BMW of North America has agreed to pay a $3 million fine to settle U.S. government allegations that it failed to promptly notify regulators about potential safety defects.

NTHSA says that BMW agreed to the civil penalty caused by 16 recall investigations in 2010.

The investigation found a number of instances where the automaker failed to report known safety defects and recalls within five days, as is required by federal law. BMW also agreed to make internal changes to their recall process to ensure timely reporting.

BMWNA Official Statement

The US Motor Vehicle Safety Act requires manufacturers to notify the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) within five business days of a safety defect being identified internally by a company. The NHTSA conducted a review of safety recalls filed by the BMW Group in calendar year 2010 and claimed that in some cases the company had exceeded the five-day notification limit. All cases, except for one, were related to BMW Motorcycles. However, despite the late filing, in every case where a defect was identified by the company a voluntary recall had been conducted.

BMW has agreed to pay the NHTSA a penalty of $3 million and modify its processes to prevent a reoccurrence.

Press Release

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) today announced that BMW of North America, LLC has agreed to pay $3 million in civil penalties in response to the agency’s assertion that the automaker failed to comply with requirements of the National Traffic and Motor Vehicle Safety Act that it report safety defects and noncompliances to the federal government in a timely manner.

“It’s critical to the safety of the driving public that defects and recalls are reported in short order,” said NHTSA Administrator David Strickland. “NHTSA expects all manufacturers to address automotive safety issues quickly and in a forthright manner.”

Federal law requires all auto manufacturers to notify NHTSA within five business days of determining that a safety defect or noncompliance exists and to promptly conduct a recall. NHTSA’s examination of 16 BMW recalls issued in 2010 found evidence of a number of instances where the automaker failed to report safety defects and recalls to the agency in accordance with federal law. As part of today’s settlement, BMW of North America, LLC and its parent company Bayerische Motoren Werke AG agreed to make internal changes to its recall decision-making process to ensure timely reporting to consumers and the federal government in the future.

In December 2010, NHTSA launched an investigation to determine when BMW first learned of defects and noncompliances related to several motorcycle and vehicle recalls and whether the company notified NHTSA in a timely manner. NHTSA’s investigation led the agency to believe that BMW had not fulfilled its obligation to report a known safety defect within five days, as is required under the law. The fines will be paid into the Treasury Department’s General Fund.

[Source: AutoNews ]

“We made a successful start to the new year, selling more BMW brand vehicles than ever before in the month of January. The BMW Group reported strong sales gains in the Asian and North American markets, among others,” said Ian Robertson, member of the Board of Management of BMW AG, responsible for Sales and Marketing. The new BMW 3 Series Sedan, scheduled for worldwide release in mid-February, will create positive impetus for growth going forward. “We expect the positive trend in sales to continue over the coming months. In fact, we anticipate even more dynamic growth in the second half of the year in light of the launch of additional new models,” added Robertson.

BMW with new January high
The BMW brand reported the strongest January in its history. Sales climbed 5.9% to 96,183 (prev. yr. 90,858) vehicles. With a total of 13,070 (prev. yr. 10,976/+19.1%) deliver-ies, the new BMW 1 Series registered substantial growth. In spite of the coming model change, sales of the BMW 3 Series remained at a high level with 22,710 (prev. yr. 23,475/ -3.3%) units.

The BMW X1 volumes rose 5.6% to 7,445 units (prev. yr. 7,050). The BMW X3 also started the new year well with 9,348 vehicles sold (prev. yr. 5,984/+56.2%). The same applies to the BMW X5, which reported an 8.3% increase in sales to 8,872 (prev. yr. 8,194) units. Deliver-ies of the BMW X6 also rose 5.0% to 3,372 (prev. yr. 3,211) vehicles. Solid demand for the new BMW 6 Series drove sales to 1,106 (prev. yr. 168) units. The flagship BMW 7 Series also continued to perform well, with sales climbing 37.1% to 5,844 (prev. yr. 4,263) vehicles.

MINI makes a strong start to the year
The MINI brand also remained on its successful course worldwide. A total of 15,768 (prev. yr. 14,125) vehicles were delivered to customers – an increase of 11.6%. The MINI Coun-tryman was among the models to post significant growth, with sales rising 59.0% to 5,575 (prev. yr. 3,506) units.

Strong gains in Asia and North America
The BMW Group made strong gains in a number of markets, including North America and virtually all of the Asian markets, in January. In Asia, deliveries climbed 25.6% to 36,422 (prev. yr. 29,006) vehicles. The dynamic growth also continued in China, the BMW Group’s third-largest market last year: A total of 26,505 (prev. yr. 20,308) vehicles were sold there last month – an increase of 30.5%. Other Asian markets, such as Japan (2,731/+22.9%) and South Korea (2,100/+12.9%), also reported significant rates of growth.

A total of 22,443 (prev. yr. 20,751) vehicles were delivered to customers on the American continent in January. This represents an increase of 8.2%. In the US, the company’s largest single market, sales increased by 5.8% to 19,739 units (prev. yr. 18,656) in the month under review.

The BMW Group also reported strong growth in a number of European markets: Customer deliveries climbed by 12.4% in Italy to 5,445 (prev. yr. 4,845) vehicles; by 10.6% in France to 3,342 (prev. yr. 3,022) vehicles; by 34.7% in Switzerland to 1,316 (prev. yr. 977) vehicles; by 31.8% in the Netherlands to 1,550 (prev. yr. 1,176) vehicles; and by 19.0% in Austria to 1,184 (prev. yr. 995) vehicles.

BMW Motorrad sales 11.1% higher
BMW Motorrad also achieved a substantial increase in sales in January. Deliveries climbed 11.1% to reach a total of 5,237 (prev. yr. 4,714) motorcycles. Husqvarna delivered 544 (prev. yr. 362/+50.3%) motorcycles to customers.

BMW Group sales in January 2012 at a glance

For BMW Classic the online shop represents “the next phase in the realignment of the business field and a further logical step towards customer satisfaction and customer-oriented service”, noted Ralf Vierlein, Head of Sales and Aftersales at BMW Group Classic.

Customers can visit the online shop at http://shop.bmw-classic.de, search for appropriate spare parts for their classic vehicles and order them online. Furthermore, information is provided on the suitability of parts for various model ranges. This service is currently available for customers in Germany. Starting in April 2012 this service will be expanded to further European markets.

The range of parts in the new online shop currently totals some 35,000 items for classic BMW cars and motorcycles dating from 1960 to around 1990. Large, heavy spare parts, dangerous goods and materials, electronic components and yard goods are excluded from the range.

For customers, the online Parts Shop will not only make the search for spare parts much easier, it will also facilitate the replacement process: when a component is purchased, a BMW partner is automatically recommended to help the customer restore his or her classic vehicle and to provide technical support.

The BMW Classic Parts Supply online shop will be presented for the first time at the Bremen Exhibition Centre during the Bremen Classic Motorshow, which takes place from 3 – 5 February 2012.

The online shop can be accessed with immediate effect on the BMW Classic website at www.bmw-classic.de and www.bmw-classic.com.

[Source: BMW]

BMW, MINI and Motorrad brands each report new records.

Richmond Hill, ON. BMW Group Canada (BMW and MINI brands combined) achieved a record January with 1,845 retails, an increase of more than 34 per cent compared to January, 2011. New monthly sales records were set by each brand – BMW, MINI and Motorrad – with both BMW and MINI achieving strong double-digit increases.

“BMW Group entered 2012 as the number one premium manufacturer in Canada,” said Eduardo Villaverde, president and CEO of BMW Group Canada. “After a strong finish to 2011, we now have a tremendous start to 2012. This is the best January ever for both the BMW and MINI brands, and I am delighted to see the company continuing its momentum from 2011. I’m confident we’ll see continued strong performance as we introduce new products to the market this year, such as the new 3 Series.”

BMW.
The BMW brand retailed 1,644 units in January, an increase of 35 per cent over January 2011. This marks the best-ever January for the BMW brand. This year will bring exciting new products for the brand, including the new sixth-generation 3 Series and the 6 Series Gran Coupé. As the fourth-largest M market globally, BMW Canada is also looking forward to the arrival of the much-anticipated M5.
MINI.
The MINI brand reported its best-ever January with 2011 units retailed, an increase of 27per cent over the same period in 2011. After the recent arrival of the MINI Coupe, the MINI Roadster will be the next product to arrive to the brand’s expanding line-up.

Motorrad.
BMW Motorrad Canada set a new record in January with 57 motorcycle retails, an increase of 3.6 per cent over the same period last year. For the first time ever, Motorrad will expand its product offering into the scooter market with the arrival of the all-new Maxi-Scooter later this year.

Pre-owned.
BMW pre-owned reported January retails of 796 units, representing a decrease of 6.8 per cent over the same period last year.

MINI’s pre-owned monthly sales decreased 49.7 per cent compared to January 2011 results, with a total of 73 units retailed.

BMW Group in Canada
BMW Group Canada, based in Richmond Hill, Ontario, is a wholly-owned subsidiary of BMW AG and is responsible for the distribution of BMW luxury performance automobiles, Sports Activity Vehicles, Motorcycles, and MINI. BMW Group Financial Services Canada is a division of BMW Group Canada and offers retail financing and leasing programs and protection products on new and pre-owned BMW and MINI automobiles, as well as retail financing for new and pre-owned BMW Motorcycles. A total network of 44 BMW automobile retail centres, 20 BMW motorcycle retailers, and 29 MINI retailers represents the BMW Group across the country.

[Source: BMW Canada]

“The January results are the springboard for a year that will be full of new model launches beginning with the arrival of the sixth generation 3 Series in mid-February” said BMW of North America President and CEO Ludwig Willisch. “Nationwide, inventories are low after the extraordinary sales in December and we’re replenishing our dealers as fast as we can to meet the strong demand for our vehicles.”

BMW Brand Sales
Sales of BMW brand vehicles increased 3.1 percent in January for a total of 16,405 compared to 15,905 vehicles sold in January, 2011.

In January, best performing vehicles include the X3 SAV – officially on sale in the U.S. for one year – up 56.9 percent to 1,687 units; the 6 Series, up 392.8 percent to 409 units and the 7 Series, up 56.1 percent to 977 units. One month before the premiere of the next generation BMW 3 Series, sales of the current model were up 16.2 percent to 6,698 units.

BMW Pre-Owned Vehicles
In January, sales of BMW used vehicles (including certified pre-owned and pre-owned) increased 0.4 percent to 11,698 vehicles from the 11,650 vehicles sold in January 2011.

MINI Brand Sales
MINI USA reported sales of 3,334 automobiles in January, an increase of 21.2 percent from the 2,751 sold in January 2011.

Table: Sales BMW of North America, LLC, January 2012

‘Business Car of the Year’ has been awarded to the new BMW 1 Series in honour of its appealing overall package with low running costs making the smallest BMW just as tempting as its larger family members. The BMW 320d EfficientDynamics Saloon has been named ‘Green Car of the Year’ for the second year in a row thanks to its class-leading driving dynamics coupled with exceptional economy and attractive ownership costs.

For the third year in a row both the BMW X5 and BMW 3 Series Saloon held onto their titles, having once again been named ‘Large 4×4 of the Year’ and ‘Upper Medium Car of the Year’ respectively. Topping off the awards haul, the BMW 7 Series was also voted ‘Luxury Car of the Year’.

The BusinessCar Awards are the only honours voted for solely by the title’s readers, reflecting the opinions of the people who really matter in the fleet industry, which gives them a particular gravitas.

Paul Barker, Editor of BusinessCar commented: “BMW’s impressive and class-leading combination of desirability, efficiency and driving pleasure has again shown itself, with this haul of awards, decided by the readers of BusinessCar, proving that the brand is at the forefront of the company car market.

“Across the range there is a model for every level of employee, each one offering low tax bills, good running costs and the premium BMW badge. The people running these vehicles and giving them to their staff obviously appreciate the job BMW is doing.”

[Source: BMW ]

The world’s oldest and most esteemed design prize was founded in 1950 in Chicago by the architects Eero Saarinen, Charles and Ray Eames, and Edgar Kaufmann Jr. is awarded by the Chicago Athenaeum and the European Centre for Architecture, Art Design and Urban Studies. For more than 60 years now, this coveted accolade has recognised exceptionally innovative and visionary products, concepts and ideas that go beyond the regular horizons of everyday product design. The aim of the award, not least of all, is to raise public awareness of contemporary design together with related issues of sustainability.

The prize is awarded based on the criteria of functionality and aesthetics as originally laid down by Saarinen and Eames, and is now complemented by an ecological aspect that stipulates sustainable design in keeping with our times. 2011 saw the independent jury of design experts and architects sifting through a record number of applications from around the world to decide their final selection of more than 500 product designs and graphics from 38 countries that were deemed worthy of the GOOD DESIGN Award.

The new BMW 6 Series Convertible combines a stretched bonnet, set-back passenger compartment, long wheelbase and flat waistline with a classic soft-top roof featuring a distinctive “fin” design. The car’s powerfully contoured surfaces and forward-surging lines are a reflection of its dynamic handling properties.

Aesthetes who delight in luxury and forward-looking technology need look no further than the new BMW 6 Series Coupe, combining as it does dynamic athleticism with exclusive travel comfort. Adaptive LED Headlights represent an innovation in lighting technology and draw on the hallmark round headlight look in a new rendition of BMW’s iconic design cues.

The new BMW 1 Series M Coupe cuts a compelling figure with its athletic demeanour and M-specific interior design. The optimised track width of the front and rear axles, an expansive front apron and powerfully flared wheel arches lend the BMW 1 Series M Coupe its unmistakable character. The two sets of chrome-plated twin tailpipes, situated at the outer edges of the rear, make for the symmetrical look familiar from M styling.

With the BMW ActiveE, an all-electric-drive BMW 1 Series Coupe, BMW is testing everyday usage of electric vehicles. The insights gleaned from this field test will flow directly into series development of the BMW i3. The intelligent configuration of the drive components and energy storage systems within the vehicle create the ideal prerequisites for customary BMW driving dynamics and extended functionality. This electric car offers four full seats, boot space of around 200 litres, rear-wheel drive and a range of approximately 160 kilometres (100 miles) in day-to-day operation.

With its BMW K 1600 GT and BMW K 1600 GTL, BMW Motorrad is tapping into a new dimension of the touring experience. Both these motorcycles present a self-assured, imposing and distinctive appearance, sparking off a hefty dose of wanderlust at first glance.

With its lean and wiry off-road physique, the BMW G 650 GS motorbike evokes an impression of lightness and adventurousness. Its characteristic enduro design and its colour concept are fully in keeping with the BMW GS family style and round off the bike’s overall sporty impression. The quality and specification of this model coupled with its long-distance comfort set it apart from the competitors.

BMW Group Design has already won the coveted design award several times in the past. Last year it was the BMW 5 Series Sedan, the MINI Countryman, the BMW S 1000 RR and the BMW Concept 6 design study that captured the prestigious prize. In 2008 honours went to the BMW 3 Series Convertible, the BMW 1 Series Coupe, the MINI Cooper S Clubman and four BMW motorcycles. Back in 2007, the jury of the GOOD DESIGN Award paid tribute to the new BMW X5, the BMW 3 Series Coupe, the new MINI and three motorcycle models.

[Source: BMW]

The team will consist of Mike Renner, Matt Mullins, Tommy VanCleef and Johan Schwartz. They will be piloting stock M3′s that are sourced from the BMW Performance Driving school’s fleet in Spartanburg.2 M3 coupes and 2 sedans will be utilized with one of each model equipped with a BMW Peformance exhaust so that fans can compare the tone difference between the stock exhaust and that of the BMW Performance unit.

“The Daytona track offers a great opportunity to show case some of the high capabilities of the M3. In the horse shoe we’ll do a bit of drifting. A task made easy with the power and superb balance of the M3 and the faster sections will afford us the opportunity to demonstrate some of the high speed and stability of the car. Whether we’re roasting them in a drift or cornering near the limit of adhesion the Continental tires (Official tire of the school), provide an excellent combination of grip and durability.

Bring your camera and find your spot in the horse shoe or otherwise as the BMW Performance Driving School M3′s will circulate the track on Friday from 12:15-1:15, Saturday from 9:30-10:30 and again from 1:00-2:00. There will also be an opportunity to see the M3′s and talk to the drivers about the cars, driving and driving programs throughout the weekend in the Fan Zone.

“After hundreds of hours of hard work by the Dinan engineering team the N55 Performance Software is now available for immediate download via OBDII at all Dinan Dealers around the world.

Dinan, the most trusted name in the BMW aftermarket is now offering the most anticipated Performance Software in years and as always is covered by the most comprehensive and longest warranty, a BMW new car factory matching warranty coverage up to 4 years / 50,000 miles.

It is well known that the N55 engine software has been a tough nut to crack. Our 4 full time software engineers were able to make a blistering fast software tune that will push your guts into your spine, smoke the tires and put a big smile on your face. Using years of experience tuning BMWs for the street as well as winning back-to-back Grand-AM DP Championships and the 2011 24 Hours of Daytona the Dinan team is the best in the business.

Dinan Performance Software is so much more than just tuning up the turbo boost. It is a fully re-tuned engine management program that maximizes power while keeping all the BMW factory safeguards in place. Protecting your BMW while giving the most performance is the definition of “Performance Without Sacrifice”. Drivetrain and engine components are analyzed for strength then the program is tested on the dyno and in the real world for durability and drivability. Dinan matches the new car warranty coverage for up to 4 years or 50,000 miles, including the possibility of consequential damages. The top speed governor is removed (X5 & X6 top speed, 155 mph), enabling the BMW to achieve its full potential.

Benefits:
+ Substantial Power Increase

+ Only Pure OBDII Software Upgrade On The Market
+ Better Drivability than “Piggyback” boxes

+ Hassle Free Operation

+ Huge Torque Gains Drastically Improves Acceleration

+ No Shipping! Available at ALL +130 Dinan Dealers Around the World

+ No Hesitation Between Shifts

+ Downloads through the BMW diagnostic port, the same way BMW loads software

+ Top Speed Governor Removed, you decided how fast you want to go (X5 & X6 top speed, 155 mph)

+ Factory Matching Warranty Coverage (4year/50,000 mi), no sleepless nights or being scared to go to the BMW dealer

+ Full Map Rescaling, for drivability from idle to wide open throttle and everywhere in between

+ Properly Returned Fuel Mixtures, to save you gas and protect your engine

+ Water Pump Speed Increased, to improve cooling
+ Retain All BMW Factory Engine Damage Safeguards

+ Free Dinan Software Updates for the Life of the Car, if BMW makes an update so do we.

Stage 2 Performance Software
$1999
355 Horsepower @ 5300 RPM
401 lb-ft of Torque @ 3500 RPM
Required Parts: None

Currently Available for:
2011, 2012 335i & 335i xDrive E90, E92, E93
2011, 2012 135i E82, E88
2012 X5 xDrive 35i E70
2011, 2012 X6 xDrive 35i E71

Available Soon:
535i & 535i xDrive F10
X3 xDrive 35i F25

[Source: Dinan ]

Frank-Peter Arndt, BMW Group Board Member responsible for Production, revealed the company’s intention to expand its X-model family. He revealed that production of the new BMW X4 will occur at the Spartanburg plant, spurring significant investment and job creation necessary to prepare the facility for the new model.

“I am delighted to announce today, over the next three years, we plan to invest nearly $900 Million U.S. dollars. With this investment, we will be able to produce 350,000 units here in the mid-term,” said Arndt. “This is one reaction to the rising global demand for our BMW X Models.”

Governor Nikki Haley spoke at the ceremony saying, “BMW has once again provided tremendous evidence that South Carolina is a blueprint for significant economic development success. The partnership between this company and our State is an enduring example of how to attract, retain and grow business to stimulate perpetual job creation.”

“Two million vehicles have prepared our team well to meet the new opportunities that lie ahead for our plant. We look forward to a new model with great anticipation. For nearly 20 years, this team has always proven their steadfast commitment to producing quality vehicles for our customers around the world,” remarked Josef Kerscher, President of BMW Manufacturing.

“I am thrilled to celebrate the two millionth BMW today,” said Bobby Hitt, Secretary of Commerce for South Carolina. “BMW’s impact on South Carolina’s economy and overall competitiveness is always worth celebrating. This new economic investment and commitment of jobs is a testament to South Carolina’s strong automotive manufacturing industry.”

With the addition of 300 new jobs this year the plant will raise production capacities up to 300,000 units. By the end of the year, the plant will employ nearly 7,500 people at its more than 4.0 million square foot facility.  Since the original 1992 decision to build BMW’s only U.S. plant in South Carolina, today’s announcement brings BMW Group’s total investment in the state to nearly $6 Billion U.S. dollars and represents its largest, single investment to date in its South Carolina plant.

In 2011, the plant produced 276,065 vehicles for over 130 markets around the world representing a 73% increase versus 2010. Seventy percent of the vehicles produced (192,813) were exported making BMW the largest automotive exporter to the non-NAFTA countries. Sales of the vehicles produced at the plant have met with continued high demand. According to Arndt, throughout the world, more that 117,000 X3’s were sold in 2011 representing a 156% growth of this vehicle versus its predecessor.

The 2 millionth vehicle to roll off the line in Spartanburg was a Vermillion Red Metallic X3 xDrive35i driven by BMW Associate Terry Gardner, a 16-year BMW veteran. The vehicle featured Oyster Nevada interior and an M Sport Package.  Accompanying the driver, were associates: Renita Williams, Trung Phan and Olga Yurchenko. These associates represent teams from each of the plant’s manufacturing technologies: Body, Paint and Assembly.

While all vehicles are custom ordered prior to production, this symbolic vehicle will remain on display at the Spartanburg Plant to commemorate the milestone.

Also making remarks at the milestone event were German Ambassador to the United States Peter Ammon, United States Congressman Trey Gowdy and Spartanburg County Council Chairman Jeffrey Horton.

Since 1994, the plant has undergone four major expansions and produced 6 different BMW models and their variants (318i, Z3, Z4, X5, X6, X3). Employment has grown from 500 in 1994 to more than 7,000 today.

For additional details and to apply for the new positions, visit www.bmwusfactory.com.

The BMW 1 Series Coupé and the BMW 1 Series Convertible are offered in the Exclusive and Sport editions. The M Sports package is available for the new BMW 1 Series five-door model. Additional diesel models can be ordered with BMW BluePerformance Technology. Vehicles fitted with this technology already meet all the requirements of the EU6 emission standard.

The intelligent all-wheel drive system BMW xDrive now ensures superior traction in the sporty 6-cylinder diesel models BMW 640d Coupé and BMW 640d Convertible. And in the BMW Z4 Roadster the driver can now open and close the hard top while driving, too.

New edition models for the BMW 1 Series Coupé and BMW 1 Series Convertible, as well as new engines and an M Sports package for the new BMW 1 Series five-door model.

Agile handling properties, exclusive fittings and a powerful, distinctive design have made the BMW 1 Series the epitome of driving pleasure in the premium compact segment. These qualities are now spotlighted even more with new special editions of the sporty, elegant two-door BMW 1 Series Coupé and BMW 1 Series Convertible. The high-quality options have been carefully harmonised, with appealing touches added to both body design and the interior. In addition to exclusive exterior paint finishes and light alloy wheels, there are also special upholstery covers with matching interior strips which give the edition models a flair that is both exclusive and individual. The BMW M Sports package for the new BMW 1 Series further enhances the dynamic driving properties of this compact five-door model as well as translating them into a striking look.

Edition Exclusive for BMW 1 Series Coupé and BMW 1 Series Convertible.
The Edition Exclusive is an especially stylish version of the BMW 1 Series Coupé and the BMW 1 Series Convertible. Here the vehicle’s appearance is enhanced by means of window cavity covers and side frame strips in Chrome Line or the optional BMW Individual high-gloss Shadow Line. Another eye-catching feature is the range of light alloy wheels available in 16, 17 and 18-inch format (depending on engine type). The customer can opt for the exclusive body finish in Mineral Grey metallic or else one of five finishes drawn from the standard portfolio. A further dash of colour is provided by the exterior mirrors in Oxide Silver matt finish. Exhaust covers and longitudinal kidney grille bars in chrome (for all engine types) complete the package of body features.

Boston leather trim characterises the interior of the Edition Exclusive. The seats are finished either in Pearl Grey with grey contrast stitching or in black with white contrast stitching. The refined ambience is supplemented with door sill cover strips featuring BMW Edition lettering, interior strips in aluminium accentuation polish or in the optional fine wood finish Fineline Anthracite, an anthracite-coloured BMW Individual roof liner for the 1 Series Coupé and floor mats with welt in matching colour. The Edition Exclusive is rounded off with a new sports steering wheel featuring attractive chrome trim including multifunction and a handbrake handle with decor trim element in chrome.

BMW 1 Series Coupé and BMW 1 Series Convertible in the Edition Sport.
The Edition Sport further boosts the athletic potential of the BMW 1 Series Coupé and the BMW 1 Series Convertible. In addition to the M Sports chassis, the equipment features for both interior and exterior help further intensify the dynamic driving experience. The athletic ambitions of vehicles featuring the M aerodynamic package are also given visual emphasis with the exclusive paint finish Carbon Black metallic as well as 17 and 18-inch M light alloy wheels in double spoke design. The exclusive appearance is also supported by window cavity covers in BMW Individual high-gloss Shadow Line (or alternatively Chrome Line Exterior) and exterior mirrors finished in black. A dash of sporty flair is also added by the longitudinal kidney grille bars in high-gloss black, rear lights in Blackline Design and chrome exhaust covers.

On the inside, sports seats, the M leather steering wheel (including multifunction), stainless steel pedals and the M footrest in aluminium reflect the exclusivity of the edition model. The M gearshift lever and handbrake handle including gaiter are finished in embossed soft nappa leather. The equipment features of the Edition Sport are rounded off with seat covers and door trim in the fabric/Sensatec combination Flashpoint Black (alternative: optional Boston leather trim in black) with contrast stitching in blue, interior strips in aluminium glacier silver and matching floor mats with blue welt.

Extended range of engines for the new BMW 1 Series five-door model: new 4-cylinder petrol engine in the BMW 125i and two state-of-the-art turbodiesels in the BMW 125d and BMW 116d EfficientDynamics Edition.
The three state-of-the-art 4-cylinder engines available for the compact five-door model from spring 2012 promise top-class performance figures and exemplary levels of fuel consumption. All power units are fitted with the unique BMW TwinPower Turbo Technology, with additional measures derived from the BMW EfficientDynamics development strategy ensuring a further reduction in fuel consumption and emissions. The new 2.0-litre engines in the BMW 125i and BMW 125d are considerably more powerful than their respective predecessors, even though they are superior in terms of fuel consumptions and CO2 emissions.

BMW 125i: athletic power delivery and supreme efficiency.
As a representative of the latest generation of 4-cylinder petrol engines, the new 2.0-litre power unit makes use of the globally unique BMW TwinPower Turbo Technology which includes supercharging based on the TwinScroll principle, High Precision Injection, the variable valve control system VALVETRONIC and the variable camshaft control system double VANOS. Thanks to this combination, the engine delivers a peak output of 160 kW/218 bhp at 5,000 rpm, quickly developing a maximum torque of 310 Newton metres which is available across a broad range of between 1,350 and 4,800 rpm.

Performance figures are highly athletic as a result: from standing, the BMW 125i passes the 100 km/h mark after 6.4 seconds with the 6-speed manual transmission (8-speed automatic transmission: 6.5 seconds), reaching a top speed of 245 km/h (243 km/h). The fuel consumption and exhaust emission figures are no less impressive. With an average fuel consumption of 6.6 litres per 100 kilometres (6.4 l/100 km) and CO2 emissions of 154 grams per kilometre (149 g/km), the powerful BMW 125i gives an impressive performance in terms of economy, too.

BMW 125d: pulling power and economy at the very highest level.
With a top output of 160 kW/218 bhp at 4,400 rpm, surpassing its predecessor model BMW 123d by 10 kW, and a powerful maximum torque of 450 Newton metres, (+ 50 Nm) available between 1,500 and 2,500 rpm, the new BMW 125d is more spirited than ever before. This is not least due to the latest generation of common rail direct injection as well as the turbocharger with variable inlet geometry. Both with 6-speed manual transmission and with 8-speed automatic transmission, this compact five-door model spurts from zero to 100 km/h in just 6.5 seconds if necessary, reaching a top speed of 240 km/h. And yet this solid diesel with manual transmission still achieves an average fuel consumption level of just 4.9 litres per 100 kilometres, with CO2 emissions at 129 grams per kilometre. The automatic version is even more economical: here the BMW 125d has an average fuel consumption of just 4.8 litres per 100 kilometres with CO2 emissions at a level of 126 g/km.

BMW 116d EfficientDynamics Edition: the CO2 champion at 99 g/km.
The new BMW 116d EfficientDynamics Edition sets impressive new standards, further extending the leadership of BMW diesel technology in terms of efficiency. It is powered by a 1.6-litre 4-cylinder diesel engine and features additional measures to reduce fuel consumption and emissions, with further optimised factors as engine efficiency, aerodynamic properties and rolling resistance. In this way it is able to deliver a maximum output of 85 kW/116 bhp at 4,000 rpm, developing a torque of 260 Nm between 1,750 and 2,500 rpm. The new BMW 116d EfficientDynamics Edition is fitted with a 6-speed manual transmission and accelerates in 10.5 seconds from zero to 100 km/h, with a top speed of 195 km/h. Its average fuel consumption is unbeatably economical at 3.8 litres per 100 kilometres, with CO2 emissions of only 99 grams per kilometre.

With its new engines, the BMW 1 Series five-door model once again takes the lead in its segment, extending its lead as the sportiest and also most efficient vehicle in its class.

Finally, BMW BluePerformance Technology is now optionally available for the BMW 120d, allowing the emission levels of the well-established diesel engine to be optimised even further. As well as the diesel particulate filter and oxidation catalytic converter, an additional NOX catalyst storage makes for a further reduction of the nitrogen oxides contained in exhaust gas, which means that the BMW 120d BluePerformance already meets the requirements of the EU6 emission standard due to take effect from 2014.

M Sports package for the new BMW 1 Series five-door model: enhancing chassis and aerodynamics as well as body and interior design.

Thanks to its classic rear-wheel drive, state-of-the-art 4-cylinder engines and hallmark brand proportions, the new version of the compact five-door model is truly impressive with its sporty driving dynamics, unique handling qualities and innovative elegance. From spring 2012, the M Sports package is now also available for the new BMW 1 Series, providing an especially intense driving experience. High-quality components such as the M Sports suspension lowered by 10 millimetres with tighter spring/shock absorber settings and harder anti-roll bars tangibly emphasise the active driving character of this BMW, with an extended wheelbase as compared to the predecessor model and a wider track width providing the perfect basis.

An M Sports brake is optionally available as an exclusive feature with the M Sports package, except for the models BMW 125i and 125d. It consists of aluminium multi-piston fixed calipers finished in dark blue metallic bearing the BMW M logo and 17-inch lightweight construction brake discs. This further enhances the driving dynamics potential of the compact five-door model. Another such feature is the 17 or 18-inch M light alloy wheels in double spoke styling with mixed tyres.

In addition to the M aerodynamic package with numerous body components for the front, side and rear sections and the BMW Individual high-gloss Shadow Line, the exterior paint finish in Estoril Blue 2 metallic optionally available exclusively with the M Sports package ensures an unmistakably sporty look.

Inside the vehicle, components such as aluminium door sill cover strips with M emblem, M leather steering wheel with multifunction buttons, M footrest and M gearshift lever help go together to create a sporty, elegant feel. The driver and front passenger sit on sports seats available exclusively for the M Sports package in Hexagon Anthracite fabric/Alcantara with contrast stitching in Royal Blue. Furthermore, the driver has the use of a sports-style instrument panel with red accentuations and chrono scaling. The M Sports package is rounded off with interior strips in the equally exclusive Aluminium Hexagon finish with accentuation strip either in Estoril Blue matt or high-gloss Black and an anthracite-coloured BMW Individual roof liner.

BMW Z4: retractable hard top can now be opened and closed at speeds of up to 40 km/h.
It is well known that the BMW Z4 can be swiftly transformed from coupé to and open-top roadster, since opening the dual-section hard top is fully automatic and takes just 22 seconds. And closing the roof is even faster, taking just 19 seconds. As of spring 2012, the comfort and functionality of the roof kinematics are improved a stage further. A reinforced hydraulic system means that the driver can now open or close the hard top while travelling at speeds of up to 40 km/h, enabling an even more flexible response to the vagaries of the weather.

Extended engine range for the new BMW 3 Series Sedan: new 4-cylinder petrol engine in the BMW 320i and two revised turbodiesels in the BMW 318d and 316d.
BMW is expanding its range of engines for the new BMW 3 Series Sedan with the addition of three power units which are all characterised by a high level of output and outstanding efficiency.

BMW 320i with BMW TwinPower Turbo Technology.
After the BMW 328i, the second representative of a new generation of 2.0-litre 4-cylinder petrol engines sees its debut in the new BMW 320i. In the new model, the TwinPower Turbo delivers an output of 135 kW/184 bhp at 5,000 rpm, reaching a maximum torque of 270 Nm from just 1,250 rpm.

This puts it 10 kW above the maximum output of its predecessor, while in terms of pulling power it even achieves an increase of 60 Nm. On this basis, the new BMW 320i with 6-speed manual transmission accelerates in just 7.3 seconds from zero to 100 km/h, 0.9 seconds faster than its predecessor model. In spite of these increased driving performance figures, the sedan is considerably more economical in terms of fuel consumption. With an average rate of just 5.9 litres per 100 kilometres on the EU test cycle, the BMW 320i undercuts the fuel consumption level of its predecessor by 0.5 l/100 km, in other words around seven per cent. The technological advance is even more striking in conjunction with the 8-speed automatic transmission: here the reduction as compared to the predecessor model with 6-speed automatic transmission is as much as 12 per cent.

The new 4-cylinder spark ignition engines are key elements of the BMW EfficientDynamics development strategy, geared towards increasing driving pleasure while cutting back fuel consumption and exhaust emissions. The engine of the BMW 320i is based on a friction-optimised basic 1,997 cc engine whose output differentiation is primarily derived from injection and turbocharging technology. The main components of the globally unique BMW TwinPower Turbo Technology include High Precision Injection, supercharging based on the TwinScroll principle, the variable valve control system VALVETRONIC and the variable camshaft control system double VANOS. Thus equipped and fitted with an all-aluminium crankcase, these engines move into an output range which would otherwise only be achieved by conventional naturally aspirated engines with a higher number of cylinders and larger capacity.

BMW 318d and 316d: high-torque, smooth-running and efficient.
The diesel power units in the new 3 Series Sedan also draw on state-of-the-art BMW TwinPower Turbo Technology. Latest generation common rail direct injection, turbocharging and all-aluminium construction ensure a high level of pulling power, running smoothness and unsurpassed efficiency in these modern 4-cylinder engines. A centrifugal pendulum in the dual-mass flywheel compensates for irregular revolutions and supports comfortable driving within low engine speed ranges. All diesel engines can be combined with the new 8-speed automatic transmission if required.

The two turbodiesels are familiar from the predecessor model and offer the respective driving performance figures. In the new BMW 318d, the output of the diesel engine is 105 kW/143 bhp at 4,000 rpm, with a maximum torque of 320 Nm is available between 1,750 and 2,500 rpm. Considering its acceleration rate of zero to 100 km/h in 9.1 seconds (automatic transmission: 9.3 seconds) and a top speed of 210 km/h, the new BMW 318d is highly fuel-efficient, with an average consumption of 4.5 litres per 100 kilometres in both transmission versions. The level of CO2 emissions is 117 grams per kilometre. In spite of enhanced driving performance figures, this means a saving of two and 24 per cent respectively as compared to the predecessor model.

The entry-level diesel engine of the BMW 316d is particularly geared towards economy. At an engine speed of 4,000 rpm it delivers a peak output of 85 kW/116 bhp, developing a maximum torque of 260 Nm between 1,750 and 2,500 rpm. This enables the sedan to accelerate from zero to 100 km/h in 10.9 seconds (automatic transmission: 11.3 sec), achieving a top speed of 202 km/h. The average fuel consumption is 4.4 litres per 100 kilometres (automatic transmission: 4.5 l/100 km), with CO2 emissions at a level of 115 and 116 grams per kilometre respectively.

The progressive BMW BluePerformance Technology is available as an option for the BMW 320d EfficientDynamics Edition as of spring 2012, combining the diesel particulate filter and oxidation catalytic converter with an NOx catalyst storage. The system brings about a significant reduction in nitrogen oxides, remaining comfortably within the threshold stipulated by the EU6 emission standard.

BMW 5 Series: EU6 emission standard for Sedan and Touring with diesel engine and more favourable type classification for a range of models.
In order to optimise exhaust gas quality, the diesel models BMW 520d and BMW 520d EfficientDynamics Edition can also be ordered with BMW BluePerformance Technology from spring 2012. The additional NOx catalyst storage significantly reduces nitrogen oxides, so the vehicles in question already meet all the requirements of the EU6 emission standard which will apply from 2014.

What is more, the 5 Series Sedan benefits from a new type classification for fully comprehensive insurance. Since October 1st 2011 the BMW 523i, BMW 535i, BMW 520d and BMW 530d have been moved down to a more favourable class, which has a positive impact in terms of insurance premiums. There are no changes for the BMW 528i and BMW 550i.

BMW 6 Series: premiere for BMW xDrive in the sports diesel models BMW 640d Coupé and BMW 640d Convertible.
After its debut in the BMW 650i, the intelligent all-wheel drive system BMW xDrive now also ensures supreme control and maximum acceleration in the sporty 6-cylinder diesel models BMW 640d Coupé and BMW 640d Convertible. In addition to the characteristic benefits of all-wheel drive, xDrive with its electronic control system and extremely fast power distribution between front and wheels also guarantees superior traction, maximum safety, excellent handling and optimum application of engine power in all weather and road conditions.

This means that the potential of the 230 kW/313 bhp in-line 6-cylinder engine with BMW TwinPower Turbo Technology can be put to even more effective use, especially since the torque maximum of 630 Nm is already available within the range of 1,500 to 2,500 rpm. BMW xDrive constantly operates on an anticipatory basis, stabilising the vehicle when required even before the driver notices that there is a need for action. An optimised set-up, promoting agility and precision on bends too, provides an ideal combination of dynamic performance and comfort – an excellent basis within the premium segment of exclusive 2+2-seaters for providing driving pleasure which is both dynamic and efficient.

[Source: BMW]

The harmonious interplay of engine output, power transfer, chassis technology and aerodynamic balance provides a captivating showcase for the familiar M genes – in day-to-day driving and beyond. The BMW M Performance Automobiles will be presented to the global public for the first time at the International Geneva Motor Show 2012 which takes place from 8 – 18 March.

The BMW M Performance Automobiles represent a totally new model category none of its rivals can offer. Only the high-performance sports cars from BMW M GmbH provide a more convincing execution of an overall concept focused on inspirational driving dynamics. “We are targeting our efforts at customers looking for more emotionality and more performance, but who don’t want to forgo the everyday usability of their cars,” said Dr Friedrich Nitschke, President of BMW M GmbH. Nitschke announced plans for further additions to the new product line-up, referring to “a range including a wide variety of model series, as well as both petrol and diesel-engined variants”. The intelligent all-wheel-drive system BMW xDrive would also play a significant role in the BMW M Performance Automobiles, he added.

2011 will go down as one of the most successful years for BMW M GmbH since the company was founded. In addition to the BMW 1 Series M Coupe, which marked BMW M GmbH’s first ever foray into the premium compact segment, last year also saw the successful introduction of the new BMW M5. The imminent arrival of the BMW M Performance Automobiles provides 2012 – which will also feature the world premiere of the new BMW M6, among others – with an early highlight.

“The BMW M Performance Automobiles benefit from the full expertise of BMW M GmbH,” explained Nitschke. The BMW Group subsidiary can call on decades of motor sport experience when it comes to translating outstanding engine power into excellent dynamics. This development expertise also imbues the BMW M Performance Automobiles with their distinctive character.

The models in the new product category follow in the tyre tracks of the BMW M535i, which was unveiled in 1980 and went on to capture the hearts of performance-minded customers with its extra power, precisely tuned chassis technology and subtly modified design. A fresh addition to the BMW 5 Series ranks, the Sedan remained a highly successful member of the line-up through two model generations and – up to 1987 – with the BMW M5 for company within the range. “Our aim with the BMW M Performance Automobiles is to continue this tradition,” confirmed Nitschke.

[Source: BMW]

The BMW Group concluded 2011 with its best sales result ever. Worldwide sales of BMW, MINI and Rolls-Royce automobiles rose 14.2% last year to reach a total of 1,668,982 vehicles (prev. yr. 1,461,166). The company therefore strengthened its position as the leading provider of premium vehicles. In December, sales were 11.9% higher than in the same month last year with 158,125 vehicles (prev. yr. 141,358).

“2011 was an excellent year for the BMW Group. We have clearly attained our sales target of over 1.6 million vehicles and our models continue to be in high demand right across the world,” said Ian Robertson, Member of the Board of Management of BMW AG, Sales and Marketing, at the North American International Auto Show in Detroit.

“Looking ahead, we want to continue to grow, with balanced sales growth across all continents, and we plan to remain the world’s top selling premium automaker in 2012. Growth will also be driven by the new BMW 3 Series which will be launched worldwide next month. This is the best BMW 3 Series sedan we have ever built and we are confident it will continue this model’s success story. Due to the BMW 3 Series model changeover, we expect to see momentum increase in the second half of the year.”

BMW brand: New models drive sales. BMW 5 Series clear segment leader.

BMW brand sales rose 12.8% in 2011 to reach a total of 1,380,384 vehicles, the best sales level in its history (prev. yr. 1,224,280). In December, a total of 128,182 vehicles were delivered – an increase of 10.9% (prev. yr. 115,570). The clear frontrunner in terms of growth was the new BMW X3. With 117,944 vehicles sold, this highly-successful model grew at a rate of 156.4% (prev. yr. 46,004) in 2011. The BMW X1 also continued to report strong gains in 2011 with a total of 126,429 vehicles sold (+26.4%; prev. yr. 99,990). The BMW 5 Series solidified its position as segment leader, with a total of 310,050 vehicles delivered to customers in 2011 (+46.3%; prev. yr. 211,968).

The flagship BMW 7 Series also continued to perform well, with deliveries reaching 68,774 vehicles last year (+4.5%; prev. yr. 65,814). Customer response to the newly introduced BMW 1 Series has also been very positive. Sales of the 5-door rose 42.6% in December to 12,507 units (prev. yr. 8,769).

MINI brand: New sales record

The MINI brand can also look back on its best year ever. Global sales climbed to a record 285,060 vehicles in 2011 (+21.7%; prev. yr. 234,175). It finished on a strong note in December with 29,467 vehicles sold (+16.2%; prev. yr. 25,359). The brand’s positive annual result was bolstered by the MINI Countryman, which totalled 89.036 deliveries in its first full year of sales. Further momentum is expected in 2012 with the new additions to the MINI family: the MINI Coupé and the MINI Roadster. The U.S. remains the largest market for MINI, with 57,511 cars sold last year, followed by the U.K. with 50,428).

Rolls-Royce Motor Cars: record sales in company’s 107-year history

With a total of 3,538 cars, Rolls-Royce Motor Cars achieved its highest sales ever in 2011 and an increase of 30.5% on the 2010 total of 2711 cars. The previous record of 3,347 cars was set in 1978. All regions reported significant sales growth last year with bespoke content at highest-ever levels.

Markets: Balanced growth across the globe

The BMW Group made sales gains in all regions and virtually all markets in 2011. In Europe, the region with the Group’s highest sales, retail volumes increased 8.5% to reach a total of 857,792 units (prev. yr. 790,751). The company experienced rigorous growth in Asia, with 373,613 vehicles sold (+31.1%; prev. yr. 285,003). In America, a total of 379,332 vehicles were delivered to customers last year, an increase of 15.3% (prev. yr. 328,860). The U.S. was the company’s largest single market in 2011, with a total of 305,418 vehicles sold (+14.9% / prev. yr. 265,757). BMW was the number one premium brand in the U.S. last year, with 247,907 cars delivered to customers.

In Germany, the company finished the year on a strong note – the number of new BMW Group vehicles registered in December rose by 16% to 27,377 (prev. yr. 23,601). With a total of 297,483 new vehicles registered in 2011 – (+11.5% / prev. yr. 266,768) – the company spearheads the German premium auto segment. BMW brand registrations climbed to 257,132 units in 2011 (+9.3%/prev. yr. 235,299). A total of 23,507 new BMW vehicles were registered in December (+12.4%/prev. yr. 20,910). The MINI brand also reported an excellent month with an increase of 43.8% to 3,870 vehicles (prev. yr. 2,691). China’s dynamic sales growth continued right through to the end of 2011 – 232,586 BMW Group vehicles were sold last year in the company’s third largest market. This was an increase of 37.6% (prev. yr. 168,998).

BMW Motorrad reports best sales ever

With a total of 104,286 motorcycles (prev. yr. 98,047 / +6.4%) in 2011, BMW Motorrad delivered more vehicles than ever before in its nearly 90-year history. Growth was recorded in each month of 2011. In December, 4,232 Motorcycles were delivered worldwide, which reflects an increase of 12.4% over the same month in 2010. The total year’s result exceeds the previous high in 2007 by 1.8% (102,467). BMW Motorrad increased its market share by more than 12% in the segment above 500cc and has doubled it within the past four years. Husqvarna delivered 9,286 motorcycles in 2011 (-23%; prev. yr. 12,066). December accounted for 1,330 deliveries (-26.1%; 1,800).

BMW Group sales in/up to December 2011 at a glance

[Source: BMW]

“We have seen strong sales growth from BMW Group in the UK this year with sales exceeding 166,000 vehicles.  BMW has not only secured its position as the UK’s top premium brand in 2011 but has also recorded its second highest ever sales result in the UK,” said Tim Abbott, Managing Director of BMW Group UK.

“Both BMW and MINI brands have outperformed the market and in particular we have seen significant growth coming from the company car market where BMW saw sales increase by10 per cent to a new record level.  Driven by particularly strong demand for the BMW 5 Series, there has also been considerable incremental growth from the latest X3 and X1 ranges.  MINI has also achieved record UK sales and market share thanks to strong performances from the MINI Countryman and the new MINI Coupé.

“Although the 2012 outlook is challenging, we are going into the year with the youngest product portfolio in the premium sector and we remain cautiously optimistic, “Abbott concluded.

BMW Brand Sales

In 2011, sales of BMW brand vehicles increased by 6.60 per cent with a total of 116,642 vehicles representing 6.01 per cent of the UK market.  This is the second highest BMW UK sales figure with a record market share, and comes in the year that the company sold its two millionth vehicle since establishing its wholly-owned UK sales subsidiary in 1980.

Sales of the BMW 5 Series range increased by 35 per cent over the year with strong demand in the corporate sales sector for the low emission, highly tax-efficient 520d model which remains a popular choice for both company car drivers and fleet operators.  With more than 5,000 sales, the new X3 has seen demand outstrip supply throughout the year. Already out-selling its predecessor, the new BMW 1 Series 5-door has become the best-selling 1 Series model with sales of over 16,000, and is now established as a key vehicle in both the retail and corporate sectors.

BMW’s sales in the corporate sector rose to record levels in 2011 with an increase of 10 per cent over 2010 volumes against a rise of just four per cent in overall fleet sales.

Looking ahead, the company is four weeks away from the first customer deliveries of the new BMW 3 Series which has already received excellent feedback.

MINI Brand Sales

Recording its highest ever UK sales since launch in 2001 and capturing a record2.58per cent of the market, MINI was the 10th best-selling car in the UK in 2011 with sales of 50,138 vehicles, an increase of more than14per cent compared to 2010.

Offering a combination of sporty performance, low running costs and class-leading residual values, the UK’s favourite premium small car has continued to attract more customers despite the economic downturn.

The MINI Countryman has established itself firmly in the UK market with nearly 13,000 customer taking delivery during 2011.  The Countryman is also becoming recognised as the first real MINI corporate sales contender with sales to a number of small and medium sized businesses.  Launched in October, MINI Coupé has already become popular with customers with sales of more than 1,300 vehicles since October.

BMW Group UK sales: January to December 2011:

BMWNA will being a new brand advertising campaign on Saturday. The “Ultimate Driving Machine” slogan returns replacing the highly-controversial “Joy” ads that ran for the past two years.

BMW’s new ad agency, Kirshenbaum Bond Senecal & Partners, is responsible for the creative work and will debut its first 30-second TV spot on NBC during the NFL’s wild-card games. The new spot will also run during prime-time programs like “House,” “The Big Bang Theory,” “Modern Family” and “Law and Order: SVU” on the Fox, CBS, ABC and NBC networks. It also will run nationally on cable channels throughout the year.

The new spot starts with the almighty BMW M3 Coupe GTS, followed by the X5 SAV, the brand’s future, the i8, and the flagship, 7 Series and ends with a quick succession of other BMW models. The voice-over and imagery showcases the dynamics and sportiness of BMW’s line-up: “We don’t make sports cars. We don’t make S.U.V.’s. We don’t make hybrids, and we don’t make luxury sedans. We only make one thing, the ultimate driving machine.”

According to Dan Creed, vice president of marketing for BMW of North America, the company plans to introduce 14 models in 2014: “We’re in the middle of an extremely significant product offensive.”

For New York Times, Ed Brojerdi, co-chief creative officer of Kirshenbaum Bond Senecal, said the agency was dealing “with one of the most iconic taglines in marketing. We needed to make sure the marketing is as encompassing as the portfolio. Big brands have a focused point of view, they stand for something. BMW evokes the joy and passion for driving, sheer driving pleasure.”

According to Trudy Hardy, manager of marketing for BMW North America, the ad is aimed at the company’s “normal buying demographic,” men and women age 35 to 54.

To properly market the vast upcoming line-up, BMW will increase their advertising budget which totaled $109 million in the first nine months in 2011.

Christopher Cedergren, managing director of Iceology, a Los Angeles consulting and research company, is also a proponent of the “Ultimate Driving Machine” and very vocal about the previous “Joy” ads. “The previous campaign was too nebulous. It blurred the image of the BMW brand, made it too much like its competitors. It kind of walked away from its positioning about its driving performance,” said Cedergren.

Christie L. Nordhielm, an associate professor of business administration at the Ross School of Business at the University of Michigan, puts BMW on the same pedestal as Apple: “In a sense is the Apple of the automotive industry. Apple delivers great user experience across products, and BMW delivers an exceptional experience across all types of automobiles.”

BMW’s first use of the “Ultimate Driving Machine” slogan dates back in 1975 and it was created by Martin Puris, then the CEO of Ammirati & Puris.

[Source: NYT ]

BMW.
The BMW brand reported its best year ever with sales of 29,773, an increase of 9.5 per cent compared to 2010 year-end results. This made BMW the leading premium brand of passenger cars and Sports Activity Vehicles in Canada for 2011. The brand sold 2,214 units in December, a decrease of 1.7 per cent over the same month last year.

MINI.
MINI achieved its best year ever, reporting 5,155 units for 2011, an increase of 14.5 per cent over last year. MINI sales for the month of December were 452 units, an increase of 43.5 per cent over December 2010.

Motorrad.
BMW Motorrad Canada reported 1,625 units in 2011, a decrease of 15.6 per cent compared to 2010. December sales of three units represent a decrease of 84.2 per cent compared to December, 2010. The overall motorcycle market experienced a double-digit decline in Canada in 2011.

Pre-owned.
BMW Group Pre-Owned also reported a record year, with both BMW Pre-Owned and MINI Pre-Owned recording best-ever years.

BMW Pre-Owned recorded 13,098 units sold in 2011, an increase of 2.5 per cent over 2010. For the month of December, 937 units were retailed, a decrease of 11.3 per cent over December 2010.

MINI Pre-Owned reported its best ever year in 2011 with 1,986 units sold, an increase of 40.9 per cent over 2010. For December, 102 units were sold, a decrease of 20.3 per cent over December 2010.

“BMW Group sales momentum has been increasing all year and this new burst of consumer confidence filled our dealer showrooms putting both BMW and MINI over the top,” said Ludwig Willisch, President and CEO, BMW of North America. “I have great confidence that 2012 will be even better especially with the all-new BMW 3 Series arriving in the U.S. in February with more new and refreshed models coming in the months after.”

BMW Brand Sales

Sales of BMW brand vehicles increased 15.3% in December for a total of 26,834 compared to 23,280 vehicles sold in December, 2010. For the year, BMW brand sales were up 12.6% to 247,907 vehicles compared to 220,113 sold 2010.

For 2011, best performing vehicles included the 5 Series, up 30.4 percent to 51,491 units; the 6 Series, up 61.4 percent to 3,903 units; the X3, up 357.5 percent to 27,793 units and the X5 up 13.3 percent to 40,547 units. Overall, the BMW Sports Activity Vehicle (SAV) segment (X3, X5, X6) continued to show incredible growth with sales up 54.9 percent for the year to 74,532 units compared to 48,108 in 2010. SAV sales combined with its all-wheel-drive (AWD) passenger cars have made BMW the best selling manufacturer of premium AWD vehicles in the U.S. in 2011.

BMW Pre-Owned Vehicles

In December, sales of BMW used vehicles (including certified pre-owned and pre-owned) totaled 16,264, an increase of 3.5% from the 15,714 sold in December 2010. In 2011, BMW pre-owned once again was leader in its segment. December proved to be the second best month ever and 2011 was the third best year ever for BMW pre-owned.

MINI Brand Sales

MINI USA reported sales of 5,711 automobiles in December, up 32.2% from the 4,320 sold in December 2010. For the year 2011, MINI sales in the U.S. are up 26% on volume of 57,511 compared to 45,644 sold in 2010.

“MINI’s record setting sales results in 2011 prove that small is a success in its own right even without the prodding of rising fuel prices,” said Jim McDowell, Vice President – MINI USA. “Our U.S. customers have found they can have a great motoring experience even while enjoying strong fuel economy and a smaller footprint. Motor On!”

Table: Sales BMW of North America, LLC, December 2011

The newspaper says BMW sales rose 16 percent to 27,000 in December compared to a year earlier.

According to Autodata, BMW, with total U.S. 2011 sales estimated at 248,073, outsold Mercedes by 2,804 vehicles.

Kenn Sparks, a BMW spokesman, said to Bloomberg that the final numbers will come out today.

Stay tuned!

I’ve long said that if I didn’t own a BMW, I’d own a Hyundai. Sounds crazy, doesn’t it? It would have been crazy to make such a statement 10 years ago, but in 2012 Hyundai is looking good. I should elaborate on that statement by adding that if I gave up driving a BMW and was no longer interested in performance driving, track days and drifting, I would own a Hyundai. Basically, removing performance from the performance driving equation leaves you with simple driving, and that is an area where Hyundai is awfully good at providing maximum value.

Hyundai now represents the reliable, good value option that the Japanese once represented with their late 80s, 90′s and early new-millennium offerings. Unfortunately, Toyota lost their way in a large way, not only losing their enviable reliability record (note the 14 million recalls since winter 2009) but also losing their honest design philosophy, and sporting edge of the past. To be fair, Toyota does have the FT-86 on the way – a brilliant new sports car for all that should right a few wrongs, but a single candle can’t light a factory. Honda has also lost their way, never putting a foot wrong in the area of reliability, but totally losing inspiration in design. Have you seen a recent Honda that excited you or made you want a test drive? The last car to get our juices flowing was the S2000, which has been discontinued. Honda’s Acura division also shut down production of the venerable if slightly underpowered NSX, leaving a bunch of out-dated mutts to tow the line of mediocrity. How sad.

Hyundai on the other hand has been reaching for new heights without so much as a glance down at the competition from Japan. Their market share has been growing – doubling actually – over the last few years and they now find themselves sitting at around 5% of the US market share. That might not sound like much, but given their trajectory of sales growth, Hyundai are en route to make the big players nervous.

What should make the competition even more nervous is the fact that with Hyundai’s growth, they are attracting top designers such as Chris Chapman. Chris has been in the industry for 22 years and after leaving BMW, now stands to lead Hyundai’s design center in Irvine, California to bold new heights.

Cars such as Hyundai’s new Veloster are sure to make a huge dent in the market. We’re looking forward to seeing where Chris leads the South Korean company.

In his interview with emgcartech.com, Matt fired back when pressed about M’s intentions of building a supercar. Here, in part, is his rebuttal to the supercar question:

“A lot of people come to me and ask, does M need a supercar? We’ve had the choice to do something like that that when we were planning the 1-Series M Coupe. Amongst its development, we all pondered: do we do a supercar as in a mid-engined wedge, or some super high-priced front-engined wedge?,” said Russell. “We’ve discussed these possibilities. But ultimately, we didn’t feel the need to make a very exclusive high-end supercar and we still don’t. I already firmly believe that we produce supercars, except that they’re two in one: an executive car with supercar performance. They are the essence of BMW M-Cars.”

“The new M5 is undoubtedly a supercar from the driver’s seat. It can accelerate with a Lamborghini if not faster in some cases, it will brake with almost anything out there, and again, we like to build two cars in one: this is what M does. Nobody offers that perfect combination of a driver’s car and an executive car that you can use everyday. So technically, we already build supercars.”

When pressed further about M building an Audi R8, Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG or Lexus LFA competitor, Matt responded to egmcartech.com,

“I look at those cars in two different ways: cosmetically and at a performance stand point. Sure Lexus, Audi, Mercedes and Porsche all created supercars with a great deal of sex appeal. But I see our M cars as sexy too. Performance wise, they’re not doing anything that we haven’t already done in a two-door sports coupe or four-door sports sedan, thus there’s no huge performance breakthrough on those cars that we can’t create or sell at a lower price point. All of that said, we don’t think the BMW M buyer needs a super exclusive and super expensive car because of what they get from our current M-Cars. Most buyers already have second cars that have more of an emphasis on performance and BMW M shows the world how versatile and livable a supercar can be. BMW M cars are for those buyers who don’t want to make that sacrifice in performance for practicality.”

After driving the M5 to the very edge of its abilities (read our racetrack review), we are inclined to agree that BMW produces a super fast, super product. But can it be qualified as a supercar? No, it can’t. Supercars evoke more emotion, rubber necks and jealous stares than any 4 door sedan ever could. They focus on performance while pushing practicality down the list of priorities. They break performance records, they don’t exist to merely match them or come close.

After driving the M3 back to back with the Audi R8 and Porsche 911 on a racing circuit, I can say that the M3 does hold its own, and is massively fun to drive. But can it be called a Supercar? Again, not in the strict definition of a supercar.

We call upon the urban dictionary to help you decide this one:

“A supercar is a term used for a sports car, typically an exotic or rare one, whose performance is highly superior to its contemporary sports cars. The proper application of this term is subjective and disputed, especially among enthusiasts. In addition, the use of the term is dependent on the era; a vehicle that is considered to be a supercar at one time may not retain its superiority in the future. Nonetheless, the automotive press frequently calls new exotic cars “supercars”.

Bugatti Veyron
Koenigsegg CCX
Pagani Zonda F
Enzo Ferrari (F60)
Porsche Carerra GT
Mercedes McLaren SLR

These are probably the six most undisputed supercars at the time of this entry.”

BMWBLOG would point Matt Russell in the direction of this editorial, published some time ago on our website. Perhaps someday BMW will offer a change of heart. Until then we’ll relentlessly pull on their heart strings…

[Interview source: www.egmcartech.com]