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BMW

FIA WEC: BMW M Motorsport Media Guide, video interviews and preliminary impressions after the Prologue in Qatar.

March 1, 2024 Prafful Singh

Doha. Next weekend will see BMW M Motorsport return to centre stage in endurance racing on the season-opener within the FIA World Endurance Championship (FIA WEC). The BMW M Team WRT shall be racing with two BMW M Hybrid V8s within the Hypercar class on the Qatar 1812 km. A prototype from BMW M Motorsport shall be battling for total wins for the primary time in 25 years. The BMW M Motorsport Media Guide hooked up to this press launch incorporates an in depth introduction to the BMW M Hybrid V8 and the BMW M4 GT3, which shall be competing within the LMGT3 class. It additionally options all the pieces it’s essential to find out about groups, drivers, and the twentieth BMW Art Car for the 24 Hours of Le Mans (FRA) in June 2024.

Link to BMW M Motorsport Media Guide: https://b.mw/WEC_Media_Guide.

On Monday and Tuesday, the 2 BMW M Hybrid V8s and the pair of BMW M4 GT3s every accomplished round 500 check laps through the Prologue on the Lusail International Circuit (QAT) because the group supplied the absolute best preparation for the primary race on Saturday (begin time: 09:00 CET).

Reactions to the Prologue:

Andreas Roos (Head of BMW M Motorsport): “Overall, we can be really satisfied with the Prologue. We were able to complete our testing schedule without any issues for the BMW M Hybrid V8 and for the BMW M4 GT3. We concentrated on getting the cars into the right working conditions and ticking off all the open items that we still had on our list. In the Hypercar class, it was also important for us to continue optimising the workflows between the BMW M Motorsport engineers and the BMW M Team WRT. That worked out really well. In the case of the LMGT3 crews with the new drivers, our focus was on generating great team spirit and I think that we did an excellent job there as well. I am now really looking forward to some racing after all this testing.”

Vincent Vosse (BMW M Team WRT Team Principal): “The two days of testing here in Qatar went well. We had no problems at all with the cars and the reliability was very good. The processes within the team also worked perfectly. In terms of performance, it’s still very difficult to estimate what the balance of power will be like, but it’s always like that in the run-up to a season.”

Dries Vanthoor (#15 BMW M Hybrid V8): “It feels good to finally be making a start to a race week. Testing went well for us and we were able to take a few steps in the right direction. We still have a bit of work to do on the performance, but that’s what the practice sessions are there for. All in all, things have gone according to plan so far.”

Robin Frijns (#20 BMW M Hybrid V8): “My first competitive appearance for BMW M Motorsport! The Prologue was really valuable for me personally, as I was able to chalk up plenty of kilometres and learn a lot about the car. We had no significant issues, which is very good. It is difficult to estimate where we are compared to our rivals, but I am going into my first race as a BMW M works driver with plenty of confidence.”

Augusto Farfus (#31 BMW M4 GT3): “The Prologue was important to help us familiarise ourselves with a new circuit, which was a lot of fun, and for getting to know the new team configuration for the FIA WEC even better. We were able to get plenty of laps under our belts and gather some valuable data that we will now analyse to ensure that we are perfectly prepared for the race weekend.”

Valentino Rossi (#46 BMW M4 GT3): “We did a good job, as I still had a lot of understeer and my tyres were overheating on the morning of day two. I wasn’t feeling too good. However, we got a grip on the balance of the car in the afternoon and I coped a lot better. I was able to complete plenty of laps and my pace was good. That was a good way to round off the testing. Now we will analyse everything to see where we are for the race weekend.”

Note to editors:

Click on the hyperlink beneath for video interviews with all BMW M Motorsport drivers within the FIA WEC: https://b.mw/WEC_driver_interviews.

News

Manual showdown: BMW M2 vs Honda Civic Type R vs Mazda MX-5

January 29, 2024 David

But within the Mazda, the automobile’s six-speed handbook gearbox by some means occupies centre stage. The brilliance of it means that you can get much more from an engine that makes ‘only ’ 181bhp, and from a easy rear-drive chassis that needn’t supply an excessive amount of mechanical grip to the highway, or take it self too significantly, to actually take up and enthral.

Pick your gear and revs properly: to stability the chassis, enliven the pushed wheels and assist the automobile on its manner into, by way of and out of t he nook you’re looking at. Engage your mind and observe what’s coming. Think the automobile down the highway; don’t simply steer it.

An incredible handbook gearbox makes it price your whereas studying the highway forward like a snooker participant planning a century break. And a Mazda MX-5 makes it extra worthwhile than most.

Winner: Mazda MX-5 2.0 Exclusive-Line

Eight years younger and nonetheless a shining instance of find out how to make a sports activities automobile entertaining. Manual driveline is exceptionally good.

Price £29,765 Engine 4 cyls in line, 1998cc, petrol Power 181bhp at 7000rpm Torque 151lb ft at 4000rpm Gearbox 6-spd handbook, RWD Kerb weight 1051kg 0-62mph 6.5sec Top pace 136mph Economy 40.9mpg CO2, tax band 155g/km, 36%

Second place: BMW M2 Coupé

Superb engine and chassis are made extra rewarding by a gearbox of a traditional BMW really feel. Offset pedals a possible irritation, although.

Price £67,030 Engine 6 cyls in line, 2993cc, twin-turbocharged, petrol Power 453bhp at 6250rpm Torque 406lb ft at 2650-5870rpm Gearbox 6-spd handbook, RWD Kerb weight 1700kg 0-62mph 4.3sec Top pace 155mph Economy 29.1mpg CO2, tax band 220-228g/km, 37%

Third place: Honda Civic Type R Limited Edition

Slick, detailed shift really feel brings you nearer to a firecracker turbo engine, however the driving expertise it quantities to isn’t fairly within the Mazda or BMW’s league. third

BMW

BMW Group to construct state-of-the-art Talent Campus in Munich

December 5, 2023 Prafful Singh

+++ Cutting-edge coaching centre +++ due for completion in 2025 +++ timber building +++ public café will combine campus into neighbourhood +++

Munich. The BMW Group is to arrange a state-of-the-art Talent Campus in Munich. The new constructing will probably be erected within the northeast of the house plant, on the location of the previous carpark on Riesenfeldstraße. Together with Munich’s current buildings and coaching areas, the brand new construction will kind an open campus that gives coaching and schooling for the BMW Group’s approx. 40,000 Munich-based workers – 900 trainees amongst them. It will probably be dwelling not solely to cutting-edge coaching areas and workshops but additionally a workers restaurant and a public café. In addition, new inexperienced areas will combine manufacturing seamlessly into the neighbourhood. The new Talent Campus will open for enterprise in the summertime of 2025.

“Training and education are key to our transformation and to making the BMW Group electric, digital and circular. With the new Talent Campus, we are investing in a flexible, needs-based education infrastructure for our Munich site and adding another crucial component in the global training and education campaign that will make the BMW Group fit for the future,” mentioned Ilka Horstmeier, Member of the Board of Management at BMW AG, People and Real Estate, Labour Relations Director.

Peter Weber, Director at BMW Group Plant Munich added: “BMW Group Plant Munich is currently preparing to produce the Neue Klasse, and our employees will be crucial to its success. I am very proud indeed that our main plant will be home to a cutting-edge training centre that will benefit the whole of the BMW Group. With the new centre, we are creating the infrastructure needed to ready specialists in every area of car production for the future.”

Martin Kimmich, Chairman of the General Works Council, BMW AG, emphasised: “The BMW AG Works Council has long been committed to this Talent Campus, and we are delighted that our vision is now becoming a reality, with construction about to start. Given the lack of skilled workers, investments in training and education are key for the future viability of our company.”

Timber construction

The new Talent Campus will probably be constructed largely from wooden, which will even be seen on the façade. This will lend heat to the inside in addition to a pure look to the skin. The beneficiant home windows will let loads of daylight into each a part of the constructing for the optimum studying ambiance. The areas themselves will probably be open and usable in numerous methods, with layouts that may be modified and upgraded at any time. This will lengthen the lifetime of the construction as it may be tailored to fulfill altering wants with out requiring main constructing works. The total constructing will supply barrier-free accessibility.

State-of-the-art studying atmosphere

The mixture of cutting-edge tools, a high-tech studying atmosphere and pure supplies will supply excellent circumstances for profitable studying. The Talent Campus will enable BMW Group trainees and workers to develop all the abilities they want for the long run automotive business. It will present coaching and schooling for folks throughout the Munich website. In addition, the purpose is to make chosen areas out there for public coaching programs. The new constructing will incorporate not simply school rooms but additionally workshops, a workers canteen and a public café.

BMW

Training center opened at BMW Group plant in Debrecen

November 1, 2023 Prafful Singh

+++ 100 students starting training in Debrecen +++ 6,500m² state of the art Training Centre for associates and students +++ Milestone on the road to NEUE KLASSE +++

Debrecen / Munich. The BMW Group has officially opened the Training Center at its new plant in Debrecen, Hungary. The company is making a significant investment of over one billion euros in the site, which will be the production hub for the first all-electric model of the Neue Klasse starting in 2025. The BMW Group recognizes the critical role of education and training in developing highly skilled employees.

The Neue Klasse represents the next generation of BMW models, combining the company’s innovation in the areas of electrification, digitization, and circularity.

The opening of the Training Center in Debrecen marks an important milestone in the BMW Group’s journey towards commencing Neue Klasse production in 2025.

The newly equipped Training Center spans an impressive area of almost 6,500 square meters, with an investment of nearly 20 million euros. It is specifically designed to provide training to employees of the BMW Group Plant in Debrecen, as well as trainees and dual education students, equipping them with the necessary skills required for the production of the new generation of models.

Ilka Horstmeier, member of the Board of Management of BMW AG, People and Real Estate, Labour Relations Director, highlighted the significance of the event, stating, “The Neue Klasse represents our vision for the future, as it enables us to completely rethink mobility and collaboration. Our employees play a crucial role in shaping our transformation, and education and training are pivotal factors in our company’s future direction. By commencing the training of the first 100 students and the opening of the Training Center in Debrecen, we emphasize the importance of education and training for the future success of our company.”

The number of trainees is expected to reach a total of up to 300 by 2025, making it one of Hungary’s largest apprentice training programs.

Through collaboration with the Debrecen Vocational Training Center, the BMW Group offers a dual training program that provides students with valuable skills for a potential career. The program, which lasts for three years, covers areas such as mechatronics, electronics, automotive mechatronics, and IT systems and applications. All these capabilities are vital for future automotive production. The state-of-the-art Training Center offers advanced facilities and a high-tech learning environment. After successful completion of the apprenticeship, trainees are offered employment contracts by the BMW Group or have the option to pursue further education.

Hans-Peter Kemser, President and CEO of BMW Group Plant Debrecen, expressed his enthusiasm for the new Training Center, stating, “We are delighted to welcome the first apprentices to our facility. Here, we will provide them with comprehensive knowledge about automotive production, our processes, and the BMW culture. Our culture is key to a successful future in Debrecen. We function as one plant, one team, counting on each other and valuing everyone’s contributions and knowledge.”

In addition to its initiatives for students and trainees, and creating new employment opportunities, the BMW Group plans to collaborate with local and regional universities to support and implement art and cultural projects. This commitment reflects the company’s commitment to being a responsible corporate citizen and actively engaging with local communities.

Peter Szijjártó, Hungary’s Minister of Foreign Affairs and Trade, commented on the occasion, saying, “We are delighted that the BMW Group is bringing its latest technologies to Hungary and will produce its newest battery-electric model here in Debrecen in the future. The Training Center will enhance cooperation between Hungary and Germany, providing young students with excellent prospects for the future through the joint education and training program.”

The Training Center at the BMW Group plant in Debrecen is one of the first fully completed buildings on the 400-hectare site that is already operational. The Communication Center will be the next major structure to be completed and functional.

The BMW Group planned and developed the Debrecen plant as an iFACTORY and aims to power it entirely with fossil-free energy, making it the world’s first production plant of its kind. A significant portion of the energy needed will be generated by a 50-hectare photovoltaic system directly installed on the factory premises.

The plant has been designed to have a production capacity of 150,000 units per year.

BMW

BMW model update measures for autumn 2023.

September 28, 2023 Prafful Singh

The BMW model line-up will receive several updates in autumn 2023, focusing on the latest advancements in digitalization. Starting from November 2023, the BMW X1 and BMW 2 Series Active Tourer will come equipped with the upgraded BMW iDrive featuring QuickSelect and BMW Operating System 9. These models will also have access to the BMW Digital Premium offering, which provides customizable online services. Moreover, Remote Software Upgrades will be available for numerous current models, while the My BMW App will have an extended range of functions.

One of the highlights in terms of automated driving systems is the new Highway Assistant, which will be introduced in the new 5 Series Sedan and become available for the BMW 7 Series range from March 2024. Additionally, selected models will receive new exterior colors and light-alloy wheels.

New BMW iDrive with QuickSelect: More intuitive and easier to use than ever.

Starting from November 2023, the upgraded BMW iDrive with QuickSelect will come as standard in the new BMW X1, BMW iX1, and BMW 2 Series Active Tourer. This system allows for more intuitive and easy operation of various vehicle functions. It is based on BMW Operating System 9 and includes the BMW Curved Display and BMW Intelligent Personal Assistant. The redesigned home screen and QuickSelect feature enhance the menu structure and provide direct access to functions without entering submenus.

New BMW Digital Premium offering: Customized selection of online services.

The new BMW Digital Premium offering will be introduced in Germany in November 2023. It will be available as an option for BMW X1, BMW iX1, and BMW 2 Series Active Tourer models. This package includes a wide range of online services such as gaming, video streaming, music streaming, and news applications. It also offers enhanced navigation functions and customization options.

Enhanced navigation functions, additional My Modes.

BMW Digital Premium enhances the functionality of the BMW Maps navigation system, providing real-time traffic information, 3D visualization of buildings, extended information on parking facilities, and proactive notifications about traffic situations. It also introduces Expressive Mode, Relax Mode, and Digital Art Mode to the My Modes selection.

Current Remote Software Upgrades for enhanced driving pleasure.

Remote Software Upgrades allow for the importation of new features and improvements to existing digital functions over the air. These upgrades will be available for BMW models with BMW Operating System 8.5 starting from autumn 2023, including in-car gaming and video-streaming services.

Extra functions for the My BMW App.

The My BMW App provides customers with direct access to their car’s status, servicing requirements, charging status, and range. It also allows for remote access to functions such as vehicle locating and climate control. From March 2024, the app will enable customers with compatible Android smartphones to operate the Remote Control Parking and Manoeuvre Assistant functions.

New Highway Assistant also coming soon for the BMW 7 Series.

BMW has gained approval for semi-automated driving at speeds up to 130 km/h. The BMW Highway Assistant, which allows the driver to take their hands off the steering wheel for longer periods, will be available as part of the optional Driving Assistant Professional package for the BMW 7 Series from spring 2024.

Additional exterior color for the new BMW 5 Series Sedan, new 21-inch light-alloy wheels for the 7 Series.

The Fire Red metallic paint finish will be added to the exterior color options for the BMW i5 M60 xDrive Sedan from November 2023. Additionally, 21-inch BMW Individual light-alloy wheels in a multi-spoke design will be available for all BMW 7 Series models.

BMW iX1 xDrive30:

Electric power consumption, combined in the WLTP cycle: 18.1 – 16.8 kWh/100 km; CO₂ emissions: 0 g/km; figures in NEDC cycle: –

BMW X1 xDrive30e:

Fuel consumption combined: 1.0 – 0.7 l/100 km [282.5 – 403.5 mpg imp]; electric power consumption combined: 16.9 – 14.7 kWh/100 km; CO₂ emissions combined: 23 – 16 g/km in WLTP cycle; figures in NEDC cycle: –

BMW X1 xDrive 23i:

Fuel consumption combined: 7.2 – 6.5 l/100 km [39.2 – 43.5 mpg imp]; CO₂ emissions combined: 163 – 146 g/km in WLTP cycle; figures in NEDC cycle: –

BMW 223i Active Tourer:

Fuel consumption, combined: 6.6 – 6.0 l/100 km (42.8 – 47.1 mpg imp), CO₂ emissions, combined: 149 – 137 g/km based on the WLTP cycle.

BMW i5 M60 xDrive:

Power consumption combined in WLTP cycle: 20.6 – 18.2 kWh/100 km Electric range in WLTP cycle: 455 – 516 km.

BMW i7 M70 xDrive:

Electric power consumption in kWh/100 km combined: 23.8 – 20.8, WLTP.

News

Volvo EX90 opposes ‘super-annoying’ driver monitoring

September 15, 2023 David

Volvo Cars Safety Centre head Åsa Haglund has expressed her concern about the constant warnings from driver monitoring systems and how they can strain the relationship between the driver and the system. She understands that being bombarded with alerts can be annoying and counterproductive to improving driving skills. Volvo aims to strike a balance in their safety systems where they intervene only when necessary, effectively providing assistance when the driver is distracted or in danger. The goal is to create an efficient safety system that doesn’t unnecessarily intrude on the driver’s focus.

Volvo EX90: Price, specs, and release date

The Volvo EX90 is the brand’s flagship electric car, providing a zero-emission alternative to the XC90 SUV.

It is the first electric Volvo built on parent company Geely’s new SPA2 architecture, which will also be used by the Polestar 3. The EX90 will have a dual-motor, four-wheel-drive powertrain with two power outputs available. Twin Motor models will offer 402bhp and 568lb ft of torque, while Performance models will deliver 510bhp and 671lb ft. The top speed for both versions is limited to 112mph. Lower-powered single-motor versions are expected to be introduced later.

The EX90 will be equipped with a 111kWh battery (107kWh usable), providing an efficiency of 2.9 miles per kWh and a claimed range of 364 miles for Twin Motor models and 360 miles for Performance models. The battery can be fast-charged at rates of up to 250kW, allowing for a 10-80% charge in just 30 minutes.

Featured

Watch: How Tata Fit An Airbag Into The Backlit Steering Wheel Of The Nexon EV Facelift

September 12, 2023 Prafful Singh

The backlit centre pad of the Nexon EV’s steering wheel has a glass-like finish, but it’s just a very specific kind of plastic

Tata has unveiled the Nexon facelift and Nexon EV facelift before their mid-September market launch. Both subcompact SUVs have received extensive styling upgrades, new tech features, and additional standard safety equipment. One of the standout features of the updated Nexon is its distinctive 2-spoke steering wheel with an illuminated Tata logo in the center.

However, some people have mistaken the backlit center pad of the steering wheel as glass and are concerned that if the driver’s airbag deploys, it might shatter the pad into pieces, causing more injuries. Anand Kulkarni, Tata’s Chief Product Officer, has addressed this concern.

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Plastic With A Glass-finish

In a video, Anand Kulkarni explains that the backlit center pad of the Nexon EV’s 2-spoke steering wheel is actually made of high-quality plastic, not glass. He mentions that there is a seam under the pad from which the airbags are supposed to deploy. The remaining areas of the steering pad have been reinforced to prevent shattering when the airbag deploys.

This steering wheel pad has undergone multiple tests by Tata and regulatory agencies to ensure its effectiveness and durability.

Also Check Out: Watch: Tata Nexon EV Facelift V2L Feature in Action

Other Safety Features

The safety kit of the Nexon EV includes features such as six airbags (standard), a 360-degree camera, a blind view monitoring system, and front and rear parking sensors. It also comes with electronic stability control, ABS with EBD with corner stability control, rollover mitigation, 3-point seatbelts for all passengers, ISOFIX anchorage points for child seats, front and rear parking sensors, and a tire pressure monitoring system (TPMS).

If you want to know more about the 2023 Nexon EV’s updated powertrain and new features, head here.

Expected Price & Rivals

The prices for the Tata Nexon EV facelift will be announced on September 14, starting from around Rs 15 lakh (ex-showroom). The electric SUV will continue to compete with the Mahindra XUV400 while offering an affordable alternative to the MG ZS EV and Hyundai Kona Electric.

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