Tag Archives: training

Everything You Need To Know About BMW’s Armored Vehicle Driving School

Summary

  • BMW presents elite safety driver coaching for professionals entrusted with high-profile figures, enhancing abilities for any hazardous situation.
  • The program, costing a minimal of $1,000, supplies complete coaching in dealing with armored automobiles, guaranteeing security and precision in driving.
  • Enthusiasts can immerse themselves in managed pleasure and grasp high-security driving strategies at BMW’s famend facility in Berlin.

Have you ever watched an motion film with an electrifying chase scene? Giant explosions, bullets bouncing off home windows, and evasive car maneuvers run via your thoughts everytime you consider an armored car. Movie franchises like “The Transporter” solidified the necessity for many individuals to throw an Audi A8 via fiery explosions and escape all varieties of hazard.

With most armored cars being an aftermarket affair, some luxurious automakers like Audi, Mercedes-Benz, and BMW have provided armored fashions for many years. However, providing the automobiles on the market begs the query of simply how do you drive these fortified behemoths?

One luxurious automaker is now offering simply the factor. BMW’s armored car driving faculty presents an unparalleled alternative for fans to delve into the realm of high-security driving with two complete programs tailor-made to refine driving abilities in excessive conditions.

Situated in Berlin, on the ex-Soviet Groß Dölln air pressure base, this famend facility supplies the right backdrop for mastering the intricacies of handling BMW’s armored fleet. With a collection of three sinister automobiles, together with the i7, 7-Series Protection, and X5 Protection VR6, individuals are immersed in a curriculum that meticulously covers the added safety and upgrades distinctive to every mannequin.

In order to provide the most modern and correct data doable, the information used to compile this text was sourced from varied producer web sites and different authoritative sources, together with BMW, International Armored Group, and BMW Driver’s School.

BMW Security Driver Training Classes

BMW’s defensive driver coaching courses present an immersive expertise aimed toward enhancing driving abilities throughout varied hazardous situations. Tailored for people entrusted with transporting high-profile figures resembling presidents, CEOs, or people in delicate positions, these programs guarantee preparedness for any state of affairs. Leveraging BMW’s intensive experience in automotive engineering and security improvements, individuals embark on a journey in direction of changing into vigilant and assured drivers.

Whether traversing bustling city landscapes or tackling difficult off-road terrain, BMW’s cutting-edge coaching equips drivers with the mandatory data, abilities, and mindset to anticipate, keep away from, and successfully reply to a mess of potential hazards. By mastering defensive driving strategies and adopting a proactive method to security, individuals emerge ready to navigate even probably the most unpredictable environments with poise and precision.

BMW Security Driver Level 1

BMW Security Driver Level 1 stands as a premier alternative tailor-made particularly for skilled drivers entrusted with the security of VIPs, politicians, or high-ranking enterprise figures. Spanning throughout two intensive days and nights, individuals are immersed in a meticulously curated curriculum led by seasoned instructors well-versed within the intricate nuances of armored car dealing with.

With a strict restrict of eight individuals per group, the coaching ensures every driver receives personalised steerage as they navigate the distinctive challenges posed by BMW’s armored fleet, which incorporates the prestigious BMW 7 Series Protection and the formidable BMW X5 VR6 Protection fashions.

From mastering the artwork of emergency braking to executing exact evasive maneuvers, individuals are uncovered to a complete array of defensive driving strategies essential for sustaining management in high-pressure conditions. The program encompasses a variety of important companies, together with intensive security briefings, sensible driving dynamics classes, luxurious single-room lodging, and complete insurance coverage protection.

Crafted solely for skilled safety drivers, this immersive coaching program not solely enhances individuals’ driving abilities but additionally instills the arrogance wanted to make sure the security and safety of their passengers in any situation, setting a brand new commonplace of excellence within the realm of protecting driving.

BMW Security Driver Level 2

BMW’s superior coaching program presents a classy expertise meticulously crafted for skilled drivers looking for to enhance their mastery of dealing with excessive conditions. Extending over three intensive days and nights, this complete curriculum delves into the intricacies of defensive driving, advancing upon the situations coated within the Level 1 course.

With a strict cap of eight individuals per group, every driver receives personalised consideration from seasoned instructors as they confront new challenges head-on. These challenges embody a various vary of situations, from navigating escape routes underneath simulated paintball hearth to executing high-speed tempo automobile laps and mastering maneuvers involving car contact.

Guided by sensible driving dynamics classes and in-depth security briefings, individuals emerge outfitted to uphold the very best security requirements of their occupation, guaranteeing optimum safety for his or her passengers in any circumstances. Set inside the prestigious Driving Center Groß Dölln in Berlin, Germany, this immersive coaching program supplies a supportive surroundings the place drivers deepen their data and sharpen their abilities underneath the steerage of skilled instructors.

Much like driving schools that enhance skills for club days with top-trim race automobiles, BMW’s defensive driving faculty presents a refined expertise, elevating individuals’ proficiency with its specialised concentrate on armored automobiles. By immersing drivers in a complete curriculum, this program units a brand new commonplace for excellence in protecting driving, empowering professionals to navigate even probably the most difficult environments with precision and confidence.

BMW Offers Three Armored Vehicles

2024 BMW i7 xDrive front end driving on track
BMW

In the realm of armored luxurious automobiles, BMW stands out with a distinguished lineup providing unparalleled safety and class. With a eager understanding of the evolving wants of discerning purchasers, BMW exhibits a dedication to offering area of interest automobiles for a sure market.

Leading the pack is the BMW 7 Series Protection, boasting its personal devoted mannequin fortified with cutting-edge security measures. Complementing this flagship sedan is the groundbreaking BMW i7 Protection, marking a milestone because the first-ever safety sedan outfitted with an all-electric drive system, symbolizing BMW’s dedication to sustainability with out compromising security.

Rounding out the trio is the sturdy BMW X5 Protection VR6, catering to these looking for a formidable off-road succesful armored car with out sacrificing luxurious. Across the vary, BMW’s dedication to security is obvious, with armor-plated metal safety cells and security glass offering unparalleled protection towards as much as VPAM 10 ammunition.

Moreover, with the inclusion of the M Sport Package as commonplace, drivers can anticipate uncompromising efficiency, with highly effective engines delivering distinctive horsepower. Whether navigating city landscapes or venturing off the crushed path, BMW’s armored automobiles embody the right mixture of safety, efficiency, and luxurious.

BMW 7 Series Protection

Horsepower

530 hp

Torque

553 lb-ft

Engine

4.4-liter twin-turbo V8

Transmission

8-speed automated

Weight

8,741 lbs

The two fashions developed based mostly on the brand new BMW 7 Series mix an unequalled safety idea with excellent ranges of journey consolation and spaciousness, exceptionally superior tools options, and class-leading dynamic prowess. The new combustion-engine BMW 7 Series Protection, outfitted with the latest-generation V8 powertrain underneath the hood, ensures uncompromising safety and efficiency.

Its BMW TwinEnergy Turbo expertise, together with an upgraded turbocharging system and a cross-bank exhaust manifold, delivers a most output of 530 hp and a peak of 553 pound-feet of torque. Combined with the BMW xDrive clever all-wheel-drive system, the BMW 7 Series Protection achieves superior driving dynamics and effectivity. The BMW 7 Series Protection units new requirements within the luxurious safety car section, providing tailor-made safety and luxury for at-risk people.

BMW i7 Protection

Horsepower

544 hp

Torque

549 lb-ft

Engine

Twin electrical motor

Transmission

Single velocity

Weight

9,810 lbs

The BMW i7 Protection units a brand new benchmark because the world’s first-ever safety sedan with an all-electric drive system. It pioneers sustainable mobility with out compromising on security or luxurious. Driven by two highly effective electrical motors, the BMW i7 Protection delivers exceptional performance whereas assembly all the necessities of sophistication VR9 safety with out limitations. Both electrical motors have a mixed output of 544 horsepower and 549 pound-feet of torque.

The BMW i7 Protection combines superior electrical propulsion expertise with top-tier security measures. Its progressive BMW Protection Core, crafted from armor metal, types a self-supporting protecting cell, guaranteeing unparalleled protection towards firearms or explosives. Delivering excellent spaciousness and luxury, the BMW i7 Protection showcases BMW’s artistic thoughts to construct sustainable options within the specialised car safety section. The i7 Protection debuted on the IAA Mobility 2023 worldwide motor present in Munich and marks a big milestone within the evolution of high-security mobility.

BMW X5 Protection VR6

Horsepower

523 hp

Torque

553 lb-ft

Engine

4.4-liter twin-turbo V8

Transmission

8-speed automated

Weight

7,220 lbs

For these on the lookout for an armored car with higher off-road functionality, the brand new BMW X5 Protection VR6 is the right selection. From its armored physique to specialised security glass, each facet of this mannequin was designed to satisfy the rigorous requirements set by Germany’s Vereinigung der Prüfstellen für Angriffshemmende Materialien und Konstruktionen (Association of Test Laboratories for Attack-Resistant Materials and Constructions – VPAM). Despite its formidable safety capabilities, the outside and inside design of the BMW X5 Protection VR6 stay indistinguishable from its commonplace counterpart.

Its discreet look on public roads serves as a further security measure for people requiring particular safety. Powered by an upgraded powertrain and outfitted with BMW xDrive clever all-wheel-drive system and bespoke chassis expertise, the X5 Protection VR6 delivers the dynamic efficiency anticipated from a BMW SAV, guaranteeing flexibility and responsiveness in probably harmful conditions. Its versatile ability set makes it a super single car for at-risk people and a dependable assist car alongside different safety automobiles.

Related

Why The BMW X5 Is A Dominant Force In The Mid-Size Luxury SUV Segment

The X5 stays an immensely fashionable mannequin for BMW and here is how the Bavarian model plans to proceed that successful streak with the 2024 Refresh

Everyone Should Go To A Driving School

2024 BMW i7 xDrive rear driving on track with light on roof
BMW

The attract of attending a driving faculty extends to all, notably these captivated by the heart-pounding chase scenes immortalized in motion motion pictures. These adrenaline-fueled spectacles, crammed with explosions, bullet-dodging, and precision evasive maneuvers, ignite a longing in lots of to expertise such thrills firsthand. While armored automobiles have historically been synonymous with these high-stakes situations, BMW’s newest providing opens up avenues for fans to immerse themselves in managed pleasure.

Though it could necessitate a journey to Berlin, the place else can one discover a facility providing the perfect setting to grasp the complexities of dealing with BMW’s armored fleet? From complete programs tailor-made to various ability ranges to a collection of formidable automobiles, BMW’s safety driver course guarantees pleasure and coaching for all. For these whose pursuits lie past defensive driving, the model additionally presents standard driving programs at areas worldwide, catering to a various vary of fans wanting to refine their abilities behind the wheel.

Driving Schools Can Be Expensive, But Worth It

Enrolling in driving colleges, notably specialised ones resembling BMW Security Driver Training can typically entail a substantial monetary dedication owing to their all-encompassing method. While many driving schools offer weekend courses at comparatively modest charges, BMW’s complete program units itself aside by protecting each facet, from intensive security briefings to hands-on sensible driving dynamics. As a consequence, the price of participation tends to be increased.

Prices for BMW’s elite coaching expertise sometimes begin at a minimal of $1,000 and should escalate additional, notably when contemplating further bills like journey to Berlin, the place this system relies. Despite the substantial funding, for fans wanting to immerse themselves in an unparalleled driving expertise and achieve mastery over high-security driving strategies, the worth derived from attending a premium establishment like BMW’s can show to be immensely rewarding. The alternative to refine abilities underneath skilled steerage and expertise driving in a managed but exhilarating surroundings can certainly justify the premium related to such esteemed packages.

Touratech And DBST Join Forces With New Adventure Rider Training Program

You may argue that every one sorts of driving require some extent of coaching. Indeed, right here at RideApart, we’re advocates of bike training, and wish all sorts of riders to take pleasure in their craft to the very best of their skills. Off-road and enduro driving is among the extra rigorous in relation to talent growth, and we’re excited to report that Touratech USA has not too long ago teamed up with Dirt Bike Safety Training (DBST) to supply a brand new program known as Adventure Rider Training.

DBST has greater than 20 years of off-road-focused motorbike coaching underneath its belt. Situated within the Pacific Northwest, DBST affords residents of Cascadia the possibility to hone their expertise in off-road driving within the Touratech Rally West. The program consists of the Black Forest Challenge Course, DBST’s personal adventurous spin on the coaching program.

Touratech And DBST Join Forces With New Adventure Rider Training Program

DBST’s coaching facility is situated north of Seattle in Snohomish County, Washington, and offers a wide array of coaching packages for riders of all backgrounds. The personal off-road facility offers riders with all types of difficult obstacles, simulating what you’ll most definitely come throughout when exploring precise trails and journey routes.

Commenting on the partnership with DBST, Paul Guillien, Touratech USA’s CEO, advised Motorcycle Powersports News, “When we decided to offer rider training, DBST was the natural fit for Touratech USA. The staff, methodology and facility are world-class. Anyone that wants to improve their bike handling skills and have more fun riding should get Adventure Rider Training powered by DBST.”

Touratech and DBST’s Adventure Rider Training Program goals to develop the bike dealing with expertise of riders seeking to take their ADV expertise to the subsequent stage. It focuses on each theoretical and sensible purposes, reminiscent of ergonomics, biomechanics, in addition to really training their newly discovered expertise out on the path. Commenting on the partnership, Jason Sherman, General Manager of DBST, acknowledged, “To be selected by Touratech-USA as its preferred training partner speaks volumes about our joint passion for helping individuals ride safer and farther, while having more confidence than ever before.”

Touratech And DBST Join Forces With New Adventure Rider Training Program

You can entry extra details about Touratech USA and DBST’s Adventure Rider Training program through their official touchdown web page. On prime of that, DBST affords motorbike coaching periods every single day of the yr, offered that the climate cooperates. Check them out through their official web site beneath, as properly.

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

+++ 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.

Training center opened at BMW Group plant in Debrecen

+++ 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.

Biathlon world champions and athletes with disabilities experience safety training course at the BMW M Driving Experience.

+++ BMW Group invites persons with physical disabilities to a safety training course +++ Maren Hammerschmidt and Vanessa Hinz experience sheer driving pleasure from a new perspective +++ Athletes from the Bavarian disabled and rehabilitation sports association (Behinderten- und Rehabilitations-Sportverband Bayern e.V.) train at the BMW M Driving Experience +++

At the Biathlon World Championships in Oberhof in February 2023, the German team won a gold medal and two silver medals and achieved six further top-six rankings. As Mobility Partner of the German National Biathlon Team, the BMW Group offered three safety training courses for people with physical disabilities as a reward for each medal won and one training course for each finish in the top six. A group of athletes from the Bavarian disabled and rehabilitation sports association (BVS Bayern) was invited to the BMW M Driving Experience in Maisach to take part in a safety training course with biathlon world champions Maren Hammerschmidt and Vanessa Hinz, an event that was as much about knowledge as it was about driving pleasure.

The BMW M Driving Experience offers a special safety training course designed by Tina Schmidt-Kiendl, who is an instructor and head of project management at BMW M GmbH. The training course uses specially modified vehicles with hand-controlled equipment (electronic accelerator ring on the steering wheel or thumb accelerator with separate brake) that can be controlled by paraplegic persons and also persons with use of their feet. There is also a vehicle that can be operated by people who are paralysed on one side, for example, after a stroke. In addition to a theory section, the training content includes driving using hand controls, braking and evasion exercises, as well as the correct way to respond when oversteering or understeering the vehicle.

“People being able to drive a car themselves and safely despite a disability is self-sufficiency – and that is very important,” said Schmidt-Kiendl, who has been paraplegic since an operation, describing the inclusive value of this safety training course. “You can decide for yourself when you want to drive from A to B, and which route you take. You don’t have to simply go along with decisions that other people want to make for you. This independence, combined with autonomy and safety on the road is what we want to convey to the participants.”

The safety training course with modified cars is also open to persons without physical limitations, for example, those who work with people with disabilities. The 2017 biathlon world champions, Maren Hammerschmidt and Vanessa Hinz, experienced this in Maisach and were impressed by the encounters and experiences at the BMW M Driving Experience.

“It is definitely exciting to try it out and have this opportunity. This was our first safety training course – and it was one with special requirements,” said Hammerschmidt. “It was a lot of fun, including the exchange with the other athletes and finding out a little bit about their history.”

Hinz was also impressed by the insights: “It is interesting to see the challenges that these people face. Neither of us were aware of this because we just get into the car, push a button, and go. Neither of us could have imagined previously how it would work if you were unable to use your feet.”

The BVS Bayern athletes have long since learned how to work around their disabilities. The biggest sports association for people with disabilities in Bavaria covers a wide sporting range: from preparing and mentoring young athletes as they train for the Paralympics, to recreational sport and the promotion of inclusion in sport, to rehabilitation sport.

Representing all the participants, Svenja Mayer, who finished fourth with the German national wheelchair basketball team at the 2021 Paralympic Games, said: “I would like to thank BMW and the national biathlon team for the amazing experience. You feel a rush of endorphins when you can accelerate. We also learned a lot of important things that will come in useful in everyday life and on the road. It was a fantastic day.”

This feedback is the motivation that drives Schmidt-Kiendl because she is convinced that everyone has the right to enjoy sheer driving pleasure, whether with or without a handicap. People who feel safe at the wheel, can rely on their abilities, and master the technology are the people who enjoy driving. She has also incorporated exercises that are fun into her driver safety training and can definitely be seen as a sporting challenge, such as completing a timed slalom course. These were the exercises that were very well received by a group made up of athletes. “It was exciting to watch how athletes handle this kind of situation,” said Schmidt-Kiendl. “Because they all want to be the best, naturally.”

The BMW M Driving Experience is a division of BMW M GmbH. Founded as BMW Fahrertraining (driver training) in 1977, across all sectors on offer, from safety training for novice drivers to the highly dynamic racetrack experience for experienced drivers, the goal is improving the driving skills of participants. Anyone interested in booking the driver safety training course for people with physical limitations or any of the many other attractive offers available can do so online here:

https://www.bmw-m.com/en/fastlane/driving-experience/trainings/academy-experience.html

BMW 430i Coupé: Combined fuel consumption: 7.4–6.6 l/100 km according to WLTP; CO2 emissions combined: 167-149 g/km according to WLTP; figures according to NEFZ: –

BMW M4 Competition Coupé: Combined fuel consumption: 9.8 l/100 km according to WLTP; CO2 emissions combined: 224-223 g/km according to WLTP; figures according to NEFZ: –

BMW M440i Coupé: Combined fuel consumption: 8.1–7.4 l/100 km according to WLTP; CO2 emissions combined: 184-167 g/km according to WLTP; figures according to NEFZ: –

BMW M2 Coupé: Combined fuel consumption: 10.2–9.6 l/100 km according to WLTP; CO2 emissions combined: 231-218 g/km according to WLTP; figures according to NEFZ: –

MINI John Cooper Works: Combined fuel consumption: 6.8–6.6 l/100 km according to WLTP; CO2 emissions combined: 157-151 g/km according to WLTP; figures according to NEFZ: –

Cardo Launches Packtalk Edgephones For Easy Communication Off The Bike

Effective communication is crucial in motorcycle training scenarios, as it enables instructors and students to exchange information and make necessary adjustments. To address this need for seamless communication, Cardo Systems, a leader in rider communications, has launched its latest product: the Cardo Packtalk Edgephones.

The Cardo Packtalk Edgephones resemble gaming headsets with over-the-ear headphones, a thick headband, and an adjustable microphone on a stalk. However, what sets them apart is the integration of Cardo’s Packtalk Edge communicator, a feature not found in other headsets.

Motorcycle instructors, who often ride themselves, can benefit from the Cardo Packtalk Edgephones. By docking their existing Packtalk Edge or any other Cardo communications unit that uses Bluetooth, instructors can communicate with their crew off the bike without the need for a helmet.

The Cardo Packtalk Edgephones feature a magnetic connection that securely holds the comms unit in place on the outside of the headphones. The microphone utilizes passive noise reduction technology to ensure clear communication. Additionally, they have an IP54 rating, making them resistant to rain and damp conditions. The speakers are designed by JBL, providing a high-quality sound experience.

Pricing and Availability

The Cardo Packtalk Edgephones are available for preorder on Cardo’s website as of September 12, 2023, with an MSRP of $149.95 or €159.95 in Europe. Options that include a Packtalk Edge communicator are also offered for an additional charge.

For those who prefer to see the product in person, Cardo plans to start shipping the Packtalk Edgephones to authorized retailers in September 2023.

BMW U.S. Rider Academy To Hold Course For GS Trophy Qualifiers

Do you need some training before your big day? Do you want some tips? Well, BMW Motorrad U.S. is offering a two-day course to help participants prepare for the qualifiers.

The U.S. GS Trophy team qualifiers are coming soon, scheduled to take place from October 12 to 15, 2023. This weekend event will determine who will represent the United States as part of the 2024 International GS Trophy Team in Namibia.

Next year, three men and two women will be chosen to represent the United States. For more details, check out our other article.

The course, hosted by BMW Motorrad U.S., will take place from September 20 to 21, 2023. The BMW U.S. Rider Academy will hold a class to help aspiring International GS Trophy competitors improve their skills and increase their chances of securing a spot in next year’s competition.

Participants will have the opportunity to experience individual and team challenges in the style of the International GS Trophy, as well as develop their off-road adventure riding skills to prepare for the qualifiers.

Enrollment in the course costs $1,800 USD, with the fee covering bike rental for two days from the BMW U.S. Rider Academy. This advanced to expert-level course is designed for those with solid off-road riding experience.

If you want the best chance of securing a spot in the U.S. GS Trophy Team, this course is a good option. Not only will you get more time in the saddle, but you will also gain insight into the qualifying round of the competition. September is the last opportunity to take this prep course, so enroll now.

The Best Android Apps For Retraining Your Brain In 2023

While not specifically a brain training app, Calm is a comprehensive platform that offers various features to enhance mental well-being. It is considered one of the best wellness apps on Android for stress and anxiety. Calm provides guided meditations, sleep stories, and calming music, all designed to help users find calm and tranquility in today’s fast-paced world.

The guided meditations are suitable for both beginners and experienced practitioners, as they come with step-by-step instructions. The sleep stories, narrated by celebrities, are particularly effective in promoting relaxation and aiding restful sleep.

Calm’s user-friendly interface and daily features make it easy to incorporate meditation and relaxation into your daily routine. The app offers a variety of meditations in different categories, ensuring that users can find practices that suit their specific needs and goals. It also provides specialized programs for children, well-being, and body relaxation, catering to different aspects of mental health and wellness.

Calm offers both free and paid subscription options. The free version grants access to daily features, while the paid subscription unlocks a vast library of meditations, sleep stories, calming music, and masterclasses. Discounts are available for teams, families, and students, making the app accessible to a wide range of users.