The latest addition to the BMW hybrid family, 5 Series ActiveHybrid, kept the headlines of many automotive publications at the Geneva Motor Show. Joining the X6 and 7 Series Hybrid models, the BMW 5 Series ActiveHybrid will be available to consumers in the second half of 2011.

The BMW Concept 5 Series ActiveHybrid offers the combination of a BMW straight-six with electric drive. The drive system featured in the BMW Concept 5 Series ActiveHybrid consists of a straight-six gasoline engine with TwinPower Turbo technology, eight-speed automatic transmission, and electric drive. The electric motor offers a boost function, supporting the gasoline engine in generating particularly dynamic drive power for an even more sporting driving experience in the car.

The drivetrain hybrid is said to reduce the fuel consumption of the base model by more than 10 percent.

The drivetrain technology featured in the BMW Concept 5 Series ActiveHybrid allows all-electric, zero-emission motoring in city traffic. At the same time a special hybrid-based Auto Start Stop function offers additional efficiency by consistently switching off the combustion engine when stopping at the traffic lights, a road junction, or in congested traffic

The combustion engine is supported in the BMW Concept 5 Series ActiveHybrid by an electrical drive system developed specifically for this model and arranged in compact dimensions between the straight-six combustion engine and the automatic transmission. Drawing its energy from a high-voltage battery at the back of the car, the electric motor develops maximum output of 40 kW.

In overrun and when applying the brakes, the electric drive systems acts as a generator developing electric power fed into the high-voltage battery. This converts kinetic energy otherwise wasted as heat in the brake system into electric power saved for subsequent use.

Enjoy the photos and stay tuned for an interview with the BMW 5 Series ActiveHybrid Project Manager.

Geneva Motor Show press days are over and the first European auto show of the year opens its doors to the general public. For the past three days, yours truly and BMWBLOG provided extensive coverage of some of the most important BMW models exposed there.

Today, we’re going to show you some other BMWs displayed there that received less attention from the media, but in our eyes, they are still quite important to the brand.

First, we have the BMW X1, the entry-level SAV that have exceeded BMW’s sales expectations so far. Second, the engine refreshed 135i Coupe with its new N55 powerplant underneath the hood. Third, the BMW ActiveE, the first all-electric BMW to be unveiled in a concept form and soon to be available as part of a special lease program. Fourth, the BMW 635d, another model not available in the U.S., but one that still carries a lot of weight in Europe.

Last, but not least, the BMW X6 ActiveHybrid, the first production hybrid BMW to be launched.

We hope you enjoyed our coverage so far and stay tuned in the next days for some exclusive interviews with BMW designers and not only.

By popular demand, here are some new, improved photos of the BMW M3 with Competition Package unveiled two days ago at the Geneva Motor Show.

Allow us to give you a quick recap of the Competion Package (ZCP). The package enhances the chassis by installing a 10mm lower suspension and 19” wheels with greater offset for a wider track. ZCP also includes remapped Electronic Damping Control and Dynamic Stability Control systems.

Design wise, modified rear lights with glass covers in a homogeneous red color provide an additional visual accentuation in the BMW M3 Coupe. With two harmoniously illuminating light banks fed by LED units, they create a characteristic nocturnal design.

The M3 with Competition Package also comes with an exclusive but optional color: Monte Carlo Blue.

The third brand of the BMW Group, Rolls Royce, was also present at the Geneva Motor Show 2010. With no new models to unveil, the attention continue to be focused on their latest model launched at the Frankfurt Auto Show in September 2009: Rolls Royce Ghost.

The much more tailored to the driver and dynamic, RR Ghost, was sitting next to the usually chauffeur driven Phantom. Both cars are sporting a V12 engine, but the design of these powerplants are quite different. Ghost uses a twin-turbocharged V12 that has a lot more potent than the currently offered V12 naturally aspirated engine in the Phantom . As a quick reminder, the Ghost is built on the 7 Series extended platform and due to this, the overall weight is lower therefore its dynamics are improved.

Compared to the Phantom, with its superior attitude, the Ghost’s interior, while still luxurious, it certainly feels closer to the “regular people”. Ghost also offers a very exclusive interior design, but the overall ambiance in the Phantom is still more special, the typical feeling of Rolls Royce is thus more present than in the initial model.

The next project to involve Rolls Royce is the rumored, semi-confirmed MINI by Rolls Royce exclusive model, a super high-end MINI vehicle manufactured at the Goodwood plant. With this special MINI, Rolls-Royce will focus on upgrading the MINI’s interior bringing to the standards of a luxury car.

Sounds intriguing and we cannot wonder how the the image of a MINI will blend into the Rolls Royce ultra luxury style.

One of our favorites BMWs at the Geneva Motor Show is the uber fuel efficient BMW 320d EfficientDynamics edition. The BMW 320d is powered by a 2.0 liter four-cylinder diesel engine outputting 163 horsepower. Fuel consumption is rated at 4.1 liter/100 km or 57 MPG US.

To achieve such an important fuel efficiency number, aerodynamics of the cars have been improved and as we have seen on the new X6 ActiveHybrid, BMW is paying attention to every detail, including newly designed wheels.

While to some of us living in the U.S. 163 horsepower might seem insufficient, the appealing 57 MPG number could steer us away from the powerful, yet not so fuel efficient 335i.

Unfortunately, the BMW 320d continues to remain an European product and as of now, there are no plans to make it across the ocean.

Along with the 3 Series Convertible LCI, the refreshed BMW 3er Coupe made its debut this week at the Geneva Motor Show.

The changes are similar to the Convertible, the headlights now feature corona rings LEDs, introduced first in the E90 3 Series sedan.  At the rear-end, the tailllights are also modified LEDs with a new ‘L’ shaped design theme to an all new, almost E46 LED taillight, underneath the Ls.

The M Sport Package offers three different light-alloy wheels in 18 and 19 inches. Included in the package are upgraded M sport suspension and the BMW Individual High Gloss Shadowline.

Inside, the M-Sport package includes an M leather steering wheel, aluminum interior trim in Glacier Silver, the roof lining in Anthracite, and sports seats in cloth / Alcantara combination. The usual M door sills, M footrests and M gear selector are present as well.

The car introduced at Geneva was the European spec model, 330d.

Second model from AC Schnitzer to debut at the Geneva Motor Show 2010 was the 5 Series GT. Using a similar bodykit as the one seen in the X1 model, the 5 GT by AC Schnitzer stands out mostly due to the chromed bonnet vents.

The cosmetic upgrades also include AC Schnitzer side skirts and AC Schnitzer rear skirt which emphasizes the coupe-like look of the 5 GT. A new set of front and rear spoilers leave the AC Schnitzer “footprint” on the X1.

The comfort of the Gran Turismo took priority in the fundamental architecture of the BMW 5-series GT, so the specialists at AC Schnitzer completed the stylish elegance of the interior with a cover for the i-Drive System Controller, foot rest and pedal set in aluminum. The velours footmats and boot mat carry the AC Schnitzer brand as well.

The X1 is available with AC Schnitzer wheels Type IV in 19″ or the BiColor Version in 19″ and 20″. With the AC Schnitzer wheels Type VII in silver and BiColor in 22″ and the alloy forged wheels in Type V in 20″ and 22″, the drive is even more firmly planted. Another ideal choice is the brand-new Type VIII rims in 19″ or the racing forged alloys Type VIII in 22″. The new wheel with its double spokes in BiColor Finish is an evolution of the well-known Type VI wheel. All wheels are available with suitable tires.

The performance upgrade from 245 to 286 HP for the six-cylinder 530d already gives the standard car more pulling power and racing flair.

The AC Schnitzer X1 sports rear silencer as the ideal tuning product for drivers with an appreciation of engine sound, to whom design elements such as the chromed “Sports Trim“ tailpipe trims and the chromed “Racing“ tailpipe trim are equally important.

Both the X1 and 5 GT by AC Schnitzer are available for European customers.

The German tuner AC Schnitzer introduced for the first time at the Geneva Motor Show their own tuned-up, modified version of the entry level BMW SAV: X1. The AC Schnitzer aerodynamics package includes a front spoiler and rear skirt extension, in combination with the rear roof spoiler, improving downforce and ensure additional ground adhesion.

Engine bay venting is optimized by two bonnet vents. These are enhanced further with chromed center webs available as an option.

AC Schnitzer BMW X1 makes an extensive use of carbon fiber elements, starting with the silver “Exclusiv” carbon interior trim. Inside, the X1 comes with a special illuminated leather gear knob, aluminum gear knobs with or without digital gear display, “Black Line” aluminum cover for the i-Drive system controller, aluminum handbrake handle and pedal set, foot rests and velours foot mats. All AC Schnitzer branded.

A range of special AC Schnitzer wheels are available for the X1. Type VIII wheel in 19″ is a new wheel with 5 double spokes in BiColor Finish. AC Schnitzer Type IV wheels are available in silver or in BiColor in 18, 19 or 20 inch, together with the Type VI rim in 18″.

The X1 by AC Schnitzer goes through a power upgrade as well. The BMW X1 xDrive23d has been upgraded from a 150 kW/204 HP diesel engine with BMW TwinPower Turbo and Common Rail injection to 240 HP. The 2.0 d and 1.8 d units in the BMW X1 also feature Common Rail injection and a turbocharger, and with the AC Schnitzer tuning package achieve 210 and 171 HP respectively. Naturally, the power upgrades are available for both the sDrive and xDrive versions.

Another BMW model to have its world premiere at the Geneva Motor Show, was the facelifted 3 Series Convertible.

Let’s take a moment and highlight some of the exterior enhancements. The front lower fascia is now presented with subtle winglets on the air-dam, but more than that, the actual area for air flow is slightly larger than the outgoing design, also allowing for larger splitters at each end of the fascia.

One more styling difference from the previous design iteration; the corona rings are now bright LED units, with the updated E90 3-Series headlights making a coupe appearance.

The rear-lights are also modified LED look and finish. Though they were LED lights before, BMW added their new ‘L’ shaped design theme to an all new, almost E46 LED taillight, underneath the Ls. Holding the exhaust ports is an all-new bumper with a horizontal expressive line that shows the wide back end.

The real news with the 3 Series Convertible and Coupe LCI is the N55 inline-6 engine that first appeared on the new 5-Series GT. It features a single turbo with twin-scroll technology, direct-fuel injection and Valvetronic variable intake technology, along with being all aluminum. The engine still makes 300hp and 300lb-ft of torque with a 7,000 rpm redline.

However, the engine now builds peak torque at 1,200 rpm all the way to 5,000 rpm, where the N54 builds peak torque at 1,400 rpm. Peak horsepower is still produced at 5,800 rpm. So not much has really changed, just BMW making more torque available from startup, which is great. Also expect a slight increase in gas mileage due in part to valvetronic. The N55 weighs roughly 427lbs, according to BMW. The 328i’s N52 inline-6 goes unchanged with its 230hp and 200lb-ft of torque.

In the U.S., the 328i Coupe and 335i Coupe start at $37,075 and $43,525, respectively, including $875 Destination & Handling. The all-wheel drive models 328i xDrive Coupe and 335i xDrive Coupe start at $38,975 and $45,425 respectively.

Both cars will have their U.S. debut at the New York Auto Show in April.

At 2010 Geneva Motor Show, BMW took the cover off their latest update to the popular X5 Sports Activity Vehicle. The changes in the model year 2011 are quite significant, both in terms of exterior design, but most important, underneath the hood.

The front-end goes through an extensive facelift, the lower front bumper/fascia appears to have been lifted and given a little redesign from the X6, giving it an appearance that makes the front end look lower and more aggressive. It also allows for wider air openings to feed the larger and more powerful engines more air.

To go along with what BMW has been doing lately for the 3-Series LCI, 335is, and F10 5-Series, the X5 features corona rings, or halos as most like to call them, that are full LEDs. The rear taillights get a new L-shaped LED design as well.

The outgoing X5 had three engine types, the X5 xDrive30i, xDrive48i and xDrive35d. While the diesel xDrive35d survives, the 30i and 48i die off and go to that wonderful BMW heaven, wherever that is. In to replace the outgoing naturally aspirated 3.0-liter inline-6 and 4.8-liter V8 are the N55 twin-scroll single turbocharged 3.0-liter inline-6 making 300hp and 300lb-ft of torque, as well as the twin-turbo 4.4-liter V8 making 400hp and 450lb-ft of torque, similar to the engine in the X5 and X6 M models. So it will now be the X5 xDrive35i and xDrive50i, same with the X6. Zero to sixty times are estimated at 6.4 seconds for the 35i and 5.3 seconds for the 50i. Which is drastically faster than the past engines.

In order to reign all of this power in, an all-new 8-speed steptronic automatic, of which you see in the 5-Series GT and the 760Li. The new transmission weighs no more than the 6-speed model it replaces, and offers better gearing for lower speeds and rpm to make the X5 faster from a dig. It also adds the two extra gears up top to help with efficiency at highway speeds. You can also select gears manually, as always before, by pulling the gear shift closer to you and pushing and pulling the shifter forward or back (-/+).

The first BMW X5 facelifted vehicles will appear at U.S. dealerships this Spring.

The rear skirt, the boot lid top and the rear spoiler lip render a harmonious transformation. The great attention to detail used by the designers from Winterlingen in Germany, shows in a wide range of refinement, such as lateral indicator covers or the varnished sports-look carbon bonnet. Also the headlight blinds and the shaded rear light set contribute to the dynamic appearance.

For ideal road grip, there are four 315 millimetres wide ultra high-performance tyres by Michelin which are fitted to 11×23 inch Blackline Monoblock rims. The dynamic look of the voluminous black rims stems from the multipart look and the outer well made of stainless steel. This impression is further enhanced by varnished brake callipers which poke out between the spokes.

LUMMA Design also developed the interior as dynamic and performance-oriented as the new exterior. Leather and ultra-suede can be found for example at the ergonomically formed sports steering wheel. Rails made of orange-coloured carbon and pedals and foot rests made of aluminium moreover indicate the vitality of this automobile. The same applies for the illuminated door sills with the lettering “CLR X 650 M” and the extended speedometer range up to 360 kph displaying the LUMMA-Logo.

LUMMA Design confirms its love for detail also in the interior. Both the floor mats and also the boot mat are made of velour, have a leather edging and are adorned with the LUMMA coat of arms logo. The type plate with the consecutive serial number enhances the exclusive character of the CLR X 650 M.

Instead of the serial 555 hp (408 kW), the V8-engine now renders powerful 650 hp (478 kW). Also, LUMMA Design increases the maximum torque from 680 to breathtaking 830 Newton metres.

Thereby, the top speed rises to 312 kph. This enormous performance enhancement of the BMW is owed to the catalyst replacement pipes, the sports exhaust system and the adjusted engine electronics which LUMMA Design especially optimised for this automobile in elaborate tests. The matching sound for this newly gained power is rendered by the end muffler “Sportsound” with its four stainless steel end pipes measuring 100 millimetres in diameter.

MINI has entered a new era today at the Geneva Motor Show with their latest and first of this kind product: MINI Countryman.

According to BMW, the Countryman is “a new dimension” and “genuine crossover [that] bridges the gap between the classic concept of the Mini and a modern Sports Activity Vehicle.”

This is the first MINI with four doors and a large tailgate as well as a variable interior offering space for up to four occupants. At the same time the MINI Countryman is the brand’s first model measuring more than four meters (157 inches) in length and available as an option with ALL4 all-wheel drive.

In its design and driving behavior, the new MINI Countryman is clearly recognizable at first sight as a genuine MINI. Right from the start, the car stands out through its unique look – it is powerful, robust and versatile in all its features and appearance. Various design elements and proportions typical of the brand also stand out from the very beginning, enabling the fourth model in the MINI range to bridge the gap between the classic concept of the MINI and a modern Sports Activity Vehicle.

One of the standard features of the MINI Countryman is the innovative Center Rail storage and fastening system. Body paintwork and interior colours created exclusively for the new model, a large range of upholstery variants, decorative trim, high-end audio and navigation systems as well as numerous features specific to the new model offer the connoisseur and aficionado a wide range of options in configuring the MINI Countryman to his personal style in a unique manner again typical of the brand.

The MINI Countryman is available from the start with a choice of three petrol and two diesel engines. The range of petrol engines extends from the 72 kW/98 hp MINI One Countryman through the 90 kW/122 hp MINI Cooper Countryman all the way to the 135 kW/184 hp MINI Cooper S Countryman boasting the most efficient power unit worldwide in its four-cylinder 1.6-litre class. The two diesel models are the 82 kW/122 hp MINI Cooper D Countryman and the 66 kW/90 hp MINI One D Countryman.

ALL4 all-wheel drive is available in both the MINI Cooper S Countryman and the MINI Cooper D Countryman. And last but not least in this context, all models naturally comply with the EU5 emission standard in Europe and ULEV II in the USA.

In 2010, the new BMW ALPINA B3 S Bi-Turbo combines improved performance and torque with reduced fuel consumption and CO2 emissions – it is the logical result of continuous engineering development at the highest level. Building upon the highly-praised traits of its predecessor, it presents itself as one of the most harmonious and multi-faceted sports cars in its segment.

Whether Saloon, Coupé, Touring or Convertible, whether rear-wheel drive or all-wheel drive – the B3 S Bi-Turbo marries explosive performance with a high level of comfort and everyday usability, addressing the needs of an unusually broad target group of automotive enthusiasts:

Information on fuel consumption and CO2 emissions according to 1999/94/EG:

Chassis & Suspension

Typically ALPINA, the chassis and suspension offer a unique blend of sport and comfort.

The light, agile and direct handling of the B3 S Bi-Turbo is immediately noticeable. An ideal 50:50 front/rear axle weight distribution in combination with carefully chosen suspension components make for a great overall chassis set-up, which is equally engaging and comfortable. Stiffer rear axle suspension mounts, for example, increase steering precision and feedback, especially noticeable during fast lane changes.

Low profile conventional tyres which forego Run Flat technology in favour of comfort in combination with light weight alloy 18″ or 19″ ALPINA wheels ensure that unsprung mass is kept to a minimum.

Design

Fine, elegant lines and a tasteful presence. The dynamic appearance of the B3 S Bi-Turbo is in part defined by the modern and functional front spoiler. Engineered using the newest developments in aerodynamic design, the spoiler reduces lift at the front and enables optimal air flow to the high performance cooling system. The coupé and convertible carry a new rear valance which communicates a tasteful sporting charm through its integrated rear diffusor and two distinctive double-ended exhaust pipes, a little like the stern of powerful luxury yachts.

A fresh, evolutionary design with a clear heritage. The new ALPINA CLASSIC 19“ light-alloy wheels underline the finely-proportioned forms of the new B3 S Bi-Turbo models. Reminiscent of a turbine and with a three-dimensional sweep, each of the 20 spokes leads from the hub right to the edge of the rim, making for a very fluid and dynamic appearance even when motionless. Unique: the new design retains the hidden air valve mounted in the wheel centre, which is covered by a lockable hub cover, leaving the wheels flawless in their form and beauty.

The comprehensive level of standard equipment convinces: leather sport seats offer excellent lateral support and comfort on long journeys, the ALPINA SWITCH-TRONIC leather sports steering is luxurious to the touch, the blue ALPINA instrument display provides additional information such as engine oil temperature and a digital speed indicator.

BMW X6 with Performance Parts also made its debut at the Geneva Motor Show. The sporting looks of the BMW X6 SAC are accentuated more than ever before by the Performance Aerodynamics Kit.

The BMW Performance Aerodynamics Kit is made up of the front bumper, side-sills and an insert for the rear bumper, all in special design and all finished in body color. The BMW Performance Aerodynamics Kit for the BMW X6 may also be supplemented by a rear spoiler, rear fins in matt black and a front grid finished in high-gloss black paint.

BMW Performance light-alloy wheels in Y-spoke design further optimize the dynamic driving potential and the striking looks of the BMW X6. Reduced in weight, these cast light-alloy 12-inch wheels stand out in particular through their roll-milled rim hump and exclusive twin-tone finish with a glossy outside surface and Ferric Grey paintwork between the rims. A special production method reduces the weight of each wheel by approximately 1,500 grams compared with conventional wheels of the same size.

The BMW Performance Power Kit available as a retrofittbale option on the gasoline versions of the BMW X6 as of June 2010 increases both torque and acceleration to an even higher standard. Developed specifically for the V8 power unit in the BMW X6 xDrive50i and the straight-six in the BMW X6 xDrive35i, the Performance Power Kit significantly improves both acceleration and elasticity.

The BMW Performance Power Kit raises maximum output of the eight-cylinder with BMW TwinPower Turbo and High Precision Injection in the BMW X6 xDrive50i by 30 kW/41 hp to 330 kW/448 hp. Peak torque, in turn, is up by 50 Newton-meters/37 lb-ft to 650 Nm/479 lb-ft. The six-cylinder power unit of the BMW X6 xDrive35i equipped with Twin Turbo technology and High Precision Injection shows an increase in maximum output by 15 kW/20 hp to 240 kW/326 hp, with peak torque increasing by 50 to 450 Newton-metres/332 lb-ft.

Benefiting from the BMW Performance Power Kit, both models accelerate 0.2 seconds faster from a standstill to 100 km/h, the BMW X6 xDrive50i with the BMW Performance Power Kit completing this sprint in 5.2 seconds, the BMW X6 xDrive35i in 6.5 seconds. Acceleration in gears from 80 – 120 km/h (50 – 75 mph) is 0.5 seconds faster in each model.

Likewise starting in June 2010, BMW Performance also offers a sports exhaust system. Available also on the BMW X6 xDrive50i and BMW X6 xDrive35i, this option stands out clearly through its chrome-plated tailpipes, at the same time offering even lower weight and a particularly striking sound pattern together with a further reduction of exhaust counter-pressure.

BMW Performance offers attractive accessories also for the car’s interior design, again raising the sporting driving experience in the BMW X6 to an even higher standard. As an example, all model variants of BMW’s Sports Activity Coupé may be equipped with a BMW Performance sports steering wheel with a flattened rim at the bottom and alcantara coating for optimum grip and a pleasant touch in all temperatures.

The driver’s workplace is further optimized in the true style of a genuine sports car by BMW Performance aluminum pedals and the BMW Performance driver’s footrest. In their technical features and design all of the BMW Performance components available in the BMW X6 comply in full with the typical style of the brand and naturally fulfill all of BMW’s supreme standards in terms of quality and safety.

Stunning car and not as flashy as some of the X6 seen at different car tuners.

Another exciting BMW model unveiled today at the Geneva Motor Show was the BMW M3 Coupe facelift with Competition Package. The M3 Coupe, Sedan, and Convertible models become 2011 models this spring and BMW ups the ante on the M3 Coupe and Sedan by offering a new “Competition Package” for MY2011.

The package (ZCP) further enhances the highly responsive chassis by installing a 10mm lower suspension and 19” wheels with greater offset for a wider track.

Combined with remapped Electronic Damping Control and Dynamic Stability Control systems, the M3 with Competition Package is the best handling production M car ever built.

Design wise, modified rear lights with glass covers in a homogeneous red color provide an additional visual accentuation in the BMW M3 Coupé and the BMW M3 Convertible. With two harmoniously illuminating light banks fed by LED units, they create a characteristic nocturnal design.

The M3 with Competition Package also comes with an exclusive color, the stunning Monte Carlo Blue. In the U.S., the Competition Package is available on the Coupe and Sedan models for $2,500.

Today, in front of a large audience of journalists and not only, BMW has unveiled the new 2011 BMW 5 Series at the Geneva Motor Show. One of the most expected BMWs of the year made its first entrance on the stage during a show that had the EfficientDynamics as its core theme.

Along with the F10 5er sedan, BMW has also unveiled their next hybrid project: 5 Series ActiveHybrid.

As pointed out by BMW, the new 5 Series takes an evolutionary path this time, in contrast to the E60 model considered to feature an advantgarde design. The design lines are elegant, yet sporty, flowing gracefully from front to back with plenty of convex and concave surfaces.

The front-end is less imposing and “in your face” than we’ve seen on the 7 Series or the 5 GT models, a more neutral stance. The smaller kidney grille fits the overall design and the image of a 5 Series sporty luxury sedan.

The headlights share a lot of design cues with the 5 GT and of course, we have the same corona rings. They are slightly modified over the 3 Series units and much smaller than the 5-Series GT. But don’t be confused, they are still quite different compared to the other models. The eyebrow remains an important characteristic in the latest headlights’ design and gives that “mean” look many of us have been craving for.

Moving to the rear of the car, as we mentioned before, we immediately noticed the clear distinction between the new 5 Series and the 3 Series, and even the untrained eye of a non-BMW fan could clearly make the distinction between them.

Inside, luxury at its finest. The new 2011 BMW 5 Series shares lots of design elements with the 7 Series and 5 GT, with similar, but not identical trim options. Sharing parts between these models helps BMW reduce costs while still offering distinctive, yet luxury interior designs in these upscale models.

The F10 5 Series interior is wider, more spacious and more appealing than the previous generation E60. While it has the design quality of the new 7 Series, the 2011 BMW 5 Series brings back the sporty elements as seen in the late 90s E39 models, beginning with the driver oriented dashboard. Compare to the 5 GT which has a similar driver oriented dashboard, the center console in the new 5 Series is also slightly tilted and oriented towards the driver, enhancing that connection between the driver and car.

Several convex/concave surfaces can also be seen on the dashboard, extending through the passenger’s side of the dashboard and flowing into the design line seen on the door. A nice touch by BMW that takes time to discover.

The choices of colors and materials further enhance the impression of personal luxury and the interior’s interplay of lines and surfaces. Special attention has been given to these fine details, one of them is the subtle crease line going across the wood trim on the passenger side. ( More on the interior design in our interview with Marc Girard, Chief Interior Design )

Enjoy the photos and stay tuned for more!

Dr. Norbert Reithofer, Chairman of the Board of Management of BMW AG

Welcome to the BMW Group!

Efficient Dynamics: two words, one concept. This symbol here stands for our Efficient Dynamics technology package. The basic idea is that every BMW model and every MINI model must be both dynamic and efficient. This is where it all began – right here in Geneva. We first presented our vision of increasingly sustainable mobility here exactly three years ago.

Today we are able to report on our success so far:

• There are already more than 1.6 million vehicles equipped with Efficient Dynamics on the roads today. Others build special fuel-efficient models. We have a highly efficient fleet. So, in fact, all of our cars are fuel-efficient special models.
• The BMW Group’s average fleet consumption in Europe is only 5.9 litres per 100 kilometres. That corresponds to a CO2 rating of 150 grams per kilometre.
• No other premium manufacturer can beat that performance. Our figures are lower, in fact, than those of many manufacturers of mainly small cars – even though our cars are sportier and equipped with much more powerful engines.

That is precisely why BMW was chosen as the automotive partner of the next Summer Olympic Games in London in 2012. We are also supporting Munich’s bid to host the 2018 Winter Olympics. The idea of a sustainable games and BMW go well together. According to the Dow Jones Sustainability Index the BMW Group is the world’s most sustainable automobile manufacturer. You can learn how we build our models in a way that is environmentally-sound right here alongside the cars on our stand.

Thanks to Efficient Dynamics we have achieved enhanced performance with lower fuel consumption. We will continue to follow this route. We are expanding our product range – across all vehicle classes. Our goal is a sustainable fleet – from the small car segment to the luxury classes.

On the one hand this means: Continuing to grow in the upper luxury segment with innovative vehicles like the new BMW 7 Series and the BMW X6. Customers in Europe will also be able to buy both models with a hybrid drive from April on.

It also means that: We will be extending the BMW and MINI brands into the small car segment with new models and variants. Our focus is on the customer: And there is demand for premium vehicles in the small car segment – as we have proven with our huge success with MINI. We will be offering attractive new products in this segment. For these new vehicles we could envisage developing a common architecture for both front and four-wheel drive.

I can assure you that we at the BMW Group will continue to set the standard and inspire customers with our innovations. That is what we call premium.

We are cautiously optimistic about 2010. Of course, we will continue to feel the effects of the global economic crisis. But we still aim to increase retail and sell more than 1.3 million cars.

We have a strong line-up of new products.

2010 will primarily be defined by the BMW 3 Series and the new 5 Series. We have updated both the BMW 3 Series Coupé and the 3 Series Convertible. Both of which we are presenting for the first time here at our stand. And we have another world premiere for you here today: the new BMW 5 Series Sedan.

This is the sixth generation of the BMW 5 Series. More than 5.5 million 5 Series have rolled off the assembly lines since it was introduced in 1972. I believe the new BMW 5 Series Sedan is the best, most attractive car we have ever built. My college, Klaus Draeger, will now present the world’s most efficient top-range luxury sedan. Thank you.

Dr. Klaus Draeger, Member of the Board of Management of BMW AG, Development

I just had to drive this BMW 520d on stage for you to see. It really shows how Efficient Dynamics has been implemented to perfection in the new BMW 5 Series. Fuel consumption: 5 litres of diesel per 100 kilometres. CO2 emissions: 132 grams per kilometre.

In this particular vehicle class, figures like these are a major technical achievement.

The BMW 520d will be available in showrooms from the middle of the year. One of your colleagues asked me: How far can Efficient Dynamics really go? With combustion engines we are reaching step by step the optimum state. That is why we are also refining our ActiveHybrid technology under the umbrella of Efficient Dynamics. Today we have brought along the first BMW 5 Series with hybrid drive: the BMW Concept 5 Series ActiveHybrid. The drive technology used in this car has been finely tuned to suit the character of the new BMW 5 Series Sedan. It embodies driving pleasure, efficiency and innovation. It incorporates an inline six-cylinder petrol engine with turbo technology and a powerful 40-kilowatt electric motor. This ensures extremely responsive and dynamic acceleration – and allows for fully-electric, zero-emission driving in city traffic.

We have developed additional energy-saving solutions for this concept car: I am talking specifically about proactive energy management. This car actively anticipates how it can save and use energy efficiently. The data stored in the navigation system about the selected route are also incorporated. Imagine driving along the Autobahn: Even before you reach the highway, various systems in the car are already being adjusted. For example,

• Cooling capacity is reduced – because the temporary increase in coolant temperature will be offset by faster highway driving.
• The battery will also be fully charged before you reach the outskirts of the city. This means the combustion engine can be quickly turned off – so the car enters the city on electric power, driving quietly and with no environmental impact.

That is a true BMW engineering achievement. It shows once again that: Innovation is part of the BMW Group’s DNA. The same applies to e-mobility. We will hear more about that from Norbert Reithofer.

Dr. Norbert Reithofer, Chairman of the Board of Management of BMW AG

You have already met this spiffy little car, the MINI E. We have a trial fleet of 600 MINI E on the roads. Our test customers tell me they would really love to keep their MINI E. That puts us in a strong position to continue what we are doing – not just with MINI, but also with BMW.

This is the first BMW with electric drive: the BMW Concept ActiveE.

This concept car is a fully-electric four-seater. We will be releasing a second trial fleet of electric vehicles based on this concept to selected customers over the next year. This will provide us with further insights into how e-mobility can be used in everyday situations.

All of this lays the groundwork for our fully-electric Megacity Vehicle. The Megacity Vehicle will be built in Leipzig and will be launched on the market within the next few years. Then we will have fulfilled a goal of Efficient Dynamics: Emission-free driving.

The BMW brand stands for joy. We at the BMW Group have the joy of shaping the mobility of today – and tomorrow.

Now please come and join me on stage and see for yourselves.

Thank you!

On Tuesday, March 2nd and Wednesday, March 3rd, BMWBLOG will bring you live news, photos and videos from the first major European auto show of the year: Geneva Motor Show 2010. The expectations are high for the Swiss motor show and BMW will once again display an important number of vehicles, including several world premieres. ( See list )

The setup will be similar to Frankfurt, an array of BMW models on the floor and the entire BMW stage surrounded by a suspended track.

As always, we will be present to report live all the news in the BMW world, including several interviews with key BMW designers and product managers.

First, we’ll “tackle” the 5 Series Exterior designer, Jacek Frolich, and we are hoping to learn more about the new 5 Series, the philosophy behind the design and its clear distinction from the E60 models.

Second, we are going to chat with the 5 Series ActiveHybrid product manager, focusing on topics around the hybrid system, powertrain, battery and many others.

Third, we are hoping to hear more about the new BMW interior designs from the BMW Chief Interior Design, Marc Girard.

There are other things we have planned out for tomorrow, but we’ll let you discover them yourself through our extensive reports that will go live before and after the BMW press conference.

As usual, coverage will begin on our Twitter (twitter.com/bmwblog) and Facebook ( facebook.com/bmwblog) accounts where we encourage you to join our thousands of friends in following us:

Ad-hoc photos will be provided via Twitter, with full high-res galleries following shortly.

Thank you everyone for your support and we hope you’ll enjoy one more time our thorough coverage from auto shows around the world.

With two days left before the press opening days at Geneva Motor Show, BMW releases new videos highlighting some of the new vehicles to be introduced at the European auto show.

The biggest premiere is the new 2011 BMW 5 Series, the refreshed, redesigned sedan that has been extensively covered in the past by us. Along with the F10 5er, the 5 Series ActiveHybrid will be unveiled for the first time ever.

The BMW 3 Series Coupe and Convertible facelifts will also be introduced at the same auto show and for the first time, we will have the opportunity to examine the design changes we have much written about.

BMW X5 LCI will represent the X-family with its latest cosmetic improvements, along with the aggressive looking M Sport package.

MINI, the highly profitable brand within BMW Group, will also introduce a world premiere model: MINI Countryman.

Several other models will be present at the first major European auto show of the year, but unfortunately, the highly rumored BMW M1 Concept has not made the cut.

We will be on site on Tuesday and report live, so stay tuned for exclusive interviews, photos and videos from Geneva.

Freshly starched shirt collars and cuffs reflect in the taught lines of BMW’s 7 series flagship sedan. As if not luxurious and exclusive enough, the Individual series takes your driving experience to a whole new level. Yes, cuff links are required. And yes, James, your days as a chauffeur are numbered.

Among the enhancements the Individual series has to offer are additional color selections, infinite color selections, actually, as well as choice of materials. Leather and trim is hand picked and matched by your eyes, and no one else’s.

Would you like bright pink seatbelts? It can be done. What about the texture of this leather or the luster of that trim? That can be taken care of too. One of our greatest luxuries is choice, and choices are endless within the scope of BMW’s Individual series.

A potent V12 is scarcely concealed under a thin veil of aluminum. 544 Hp is in reserve, should your right foot wish to release it. 100 km/h is reached from a standstill in only 4.5 seconds. Of course, for those who purchase this car, poise and restraint is equally important to its raw performance. There may be no smoother running engine in existence than this seemingly electric 6.0 liter V12. A refined 8-speed transmission moderates your progress and ensures optimum efficiency all the while. The grace of the 7 series lithe body is unmatched by anything short of its eloquent sibling, the Rolls-Royce Ghost with which it shares its underpinnings.

For the man or woman that has everything, but is missing something, this could be the perfect car. They say that what you drive is a reflection of who you are. This car reflects focus, professionalism, accuracy, individuality and success.
For more information about BMW’s Individual series cars, please click here.

Please enjoy our exclusive photo gallery of the 760Li shot at CIAS 2010.

For an entertaining review of BMW’s 760Li pitched against Mercedes’ S63 AMG, please watch Top Gear’s video review below.

Photos Credit: Shawn Molnar