Hugo Becker

Hugo Becker is our resident curmudgeon and technology maven. Having had a driver’s license for over 40 years, he also has seat time in a large number of cars, from the silly to sublime. He brings a Sputnik era emphasis on science and technology to BMWBLOG, along with a passion for automotive history. Did we mention he’s old and crotchety?
BMW 2K2 Was a Modern Equivalent to the Sixties Era 2002

BMW 2K2 Was a Modern Equivalent to the Sixties Era 2002

In 2008 BMW introduced its 1 Series to the North American market with the US getting the 2 door coupé and convertible. BMW marketing was all abuzz with the 1er being heralded as the second coming of the…

How BMW Paint Colors Have Evolved and Why

How BMW Paint Colors Have Evolved and Why

The final chapter of Steve Saxty’s “BMW’s Hidden Gems” is devoted to the art of differentiation. Colors, trim, and wheels all allow a buyer to personalize their car, often in order to stand out from…

The History of The BMW Z1 Roadster

The History of The BMW Z1 Roadster

In contemplating R&D organizations, Thomas Edison’s company takes precedence—a research and development organization producing new products post-conception and perfection. As large corporations attain a critical mass, they must allocate funds to internal groups envisioning the…

How Photoshop Ignited BMW’s Iconic “Electric” Blue

"BMW: Behind The Scenes" - Books Review

“BMW: Behind The Scenes” – Books Review

We were recently given an opportunity to preview two books of a three book set (BMW: Behind The Scenes), “BMW by Design” and “BMW’s Hidden Gems”, written by Steve Saxty – the author of the…

The BMW 2002 Turbo Celebrates Its 50th Birthday

The BMW 2002 Turbo Celebrates Its 50th Birthday

BMW was floundering – in danger of being absorbed by one or another of Germany’s larger carmakers in the late 1950s. They had a small car, the 700 and larger cars, the 500 series Baroque…

All you need to know about BMW's Gen6 cylindrical cells

All you need to know about BMW’s Gen6 cylindrical cells

BMW is introducing a new generation of battery technology, developed internally, to be unveiled in the “NEUE KLASSE” electric vehicles in the 2025 timeframe. The cylindrical cells are a departure from the prismatic battery format…

Trios – Delightful and Disappointing

Trios – Delightful and Disappointing

I had a bit of a brain hiccup recently that prompted me to think of cars I’ve driven that disappointed me and immediately thought of three cars. These are not necessarily cars I loathe, rather…