision EfficientDynamics.';
news['article_42']['subtitle'] = '';
news['article_42']['content'] = 'BMW sees technical innovations reducing both emissions and fuel consumption as an elementary part of the brand’s product strategy, just like vehicle concepts enhancing the Sheer Driving Pleasure so typical of BMW as a lasting, sustained experience.
Now the BMW Vision Effi cientDynamics concept car clearly demonstrates that these objectives expressed through the BMW Effi cientDynamics development strategy are fully compatible with the most demanding reduction in fuel consumption and emissions complying in full with future requirements.
Conceived as a 2+2-seater with plug-in full-hybrid technology, this unique car is able to combine the performance of a BMW M Car with a standard of fuel economy and emission management exceeding even the current level achieved by the latest small cars in the market.
This outstanding result is made possible by the consistent integration of BMW ActiveHybrid components, their combination with an extremely economical combustion engine, and the outstanding aerodynamic qualities of the BMW Vision EfficientDynamics concept car.
BMW Vision EfficientDynamics is the result of an all-inclusive development process starting from a clean sheet of paper. This ensures an improvement of both efficiency and driving pleasure far exceeding the sum total of all individual components and technologies, and is also borne out in the very emotional design of this unique concept car. BMW Vision EfficientDynamics is therefore an unprecedented sports car offering fascinating perspectives for the future of Sheer Driving Pleasure combined in full harmony with maximum efficiency. Presenting this unique concept car, BMW is once again demonstrating the company’s outstanding competence in the development of cutting-edge drive systems. Indeed, BMW Vision Effi cientDynamics is the most comprehensive implementation of the BMW EfficientDynamics development strategy seen so far. The drive units provide a top speed limited electronically of 250 km/h, with acceleration to 100 km/h in 4.8 seconds. Average fuel consumption in the EU test cycle is 3.76 litres/100 kilometres, and the CO2 emission rating is 99 grams per kilometre.
CO2 emission management is even more outstanding when driving in the all-electric mode after charging the battery from a plug-in source: Taking all emissions in the generation of electricity into account, as prescribed by the EU mix, the car’s emission rating in this case is just 50 grams per kilometre. Through this unique balance of driving pleasure and fuel economy the BMW Vision EfficientDynamics concept car clearly demonstrates the potential of BMW ActiveHybrid technology making its world debut at the 2009 Frankfurt Motor Show in the BMW ActiveHybrid X6 and BMW ActiveHybrid 7 production models.
';
news['article_42']['image'] = '/ie/en/insights/news/Vision-EffDyn.jpg';
news['article_43'] = new Array();
news['article_43']['articleId'] = 43;
news['article_43']['category_name'] = 'BMW Updates';
news['article_43']['day'] = '06';
news['article_43']['month'] = '10';
news['article_43']['year'] = '2009';
news['article_43']['title'] = 'Triple success for the BMW Group in the 2009 Autoscout24 Internet Auto Award competition.';
news['article_43']['subtitle'] = '';
news['article_43']['content'] = 'Triple success for the BMW Group in the 2009 Internet Auto Award competition. This year the new BMW Z4 Roadster, the Sports Activity Coupe BMW X6 and the MINI E received the CAROLINA trophy awarded by the online portal Autoscout24. The Internet Auto Award competition was held for the eighth time as a European-wide online voting. The award ceremony took place on 1 October 2009 during a gala event held at the Kesselhaus in Munich.
With its fascinating design, which is a modern interpretation of classic proportions authentically reflecting typical BMW Roadster driving pleasure, the new BMW Z4 has been enthusiastically received by experts and the public alike. Only a few weeks ago the Roadster seized the International Design Excellence Award 2009 in the USA, having already won the red dot award 2009 in Germany shortly before that. The new BMW Roadster now succeeded in the category “Convertibles” in the European Internet Auto Award competition conferred by AutoScout24. Just a few months after its market launch in May 2009, the new Z4 has taken a distinctive lead in its vehicle class, achieving a higher number of sales than both of its main premium segment competitors together.
The BMW X6 has also already collected a number of renowned awards since its market launch last year. The CAROLINA trophy in the category “All-terrain Vehicles” is now being added to the series of successes. As a new vehicle concept within the competitive environment of the BMW X models, the Sports Activity Coupe is characterised by an elegant design and superior, sporty handling characteristics. Dynamic Performance Control, which in addition to the intelligent all-wheel drive technology xDrive ensures variable power distribution between the rear wheels and is featured by the BMW X6 for the first time, had already earned a CAROLINA statue last year for the “best innovation of the year”.
The prize for the “best environmental initiative of the year 2009” goes to the MINI E. The first purely electrically powered model of this brand is currently undergoing tests in everyday traffic conditions within the framework of a pilot project. The MINI E, which was produced as a small series of around 600 cars, is being driven by private users in the USA and can in the meantime also be seen on roads in Munich and Berlin. From these field tests the BMW Group expects to gain knowledge for the development of a purely electrically powered Megacity Vehicle. The MINI E is also scheduled to be tested in the UK, where it is produced, and in France. The MINI E is powered by a 150kW/204 bhp electric motor that guarantees brand-typical driving pleasure with zero CO2 emissions. Its high-performance lithium ion battery offers a cruising range of up to 250 kilometres. The field testing of the MINI E is currently the world’s largest pilot project for the research of electrical mobility. Only a few weeks ago the BMW Group was awarded the EcoGlobe environment prize of the University of Duisburg-Essen for its commitment in this field.
';
news['article_43']['image'] = '/ie/en/insights/news/P90048980-zoom.jpg';
news['article_44'] = new Array();
news['article_44']['articleId'] = 44;
news['article_44']['category_name'] = 'BMW Updates';
news['article_44']['day'] = '06';
news['article_44']['month'] = '11';
news['article_44']['year'] = '2009';
news['article_44']['title'] = 'BMW Group tops CO2 cutting chart';
news['article_44']['subtitle'] = '';
news['article_44']['content'] = 'BMW also named most sustainable car company in the world as it scoops 2009 GreenFleet Awards.
For the second year in a row the BMW Group has cut its average CO2 emissions per car by more than any other automotive manufacturer. According to an independent report published by the European Federation for Transport and Environment, the average reduction across the industry was 3.3 per cent, while BMW Group achieved 10.2 per cent.
BMW Group’s success in reducing CO2 is thanks to its EfficientDynamics programme which incorporates a wide variety of fuel-saving and emissions-reducing measures across the whole vehicle range as standard. Many of its competitors sell fuel efficiency packages as options.
EfficientDynamics technology includes Auto Start-Stop, Brake Energy Regeneration and Active Aerodynamics, amongst a wide range of other features. This technology gives BMW and MINI owners outstanding fuel economy and low emissions without forsaking driving enjoyment. The result is the reduction of BMW Group’s average vehicle emissions in 2008 to 154g/km, down 10.2 per cent from 172g/km in 2007. With the introduction of further efficient BMWs in 2009 this figure is expected to drop again.
GreenFleet Awards success for BMW
As further recognition of the class-leading position BMW Group vehicles command courtesy of EfficientDynamics technologies, the marque has scooped two more prestigious awards. The UK fleet industry presented the BMW Group with Fleet Car Manufacturer of the Year and the Industry Innovation Award.
The former award was bestowed in recognition of the car manufacturer that had shown the greatest improvement in CO2 emissions, had expanded its range of low emission vehicles or offered alternative fuel vehicles. It is the second year in a row that the BMW Group has been award top honours in this category. The Industry Innovation Award was presented to the BMW Group because it had introduced new technologies that had such a significant impact on fuel consumption and emissions.
Most sustainable car company in the world
BMW has also been named the “Most sustainable car company in the world” in the latest Dow Jones Sustainability Index for the fifth year in a row. Since its inception in 1999 BMW is the only automotive organisation to have featured every year on the index.
This is the latest accolade in a string of environmental awards, most recently including Green Sports car and Executive car of the year awards at the What Car? Green Awards, Green Initiative and Manufacturer of the year at the BusinessCar Awards 2009 and the Special Editor’s Award for EfficientDynamics technologies at the Auto Express New Car Honours.';
news['article_45'] = new Array();
news['article_45']['articleId'] = 45;
news['article_45']['category_name'] = 'BMW Updates';
news['article_45']['day'] = '27';
news['article_45']['month'] = '11';
news['article_45']['year'] = '2009';
news['article_45']['title'] = 'Joy is the basis for three victories';
news['article_45']['subtitle'] = 'Joy is the basis for three victories: the \"Auto Trophy 2009\" goes to the BMW X1, the BMW 1 Series Convertible and the new BMW brand campaign.';
news['article_45']['content'] = 'Sheer driving pleasure generates enthusiasm again and again. Two current models were able to win their respective vehicle categories in this year’s readers’ vote by the magazine “AutoZeitung”: the BMW X1 and the BMW 1 Series Convertible. What is more, the new brand campaign focusing on the characteristic feeling of joy conveyed by BMW was also awarded the “Auto Trophy 2009”. The award ceremony, held yesterday at the “Meilenwerk” in Berlin, was attended by Dr. Norbert Reithofer, Chairman of the Board of Management BMW AG, Dr. Klaus Draeger, Member of the Board of Management of BMW AG, Development and Ian Robertson, Member of the Board of Management, Sales and Marketing.
The “Auto Trophy” is one of the most important automobile awards in Germany and was awarded for the 22nd time this year. Over 104,000 readers of “AutoZeitung” participated in the vote. They chose their favourites out of 370 current models in 27 categories. The BMW X1 won the category “Off-road vehicles up to 30,000 Euros” only a few weeks after its world premiere at the International Automobile Show in Frankfurt (IAA). The BMW X1, produced at the BMW plant in Leipzig since September, brings the particular style of sheer driving pleasure peculiar to BMW X vehicles to a model in the compact segment for the first time. After a successful market launch, the vehicle’s achievement in the “Auto Trophy” 2009 comes as no surprise. “With the BMW X1 we have captured the essence of the times. Customer response to date has been outstanding,” confirmed Board Chairman Dr. Norbert Reithofer at the award ceremony.
The open-top BMW 1 Series was able to repeat its success from last year in the vehicle category “Convertibles up to 30,000 Euros”. The elegant, sporty four-seater once again impressed the public with its aesthetic appeal characteristic of BMW convertible models coupled with the agility typical of the BMW 1 Series. Not only is the engine range unique, with four petrol and three diesel power units covering an output range of 105 kW/143 bhp to 225 kW/306 bhp, the efficiency of the BMW 1 Series Convertible is also remarkable. The benchmark is primarily set in this area by the BMW 118d Convertible, which accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in 9.5 seconds and in the EU test cycle achieves an average fuel consumption of 4.9 litres over 100 kilometres and a CO2 output of 129 grams per kilometre.
The “Auto Trophy” for the BMW 1 Series Convertible was received by Head of Development Dr. Klaus Draeger from the hands of TV presenter Barbara Schöneberger and Editor-in-Chief of \"AutoZeitung” Volker Koerdt. Ian Robertson, Head of Sales and Marketing, was pleased to receive the award for the “best advertising of the year”. This prize also went to BMW for the second time in succession. After the launch campaign for the BMW 1 Series Coupé in 2008, this year it was the new brand campaign which met with an especially positive response. It makes “joy” - the core value of the brand BMW - the central theme of communication. Joy is conveyed in emotional style in TV commercials, on the internet, on posters and in print advertisements. The new brand campaign is designed for consistent use worldwide: through the theme of “joy” it focuses on two main points - the efficient dynamics and the aesthetic design of BMW brand vehicles.
';
news['article_45']['image'] = '/ie/en/_teaserpool/main/insights/img/Joy.jpg';
news['article_46'] = new Array();
news['article_46']['articleId'] = 46;
news['article_46']['category_name'] = 'BMW Updates';
news['article_46']['day'] = '15';
news['article_46']['month'] = '01';
news['article_46']['year'] = '2010';
news['article_46']['title'] = 'BMW 3 Series beats itself to retain What Car? Awards ‘Best Compact Executive’ crown';
news['article_46']['subtitle'] = 'for the fifth year in a row';
news['article_46']['content'] = 'For the fifth year in a row the BMW 3 Series has been awarded the What Car? ‘Best Compact Executive’ crown beating off stiff competition from.....other members of the BMW 3 Series range. It was a clean sweep in the Compact Executive category with the 316d ES, 320d SE and the 330d SE Saloons all winning their price category, but in the end it was the 320d that reigned victorious, winning the overall title.
The BMW 3 Series dominated the Compact Executive category in recognition of it leading the pack and remaining miles ahead of the competition. With its EfficientDynamics package making the 3 Series the most economical car in its class it appeals to both business and personal customers. However, it was not just the BMW 3 Series’ outstanding economy that stood out for the judges; it was commended for being smooth and refined whilst still offering sparkling performance, setting the standard for sheer driving pleasure.
Leo Wilkinson, Road Tester at What Car?, said: “I love the driving position of the 3 Series – the controls and seat are spot-on. It’s one of the few cars I can get out of after a long journey without any aches and pains.”
Tim Abbott, Managing Director of BMW UK, said: “It is an honour for the BMW 3 Series to win this prestigious award for five consecutive years. To have this consistent recognition for all of the hard work that goes into producing BMW’s core model means a lot to everyone at BMW. We hope to continue to improve the 3 Series and stay at the top of the segment.”
Having picked up the accolade for Scottish Drop Top of the Year 2009 the BMW Z4 has now been proudly awarded the title of What Car? Open-top car for managing to combine the fun of the small sports car with the refinement of the BMW 3 Series Convertible to create a car that is both fun and rewarding to drive.
The BMW Z4 was praised for its all round abilities with its engaging drive, coupled with entertaining handling and a supple ride to prevail over its competitors and take the title of What Car? Open-top car. Its unrivalled cabin was commended for its equipment levels and sumptuous materials.
Steve Fowler, Group Editor of What Car?, said: “It’s not cheap but I always think the Z4 looks more expensive than it actually is. I love the slick folding roof: and the interior puts those of most supercars to shame. It is a worthy winner.”
';
news['article_47'] = new Array();
news['article_47']['articleId'] = 47;
news['article_47']['category_name'] = 'BMW Updates';
news['article_47']['day'] = '02';
news['article_47']['month'] = '03';
news['article_47']['year'] = '2010';
news['article_47']['title'] = 'The All New BMW 5 Series prices released';
news['article_47']['subtitle'] = 'BMW Ireland announces the retail prices for the all new BMW 5 Series due to be launched in Ireland on Saturday, 20 March 2010.';
news['article_47']['content'] = 'The new BMW 5 Series features EfficientDynamics technology throughout the range which ensures that the CO2 emissions are minimised and as a result the VRT is kept to an absolute minimum. The price of the new BMW 5 Series is very close to the outgoing model and includes significant additional specification. Leather upholstery, Bluetooth preparation, USB interface, and automatic air-conditioning are standard in all models (with the exception of the USB interface on the BMW 520d models).
The entry level will be the new BMW 520d priced at €41,750 . The automatic version is €43,964. Next in the range is the 525d at €52,370 (automatic €54,793), while the 530d starts at €59,130 (automatic €61,553).
The BMW 523i heads up the petrol range starting at €51,750 and top of the range is the 550i (automatic only) at €93,560.
All models with the exception of the 520d will be available from launch on 20 March 2010. The BMW 520d to be available in late June.
';
news['article_47']['image'] = '/ie/en/owners/maintenance/_shared/img/P90055140_highRes.jpg';
news['article_48'] = new Array();
news['article_48']['articleId'] = 48;
news['article_48']['category_name'] = 'BMW Updates';
news['article_48']['day'] = '15';
news['article_48']['month'] = '03';
news['article_48']['year'] = '2010';
news['article_48']['title'] = 'Another First For BMW Ireland On Grafton Street!';
news['article_48']['subtitle'] = 'Launch Of New BMW 5 Series Pioneers ‘Fog-Powered Technology’ On Dublin’s Grafton Street';
news['article_48']['content'] = 'The Irish launch of the latest evolution of the iconic BMW 5 Series will pioneer emerging technology and in doing so could change the face and use of the growing number of vacant retail units in Ireland forever. From Monday 15th March to Tuesday 23rd March, Dublin’s Grafton Street will showcase a breakthrough in projection technology – a highly innovative FogScreen®. The use of this tecnology to promote a brand in a retail unit is a first across Europe.
Developed by two Finnish scientists, the specialty projection screen produces a thin curtain of “dry” fog sandwiched between two layers of air that creates a translucent projection screen. This screen will display images of the new BMW 5 Series that literally float in the air and people can watch. The result: a stunning, attention-demanding display - which uses technology as simple as it is stunning.
With the use of ordinary tap water and digital technology, the FogScreen projection screen enables projected images of the new BMW 5 Series creating a brand new medium to captivate and fascinate shoppers passing by.
“The new BMW 5 series, now in its sixth generation, is set to become the benchmark executive saloon, so the launch of the marque in Ireland needed the \'wow\' factor to reflect the ‘Efficient Dynamics’ of the car,” says Sheena McKeon, Marketing Manager, BMW Ireland. “The new model comes with a wide range of new options, including a new park assist, 4 wheel active steering, heads-up display and night vision. So we are delighted that the launch campaign also utilises breakthrough technology and creates a unique, ground-breaking communication experience.”
This emerging new retail digital technology offers an innovative new way for retailers to drive traffic into their stores or for landlords to offer vacant high profile retail space for new marketing or promotional campaigns that are guaranteed to get noticed.
• The BMW 5 Series FogScreen will be located at 35 Grafton Street from 9am Monday 15th to Tuesday 23rd March.
• The new BMW 5 Series is being unveiled in BMW dealerships across Ireland on Saturday 20th March 2010.
• FogScreen projection screen have been used in the US and Australia at product launches, trade shows, restaurants, nightclubs, museums, casinos and other venues.
• However it is a first across Europe in terms of using this technology to promote a brand in a retail unit.
• FogScreen projection screens have the highest recall rate of any commercial projection screen due to their experiential nature.
';
news['article_48']['image'] = '/ie/en/insights/news/100317-BMW-5-Series-Fog-Wall-Grafton-Street-II-_SM_-_0070_.jpg';
news['article_49'] = new Array();
news['article_49']['articleId'] = 49;
news['article_49']['category_name'] = 'BMW Updates';
news['article_49']['day'] = '22';
news['article_49']['month'] = '03';
news['article_49']['year'] = '2010';
news['article_49']['title'] = 'BMW cleans up with EfficientDynamics at the 2010 Fleet News Awards';
news['article_49']['subtitle'] = 'BMW 7 Series proclaimed Best Luxury Car at the 2010 Fleet News Awards for the second year running';
news['article_49']['content'] = 'Renowned industry publication, Fleet News, has honoured BMW again for its widespread introduction of EfficientDynamics technologies, in their annual Fleet News Awards. BMW’s EfficientDynamics programme reduces emissions and improves fuel consumption, while maintaining or increasing performance and driving enjoyment.
Fleet News also gave the Best Luxury Car award to the BMW 7 Series, for the second year in a row, commending the car for an unsurpassed blend of high quality, performance and efficiency. The BMW 5 Series and the BMW 3 Series were both highly commended in the Best Executive Car and Best Premium Car categories, concluding a successful night for BMW.
Sean Green, Sales Director of BMW UK, said: “These awards are great news for BMW and recognise the success of the EfficientDynamics programme in creating highly sustainable premium performance cars. These technologies are designed-in to all our car and, with improved performance and cleaner driving, mean real benefits for both retail and corporate customers.”
';
news['article_50'] = new Array();
news['article_50']['articleId'] = 50;
news['article_50']['category_name'] = 'BMW Updates';
news['article_50']['day'] = '27';
news['article_50']['month'] = '04';
news['article_50']['year'] = '2010';
news['article_50']['title'] = 'Elegance and dynamic performance at the first BMW Design Night in Beijing.';
news['article_50']['subtitle'] = 'BMW presents the concept of a new 4-door coupe. The BMW Concept Gran Coupé underscores the outstanding design expertise of the German premium automobile manufacturer.';
news['article_50']['content'] = 'Munich. With an exclusive Design Night on the evening of the first press day at Auto China in Beijing (April 23rd to May 2nd 2010), BMW provides an in-depth insight into its design philosophy and development strategy. The program of the BMW Design Night is modular in structure and presents extensive background information on the premium automobile manufacturer’s innovative design culture. In addition to highlighting the long versions of the BMW 5 Series developed specially for the Chinese market, the main focus is on an elegant 4-door vehicle with striking dynamic proportions: the BMW Concept Gran Coupé.
The concept study on display symbolises the outstanding design expertise of BMW. The BMW Concept Gran Coupé concentrates the fundamental values of the brand. Its body design authentically captures a sense of superior dynamic performance and high-quality elegance. The shaping style, which follows a coherent pattern down to the last detail, convincingly visualises BMW’s philosophy as an automobile manufacturer. As with the Concept CS 2007, BMW once again sets new benchmarks in the design of 4-door coupes with a distinctive sporty character.
Based on a powerful tradition in this segment, the BMW Concept Gran Coupé carries the essence of brand values and the genes of BMW design into the future. The concept shows the classic features of all BMW coupes: the long wheelbase, the vaulted bonnet with forward-pointing lines, the set-back greenhouse, the flat silhouette, the coupe-style roof line and the short front overhang reflect the dynamic potential of the vehicle. The surface structures and the fact that the design quality is geared towards perfection illustrate the aspiration of the brand BMW to build 4-door high-performance coupes with the sportiest proportions and the most elegant design.
In the BMW Concept Gran Coupé, BMW presents the vision of a 4-door vehicle which combines the exclusivity of a Gran Turismo with the fascination of a high-performance sports car. The design of the concept study underscores the expertise of the brand BMW in the development of vehicles with a distinctive sporty character which offer space for more than two occupants. This reflects the particular quality of the BMW Group design philosophy, which consists in precisely and authentically translating the specific values of product substance into an aesthetically convincing shaping style. The design process is set through with a passion for aesthetic appeal and dynamic performance, precision and perfection. This is how the uncompromising premium aspiration of a BMW Group product, the unmistakable style of the brand BMW and the precisely defined character of each model are given concrete form.
The body design of the BMW Concept Gran Coupé expresses sporty flair in its ultimate form. The 4-door vehicle clearly signals the very highest level of dynamic performance with its extremely elegant, flat and coupe-like proportions. Stretching the entire length of the vehicle and therefore measuring almost 5 metres, flowing lines dominate the design, giving rise to outstanding aerodynamic levels, just as the low centre of gravity reflects an agile driving response. ';
news['article_50']['image'] = '/ie/en/insights/news/P90059854_1_.JPG';
news['article_51'] = new Array();
news['article_51']['articleId'] = 51;
news['article_51']['category_name'] = 'BMW Updates';
news['article_51']['day'] = '29';
news['article_51']['month'] = '04';
news['article_51']['year'] = '2010';
news['article_51']['title'] = 'BMW named Ireland’s most reputable automobile manufacturer.';
news['article_51']['subtitle'] = 'RepTrak 2010 survey reveals best corporate reputations. ';
news['article_51']['content'] = 'Dublin: BMW was named Ireland’s most reputable car brand, and the third most reputable company overall, in the RepTrak 2010 Corporate Reputation study, which was revealed yesterday.
BMW scored 81.13 from a possible 100 points. Only Google (82.19) and Kellogg’s (81.97) achieved a higher rating.
The luxury carmaker scored particularly well in the key areas of ‘Product/Services’, ‘Innovation’, ‘Leadership’ and ‘Performance’.
The Ireland RepTrak 2010, which ranked the reputations of some of the largest and most high profile firms in Ireland, is the most comprehensive study of corporate reputation ever undertaken in Ireland. The study measured companies’ reputations based on consumer trust, admiration, esteem and good feeling about the company, while also gauging perceptions across seven rational dimensions of reputation.
“The high rankings of organizations like Google, Kellogg’s and BMW means they are four times more likely to gain recommendations, get the benefit of the doubt in a crisis and be spoken about in a positive light than those ranked at the bottom of the list.” said Niamh Boyle, Managing Director, Corporate Reputations.
BMW Group Ireland, Managing Director John Ives said the BMW brand has long been synonymous with quality and the pursuit of excellence.
“Our reputation is built on every touch-point with the brand being a premium experience, from the performance of our cars through to the way we conduct ourselves as corporate citizens,” said Mr Ives.
“And we believe every aspect of owning a BMW should be as enjoyable and rewarding as the drive itself,” he said.
Last year, US researcher Millward Brown\'s BrandZ Top 100 survey named BMW “the most valuable German brand”, estimating the brand’s worth at US$24 billion.
';
news['article_52'] = new Array();
news['article_52']['articleId'] = 52;
news['article_52']['category_name'] = 'BMW Updates';
news['article_52']['day'] = '19';
news['article_52']['month'] = '05';
news['article_52']['year'] = '2010';
news['article_52']['title'] = 'BMW crowned Fleet Manufacturer of the Year at 2010 Fleet World Honours';
news['article_52']['subtitle'] = '';
news['article_52']['content'] = 'BMW has been presented with the top award at the prestigious 2010 Fleet World Honours, picking up the accolade for Fleet Manufacturer of the Year for its EfficientDynamics programme. While the introduction of a specialist small fleet division, the BMW fleet buying experience has been simplified and has put the focus back on to the customer.
Steve Moody, Chairman of the Judges, said: “BMW continues to forge ahead with a range of new cars whose low emissions and performance set the standard in the market, for both premium and volume brands. Added to that it has had a good year with its core fleet products, scoring highly from the leasing companies in our awards analysis on customer support, reliability and residuals, and has also launched a new division that caters for small business.”
Not content with being crowned Fleet Manufacturer of the Year, BMW also picked up the Best Executive Car crown for the BMW 5 Series. Since its March launch the BMW 5 Series has been a hit with both retail and fleet customers alike for its unsurpassed blend of high quality, performance and efficiency. It was this well rounded package that impressed the judges leading to it taking the top plaudit.
Steve Moody said: “The new BMW 5 Series has taken the executive sector up yet another notch, with an engine line-up second to none for emissions and performance, generous standard specification, superb whole-life costs, class-leading residual values and a quality unparalleled even in this extremely competitive market.
Speaking of the BMW successes at this year’s awards Stephen Chater, Corporate Operations Manager for BMW Group UK, said: “These awards are great news for BMW. They recognise the improvements that have been made to BMW fleet services and the new BMW 5 Series, focusing on the customers needs and showing real benefits for both fleet decision makers and company car drivers alike.”
These two latest accolades build on last years win, when the BMW 3 Series took home Fleet Car of the Year 2009, demonstrating BMW’s dedication to the fleet industry.
';
news['article_53'] = new Array();
news['article_53']['articleId'] = 53;
news['article_53']['category_name'] = 'BMW Updates';
news['article_53']['day'] = '02';
news['article_53']['month'] = '06';
news['article_53']['year'] = '2010';
news['article_53']['title'] = 'Jeff Koons\' BMW Art Car revealed at the Centre Pompidou in Paris.';
news['article_53']['subtitle'] = 'At the premiere of the 17th BMW Art Car, Jeff Koons unveiled and signed his brightly refashioned BMW M3 GT2';
news['article_53']['content'] = 'Paris. At the premiere of the 17th BMW Art Car, Jeff Koons unveiled and signed his brightly refashioned BMW M3 GT2, in front of 300 international VIP guests on June 1 in the Centre Pompidou, one of the world’s most prestigious cultural institutions for modern and contemporary art. It is the same place where Roy Lichtenstein back in 1977 first presented and signed his Art Car.
The Design
As part of his creative process, the artist collected images of race cars, related graphics, vibrant colors, speed and explosions. The resulting artwork of bright colors conceived by Koons is evocative of power, motion and bursting energy. Its silver interior along with the powerful exterior design, the Art Car will impart a dynamic appearance even when it’s standing still.
“These race cars are like life, they are powerful and there is a lot of energy,” said Koons. “You can participate with it, add to it and let yourself transcend with its energy. There is a lot of power under that hood and I want to let my ideas transcend with the car – it’s really to connect with that power”.
Koons and BMW
The germination of Koons’ collaboration with BMW began in 2003, when he expressed his desire to create a BMW Art Car. His relationship with BMW started more than two decades ago when he drove a BMW while residing in Munich, home to the BMW Group headquarters. Koons is known for his heartfelt appreciation of cars. Earlier this year he was even recognized by music icon Bono of U2 as one of the ideal artists to design a car that would make the world fall in love with automobiles again.
Koons’ creative process for the BMW Art Car mirrors techniques, some borrowed from transportation design and development, which he regularly employs for his artistic production. For example, in the creation of Koons’ monumental sculptures, his studio uses 3-D CAD models to evaluate the surfaces, assembles them via methods found in bike chop shops, and paints them in a manner based on sophisticated automotive painting techniques.
BMW Art Cars
Since 1975, artists from throughout the world have turned BMW automobiles into art signifying a particular period through the Art Car program. In 2007, the latest installment was revealed with Olafur Eliasson’s “Your mobile expectations: BMW H2R project.” Many of the cars by the likes of Warhol, Lichtenstein, Stella, Rauschenberg, Hockney and Holzer have been exhibited in renowned museums throughout the world including the Louvre, the Guggenheim Museums, and the Shanghai Art Museum. They have been displayed at the BMW Museum in Munich, between 2006 and 2010 and many went on a world tour throughout Asia, Russia, Africa, India, the United States and Mexico. The Koons car number, “79,” pays tribute to the 1979 Andy Warhol car. The Warhol car was assigned the number “76,” an homage to the 1976 Frank Stella car, both of which raced at Le Mans.
The home of all BMW Art Cars is the BMW Museum in Munich. Starting in September, Koons’ 17th BMW Art Car will be presented there together with some of its predecessors.
With over 100 major projects worldwide, BMW Group cultural programs have been an integral part of the company’s contributions to society for almost 40 years. Besides contemporary art, architecture and design, classical music and jazz are key components of this engagement.
';
news['article_53']['image'] = '/ie/en/insights/news/jeffkoons.jpg';
news['article_54'] = new Array();
news['article_54']['articleId'] = 54;
news['article_54']['category_name'] = 'BMW Updates';
news['article_54']['day'] = '10';
news['article_54']['month'] = '09';
news['article_54']['year'] = '2010';
news['article_54']['title'] = 'BMW Group is world\'s most sustainable car company for sixth consecutive year. ';
news['article_54']['subtitle'] = 'Dow Jones Sustainability Indexes once again confirm company\'s leading role in sustainable business. ';
news['article_54']['content'] = 'Munich. The BMW Group has been named as the automotive industry’s Supersector leader for the sixth consecutive year, and is therefore the world’s most sustainable automobile manufacturer. This was the conclusion of the SAM Group, published in its latest evaluation for the Dow Jones Sustainability Indexes (DJSI). The BMW Group is the only company in the automotive industry to have been listed in this important group of sustainability indexes every year since it was established in 1999 and named Supersector leader for each of the past six years. This year, the BMW Group is also the only German company to be ranked among the 19 Supersector leaders worldwide.
“We are delighted to be recognised by the renowned Dow Jones Sustainability Indexes. This independent ranking confirms once again that the BMW Group plays a leading role in the automotive industry of the future,” said Dr. Norbert Reithofer, Chairman of the Board of Management of BMW AG. “For us, being the world’s most sustainable automobile company means accepting responsibility as a good corporate citizen. It motivates us to continue along this path towards our vision of sustainable individual mobility.”
The fact that sustainability is an integral part of the BMW Group\'s corporate strategy was rated particularly highly by SAM Group analysts. The Board of Management of the BMW Group declared sustainability one of the company’s core strategic principles back in 2000. At the BMW Group, corporate sustainability is firmly entrenched throughout the entire value chain: from the development of fuel-saving and alternative vehicle concepts through clean production processes to green recycling practices. The BMW Group also accepts responsibility for its roughly 96,000 employees and is involved in social projects outside of its plants.
Further information on BMW Group’s sustainability activities is available at: www.bmwgroup.com/responsibility
The SAM Group analyses the economic, environmental and social performance of approximately 2,500 companies and selects the best in each industry for the Dow Jones Sustainability Indexes. General sustainability criteria are considered as well as industry-specific challenges such as climate change. The Dow Jones Sustainability Index was the first global sustainability index to be created, in 1999, and has since been published each year by the SAM Group, based in Zurich, in cooperation with Dow Jones Indexes and STOXX Limited. More information is available at www.sustainability-indexes.com ';
news['article_55'] = new Array();
news['article_55']['articleId'] = 55;
news['article_55']['category_name'] = 'BMW Updates';
news['article_55']['day'] = '28';
news['article_55']['month'] = '09';
news['article_55']['year'] = '2010';
news['article_55']['title'] = 'Project i goes online';
news['article_55']['subtitle'] = 'The BMW Group launches website for project i, the think tank for the sustainable mobility of the future.';
news['article_55']['content'] = 'Munich. At www.project-i.com the BMW Group has created an online platform for information and news concerning the sustainable mobility of the future.
For an international audience, the English-language website outlines how the BMW Group is mastering the challenges of sustainable mobility. It provides an in-depth, up-to-the-minute insight into the various approaches and solutions, from the basic vision of e-mobility, specific test vehicles such as the MINI E and the BMW ActiveE, right through to the revolutionary LifeDrive concept of the Megacity Vehicle. Emphasis is also given to another key aspect of sustainable mobility: The development of solutions and services for the customer needs of tomorrow.
In addition, the website offers an overview of the public discussion and general developments in the field of sustainable mobility. The page incorporates relevant voices from the web, video clips and blog posts from around the world.
Via the integrated Twitter channel (www.twitter.com/bmwprojecti) and Facebook page (www.facebook.com/bmw.project.i), users can subscribe to receive the latest news, contribute their own relevant links, and join in the discussion.
www.project-i.com is the official project i website.
';
news['article_56'] = new Array();
news['article_56']['articleId'] = 56;
news['article_56']['category_name'] = 'BMW Updates';
news['article_56']['day'] = '05';
news['article_56']['month'] = '10';
news['article_56']['year'] = '2010';
news['article_56']['title'] = 'Issue with power braking system.';
news['article_56']['subtitle'] = 'Affects V8 and V12-powered BMW 5, 6, 7 Series, and Rolls-Royce Cars';
news['article_56']['content'] = 'BMW Ireland has announced that V8 and V12-powered BMW 5 Series, 6 Series, 7 Series, and Rolls-Royce Motor Cars models produced between July 2001 and November 2009 could be affected by an issue with the power braking system. In the affected vehicles, a leak may develop in the power braking system, potentially causing a vacuum loss and consequent reduction of power braking assistance. Mechanical braking is still available to slow and stop the vehicle. There have been no reported accidents or injuries.
The number of cars affected by the voluntary recall in Ireland is 533 BMWs. Any concerned BMW owners should contact the BMW customer service number on 1890 719 420.
BMW Group Ireland
';
news['article_57'] = new Array();
news['article_57']['articleId'] = 57;
news['article_57']['category_name'] = 'BMW Updates';
news['article_57']['day'] = '11';
news['article_57']['month'] = '10';
news['article_57']['year'] = '2010';
news['article_57']['title'] = 'BMW Group: Strong sales growth of 16.8% in September ';
news['article_57']['subtitle'] = 'BMW brand volumes up more than 20%
MINI reports best September sales ever
Over 100,000 BMW X6 delivered since market launch';
news['article_57']['content'] = 'Munich. The BMW Group continued its successful course worldwide in September. With 142,950 (prev. yr. 122,360) BMW, MINI and Rolls-Royce brand automobiles delivered to customers, sales were 16.8% higher than in the same month last year. In the period up to and including September, i.e. to the end of the third quarter, a total of 1,062,216 vehicles were supplied to customers. This represents an increase of 13.1% from the same period last year (939,554).
Ian Robertson, member of the Board of Management of BMW AG, responsible for Sales and Marketing: “Growth was encouragingly strong in September, with gains on most of our markets. We have exceptional new products and intend to maintain this upward trend throughout the fourth quarter. Here, we expect to see robust growth in the double-digit percentage range.” Robertson added: “BMW Group retail has exceeded our expectations so far this year. We are confident to deliver more than 1.4 million vehicles over the course of 2010 and to remain the clear number 1 among premium manufacturers once again this year.”
The BMW brand reported 117,467 sales in the month under review – exceeding last September’s figure (97,550) by 20.4%. The main growth drivers were once again the large model series in particular. The strongest gains were made in September by the BMW 5 Series Sedan with an increase in volumes of 63.1% to 19,184 units (prev. yr. 11,761). The new BMW 5 Series Touring launched just a few days ago, and orders for the new model already look very promising. A total of 2,872 customers received their BMW 5 Series GT in September; while 5,491 (prev. yr. 4,336 / +26.6%) buyers purchased a BMW 7 Series. The BMW X models also remain on course for success: Last month, 10,049 BMW X1 vehicles were delivered to customers. Sales of the BMW X5 were at a similar level – climbing 48.0% to 10,807 (prev. yr. 7,304) units. The BMW X6 has also been very successful: A total of 4,491 BMW X6 models were delivered to customers in September (prev. yr. 3,849 / +16.7%); over 100,000 of these SAC (Sports Activity Coupé) vehicles have been sold since their April 2008 market launch. Robertson: “A further highlight this autumn will be the new BMW X3, which will be coming onto the market in Europe in late November. With more space and comfort, and less weight, the second generation will also set new standards. The first BMW X3 created a new segment in 2004 and rapidly became a bestseller. I am confident that the new model will continue this success story.” No fewer than 600,000 BMW X3 vehicles have been delivered to customers since 2004.
The MINI brand also increased its sales volume in September (+1.9%). With 25,222 (prev. yr. 24,760) deliveries, the brand reported its best September result ever. A major contributor was the new MINI Countryman which launched mid-month. The brand’s first crossover model has already been received by 1,760 customers. In the period up to and including September, 167,751 (prev. yr. 161,638 / +3.8%) MINI cars were delivered to customers all around the world.
In the month under review, the BMW Group increased retail volumes in its three largest markets of Germany, the U.S. and China, among others. In Germany’s still declining overall market (-17.8%), the company reported 16.6% (21,452 / prev. yr. 18,402) more new vehicle registrations and was able to expand both its BMW and MINI brands’ market share. A total of 194,708 (prev. yr. 196,311 / -0.8%) vehicles have been sold since January. Furthermore, BMW was the only premium brand among its competitors with a higher level of new vehicle registrations (171,206 / +0.6%) in Germany in the year to the end of September. Strong growth was also reported in the U.S., where the company sold 20.5% more vehicles than in September 2009 at 23,112 deliveries. A total of 192,052 (prev. yr. 179.219 / +7.2%) BMW and MINI vehicles were delivered to customers in the United States in the year to the end of September. With an 89.1% increase in volumes, China’s growth rate also remained high in the month under review – 15,379 (prev. yr. 8.131) vehicles were sold in what is now the BMW Group’s third-largest market. Compared with the same period last year, sales virtually doubled, thanks to growth of 95.3% (121,826 / prev. yr. 62,394).
Rolls-Royce sales are also maintaining momentum. Deliveries of the Phantom and Ghost models leaped 422.0% to 261 (prev. yr. 50) units in September. Between January and September a total of 1,728 (prev. yr. 461 / +274.8%) vehicles were delivered to their new owners.
BMW Motorrad reported its best September results ever with a total of 8,066 deliveries to customers. With an increase of 4.5 %, its strong results will once again exceed last year\'s September results. A total of 81,508 motorcycles were delivered to customers worldwide in the year to the end of September – 11,793 (+16.9%) more vehicles than in the same period of 2009. BMW Motorrad is therefore continuing on a stable growth course despite difficult market conditions.';
news['article_59'] = new Array();
news['article_59']['articleId'] = 59;
news['article_59']['category_name'] = 'BMW Updates';
news['article_59']['day'] = '13';
news['article_59']['month'] = '10';
news['article_59']['year'] = '2010';
news['article_59']['title'] = 'BMW Group has launched a specialised winter tyre programme.';
news['article_59']['subtitle'] = 'BMW Group has launched a specialised winter tyre programme designed to help drivers get the best on-road performance from their car throughout the winter months – regardless of weather conditions. ';
news['article_59']['content'] = 'Dublin. Changing tyres to suit different seasons is already part of mainstream motoring in most of Europe. Now for the first time in Ireland winter wheel and tyre packages for BMW and MINI will be available. Summer tyres fitted as standard equipment by all car manufacturers operate best at temperatures above 7°C. This means summer tyres fitted by BMW or MINI provide excellent levels of grip, acceleration, braking, comfort and fuel economy in normal road conditions. However, once the outside air temperature gets nearer to freezing the rubber in summer tyres hardens, which detracts from their performance. In true wintry conditions of snow and ice, as blighted all of Ireland earlier this year, tyre performance is even worse.
The new winter wheel and tyre packages developed by the BMW Group have been specially engineered to operate much better than summer tyres at temperatures below 7°C. The tyre is made from a different mix of rubber / silica compound which enables them to operate efficiently at much lower temperatures, generating heat and reaching their optimum operating temperature much more easily.
The benefits of such a package are two-fold. Winter tyres ensure optimal performance during severe weather, yet if the winter is mild, winter tyre users will still benefit from significantly reduced tyre wear and increased wet weather grip and performance.
There is a potential cost benefit too. The new BMW and MINI winter wheels and tyres can result in as much as 40 per cent* better wear characteristics than summer tyres when the outside temperature is below 7°C – meaning the tyres will last a lot longer.
Winter tyres also feature bigger tread blocks with larger open channels which ensure they dissipate standing water more effectively, helping them to reduce the risk of skidding on wet surfaces. This sophisticated tyre technology ensures maximum levels of grip over winter, significantly reducing the chances of an accident, whatever the conditions. Braking distances improve by up to 20 per cent on icy roads and up to 10 per cent in the wet.
A number of different wheel styles and sizes, including alloy and steel rims are available. Prices vary by model but start at €580 for a complete set of four winter wheels and tyres on a MINI Hatch and €828 on a BMW 1 or 3 Series.** Interested customers should contact their local dealer for more information.
Note:
*Depending on driving style and annual mileage.
**Complete wheel and tyre packages are delivered with the tyres already fitted and balanced, vehicle fitment charges may apply.
';
news['article_60'] = new Array();
news['article_60']['articleId'] = 60;
news['article_60']['category_name'] = 'BMW Updates';
news['article_60']['day'] = '26';
news['article_60']['month'] = '10';
news['article_60']['year'] = '2010';
news['article_60']['title'] = 'The New BMW 316d ES Edition';
news['article_60']['subtitle'] = 'High specification
Unrivalled ‘value’ package in the executive market
Great corporate offer as low on BIK';
news['article_60']['content'] = 'Dublin. Renowned for its superb performance, refined build and striking looks, the BMW 3 Series has been the benchmark in the executive class for decades. The new BMW 316d ES Edition now also means better value than ever before.
BMW has announced that from end October onwards there will be a BMW 316d ES Edition Model available to Irish customers, which features high levels of additional equipment at a significantly reduced price. The BMW 316d Edition model is available from €34,535 RRP (€35,385 OTR). The Edition package includes Dakota leather upholstery, Bluetooth telephone preparation, Rear Park Distance control and a Sport leather steering wheel, usually valued at €3,774.
Michael Nugent, Director of Sales and Marketing at BMW Ireland says: “The 316d ES Edition offers one of the most comprehensive packages you will find in the executive market. It will appeal to current BMW customers, but also to anyone who is after a good deal or value for money.”
He adds: “The BMW 316d ES Edition has particular appeal as a corporate fleet vehicle thanks to its competitive pricing, low fuel usage, strong residual values and low BIK payments.”
Thanks to the EfficientDynamics measures, such as Auto StartStop, Brake Energy Regeneration and Lightweight Engineering, the 316d ES is one of the most economical cars in its class. With a combined fuel consumption of 4.5 l/100km, and emitting 118g CO2/km, it falls into tax band A and only costs €104 per year.
Nonetheless the 316d ES features all those characteristics you would expect from the Ultimate Driving Machine: Strong acceleration, responsive steering, exceptional road holding capability and near perfect 50/50 weight balance.
The BMW 316d ES Edition is now available in approved BMW Dealerships. ';
news['article_60']['image'] = '/ie/en/insights/news/_narrowband/img/P0044495_web.jpg';
news['article_61'] = new Array();
news['article_61']['articleId'] = 61;
news['article_61']['category_name'] = 'BMW Updates';
news['article_61']['day'] = '05';
news['article_61']['month'] = '11';
news['article_61']['year'] = '2010';
news['article_61']['title'] = 'A vision becomes reality';
news['article_61']['subtitle'] = 'BMW announces serial production of sports car with plug-in hybrid technology.';
news['article_61']['content'] = 'Munich/Leipzig. It was the star of the Frankfurt international motor show IAA
in 2009: a four-seater sports car with charismatic design, fascinating
performance figures and unsurpassed efficiency, powered by BMW
ActiveHybrid technology and presented under the title BMW Vision
EfficientDynamics. With its wide range of completely or virtually productionready
components, this concept study met with an overwhelming response.
There was a widespread desire to put the car on the road, and the realisation of
this desire is moving considerably closer. At the Leipzig trade fair centre BMW is
presenting a fully road-ready technology showcase vehicle based on the
BMW Vision EfficientDynamics concept study. This presentation will give media
representatives their first ever opportunity to find out what it is like to drive the
2+2-seater car powered by an innovative hybrid system.
The concept study BMW Vision EfficientDynamics represents the future of
driving pleasure. Since its world premiere at the IAA 2009 it has received several
awards both for its futuristic design and its ground-breaking engine technology.
Just 1.24 metres high, the 2+2-seater takes up the characteristic BMW shaping
style, geared consistently towards aesthetic appeal and dynamic performance.
Wing doors facilitate entry to both rows of seats, while extensive aerodynamic
measures reduce the drag coefficient to 0.22. The combination of a 3-cylinder
turbo diesel with a hybrid synchronous motor at the front axle and a full-hybrid
engine at the rear axle enables an overall system output of 241 kW/328 bhp.
The innovative design of the BMW ActiveHybrid technology allows performance
figures at the level of a sports car, with just 4.8 seconds required for the sprint
from zero to 100 km/h - with an average fuel consumption in the EU test cycle
(KV01) of 3.76 litters/100 kilometers, equal to 75.1 mpg imp, and a
CO2 emission rating of 99 grams per kilometer (1,3 l/100km and 33g CO2/km;
EU-PHEV ECE-R101).
This unique relation between dynamic performance and efficiency derives from
the high level of efficiency of all engine components as well as intelligent linking of the power output of the three engines, as well as precisely controlled energy
management including brake energy regeneration. What is more, the study
BMW Vision EfficientDynamics is conceived as a so-called plug-in hybrid. The
lithium-polymer rechargeable battery housed centrally in a longitudinal chassis
element and designed specially for this hybrid sports car can be fully charged at
a conventional power socket within just two and half hours. The use of electrical
energy alone permits zero-emissions motoring with a range of some 50
kilometres, while a 24-litre diesel tank extends the total action radius of the
vehicle to up to 700 kilometres.
By developing a sports car based on the BMW Vision EfficientDynamics
concept study for serial production, the Munich-based premium automobile
manufacturer underscores its position as a global leader in the production of
sporty vehicles with exemplary efficiency. All current models are fitted as
standard with extensive measures for the reduction of fuel consumption and
CO2 emissions. The innovations used for this purpose are based on the
development strategy BMW EfficientDynamics, which also includes
BMW ActiveHybrid technology as well as purely electrical drive systems. With
the BMW ActiveHybrid 7 and the BMW ActiveHybrid X6, two serial production
vehicles have already been launched in which a BMW-specific combination of
combustion and electric drive results in an especially efficient increase in the
driving dynamics so characteristic of the brand.
The BMW Group is also undertaking extensive field tests in regular traffic, which
after the MINI E will soon include the BMW ActiveE, so as to prepare for serial
production of a purely electrically powered model which is to be produced at the
BMW plant in Leipzig from 2013 as the Megacity Vehicle.
At the same time, the current technology showcase vehicle being presented to
mark the expansion of the BMW Leipzig plant not only demonstrates the
consistent further development of BMW ActiveHybrid as a drive concept. It also
highlights the expertise of the BMW Group in the integrated development of vehicle concepts which are geared towards the principles of BMW EfficientDynamics in every detail. Like the Megacity Vehicle, the sports car based on the BMW Vision EfficientDynamics study is an example of how future-oriented mobility opens up fascinating perspectives in combination with the driving pleasure characteristic of BMW.';
news['article_61']['image'] = '/ie/en/insights/news/pluginhybrid.jpg';
news['article_62'] = new Array();
news['article_62']['articleId'] = 62;
news['article_62']['category_name'] = 'BMW Updates';
news['article_62']['day'] = '03';
news['article_62']['month'] = '12';
news['article_62']['year'] = '2010';
news['article_62']['title'] = 'BMW Group Financial Services launches car finance business in Ireland.';
news['article_62']['subtitle'] = 'Based in Dublin, the Irish operation will service the 12 BMW and MINI dealerships in Ireland. ';
news['article_62']['content'] = 'Dublin. BMW Group Financial Services (BMWFS) today announced its entrance into the Irish car finance market, offering a range of car finance, leasing and insurance products to consumers and businesses. Based in Dublin, the Irish operation will service the 12 BMW and MINI dealerships in Ireland.
Finance products will be available on new and used BMWs, MINIs and BMW motorcycles. Finance was previously available in Ireland via a third party provider. BMW Financial Services will now directly provide finance products on its vehicles.
Philip Kerry, newly appointed Managing Director of BMW Financial Services Ireland said: “This is a demonstration of our confidence in the future of the car market in Ireland. Our global plan is to increase the contribution that we make to group profits and Ireland is seen as an important market that will help us to reach this goal.”
“We will deliver tailored consumer and business finance solutions that are both affordable and provide the highest levels of customer service that are synonymous with the BMW brand.”
“One of the key drivers in the Irish car market is the availability of credit. With the decreased availability of consumer credit and the disappearance of many former motor finance companies, this is the right time for us to be making make this investment.”
';
news['article_63'] = new Array();
news['article_63']['articleId'] = 63;
news['article_63']['category_name'] = 'BMW Updates';
news['article_63']['day'] = '01';
news['article_63']['month'] = '02';
news['article_63']['year'] = '2011';
news['article_63']['title'] = 'BMW Group Design picks up four 2010 GOOD DESIGN TM Awards. ';
news['article_63']['subtitle'] = 'This coveted international design accolade was bestowed on the BMW 5 Series Sedan, the MINI Countryman, the BMW S 1000 RR and the BMW Concept 6 design study. ';
news['article_63']['content'] = 'Munich. The annually presented GOOD DESIGNTM Award for 2010 went to a full quartet of vehicles and concepts: the BMW 5 Series Sedan, the MINI Countryman, the BMW S 1000 RR and the BMW Concept 6. This most prestigious of international honours yet again recognised the exceptional standard of BMW Group Design. The prizewinners’ products will be exhibited as part of the annual GOOD DESIGN SHOW to be held in June 2011 at the Chicago Athenaeum.
The world’s oldest and most distinguished design award was called into being in Chicago in 1950 by the architects Eero Saarinen, Charles and Ray Eames and Edgar Kaufmann Jr., and is presented to this day by the Chicago Athenaeum and the European Centre for Architecture, Art Design and Urban Studies. For six decades now, this coveted prize is conferred on designers and manufacturers for particularly innovative and visionary products, concepts and ideas that reach beyond the bounds of ordinary product design. Not the least of its aims is to raise public awareness of contemporary design and related sustainability issues.
The selection of award winners is based on the criteria of function and aesthetic as originally laid down by Saarinen and Eames, and is complemented by an environmental stipulation for sustainable design, in keeping with the times. In 2010, an independent jury of design experts and architects made their selection from a record number of submissions from 37 different nations, and picked out more than 500 product and graphic designs to receive the GOOD DESIGN Award.
The design of the new BMW 5 Series Sedan eloquently translates the vehicle’s attributes into an authentic formal language. Exuding sheer presence and stylish elegance, the Sedan’s design expresses its premium quality and outstanding ride comfort, while its sporty handling is reflected in the dynamic lines of its body and an overall look suggesting athleticism. The superlative aesthetics of the new BMW 5 Series Sedan are further embodied in its perfectly balanced proportions and precisely finished details.
The MINI Countryman is the most expansive interpretation of the MINI design language. As the first MINI to feature four doors and measure more than four metres in length, the MINI Countryman’s typical MINI design leaves no doubt as to its kinship with the brand. Within the product family, the newcomer stands out with its striking exterior that features faintly pentagonal headlights, a new-style “helmet” roof and three-dimensional, vertically aligned rear lights. The interior design likewise accentuates the practicality and robust character of the MINI Countryman.
The highly dynamic design of the BMW S 1000 RR displays its racing bike heritage in a frank and authentic manner. Its flat and sportive front-end design features the hallmark asymmetrical BMW headlight arrangement that reiterates the look of the endurance racers (24-hour events).
The BMW Concept 6 design study persuaded the jury with its highly contrasting composition: while the lower half of the motorcycle reveals its mechanical underpinnings, the sensually tactile surfaces invite some close interaction with the driver. The two levels are fused by an organically designed air flow system.
The unique quality of BMW Group Design has been repeatedly recognised in the past by the GOOD DESIGN Award. In 2008, for example, the award went to the BMW 3 Series Convertible, the BMW 1 Series Coupé and the MINI Cooper S Clubman, as well as four BMW motorcycles. 2007 saw the new BMW X5, the BMW 3 Series Coupé, the new MINI and a further three BMW motorcycles win the GOOD DESIGN Award. And it isn’t the first time the BMW 5 Series Sedan has been crowned: its outstanding design won over the jury of the internationally renowned red dot awards in 2010, secured the coveted iF Product Design Award in 2011, and – with the 2011 Design Award of the Federal Republic of Germany – captured the country’s most prestigious prize for exceptional product design.
';
news['article_64'] = new Array();
news['article_64']['articleId'] = 64;
news['article_64']['category_name'] = 'BMW Updates';
news['article_64']['day'] = '07';
news['article_64']['month'] = '02';
news['article_64']['year'] = '2011';
news['article_64']['title'] = 'MINI production plants UK on the look-out for new apprentices.';
news['article_64']['subtitle'] = 'Young people with a passion for manufacturing and business have the chance to apply for an apprenticeship in MINI production.';
news['article_64']['content'] = 'The business is looking for 23 new recruits to take up places across the MINI production plants at Oxford, Swindon and Hams Hall near Birmingham in September.
Apprenticeships last between three and four years and cover a wide range of skills from human resources and business to electrical maintenance and engineering.
The training leads to an NVQ level three qualification and some apprentices will have the opportunity to progress right through to degree level.
All apprentices attend college on a part-time basis and the plant will be working alongside two local colleges to help deliver the programme – Oxford and Cherwell Valley and Abingdon and Witney.
Laura Lyne, head of training for the UK, said: “Investment in skilled young people is a key part of our development strategy for the plant. It is vital that we attract the very best young talent to ensure the business has the right skills for the future, and we are delighted to be able to continue to offer young people a chance to join our modern apprenticeship programme.”
The 23 new apprentices will join 145 existing apprentices across the company’s production plants at Oxford, Swindon, Hams Hall, and Rolls-Royce Motor Cars Limited in Goodwood.
Applications for an apprenticeship can be made online at www.mini-production-triangle.com and clicking on the “Associates” button.
The closing date for applications is 6th March 2011.
';
news['article_64']['image'] = '/ie/en/insights/news/MINICooperSD.jpg';
news['article_65'] = new Array();
news['article_65']['articleId'] = 65;
news['article_65']['category_name'] = 'BMW Updates';
news['article_65']['day'] = '08';
news['article_65']['month'] = '02';
news['article_65']['year'] = '2011';
news['article_65']['title'] = 'BMW Group starts new year with strong sales growth.';
news['article_65']['subtitle'] = 'Deliveries up 28% in January
BMW Group reports gains in almost all markets
BMW Motorrad sales rise 23.6%
';
news['article_65']['content'] = 'Munich. The BMW Group started the new year well, with strong sales growth of 28%. A total of 105,177 BMW, MINI and Rolls-Royce brand automobiles were delivered to customers worldwide in January (prev. yr. 82,150).
Ian Robertson, member of the Board of Management of BMW AG, responsible for Sales and Marketing: “We made a successful start to the new year. We were able to make substantial gains in Europe, the Americas, Asia and Africa – as we reap the benefits of our young and attractive model range. The BMW Group has once again set itself ambitious goals for 2011 – record sales of more than 1.5 million vehicles and new highs for all three brands. We want to reinforce our global position as the leading supplier of premium automobiles.” Robertson added: “We expect growth rates to remain strong over the next few months, although the pace will slow a little in the second half of the year, due to baseline effects.”
Sales of BMW brand vehicles increased 30% in January to reach 90,841 automobiles (prev. yr. 69,861). Deliveries of the BMW X1 rose to 7,067 (prev. yr. 4,092 / +72.7%) units, while the BMW 3 Series reported 23,489 sales (prev. yr. 22,501 / +4.4%). With an increase of 118.4% to 24,109 units, sales of the BMW 5 Series doubled from the same month last year (prev. yr. 11,037). BMW 5 Series GT volumes climbed 131.3%, with 2,160 vehicles delivered to customers (prev. yr. 934). The new BMW X3 met with exceptionally strong demand and was purchased by 5,982 (prev. yr. 3,072 / +94.7%) customers in January.
The MINI brand also continued on its growth track in January and, at 14,126 units, sold 15.8% more vehicles year-on-year (12,202). The main growth driver was the new MINI Countryman, with 3,505 deliveries.
Rolls-Royce remained the clear market leader in the ultra-luxury segment last month. A total of 210 (prev. yr. 87) Phantom and Ghost models were sold worldwide in January – an increase of 141.4%.
The signs indicated growth for BMW, MINI and Rolls-Royce in virtually all European markets, the Americas, Africa and Asia, in the month under review.
In Europe, the company sold 19.3% more vehicles in total than in January 2010 (49,029 / prev. yr. 41,096). New vehicle registrations for BMW Group vehicles in Germany rose 30.9% to 18,223 units (prev. yr. 13,924). The BMW brand increased sales here by 31.5% (16,054 / prev. yr. 12,210) and, with a market share of 7.6%, led the premium segment. In the U.K, BMW Group deliveries were 44.9% (9,394 / prev. yr. 6,482) higher in the month under review; in France, the increase was 38.6% (3,022 / prev. yr. 2,180).
The BMW Group also reported healthy growth in the U.S. Sales here climbed to 18,656 units – an increase of 21.1%. Once again, China also showed dynamic growth. In January, 20,308 Chinese customers purchased a new BMW or MINI (prev. yr. 11,919 / +70.4%).
Growth also received a strong boost from key emerging markets, among others, with consistent double-digit sales growth: Russia (+30.7% to 1,476 units), South Korea (+52.9% to 1,850), Brazil (+111.1% to 859) and India (+46.6% to 500).
With a substantial increase in year-on-year sales of 23.6%, BMW Motorrad also made a successful start to the new year. A total of 4,714 (prev. yr. 3,814) BMW motorcycles were delivered to customers worldwide in January 2011, continuing the steady sales growth of the previous year. BMW Motorrad recorded sales growth of 12.3 % for the full year 2010, against the overall market trend, and expanded its market share in all relevant motorcycle markets. This year, further impetus for growth will come from the revised Boxer roadster model, the R 1200 R / R 1200 R Classic; BMW Motorrad’s new entry-level model, the BMW G 650 GS; and, above all, from its new top models with 6-cylinder engine, the K 1600 GT and the K 1600 GTL.
BMW Group sales in January 2011 at a glance
In January 2011 : Comp. to previous year
BMW Group Automobiles: 105,177 : +28.0%
BMW: 90,841 : +30.0%
MINI: 14,126 : +15.8%
Rolls-Royce Motor Cars: 210 : +141.4%
BMW Motorcycles: 4,714 : +23.6%
';
news['article_66'] = new Array();
news['article_66']['articleId'] = 66;
news['article_66']['category_name'] = 'BMW Updates';
news['article_66']['day'] = '11';
news['article_66']['month'] = '02';
news['article_66']['year'] = '2011';
news['article_66']['title'] = 'Arriving at the red carpet in style';
news['article_66']['subtitle'] = 'BMW is the car of choice at the Irish Film and Television Awards';
news['article_66']['content'] = 'It is one of the most prestigious nights of in the Irish entertainment and cultural calendar. No other event sees more stars and starlets gathering in Ireland’s capital, than the Irish Film and Television Awards (IFTAs).
This year the glamorous awards ceremony takes place on 12th February at the all new Convention Centre Dublin. Host for the night is Irish actor Simon Delaney.
The glamorous list of this year’s nominees includes no one less than Brendan Gleeson, Pierce Brosnan, Saoirse Ronan, Jonathan Rhys Meyers, Colm Meaney, Stephen Rea, Amy Huberman, Charlene McKenna, Martin McCann, and many more.
Special guest Kim Cattrall, known to most as Samantha Jones from Sex and the City, will also join her industry colleagues in Dublin to announce the winner of a key Award at IFTAs 2011.
In order to let all the stars and starlets arrive at the red carpet in appropriate luxury and style, BMW Ireland has been chosen to be the official car partner, and to supply an extensive fleet of BMW 7 Series and BMW 5 Series.
Aine Moriaty, Chief Executive of the Irish Film and Television Academy says: “This year’s Awards Night is going to be a particularly sparkling one! We are thrilled, that we could secure BMW for the first time as our premium partner for all VIP Chauffeur services and Red Carpet drop-offs. The glamorous chauffeur fleet will top the night off with elegance and sophistication.
Michael Nugent, Sales and Marketing Director, BMW Ireland comments: “The Irish Film and Television Awards are putting a very welcome and positive international spotlight on Ireland and the best of Irish talent. Once a year we showcase what a wealth of creativity there is in our country and we can acknowledge the industry’s achievements both at home and abroad. BMW Ireland is proud to be associated with the IFTAs.
';
news['article_67'] = new Array();
news['article_67']['articleId'] = 67;
news['article_67']['category_name'] = 'BMW Updates';
news['article_67']['day'] = '22';
news['article_67']['month'] = '02';
news['article_67']['year'] = '2011';
news['article_67']['title'] = 'BMW\'s Vision for the Future';
news['article_67']['subtitle'] = 'BMW displays green supercar of the future at the AVIVA Stadium.
New sub-brand for electric vehicles launched: ‘BMW i’
More sustainable mobility solutions to come.
';
news['article_67']['content'] = 'Lower Emissions. More Driving Pleasure. – No vehicle expresses this philosophy more vividly than the BMW Vision EfficientDynamics. Accelerating from 0-100km/h in under five seconds, the Vision EfficientDynamics is a true performance car. Yet at the same time its radical new plug-in diesel hybrid drive train uses just 3.8 litres of fuel and keeps CO2 emissions to 99g/km making it easily one of the cleanest cars on the road. It is the green super car of the future.
The Vision EfficientDynamics Concept Car was today on show in Ireland for the very first time as part of an exclusive event at the all-new Aviva Stadium to discuss the future of green motoring.
John Ives, Managing Director of BMW Ireland said the event was a rare opportunity to experience such a visionary vehicle concept in Ireland.
“The Vision EffcientDynamics Concept embodies everything that BMW EfficientDynamics stands for: It is the proof that sustainable mobility can still mean an enthralling drive.”
Felix Baerlin from the BMW Design Studios in Germany attended the event to explain more about the idea behind the car, the technological innovations it showcases and the groundbreaking approach in its development and construction.
“This Concept Car is the exciting face of EfficientDynamics. What does lightness look like, what does layering feel like, can I touch efficiency? This car is the answer,” explained Mr Baerlin.
BMW also unveiled its plans for a new sustainability sub-brand under which its first zero-emissions cars will be launched.
“Under the name BMW i, we are going to bring vehicles and mobility services to the market, which will set a new benchmark in terms of sustainability. With our new brand, we are reaffirming our leadership as the most innovative and sustainable premium car company,” said Mr Ives.
In a first move, two models will be launched under the new sub-brand – The BMW i3 and the BMW i8:
The BMW i3, which is based on the BMW Megacity Vehicle Concept, will be a fully electric powered four-seater for urban dwellers. With its compact dimensions and generous feeling of space, the BMW i3 is the ideal vehicle for the daily megacity commute.
“The BMW i8 will be a high-performance sports car with extremely low emissions and it is going to be based on the BMW Vision EfficientDynamics Concept shown at the AVIVA Stadium. It will be the car you’ll want to take on extended journeys outside the city, thanks to its sports car dynamics and outstanding efficiency,” said Ives.
Both vehicles will feature BMW’s so called LifeDrive architecture, which means there will be an aluminium chassis housing the powertrain and a passenger cell made from high-strengts but extremely lightweight CFRP - Carbon Fibre Reinforced Plastic.
The premium car manufacturer says they will use the innovative architecture and CFRP to cancel out practically all of the extra weight added by batteries.
“For our customers this means superior driving dynamics combined with significantly increased range using electric power. It’s a new chapter in our industry and a new era for individual mobility,\" said Mr Ives.
';
news['article_67']['image'] = '/ie/en/insights/news/BMW2_072.jpg';
news['article_68'] = new Array();
news['article_68']['articleId'] = 68;
news['article_68']['category_name'] = 'BMW Updates';
news['article_68']['day'] = '14';
news['article_68']['month'] = '09';
news['article_68']['year'] = '2011';
news['article_68']['title'] = 'BMW J24 European Championship 2011 Opening Ceremony';
news['article_68']['subtitle'] = 'at Howth Yacht Club Ireland ';
news['article_68']['content'] = 'The BMW J/24 European Championships were officially opened on Saturday evening September 10 with a ceremony on the forecourt of the clubhouse on the BMW podium. This featured two top-of-the range BMW vehicles and motorcycle and a backdrop with the appropriate phrase of ‘Joy is Plain Sailing’ in front of the national flags of the nine competing nations.
With an audience of competitors, supporters and club members, the speakers on the podium were introduced by the ‘Master of Ceremonies’, Club and Championship Press Officer Graham Smith.
First to speak was Derek Bothwell, Chairman of the Championship Organising Committee, and then the Commodore Roger Cagney addressed the large crowd who has assembled on the forecourt and balcony. They were followed by John Ives, Managing Director of BMW Ireland, the title sponsors, who spoke about BMW’s global involvement in sailing, and then Niamh McCutcheon, President of the Irish Sailing Association, spoke on behalf of the ISA and the Irish Sports Council who supported the event.
Jim Farmer, President of the World Council of the International J/24 Class Association, spoke next, and the final speaker was the Mayor of Fingal, Cllr.Gerry McGuire, who welcomed all the overseas visitors to the county and officially declared the Championship open.
The competitors were then invited to an Opening Reception in the clubhouse. A practice race took place on Sunday afternoon however with the tail end of hurricane Katia hitting the east coast of Ireland on Monday, sailing was cancelled. Racing did take place on Tuesday morning however due to the challenging and dangerous weather conditions racing was then cancelled for the rest of the day. The winner of the one race that did take place on Tuesday was Bob Turner of Serco GBR.
It is hoped there will be favourable weather conditions for sailing on Wednesday and Thursday.
';
news['article_68']['image'] = '/ie/en/insights/news/_narrowband/img/JohnIves.jpg';
news['article_69'] = new Array();
news['article_69']['articleId'] = 69;
news['article_69']['category_name'] = 'BMW Updates';
news['article_69']['day'] = '14';
news['article_69']['month'] = '10';
news['article_69']['year'] = '2011';
news['article_69']['title'] = 'New 3 Series Launched';
news['article_69']['subtitle'] = '';
news['article_69']['content'] = 'BMW Ireland Corporate Communications
Media Information
14 October 2011
BMW today reveals first pictures and details of the new 3 Series, the sixth
generation of the world’s best-selling premium saloon. The 3 Series Saloon is
the heart of the BMW brand, responsible for one-fifth of the company’s global
sales. When the latest incarnation of 3 Series goes on sale next February it will
build on the current model’s position as the ultimate drivers’ car in its sector.
But it will also be the most logical business proposition, thanks to new
powertrains and additional EfficientDynamics fuel-saving, emissions-reducing
technologies.
The new BMW 3 Series Saloon is a car of contradictions: larger and more
spacious than the model it replaces, but lighter; quicker in many cases, but
more fuel-efficient; and more nimble and agile while even safer. There have
been big steps forward in style, quality, comfort and specification for only a
minimal price increase. A wider choice of trim levels and an extensive
personalisation programme will allow 3 Series Saloon buyers to order virtually a
bespoke car.
* Unconfirmed data subject to change.
Model / Price RRP from / Price OTR from
BMW 316d Saloon €34,180* / €35,030*
BMW 318d Saloon €37,160* / €38,010*
BMW 320d Saloon €38,710 / €39,560
BMW 320d EfficientDynamics Saloon €38,710 / €39,560
BMW 320i Saloon €37,710* / €38,570*
BMW 328i Saloon €42,540 / €43,390
BMW 335i Saloon €56,800 / €57,650
Compact BMW saloons have always appealed to the emotions of keen drivers
because of their outstanding driving dynamics, but with the advent of the
company’s EfficientDynamics technologies to reduce fuel consumption and
CO2 emissions in the middle of the last decade, they also present a compelling
business case. That advantage is set to increase with the introduction of the
new BMW 3 Series Saloon. By March 2012, when additional engines have
been added to the four at launch, BMW will have eight versions of the new 3
Series Saloon with CO2 emissions at or below 120g/km while competitors can
muster only one each.
All versions of the new 3 Series Saloon feature Drive Performance Control as
standard - a switch which allows the driver to swap between up to four driving
modes, varying from sporty to extremely economical. The four modes are ECO
PRO, Comfort, Sport, and Sport + (Sport + is included only on Sport models or
with selected optional equipment). In ECO PRO, the throttle mapping changes
so that a firmer push of the accelerator pedal is needed to extract the power
that is delivered with a lighter touch in the other three modes, thus encouraging
a more economical driving style. ECO PRO also alters the manual gearshift
points advised by the Optimum Shift Indicator, modifies the gearshift strategy
on models with automatic transmission and even adjusts the power
consumption of features such as the climate control and heated mirrors and
seats.
The EfficientDynamics technologies which gave the previous BMW 3 Series
Saloon such a competitive advantage remain very much in place, and have
been supplemented with new ones. Auto Stop-Start is fitted to all versions,
manual and automatic, along with Brake Energy Regeneration, on-demand
control of engine ancillary components and tyres with less rolling resistance.
Weight has been reduced by up to 50kg compared with the previous model,
while the drag coefficient (Cd) is down to as low as 0.26 thanks to optimised
aerodynamics. The new 3 Series Saloon features a streamlined underside,
covers which create a diffuser effect at the rear and Aero Curtain air channels in
the front apron which reduce the turbulence created by the revolution of the
front wheels in their arches.
The new BMW 3 Series Saloon is fitted with electromechanical power steering
which consumes no energy when the car is being driven in a straight line or in
steady-state cornering. This has been achieved with no loss of the steering
accuracy or precise feedback that is such an essential part of the BMW
‘ultimate driving machine’ ethos. Servotronic speed-sensitive power assistance
is standard on the 328i and 335i derivatives and optional on all others.
An eight-speed automatic gearbox, giving a wider spread of ratios than the
former six-speed unit without taking up any more space in the engine bay, is
available as an alternative to the standard six-speed manual. It is also now
offered with every engine to significantly improve efficiency. For example, the
new 318d automatic model now emits 22g/km less than the previous 318d
automatic model. Automatic versions of the new 3 Series Saloon are also now
as fuel-efficient, or more so, than their manual equivalents.
The clear drivers’ choice With its rear-wheel-drive layout, near-perfect 50:50 front-to-rear weight
distribution, agile chassis set-up and responsive engines, the BMW 3 Series
has always been the benchmark for driving enjoyment among compact
premium saloons. That position has been strengthened in the new model.
All engines in the new 3 Series Saloon feature BMW TwinPower Turbo
technology. They include a new four-cylinder 2.0-litre petrol unit, developing
245hp and 350Nm of torque, in the 328i. It replaces the six-cylinder 3.0-litre
engines in the previous 325i and 330i, with inherent advantages for weight and
fuel consumption, yet with a 0-100kms time of 5.9 seconds in manual form, it is
quicker than either. Efficiency is also significantly improved and both manual
and automatic versions of the 328i have fuel economy of more than 44mpg and
CO2 emissions below 150g/km. The new unit features High-Precision Direct
Injection, BMW’s new TwinScroll turbocharging, Double-VANOS variable
camshaft timing and VALVETRONIC variable valve opening technology.
The 328i is one of four engines that will be available at launch, three of which
are familiar from the outgoing model. The other petrol engine on offer is the
3.0-litre six-cylinder TwinPower Turbo unit in the 335i. Demand for diesels will
be catered for by an improved 2.0-litre 184hp 320d and the acclaimed 163hp
320d EfficientDynamics, which features longer gear ratios, reduced friction
components and revised electronics to generate an outstanding 68.9mpg fuel
consumption and just 109g/km CO2. Previously only available as a manual, the
320d EfficientDynamics is also now available with the new eight-speed
automatic transmission – whilst retaining the same 109g/km emissions level.
Less than a month after launch, three new engines will be added. There will be
316d and 318d diesels, powered respectively by 116hp and 143hp variants of
the 2.0-litre diesel engine, plus another version of the 2.0-litre turbocharged
petrol engine. This will slot into the new 320i, and will be tuned to deliver 184hp
and 270Nm of torque, with the same free-revving, supremely flexible character
of all other BMW TwinPower Turbo petrol engines.
Bigger and better by design
The new BMW 3 Series Saloon features a stiffer body and an all-new chassis
based on a longer wheelbase (now 2,810mm, an increase of 50mm on the
previous model) and wider tracks (by 37mm at the front and 47mm at the rear).
Increased in overall length by 93mm, it has the characteristic BMW design
proportions of short overhangs for maximum agility. All-independent
suspension is by aluminium torque struts, wishbones and swivel joints at the
front and an improved and refined version of the proven five-link arrangement
from the previous 3 Series Saloon at the rear. BMW engineers have managed
to improve upon the already outstanding handling qualities of the outgoing car
so that it delivers even greater agility and directional stability with noticeably
improved comfort. State-of-the-art electronic control systems ensure the new
car’s dynamics can be enjoyed with complete peace of mind.
Light-alloy wheels of at least 17 inches in diameter and shod with Run-flat tyres
linked to a Tyre Puncture Warning System are now fitted to every version apart
from the 320d EfficientDynamics, which has 16-inch aerodynamic alloys and
non-Run-flat tyres. The rolling resistance of the tyres has been reduced by 15
per cent compared with those on the previous model, with no loss of dynamic
performance.
Optional Variable Sport steering and Adaptive M Sport suspension with
electronically variable dampers will also be available – both interacting
seamlessly with the Drive Performance Control and adding the ‘Sport+’ mode
to this switch.
The bespoke compact executive car
BMW 3 Series Saloon buyers are extremely diverse in their preferences and
tastes, with a growing demand for greater personalisation, and the new model
range has been configured to reflect that. It offers more trim levels than ever
before – six – and a wide range of packages and individual options which
customers can add to the already significantly increased standard specification
of every model.
Common to all versions is a new-found sense of style, higher interior quality
standards and much improved packaging. The new 3 Series Saloon is
simultaneously more sporty and more elegant than its predecessor. Improved
proportions, pronounced wheel arches, headlamp units which blend into the
double-kidney grille to form a continuous band across the front of the car and
air inlets beneath the headlights visually stretch the width and make the new 3
Series Saloon look low, wide and sporty. This is echoed by the strong horizontal
design language at the rear and the forward-pressing nose, long bonnet, rising
swage lines and large wheels visible from the side. At the same time, the
coupé-like profile, distinctive double round headlights, L-shaped rear light units
with LED light bars and the decorative trims chosen for the grille and around the
windows give an athletic and yet elegant appearance.
The new BMW 3 Series Saloon is 93mm longer than the previous model and
6mm narrower, excluding door mirrors. It also has a 50mm longer wheelbase.
This has clear advantages when it comes to internal space. There is 18mm
more feet entry freedom, 15mm more knee room and 8mm more headroom in
the rear, while the height of the rear door and its opening angle have both been
increased to make entry and exit easier. None of this is at the expense of
luggage space, which has increased by 20 litres to 480 litres.
Befitting the BMW 3 Series’ renowned driving dynamics, the interior control and
switchgear layout is totally driver-focused. The elegant and dynamic new
interior design language, with twisting and merging surfaces arranged in a
series of layers, all angle towards the driver. The centre console itself is angled
at seven degrees towards the driver.
So that the passenger does not feel excluded, the iDrive controller used to
access many of the car’s functions and the 6.5” display monitor which
accompanies it (both standard on all models) are arranged centrally, within equal
reach and view of both front occupants. What is immediately apparent to all who
enter the new BMW 3 Series Saloon is the significant improvement in trim
quality and ambience. This is emphasised not only by the appearance and feel
of the interior surfaces, but also by the choice of colours and materials to reflect
the different trim levels.
Popular ‘Lines’ specification, similar to BMW 1 Series, introduced
BMW in Ireland will again offer the highly valued ES, SE and, in 2012, M Sport
versions of the 3 Series Saloon, but there will also be Sport, Modern and Luxury
models, each with a distinct character and increased opportunities for
individualisation. Even the trim on the key fobs differs between the various
versions. This increase in specification offer mirrors the popular ‘Lines’ range
first showcased on the BMW 1 Series launched earlier this year.
All of the new models will appeal to both retail and corporate customers. The
popular ES and SE will be again available from launch, whilst Sport and M Sport
are targeted at the more enthusiastic driver and Modern and Luxury are
different takes on the exclusive and sophisticated compact premium saloon.
By offering this enhanced range of trims, BMW is able to meet the needs of its
increasingly diverse customer base which is demanding an increasing level of
individualisation from their vehicle. With a broader choice of trims, 3 Series
Saloon customers can better tailor their vehicle to reflect their personalities,
attitudes, tastes and lifestyles.
In addition to the enhanced range of trims, all models including ES (which is
only available on 316d), will receive significantly enhanced levels of standard
equipment, including 17-inch light alloy wheels, automatic air-conditioning,
Bluetooth, BMW Professional radio with 6.5-inch colour screen and iDrive,
keyless starting, USB, a multi-function leather steering wheel, cruise control and
automatic boot opening.
SE is available with all engines except the 335i, and adds, among other things,
different alloy wheels, rear Park Distance Control, two-zone air conditioning and
a rain sensor with automatic light activation, for a premium of €1,210 over the
316d ES. Sport and Modern versions are priced €1,410 above the equivalent
318d SE, while the difference between 318d SE and Luxury is €3,530.
Sport models build on the purposeful and athletic styling of the new BMW 3
Series Saloon and reflect its renowned agility and dynamic handling, through
the use of both exterior and interior design cues. Sport has unique light alloy
wheels, black high-gloss air intakes in redesigned bumpers and matching bars
in the double-kidney grille, and a black chrome tailpipe finisher. Red stitching
adorns the sport seats and leather-rimmed sports steering wheel. The interior is
in high-gloss black with a red finisher, the instrument cluster has red
highlighting and there is extended and switchable interior lighting with exclusive
colours, chrome rings around the climate and radio controls and ‘Sport’ insignia
on the door entry sills. Sport also comes with an additional ‘Sport+’ mode on
the Drive Performance Control and is available on all four-cylinder models
except the 328i and 320d EfficientDynamics.
Modern models provide a natural, harmonic balance of colours and textures,
whilst retaining a refined and elegant character. As well as existing BMW
customers, this is expected to appeal to those who have not previously
considered the BMW brand. Modern is available on all engines except the 316d
and 320d EfficientDynamics and replaces the high-gloss black exterior
embellishments of Sport with matt chrome and has its own exclusive 17-inch
light alloy wheel and bumper design. It also has switchable interior lighting
colours, the extended lighting package and matt chrome trim detailing and
signature door sills. The standard seats are in part cloth and part leather, whilst
there is a two-tone Oyster finish on the dash, with Dark Oyster on the
instrument panel and multi-function leather steering wheel.
As befits the name, Luxury models have a refined, sophisticated appearance,
offer the finest quality materials and include an enhanced level of standard
equipment. Luxury is available across the range apart from the 316d and 320d
EfficientDynamics. Bright chrome replaces the high-gloss black of Sport
models or the matt chrome of Modern, and there are exclusive 18-inch light
alloy wheels as standard. Inside, the detailing is also chrome, while the
upholstery is Dakota leather with an exclusive stitching pattern and the dash
and door cappings are in Anthracite wood with a Pearl Chrome finisher.
M Sport will have lowered and stiffened sports suspension, unique aerodynamic
body styling and ride on 18-inch M light alloy wheels. The interior will be
trimmed in Aluminium Hexagon with a Blue finisher. The sport seats will be
covered with Dakota leather, and the door finishers, steering wheel and
shortened gearshift will reflect the car’s position as the sportiest 3 Series
Saloon model. Prices will be announced nearer the 2012 on-sale date.
The six trim variants are just the starting point for a vast range of personalisation
and individualisation possibilities for the new 3 Series Saloon. Many of the items
on offer are new to the vehicle and include Park Assist, which allows the car to
parallel park itself, with the driver controlling the accelerator and brake. A
Reversing Assist camera and Surround-view cameras, which even let the driver
see the car from above and the sides can also be chosen. Practicality can also
be increased with a new 40:20:40 split-folding rear-seat option.
New safety options include a full-colour Head-Up Display which shows current
speed limits, the car’s current speed and turn-by-turn instructions when a BMW
navigation system is fitted. Dynamic Safety is another feature offered which
tensions the seat belts and closes any open windows or the sunroof (if fitted
and open) if an accident seems imminent. Internet access via the owner’s
mobile telephone and BMW’s new Real Time Traffic Information service, which
delivers faster, more accurate warnings of traffic hold-ups and even offers
suggestions on how to avoid them, are among the media services available as
part of BMW ConnectedDrive. Many of these features will be packaged to offer
new 3 Series Saloon buyers related and desirable options at value prices.
The new 3 Series Saloon will appear in public for the first time at the North
American International Auto Show in Detroit in January 2012. It is scheduled to
go on sale in Ireland a month later, on 11 February 2012. Prices for the new
vehicle start at €35,030 OTR for a 316d ES. In all cases the standard
specification of the car has been significantly enhanced compared to the
previous model.
The road ahead for the new BMW 3 Series Saloon
BMW Ireland can confirm that towards the end of 2012 it will introduce fourwheel-
drive and hybrid powertrains to the 3 Series Saloon for the first time in
Ireland. BMW’s xDrive all-wheel-drive system has been available on the 3 Series
in some markets previously, and has now been engineered for right-hand-drive
cars. It will be of particular benefit to owners who live in areas prone to extremes
of bad weather, and will be available with selected petrol and diesel engines.
The ActiveHybrid 3 will arrive at roughly the same time, and will use the
powertrain recently announced for the ActiveHybrid 5. This pairs the 335i’s
306hp six-cylinder engine with an up to 40kW electric motor in a particularly
intelligent and efficient way.';
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