Monthly Archive for January, 2009

The Eco-Supercar – BMW Z10 ED

Published on January 29, 2009 in BMW Z. 0 Comments

Plans for an advanced green BMW supercar, the BMW Z10 ED, have been revealed.

The two-seat BMW Z10 ED, a product of the company’s secretive Technik division, will be BMW’s flagship. It is being developed as a showcase for new drivelines, electronic technologies, body construction and auxiliary components.

The Z10’s ‘ED’ suffix stands for Efficient Dynamics, BMW’s suite of fuel-saving technologies that also cut carbon emissions.

Technology proved on the Z10 will trickle down to volume models in the next decade.

The BMW Z10 ED will be built in limited numbers and sold for around £80,000 in today’s money.

It was originally planned as a one-off concept, but when bosses in Munich abandoned plans for a V10-powered mid-engined rival to the Audi R8 last year, a decision was made to make green technology a primary focus by advancing the Z10 to production.

“The idea is to bring all the very latest technology together in a way that will allow a high level of performance without overburdening the environment in a way that the current crop of supercars do,” said an insider privy to BMW’s plans. “There is no reason why they need to be mutually exclusive when you consider the sort of technology that exists today. It is just a matter of applying it correctly.”

BMW has a history of using its Technik division to bolster the image of its line-up. Previous models to head straight from its workshops to the showroom include the 3-series-based Z1 and, more recently, the E39 M5-based Z8.

Drawing on the carbonfibre construction techniques used on BMW’s one-off Z22 show car, plus the extensive use of aluminium chassis components, the BMW Z10 ED is intended to weigh no more than 1400kg.

Moving on from simple carbonfibre body panels, Munich engineers have patented a process that combines several parts into a single sub-assembly.

BMW is exploring integrated door frames and sill panels for the Z10, a move designed to ensure a low kerb weight and high bodyshell rigidity.

BMW will also use the Z10 ED to highlight its engine downsizing plans. “With recent advances in turbocharging, direct injection and thermal technology, we can now produce petrol engines with a comparatively small swept volume without any drop in performance over our existing powerplants,” a source told Autocar.

Among the engines said to be under consideration for the green supercar is a new high-pressure turbocharged direct-injection straight six. It would replace the 3.0-litre unit that’s used across the current BMW line-up.

The new motor has been conceived in two different guises; one uses a conventional mechanical valve system in combination with BMW’s double VANOS variable valve timing system, and another features electronic valve control that allows a variable compression ratio.

Expect the new engine to deliver in the region of 400bhp and drive through BMW’s recently introduced seven-speed dual-clutch gearbox.

In conjunction with stop-start, an integrated starter/generator and a refined version of today’s brake energy regeneration system, the new engine could boost efficiency by nearly 15 per cent.

The brake energy regeneration system will be modified to store energy in an additional lithium-ion battery, in effect making the BMW Z10 ED a hybrid.

Nissan GT-R beats the M3 and M5 in residual value

Published on January 27, 2009 in BMW M Series. 0 Comments

So not only that the Nissan GT-R has been proven to be faster than the M3, but the GT-R has a better resale value after 12 months. The 84% residual value is significantly higher than the BMW M3 residuals, which tends to be around 60% after year passes.

But in BMW’s defense, the M3’s were never known for holding their value too well, and according to the latest residual values published in January, the BMW M3 Coupe has a residual value after 24 months set at 56% and at 36 months, 50%.

The convertible M3 does even worse: 24 months – 51%, 36 months – 47%. In contrast, the more expensive BMW M5 has higher residuals than the M3, but still short of the Nissan GT-R, 24 months – 60% and 36 months – 55%.

All the above numbers are based on 10,000 miles limit. So, the Nissan fans have another reason to brag about their GT-R, especially since it also beats the classic Porsche 911 Carrera and the new supercar from Audi, R8, with residual values set at 73% respectively, 73%.

But, we need to take in consideration the amazing BMW lease program, with the subsidized APR, a program that can give the consumers a better monthly lease payment when compared to its competitors.

BMW X6 TYCOON Widebody by Hamann

Published on January 21, 2009 in BMW X6. 0 Comments

German tuners Hamann Motorsport has just released their BMW X6 Tycoon to the public. Featuring a new body, restyling, and serious performance upgrades shows the full potential of BMW’s crossover SUV.

Currently, customers get a choice between the BMW X6 xDrive35i, which comes with a 306 horsepower 3.0-liter inline-six, the BMW xDrive30d and its 235 hp 3.0-liter straight-six diesel, or the xDrive35d, which has a 3.0-liter inline-six-cylinder getting 286 hp. Horsepower for the three is bumped up significantly, reaching 360 hp on the petrol. The two diesels see increases to 261hp and 316hp respectively.

Torque output sees substantial gains, rising by 140 Nm to 540 Nm on the 35i model, by 80 Nm to 600 Nm on the xDrive30d, and from 580 Nm to 660 Nm on the 35d.

Hamann is also working on a performance kit for the top-of-the-line BMW X6 xDrive50i. Currently, that car is rated at an impressive 407 hp and 600 Nm of torque, generated by its 4.4-liter V8 twin-turbo.

Hamann’s design team put together a body kit for the car meant to give the car a more muscular stance. The package is highlighted by new front wings, and a rear wing extension, all made out of a lightweight composite material. A new apron with large air intakes, and LED daytime running lights round out the front. Wrapping up the back is a three-part diffuser, a rear spoiler, and a roof spoiler.

Hamann uses their Design edition Race Anodized 23-inch rims on the car, wrapped in 315/25 r23 tyres. An ultralight wheel, it is paired with “special chassis springs” and “progressively coiled springs” to lower the crossover by 40 mm.

The tuner firm added their own touches to the interior as well. Customers will find a sizeable amount of aluminum and carbon fibre throughout the inside. New instrument dials and a 3-spoke steering wheel are also included.

The Hamann BMW X6 Tycoon editions are available now from the German company. A BMW X6 Tycoon based on the xDrive50i should arrive soon.
Source: Hamann

2010 BMW X1 testing

Published on January 20, 2009 in BMW X1. 0 Comments

These spy shots are from snowy Sweden, where BMW has the best conditions to test the full time four-wheel drive.

X1 shares it platform with the upcoming Mini Crossman and in size is similar to Ford Kuga and Toyota RAV4.

Inside X1 will share a high degree of commonality with the 1-series, complete with the latest iDrive technology.

Like all new BMW models, the X1 will feature the Efficient Dynamics technology – the intelligent system that utilizes stop-start systems, intelligent alternator control and other green initiatives to boost economy and slash emissions.

X1 is most likely to debut at the 2009 Frankfurt Motor Show with sales beginning in 2010. Expect prices for the X1 to start around 32 000 Euros.

10 Years of Unstoppable Success for BMW X5

Published on January 19, 2009 in BMW X5. 1 Comment

With unparalleled dynamic performance on the road and outstanding traction on rough terrain, the BMW X5 has been on an unstoppable course for success for ten years. BMW presented the first generation of the all-wheel-drive five-door vehicle at the North American International Auto Show in 1999, thereby founding the segment of the Sports Activity Vehicle(R) (SAV). The world premiere marked the start of an unprecedented success story. Within a decade, over 845,000 units of the BMW X5 have been sold. As a result of the consistent ongoing development of the SAV(R) concept, there are now three BMW X models to choose from, with a fourth ready to start production later in 2009. In creating a segment, the BMW X5 became the key inspiration for an entire competitive field of all-wheel-drive vehicles. In its anniversary year, now in its second generation, the BMW X5 remains the role model and benchmark of its class in terms of driving dynamics, efficiency, versatility, premium quality and safety.

From the very beginning, the key to the success of the BMW X5 lay in its combination of two qualities which had never been matched in a single vehicle before. The new model successfully transferred characteristic BMW driving pleasure into a completely new market segment. For the very first time, the spacious, full-time all-wheel driven BMW X5 combined the driving dynamics of a BMW Sedan with impressive mobility off the beaten path as well. Its ultra-rigid body structure and independent suspension set the BMW X5 apart from conventional off-road vehicles, with the driving stability system Dynamic Stability Control (DSC), including Automatic Differential Brake (ADB-X) and Hill Descent Control (HDC), ensuring impeccable manners both on and off the road.

Dynamic performance and versatility were also expressed in the design of the vehicle. Another striking feature was the raised seating position which instantly gave the driver the same sense of command and control which was provided by the chassis technology. In addition, the spacious, versatile and high-quality interior provided a whole new driving experience for an all-wheel-drive vehicle.

The second generation of the BMW X5, launched in autumn 2006, saw the consistent development of the Sports Activity Vehicle’s characteristic features continue. The new BMW X5 once again set the benchmark throughout the extended competitive field of BMW X models thanks to its increased space, comfort and luxurious ambience. It offers even more advanced drivetrain technology and innovative chassis design along with enhanced driver assistance systems. Like its predecessor it is produced at BMW’s North American plant in Spartanburg, South Carolina and is the first BMW to potentially provide seating for up to seven occupants. Its intelligent all-wheel drive system, BMW xDrive, enhances both driving dynamics on the road and traction over rough terrain. The full-time, electronically controlled all-wheel drive, which is also networked with the DSC system, distributes drive power variably between the front and rear wheels.

With the success of the BMW X5, the cornerstone was laid for the current status of BMW as the world’s most successful manufacturer of premium all-wheel drive vehicles. This commitment to ongoing improvement has resulted in numerous awards for the vehicle’s design, quality and safety which reflect the increased appeal of the original BMW Sports Activity Vehicle®. In 2007 the BMW X5 received the design award “autonis” of the automobile journal “auto motor und sport” for the most attractive design and a gold award in the J.D. Power customer satisfaction study in North America, as well as securing class victory in the “auto 1” competition of the international “Auto Bild” Group. These prizes were followed in 2008 by class victory in the “auto, motor und sport” readers’ vote “The best cars”. Twice in succession, the BMW X5 also won a place among the three vehicles with the most stable value in the German automobile market, causing the magazine “Auto Bild” to pronounce it “Value Master of the Year” in both 2007 and 2008.

As long ago as 2000, the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) in the US declared the first generation BMW X5 to be the safest vehicle ever to be subjected to one of its crash tests to that point. In 2003 the SAV achieved the highest possible score of 5 stars on the Euro-NCAP crash test. The current BMW X5 received the “Top Safety Pick Award” for outstanding crash test results from the IIHS in both 2007 and 2008.

The 2009 BMW X5 also occupies a leading position in the area of efficiency. State-of-the-art V8 and inline 6-cylinder gasoline engines and, for the first time in the US, a version of BMW Advanced Diesel with BluePerformance technology, ensure that the BMW X5 combines its excellent qualities with fuel consumption and exhaust emission levels which are exemplary in its segment. This is also evidence that the BMW EfficientDynamics development strategy has had a significant effect on BMW X models, too. After all, the fuel consumption of all engine types of the BMW X5 has been considerably reduced in the course of its ten-year history – despite a significant increase in power. The 2009 BMW X5 xDrive48i, with 350 horsepower and a 0-60 mph time of 6.4 seconds, is rated at 14 mpg city, 19 mpg highway, 16 mpg combined according to the EPA – 14 percent better than the original 2000 BMW X5 4.4i which had almost 70 horsepower less output. The 2009 BMW X5 xDrive30i surpasses its predecessor models by 35 horsepower, yet it is rated by the EPA at just 15 mpg city, 21 mpg highway and 18 mpg combined – a 12.5 percent improvement. To put it another way, when the EPA rating for the 6-cylinder 2001 BMW 3.0i is adjusted to the new test cycle, it is exactly the same as the rating for the V8 2009 BMW X5 xDrive48i, which is larger and nearly two seconds quicker to 60 mph. Thanks to its BMW Advanced Diesel power plant, the X5 xDrive35d takes efficiency to a new level, without sacrificing performance. With 265 horsepower and an astounding 425 lb-ft of torque on tap, it is capable of accelerating to 60 mph in just 6.9 seconds and yet delivers an EPA rating of 19 mpg city, 26 mpg highway and 21 mpg combined.

This improvement in fuel consumption, not only significantly less fuel used but also fewer greenhouse gases emitted into the atmosphere, ensuring that the ongoing development of the BMW X5 remains both tangible and relevant.

BMW wins two 10 Best Engines awards from Ward’s

Published on January 19, 2009 in BMW World. 0 Comments

BMW of North America yesterday accepted two 10 Best Engines awards from Ward’s Automotive Group. As the only double winner this year, two BMW twin-turbo inline-6 engines — one diesel and one gasoline — were elected to the 10 Best Engines list for the 2009 model year by the Ward’s panel of expert judges.
“These two awards are further testament that BMW’s EfficientDynamics engineering strategy is delivering the performance and efficiency that drivers expect today.” said Hans Hohenner, General Manager of Drivetrain Development for BMW Group. “Each of these very different engines brings to market new technologies that combine to create the highest-performing six-cylinder engines BMW has ever produced while delivering fuel efficiency that was previously unattainable.”

BMW’s gasoline 3.0-liter twin-turbocharged DOHC Inline-6 received a Ward’s 10 Best Engines honor for the third time since its introduction in the summer of 2006. The acclaimed engine now powers 11 BMW models in the US – from the 135i to the X6 xDrive35i Sports Activity Coupe. This 300-horsepower engine features twin low-mass turbochargers, High Precision Direct Injection and electrified accessory drives for an unbeatable blend of power, efficiency, and responsiveness. As an example, this engine propels the BMW 335i coupe from rest to 60 mph in just 5.3 seconds (manual transmission) yet delivers an EPA-estimated highway mileage of 26 mpg.

The second Ward’s 10 Best Engines honor for BMW was awarded to the new 50-state BMW Advanced Diesel with BluePerformance technology. Featuring all-aluminum construction, this light-weight 3.0-liter Sequential Turbo DOHC Advanced Diesel inline-6 offers V-8 performance on four-cylinder consumption: 265 horsepower and 425 lb-ft of torque, with EPA efficiency figures of 23 (city) and 36 (highway) in the 2009 BMW 335d Sedan, which is capable of 0 – 60mph in just 6.0 seconds. In addition to the 335d model mentioned, this new engine will also be available in the X5 xDrive35d Sports Activity Vehicle, which is capable of 0 – 60mph in 6.9 seconds and 26mpg on the highway. Both Advanced Diesel models will be in BMW centers later this month.

BMW Z4 wins Eyes on Design Awards for best production vehicle

Published on January 15, 2009 in BMW Z. 1 Comment

The 2009 BMW Z4 is not yet available to the consumers, but it has already starting to win awards. Each year, the Detroit Auto Show hosts the Eyes on Design Awards. The awards for design excellence are split into two categories: Concept and Production Vehicles. The winners were selected by a panel of 20 judges, all design executives.

Some of the jury members were the BMW design chief Chris Bangle, Harley-Davidson chief styling officer Willy G. Davidson, and transportation design chair at the College for Creative Studies Larry Erickson.