The design philosophy of the BMW Group continues to receive acclaim for the world’s leading premium automotive manufacturer with design experts at the red dot awards becoming the latest judges to bestow their seal of approval.

The number and diversity of the BMW Group products recognised by some of the world’s most prestigious design awards this year, is testament to the success of BMW’s product-specific design strategies.

The BMW Group’s design philosophy inspired an impressive tally of seven major accolades from the internationally renowned red dot label for design quality in the field of product development. This included the experts’ acclaim for the new BMW 7 Series and the new Z4 roadster – a significant accomplishment given the 3,231 products submitted from around the globe for judging.

The new BMW 7 Series, a key player in the luxury saloon segment and the brand’s flagship model, received praise for its harmonious combination of elegance, sportiness and visual presence, and a body design offering both an outstanding degree of comfort as well as superior driving dynamics.

The new BMW Z4 roadster, which launches in May, also scooped a red dot award. According to judges, its modern interpretation of classic roadster styling is a quality that helps the new BMW Z4 to attain a special position in its segment. The elongated bonnet, flat waistline and seat position located well to the back in the vicinity of the rear axle, combined for the first time with a retractable hardtop also makes this a hotly anticipated model launch for the Middle East region.

The red dot award successes follows the recent IF Product Design Awards in Hanover, where BMW scooped wins for its new 7 Series, 1 Series Coupe and Convertible as well as the MINI Cooper S Clubman. In recent weeks, BMW, MINI and BMW Motorrad vehicles also received awards from the Design Prize of the German Federal Republic, the Eyes On Design Award and the Good Design Award presented in the USA.

The award ceremony will take place during a festive award gala at the Aalto Theatre in Essen on 29 June 2009.

06.04.2009

Commemorated yearly on 5th June, World Environment Day (WED) is one of the principal events through which the United Nations stimulates worldwide awareness of the environment and enhances political attention and action. In line with WED’s core objective of empowering people to become active agents of sustainable development, BMW Group is working towards a more sustainable future in the development of its vehicles.

The BMW Group is the world’s most sustainable automotive manufacturer today. In 2008, and for the fourth consecutive year, the Dow Jones Sustainability Index ranked the group the automotive industry’s global sustainability leader. Behind this achievement lies the firm’s recognition that the future of mobility requires a new balance between individual and ecological requirements, and that this balance applies to both drive systems and production processes.

Phil Horton, Managing Director of BMW Group Middle East explained: “The ethos of World Environment Day compels us to take responsibility and all work collectively towards a more sustainable future. At BMW Group we believe that mobility and sustainability are inseparably linked and we are constantly working to reduce our impact on the environment while offering our customers the best in mobility.”

Commenting on BMW Group’s focus for a more sustainable future, Horton added: “We have anchored sustainability in our production process through our “Clean Production” philosophy which works to reduce waste, while EfficientDynamics is our product-specific development strategy to ensure we reach zero emissions for all of our vehicles.”

As part of its “Clean Production” philosophy, the German Steyr plant, which produces around 60% of all BMW engines, recycles all the water used in the production process, saving around 30 million litres of water each year, - the equivalent of 12 Olympic size swimming pools. In Spartanburg, where X3, X5 and X6 models are produced, the production plant now obtains half its energy from methane gas generated from a nearby landfill. BMW Group plans to reduce the consumption of energy, water, sewage, solvent emissions as well as waste in its international production network by another 30 percent between 2006 and 2012.

EfficientDynamics has helped the BMW Group reduce fleet emissions further than any other car manufacturer. The new BMW 7 Series is the most fuel-efficient vehicle in its class and yet more powerful than its predecessor, proving that sustainability need not compromise driving performance.

The 7 Series also includes a comprehensive range of design and technology features, exemplifying the EfficientDynamics strategy, which reduce the impact of the vehicle on the environment. Brake Energy Regeneration, which transforms the vehicle’s kinetic energy into electricity to charge the battery; Intelligent Lightweight Construction which uses aluminium to reduce weight and improve weight distribution, thereby improving fuel efficiency; and Low Rolling Resistance Tyres with Runflat Technology, made of special materials that prevent tyre deformation and ensure maximum efficiency.

Another important project is BMW Group’s MINI E. BMW is the first premium manufacturer to deploy a fleet of fully electric-powered cars for private use in daily traffic in the United States and Germany. The MINI E is part of a pilot project designed to demonstrate a whole new dimension in individual mobility which is entirely emission-free, driver friendly and ideal for every day, and just as much fun to drive as a MINI with a combustion engine.

For the BMW Group designing for the future relies on innovation, which is why it remains at the forefront of new technologies and mobility concepts. This includes hybrid technology, electric drives, hydrogen fuel and mobility solutions for the world’s megacities. Next year will see the introduction of the first Active-Hybrid variants of the 7 Series and X6 to the Middle East, bringing the goal of zero emissions ever closer.

05.06.2009

Munich / Stuttgart. 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.

17.06.2009

BMW is the world’s first automotive manufacturer to offer in-car technology that allows full internet access from the dashboard display of its flagship model, the BMW 7 Series. This ground-breaking feature named BMW Online combines the thrill of luxury mobility with the convenience of internet usage.

Offered through the BMW ConnectedDrive communications service, BMW Online gives passengers the option to surf the internet while travelling. The internet is viewed on the central display in the instrument panel or on the rear passenger DVD display screens and navigated using the iDrive controller. Rear seat passengers can browse websites and access their e-mails at any time. For safety reasons, those in the front can only access these functions when the car is parked.

The new 7 Series is BMW’s flagship model and represents some of the most significant technology developments. Combined, these features not only contribute to a more dynamic driving experience, but also increased safety for the driver and other road users.

12.08.2009

On 15th September 2009 the IAA Frankfurt Motor Show will open its gates and this year the BMW Group will be proud to present all three brands under one roof. Hall 11, which was officially opened by Frankfurt’s Lord Mayor Petra Roth, is Europe’s most state-of-the-art exhibition hall and will host BMW, MINI and Rolls-Royce. The highlight of BMW’s 2009 motor show presentation is a circuit of several hundred metres in length that encloses the entire exhibition space and on which the BMW EfficientDynamics fleet and the world premieres will be presented.

Thomas Muderlak, responsible for BMW Group’s presentation at the IAA Frankfurt Motor Show said: “Participation in motor shows is an important feature in our communication activities directed at customers, the media and trade visitors. We are delighted that the 2009 IAA gives us the opportunity to build on our tradition of innovative motor show presences and this time to present all three brands under one roof – a first. A highlight for our visitors will be to experience our vehicles in motion: for the BMW brand, our presentation will implement the brand’s motto of ‘Sheer Driving Pleasure’ quite literally.”

The BMW Motor Show Presentation: “Experiencing Joy”

The basic concept behind the BMW brand’s presence at the 2009 IAA focuses on sheer driving pleasure. For the first time, IAA visitors can experience the cars’ design and appeal in motion – thanks to the dynamic presentation of the vehicles on a circuit. The BMW EfficientDynamics fleet presented on the circuit will be an impressive demonstration of the fusion of driving pleasure and low consumption. Thanks to EfficientDynamics, BMW is able to prove uncompromisingly that these are not mutually exclusive. With its two most recent model generations, BMW Group has reduced the fleet’s consumption in Europe by more than 25 per cent while improving driving pleasure. By the time the IAA opens, BMW will have delivered about 1.4 million vehicles equipped with the award-winning EfficientDynamics technology package. As well asthe presentation of the EfficientDynamics fleet, the focus at the BMW stand will be on the world premieres of the hybrid vehicles BMW ActiveHybrid 7 and BMW ActiveHybrid X6 as well as on the world premieres of the BMW 5 Series Gran Turismo and the BMW X1. Visitors can expect further additional product surprises.

BMW Motor Show community and events

Presenting the three brands so close to each other this year will allow BMW Group to state various corporate initiatives. As the organiser of the Junior Campus and the host of the ZEIT Conference, BMW Group will seize the opportunity to set the stage for important social issues such as sustainability. Taking a stand in the socio-political debate on mobility and sustainability, BMW Group’s future summit – the ZEIT Conference – provides a platform for a panel discussion with high-ranking representatives from the worlds of politics, business, architecture and environmental protection. Also, the 2009.2010 Sustainable Value Report will be presented at the BMW Group press conference on 15th September. Sustainability is the central theme of the BMW Group’s exhibition stand concept as well: the Company applies a reusable exhibition system to motor shows and exhibitions. The concept is based on modular, reusable structural elements which reduce the amount of demolition material and waste.

Between 15th and 27th September 2009 children aged between 3 and 13 years can discover the fascination of the sustainability and mobility at the Junior Campus. A workshop explains through play how to handle resources in a responsible manner for children aged between 7 and 13. In addition, a children’s Road Safety School with a driving course located in the outdoor area of the Junior Campus helps children from 3 to 6 behave responsibly in road traffic.

The MINI Stand: “What a Birthday. It’s MINI.”

On 26th August, MINI will celebrate its 50th Anniversary. Honouring this special occasion, the MINI motor show presence is all about MINI’s 50-year success story. This agenda is also translated into the stand’s architecture: visitors are received at the stand by a banner displaying the large-scale claim “What a Birthday. It’s MINI.”. The banner stretchs diagonally across the entire open space of the stand with a length of 35, a height of six and a depth of four metres. The MINI world premieres include the birthday editions MINI 50 Camden and MINI 50 Mayfair as well as further surprising product innovations. Another focus at the MINI stand at the 2009 IAA is the MINIMALISM concept – a package of measures developed to optimise fuel consumption and to reduce emissions, which is presented in a futuristic area that offers great experiences.

The Rolls-Royce Motor Show Presence

The highlight of the Rolls-Royce motor show presence is the world premiere of the Rolls-Royce Ghost. The stand itself has been designed as an open building with a daylight roof in which Rolls-Royce presents not only the Ghost, but also the Phantom product range with the Phantom Extended Wheelbase, the Drophead Coupé and the Phantom Coupé.

13.08.2009

The BMW 7 Series is currently the best-selling car in the premium automotive segment in the Middle East. Buoyed by the launch of the fifth-generation of the flagship model late last year, the BMW Group recorded sales of 2,949 units of the BMW 7 Series across the Middle East from January-August 2009.

The 7 Series is also the highest-selling model in the BMW portfolio, achieving impressive results across the region’s biggest markets. The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia was the largest market with the sale of 864 units. The UAE was another strong market for the flagship model, with Dubai and Abu Dhabi witnessing sales of 435 and 365 cars respectively.

The new BMW 7 Series was initially available in the Middle East in two engine variants – the in-line six cylinder 740Li and V8 750Li models with new twin-turbo technology and direct fuel injection. They have since been joined by the 730Li and V12-powered 760Li which produces an enviable 544bhp and accelerates to 100km/h in just 4.6 seconds.

Designed around BMW’s robust EfficientDynamics strategy to reduce fuel consumption and CO2 emissions, the new BMW 7 Series offers more power and better fuel economy than the predecessor model and boasts the most fuel efficient engines in its class.

James Crichton, Sales & Marketing Director, BMW Group Middle East said: “The BMW 7 Series embodies all the qualities associated with premium vehicles such as power, performance and luxury, and is a class leader in emission reductions and automotive technologies. These enduring qualities have been continually refined over the past thirty years in which the BMW 7 Series has delivered stellar performance in the premium automotive segment. We are proud of its latest sales results, and we look forward to the continuing success of our flagship model for the rest of the year.”

The new BMW 7 Series features a host of assistance technologies that bring unmatched driver engagement, handling and safety features to the luxury performance segment. These include Head-Up Display, which projects driving information such as speed, navigation, direction and alerts onto the windscreen, so that the driver’s attention stays on the road; Night Vision, which uses thermal imaging technology to detect humans in the dark at distances of up to 100 meters; and Lane Departure Warning and Lane Change Warning which help the driver overtake safely by monitoring traffic conditions in adjacent lanes with radar sensors.

28.09.2009

The new BMW X5 M and X6 M models have made their debut in the Middle East, heralding a new chapter in the proud history of BMW M. The new BMW X5 M and X6 M are the first all-wheel-drive models to offer the supreme performance, dynamic driving features, athletic design and premium quality typical of a BMW M Car.

Commenting on the arrival of these exciting new models, Phil Horton, Managing Director of BMW Group Middle East said: “The combination of BMW’s M philosophy with X range models paves the way for a truly exclusive and dynamic driving experience.

“Both models set new standards in their class in terms of dynamic performance, reflecting their motorsport lineage. The X5 M and X6 M take the Sports Activity Vehicle segment to the next level and we are confident that both models will contribute to BMW Group’s ongoing success, considering that both the X5 and the X6 are already excellent performers in this market place.”

An unprecedented story in its own right, BMW pioneered the Sports Activity Vehicle segment with the launch of the X5 which has sold close to one million units globally in just one decade. The X5 is testament to the leading and progressive nature of the BMW brand becoming a benchmark for innovation, design and performance for the premium automotive industry.

In 2008 BMW took another bold step forward with the world’s first Sports Activity Coupé, the BMW X6. This highly innovative vehicle captures the features and design qualities typical of a large Coupé combined with the X family high driving position and versatility. The X6 has secured an unrivalled position in the Middle East market reporting strong sales since its launch in 2008.

Both the X5 M and X6 M new models are powered by a newly developed M TwinPower Turbo V8 high-performance engine delivering 555 hp at an engine speed range between of 6,000 rpm, acceleration from 0-100km/h in 4.7 seconds, and a top speed electronically limited to 250km/h. The six-speed sports automatic gearbox allows for extremely short shift times and very smooth gear-changes.

The new M TwinPower Turbo engine develops outstanding output and performance with equally outstanding efficiency. In addition to direct High Precision Injection, both the BMW X5 M and the X6 M are equipped with a wide range of BMW’s EfficientDynamics technologies that offer a significant reduction in fuel consumption and CO2 emission.

BMW’s intelligent xDrive all-wheel-drive system improves traction on rough terrain and enhances driving dynamics on the road. BMW’s xDrive is naturally geared to the specific power and performance characteristics of the BMW X5 M and the X6 M. Dynamic Performance Control, a unique technology which delivers uncompromised tracking stability on the road comes standard on both models. The xDrive also interacts with the cars’ special M suspension including Adaptive Drive and the newly developed Servotronic Power Steering, to ensure the dynamic driving behaviour so characteristic of a BMW M Car.

In the M Drive menu the driver is able to set up and pre-configure both the Power Mode and the set-up of the Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) and Electronic Damper Control (EDC), which help stablise handling even in critical situations. The driver is also able to save his favourite set-up and subsequently retrieve it at any time simply by pressing the M Drive button on the steering wheel.

The BMW X5 M and the X6 M are the only vehicles in their segment to come as standard with different-sized front and rear tyres, running in each case on model specific 20-inch light-alloy rims. The combination of ideal tyre sizes in terms of driving dynamics promotes both the exceptionally good transmission of power to the rear axle and the precise, exactly dosed steering behaviour of both models.

The truly outstanding potential of both models comes out clearly in their looks and design. The front – uniform for both models – with massive air intakes and twin exhaust tailpipes are an impressive indication of the awesome engine power. Both models have a M specific cockpit and are fitted with M seats, M leather steering wheel and many opportunities for personalization.

Beyond these features, both of these all-wheel-drive high performance sports cars stand out clearly as unique models in their own right: The BMW X5 M clearly boasts its superior power and exclusivity at very first sight, while the BMW X6 M, in its unique design, alludes to fascinating driving dynamics and the car’s athletic charisma.

14.10.2009

Lord Sebastian Coe, chairman of the London Organising Committee of the Olympic Games and Paralympic Games (LOCOG) has today announced that BMW has become the Automotive Partner of London 2012. BMW will provide the 4000 or so vehicles which are required at the Games to transport athletes, technical officials, media, LOCOG operational teams, national Olympic Committees, International Sports Federations, the IOC and marketing partners.

In addition, BMW becomes a Sustainability Partner supporting London 2012’s commitment to deliver its ‘low carbon’ and ‘healthy living’ Games.

Ian Robertson, member of the board of management of BMW AG, responsible for sales and marketing said: “Sustainability is a central pillar of our business and guides all aspects of our operations. This has lead to our being named by the Dow Jones Sustainability Index as the most sustainable automotive company, for the fifth year in a row. Therefore we have a natural affinity with London 2012 and its commitment to low carbon and healthy living.”

He continued, “We see our partnership as a major opportunity, over the next three years and beyond, to focus attention on our range of the most fuel efficient premium cars – and also to shine a light on the future of individual mobility. This partnership will be an inspiration for our customers, employees, dealers and suppliers.”

LOCOG set challenging targets with respect to CO2 and European emission standards for the car fleet. BMW will provide a fleet of cars which not only meet the Euro 6 emissions standard but also beat the maximum average of 120g CO2 / km established by LOCOG. BMW leads the automotive industry in emission-lowering technology through its Efficient Dynamics programme.

The company will also showcase electric vehicles as part of its activation in 2012.

LOCOG Chairman Sebastian Coe commented, “Operationally, an automotive deal is vital for any organising committee and so I’m thrilled BMW is on board. They share our vision to stage a sustainable Games in 2012 and will be a valued partner. We welcome BMW on board and look forward to working with them over the next three years.”

During the Games, BMW bicycles will be available for use by athletes in the Athletes Village and by London 2012 staff. BMW motorcycles will also be used in certain Olympic and Paralympic events.

A proportion of the fleet will be wheelchair-accessible and BMW will convert a number of vehicles for use by disabled drivers and passengers.

BMW has invested over £1bn in the UK since 2000 and employs over 8,000 people in manufacturing, distribution and financial services in Britain. The company has created over 50,000 further jobs through support services, suppliers and dealer distribution networks. BMW will also activate the deal sacross the iconic Mini brand between now and 2012.

LOCOG and BMW have many shared values which are an important foundation to this partnership agreement. A commitment to fair play, sporting competition and intercultural exchange have always been fundamentals of BMW’s value system – in addition to the central theme of sustainability.

18.11.2009

Dubai- The world’s most successful premium automotive manufacturer has announced plans to debut the new BMW 5 Series sedan in the Middle East in March 2010. The launch of the sixth generation of this immensely successful model marks the epitome of aesthetic design and supreme driving pleasure in the midrange premium segment.
With its sporting and elegant design, excellent comfort and the highest standard in efficiency in its class, BMW’s latest executive sedan sets the benchmark in driving dynamics.

The new model’s design is imaginative, creative and effective, with BMW’s designers and engineers working hand-in-hand to ensure the perfect interplay of design and technology. The new BMW 5 Series sedan will make its debut in the Middle East with one eight-cylinder and three six-cylinder petrol engines offering outstanding performance.

The new BMW 5 Series is a class leader in emissions reduction. It has been designed around BMW's successful Efficient Dynamics strategy that encompasses many technology innovations to offer outstanding performance and a reduction in fuel consumption.

Some of the wide range of sophisticated driving and comfort features offered in the new BMW 5 Series include Dynamic Drive Control with three modes: comfort, normal, sport and sport +; Comfort Start; Head-Up Display; Multi-Channel Audio System, Rear Seat Entertainment; Four-Zone Automatic Air Conditioning, BMW iDrive control and Parking Assistant.

The interior of the new BMW 5 Series has a stylish and modern design with exciting lines that create a generous and harmonious ambience. High quality materials and superior craftsmanship underline the premium interior ambience.

Commenting on the launch of the new model, Phil Horton, Managing Director of BMW Group Middle East said: “The 5 Series is one of our best selling models in the Middle East, so we are looking forward to launching this new model early in 2010. It is a totally different car from its predecessor in terms of design, comfort, technology and engineering, so we are confident that it's going to be well received and help us maintain our position at the forefront industry trends.”

The new BMW 5 Series Sedan clearly stands out from the crowd, convincingly demonstrating its ability to offer the Sheer Driving Pleasure typical of the BMW brand.

24.11.2009

The BMW 7 Series, BMW’s flagship model and major contributor to the brand’s Middle East growth, continues to remain at the forefront of the luxury segment by offering the latest in automotive innovation and technology development.

The fifth generation model, launched in the Middle East earlier this year, offers a host of driver assistance technologies including innovative safety features, such as Lane Departure Warning and Lane Change Warning systems.

The Lane Departure Warning system alerts the driver before the vehicle drifts over the marked edge of the lane. Using a camera integrated in the rear-view mirror, the system recognises if the vehicle is threatening to stray outside the lane and the driver is alerted by a vibration of the steering wheel.

Lane Change Warning system helps the driver avoid collisions when overtaking and changing lanes. Radar sensors at the rear of the car monitor the traffic behind, and trigger the appearance of a dark symbol on the wing mirror whenever any vehicle moves into a potentially dangerous position. This symbol begins to flash and the steering wheel vibrates as a warning to the driver.

Commenting on these safety features, Phil Horton, Managing Director of BMW Group Middle East said: “Both these advanced driver assistance technologies demonstrate BMW’s commitment to road safety and innovation by reducing the potential risk of accidents by providing the driver with greater information on surrounding road users through industry-leading assistance technologies.”

The new BMW 7 Series represents some of the most significant technology developments in the automotive industry. Combined, these features not only contribute to a more dynamic driving experience, but also increased safety for the driver and other road users.

09.12.2009

Dubai – BMW Middle East has unveiled five new models today at the 10th Dubai International Motor Show including two ActiveHybrid models, marking the second phase in BMW’s sustainable mobility strategy.

In addition, the new BMW Gran Turismo, BMW X1 along with the star of the show, the BMW M1 Homage concept vehicle all made their Middle East debuts.

Earlier this week, the BMW Group announced a significant commitment towards addressing climate change at the UN Copenhagen Climate Change Conference. The premium automotive manufacturer will reduce CO2 emissions on all of its products by at least 25% by 2020. To achieve this goal, technologies such as zero-emission electric vehicles will play a vital role.


The second phase of its EfficientDynamics strategy has been implemented with the unveiling of the ActiveHybrid X6 and ActiveHybrid 7 at the Dubai International Motor show. These two models integrate the latest electric and petrol engine technologies to further reduce fuel consumption and emissions and are the most fuel efficient models in their respective segments with an average fuel saving of over 15%.

BMW has already enjoyed significant success on the path to zero-emissions vehicles, with over 1.5 million vehicles already fitted with EfficientDynamics technologies that reduce emissions and improve efficiency during phase one of the EfficientDynamics strategy.

16.12.2009