BMW gives up on KERS for the remainder of the 2009 F1 season

After using its KERS hybrid system on and off through the first half of the 2009 Formula One season, the BMW-Sauber team has decided enough is enough. The team will shelve the system through the remainder of the year while it focuses on aerodynamic development. In spite of the utter lack of success using the kinetic energy recovery systems this year, team boss Mario Theissen said the development process has been useful for the company's production hybrids. Lessons learned in developing the electric hybrid system on the race cars has been transferred to engineers working on the upcoming 750h mild hybrid and X6 two-mode hybrid.
BMW isn't totally giving up on the system though, having voted to retain KERS for future seasons. Under the current rules, there are not enough performance benefits from KERS and Thiessen says that unless KERS is mandatory for all cars, it will likely be dropped by all teams.
[Source: F1-Live]

Next-generation BMW M5 to produce in the excess of 600-hp

The current 2009 BMW M5 produces an outstanding 500-hp from its 5.0L V10 engine. However, Audi’s RS6 has now stepped up the game with a twin-turbo V10 that makes a neck-snapping 580-hp and Mercedes-Benz’s 2010 E63 AMG now pumps out 518-hp.

Well, BMW won’t take it anymore. Starting with the next-generation M5, BMW will use a new uprated version of the 555-hp 4.4L twin turbo found under the hood of the BMW X6 M and the BMW X5 M. Sources say that the M5 will pair the engine to an F1-style KERS system that will help produce in the excess of 600-hp.

The new M5 will also care a little about fuel-economy using a new system that shuts down cylinders when they are not needed.

We’ll get more information next year.

Source: AutoExpress

BMW plans assault on the premium entry-level segment with X and Y models

BMW's equivalent of Deep Throat has divulged a host of information on the marque's coming plans for its premium entry level range incorporating the 1-Series and Z2, and a new line of Y vehicles. According to the mole, Scott26, the 1 will break into three different levels: Traditional, Lifestyle, and Sporting. They will be underpinned by a modular platform that could be differentiated among models and also serve as the basis for the next MINI.
The Traditional line will include the 1-Series along with Active Hybrid and Sport Compact versions. Sporting will comprise the 1-Series and Z2 coupe and cabriolet, plus a Supersports version of the 1 and a 135i Lightweight Performance Concept. Lifestyle counts the 1-Series Gran Turismo, the X1, X2, and the Y1.
As Scott27 breaks it down, the full lineup will advance the capabilities of Efficient Dynamics, and a hybrid version of each car will be offered. As well, the cars will "resist the usual jump in weight by using lightweight materials and sophisticated bonding techniques." What would be weighty at that point is the number of BMW's offerings, with 12 cars alone mentioned here, not counting the hatch models.
And what is the Y1? Strictly a proposal at this point, the line would be for those who want more "identity and creativity" in their Sports Activity Vehicles. A "dynamic , lighter and more personal" SAV than the X6, the Y1 is laid out as a 2-door, 2-seat "hybrid of an X with the aura of a Z." Think of a de-Bangled X Coupe. Thanks for the tip, Andrew!
[Source: 1 Addicts]

X, Y, Z Series: So, what’s Y Series and where could it fit?

What started last week as a simple rumor, it turned out today to be more than just that. According to sources close to BMW, the company is indeed exploring this idea and looking to vizualize where such model will fit in. The Y models could become a hybrid of two other popular series: the sports activity X vehicles and the sporty, dynamic Z roadsters.

Since many of you left comments yesterday inquiring more about this rumored Y1 model, we had to do some digging and once again, Scott from GCZ, comes to shed some light.  After reading his short description of “what, where and why”, the Y Series sounds pretty damn good to us. Sure, it’s still a long shot and the project might get squashed as many other before, but hey…allow us to be excited for a moment. And that excitement also comes from the fact that the auto industry is changing, evolving and innovating.

We know that changes are tough, harsh on people and most of the time rejected, but we have to look forward to the future and the way we look at cars, or even how we use them.

BMW X Coupe Concept featured here

The X series identifies the range of Sport Activity Vehicles , such as X5 , X3 , X6 and very soon the X1.
The Z series identifies the range of Sporting Roadsters namely the Z4 but in the future the Z2.
Where does Y come into play.

It has been identified that certain customers were looking for something more sporting with their SAV’s, Which although the liked the X5 there was something missing in regards to how the X5 was anonymous in concept along with the X5’s competitors. One shape for each marque which brought the question for the purpose of the X6 The Worlds first Sport Activity Coupe.

Even after the introduction of the BMW X6 some customers have been identified who might want a bit more identity and creativity with a Sport Activity Coupe. Something with two doors rather than three an interesting new concept of Sport Activity Coupe which would be dynamic , lighter and more personal as a smaller Sport Activity Coupe.

Identified as a Concept and a creative idea. The Y series aims to be the hybrid of an X with the aura of a Z model. By being based within the the 1er portfolio BMW can be very cost efficient with an entirely new concept of car . First proposals showcase a small sedan like coupe shape with a raised driving position but not to much ground clearence. The Glasshouse is very shallow with a glass solar roof that will in theory retract down to the rear windshield offering a wide open Targa style roof.
Solar technology will be introduced on the next generation 1er as an Efficient Dynamics feature.

When it was shown , many recoiled in horror but in truth the DNA of the BMW Xcoupe Concept can be found in not only both incarnations of the Z4 Roadster but also the BMW X6. The idea of a combination of an X vehicle with the looks of a small coupe or roadster has been very much on the agenda since the Xcoupe was unveiled. Strictly billed as a niche model , not a volume model would help the Y create a key market as a unique unconventional choice as seen with the X6.

Although strictly as a two seater , the interior will be very sport orientated and feature such materials such as neoprene and synthetic shark skin type stretched materials like a zepplin shell over an all aluminum dashboard and the structure of the two seats..

In the future BMW will set out to gain focus on such a idea with a design concept in the near future, Ii the idea is well received then expect to see the Y on the roads in a few years time. For now it is a proposal of creativity.

And more thoughts on this:

We have identified customers who are interested in the Sports Activity Coupe Concept with more attention to compact and sportyness rather than a large coupe. It is here the Y1 will succeed because of it’s intentions it’s a hybrid of the X and Z series it wont be as raised as a conventional BMW SAV but it will have the looks of a Z series meaning strictly for two but with a very dynamic looking appearence.

Many have always liked the idea of a Xcoupe , but marketing were pushing for a larger premium models. The Y will strictly become a member of the 1er family .
BMW have now seen the need for expansion in your smaller , compact segment , because we are at the stage certainly in the current economic climate where downsizing is frequent and after the economic climate passes customers both old and new will be look for exciting more compact cars.
We have to think about the future and what will happen to the SAV? Y1 is an interpretaion of how we can think along those lines , new customers will evolve and want more versatility in their cars , these are future customers that today are being instructed on the environmental effect in regards to hybrids and electric powered automobiles.

Y1 will be a very dynamic car to drive and is purely aimed at young customers. As part of the next phase of Efficient Dynamics - Solar roofs will be featured to enable areas of the car to be regenerated. The Y1 will get a unique sliding Targa roof that will provide maximum exposure for the passenger compartment .

There are customers for every type of vehicle BMW offers . Even though the media claimed the X6 was a step too far we have proven them wrong and have outfooted our competitors but we know that in Design studios at Audi , Porsche and Mercedes-Benz they have there own interpretations of a Sport Activity Coupe ready to go and when things get clearer economically they will come to light.
There are customers for the 5er GT as there will be a customer base for the X1 plus there will still be customers for core models such as the 3er , 5er and so on.

Xcoupe always had a future but at BMW we like things to progress slowly we like to understand and we like to showcase creativity for the customer.
Everything begins with a clean sheet of paper but are never rushed , ideas that mature longer . We did say in 2001 that you will see this car on the road sometime in the future. Now almost a decade later that future is almost here.

BMW X5 M: Real life photos

BMW North America is hosting their complimentary M Power Tour street drive in different locations across United States. Yesterday, the M Power Tour stopped in the beautiful San Francisco where  people attending had the opportunity to do a 25-minute street drive in a 2009 BMW M3.

Part of M Power Tour events, BMW will display their first xDrive Motorsport models ever built: the BMW X5 M and X6 M. Courtesy of Rboosted717, a member of Xoutpost, we have some real life photos X5M/X6M photos to share with you. Also, in a conversation with a BMW M specialist, he learned that the X5M/X6M models will have three special colors: red, blue and black, but the standard color pallet will also be available.

The next M Power Tour event will take place this Saturday and Sunday, June 6-7, at the BMW Designworks USA headquarters in Newbury Park, CA.

There is also another thing we would like to share with you. Last month, BMW’s European Delivery desk informed us that for those U.S. customers interested in taking delivery of a BMW at the Welt Center in Munich, they will automatically receive a free M track day behind the X5M/X6M models in Salzburg, Austria.

The first U.S. xDrive M models will be available in October. The BMW X5 M has a base price of $85,400 while the X6 M is priced at $88,900.

2009 BMW X5 - Review

BMW’s X5 was one of the first to prove that a truck could dance through the twisties and reward an enthusiastic driver. It was a practical, four-season people mover that drove like a proper Bimmer. Granted, that first-generation “Sports Activity Vehicle,” which debuted in 1999, also was a bit firm in the suspenders and lacked the cavernous cargo area of more traditional SUVs. And so the second-generation X5 attempts to address those ills with a more compliant, yet still taut suspension and nearly eight inches of added length to accommodate an optional third row of seats. While the addition of the X5 xDrive35d and its 265-hp, 3.0-liter turbo-diesel is the primary change for 2009—stay tuned for more on that model—we decided to take another look at the top-level xDrive48i outfitted with BMW’s 350-hp, 4.8-liter V-8.

Performance is Relative, Even for a BMW

The last V-8 X5 we evaluated was similar to this particular example, albeit slightly less expensive due to the lack of the $3700 Sport package found on our tester. While this model rolled on 19-inch all-season rubber versus the 20-inch summer-tire option, the addition of BMW’s Electronic Damping Control suspension and sport seats/steering wheel made tossing around the 5200-lb behemoth rather pleasant. The feel from the helm is reminiscent of that in our long-term X6 xDrive50i, yet the absence of the X6’s torque-vectoring rear axle and twin-turbocharged 4.4-liter V-8—both of which we expect to migrate to the X5 relatively soon—make the seven-seater a mite less playful, and slower.

Keep Reading: 2009 BMW X5 - Review

G-Power BMW M3 Tornado gets 500-hp

G-Power has given the world some outstanding modified BMW vehicles including the M6 Hurricane, X5 Tycoon, M5 Hurricane and G4 EVO III Z4. Now, G-Power has set its sights on the new BMW M3 and has introduced, what they call, the G-Power M3 Tornado.

G-Power used a soft charging with just 0.3 bar boost, which increases output of the M3 to 500-hp with a maximum torque of 354 lb-ft. The boost of extra power comes from a G-Power supercharger system, the T1-518 ASA centrifugal supercharger. That very supercharger is also used by Alpina on the B5S, B6S and the B7.

All that extra power allows the M3 Tornado to go from 0 to 124 mph in 13.5 seconds and lets you keep going above 200 mph.

 

Press Release:

Supercharger system provides the BMW M3 with 500 hp and a top speed of more than 320 km/h

For the current BMW M3, G-POWER offers an exquisite supercharger system that sets new standards in regards of design, quality and performance. Using gentle soft charging with just 0,3 bar (relative) boost, the output of the V8 engine is pushed from 420 hp to 500 hp and the torque increases from 400 Nm up to 480 Nm.

After 9 months of intensive development, starting with the CAD design, followed by prototyping and completed with test drives and hot climate tests in the United Arab Emirates, the result is awesome.

500 hp and 480 Nm of torque, achieved through gentle soft charging with just 0,3 bar (relative) boost, let the BMW M3 appear completely changed. Already from 3.000 rpm on the supercharged G-POWER M3 TORNADO pulls like the standard BMW M3 revving twice as much, but than the G-POWER M3 TORNADO really starts to flex its muscles: from 5.000 rpm on until redline the G-POWER M3 TORNADO provides constantly about 20 % more torque than the factory car, this provides an acceleration that feels like being dragged by a bungee cord.

This output explosion is based on the heart of the G-POWER supercharger system, the all new T1-518 ASA centrifugal supercharger. By the way the ASA superchargers are being used in the ALPINA models B5S, B6S and B7 as well, just like the ALPINA B6 GT3 race car, in witch the chargers could state there impressive quality and reliability during 3.500 km in the “Green Hell” of the Nürburgring at the 24th hour race on may 23rd and 24th!

The exclusive use of components meeting OEM standards is one of the basic elements of the G-POWER philosophy and one of the secrets for the extraordinary quality, reliability and performance of the G-POWER products.

For its mission in the G-POWER M3 TORNADO the ASA T1-518 has been literally been tailor-made, to provide the giant need for fresh air of the up to 8.300 rpm revving 4.0 litre V8 engine. But the ASA supercharger, flanged to the engine using a CNC-milled high-strength mount, is not the only high-tech component of the G-POWER M3 supercharger system. The engineers did not spare any cost or efforts during the development of this supercharger system. Amongst others they even did a sophisticated, computer aided simulation which analyses the conditions of the air-ducting engine parts. The defined goal of this extensive research is to improve the efficiency of the G-POWER supercharger system to the best possible performance. And the result proofs us right. The G-POWER supercharger system is capable of reducing the specific fuel consumption of the engine. This shows that we do not only care about performance but are concerned of the sensitive use of restricted resources like fuel, as well.

A further key figure, next to the supercharger, in the G-POWER supercharger system is the complete aluminium cast, large volume air box, including 8 lightweight integral resonance induction pipes, that is responsible for the perfect throttle response and optimal torque curve. The G-POWER M3 supercharger system is completed by the large air-to-air intercooler that is located in the vehicles front, which cools the boost temperature down to an output optimal level under all circumstances.

Of course the performance figures benefit from this huge output improvement. The figure from stand still to 200 km/h improves from 15,8 seconds (stock, 6-speed manual) to 13,5 seconds (SKI).

On demand we can enable an unlimited top speed according to the capacity of the tyres. In combination with the 20 inch G-POWER SILVERSTONE DIAMOND wheels and the MICHELIN Pilot Sport tyres in the dimension 255/30 ZR 20 and 295/25 ZR 20, a top speed of more than 320 km/h can be achieved. Especially designed for the BMW models, the G-POWER SILVERSTONE Alloy Wheel forms a contrast to the great mass of other aftermarket wheels, due to the successful combination of double spokes and the “concave design” typical of G-POWER. The G-POWER “diamond cut” provides for the fascinating dynamic appearance of the G-POWER SILVESTONE rim, in contrast to the silver-graphite coated rim body and the bolt applications of stainless steel. An additional feature of the G-POWER SILVERSTONE rim is its weight-optimised design that allows a low rim weight with the same stability, compared to other standard wheels. A perceptibly improved impression of convenience and a considerably increased agility accompany the minimisation of the unsprung mass: advantages of the G-POWER SILVERSTONE rim, which you can factually experience above all in connection with low-profile tyres. Further improvement of the road handling is realized through the continuously height-adjustable G-POWER coil-over suspension G3M-RS with nine selectable settings each for bound and rebound.

Next to the output and the suspension of the BMW M3, G-POWER has taken care of the sound, as well. The G-POWER 4-trim sport rear muffler with its 4 x 83 mm tailpipes gives the BMW V8 a deep, throaty sound that turns heads but is at now time annoying. The G-POWER M3 rear muffler is available made from stainless steel or completely out of Titanium which is 14,5 kg lighter than the factory part.

The interior is upgraded by G-POWER with precious carbon panels, a speedometer with G-POWER logo scaled to 360 km/h, a sporty aluminium pedal set and on demand a tailor-made leather interior. The exclusivity of each G-POWER M3 TORNAD is documented with a special badge in the interior and on the supercharger system that features the G-POWER serial number.

NO, this is not the BMW M7, it’s a 7 Series with the M-Sport Package

We don’t usually get frustrated with BMW related news and we enjoy reading them from different sources as well, but when the same topic comes up twice in a week, we feel that we have to step in and clarify them.

Last week, some photos of the supposed BMW M7 made their way onto the web and everyone jumped to report that we are looking at the first Motorsport model based on the 7 Series. We obviously didn’t fall for it, for several reason and we immediately reported that we are looking at a 7 Series model featuring the M Sport Package which will be released later this year.

You might wonder what these reasons were, well, no worries, we’ll explain them to you right now.

First, there was never a solid report, rumor, that BMW is indeed actively looking at an M7 model. If they were, trust us, we would have heard about it.

Second, the photos posted today and last week, clearly show a prototype with very little to none camouflage. Knowing BMW and the way the protect their designs from spy photographers, they would have never released the M7 out in the open like that. The M7 would have been a “hot car” and it would have probably worn like 10 sheets of fake plastic on top of it.

Third, let’s examine the car closer. All we can see right now pointing to an M7 would be the front-bumper, BUT THAT”S ABOUT IT, and even the more aggressive bumper doesn’t fit the profile of an M car. There are no other M design elements on this car, not the famous M gills or the “fearful” hood.

Now, in our opinion, judging from the covered bulge on the hood, we believe we are looking at the 7 Series Hybrid which will be released later this year. That bulge has been a trademark on most of the hybrid spy photos we have seen so far, from the X5 Hybrid to the upcoming X6 ActiveHybrid.

So, can we please move on now? When there will be talks of an M7, we promise you that will be one of the first publications to report them.

P.S. Forgot to mention this: that front bumper looks amazing and it really turns the 7 Series into a stunning car.

[ More photos at MotorAuthority ]

2010 BMW X6 ActiveHybrid

The first all-wheel-drive hybrid vehicle ever developed by BMW is in the final testing stage. The BMW X6 ActiveHybrid made another appearance, but this time on U.S. soil near the Spartanburg plant, South Carolina.

The BMW X6 Hybrid is a two-mode hybrid based on an 8-cylinder gasoline engine which has been custom-made to meet the requirements of an SAV.

The newer, greener X6 will utilize the dual-mode ActiveHybrid system, which has discrete modes for high-torque, low speed driving as well as for high-speed cruises.

The two-mode hybrid uses about 20 percent less fuel than than a comparable vehicle with combustion engine. BMW is using a nickel metal hydride battery for the initial applications and unlike the other car manufacturers, the BMW hybrid engine will not be using cylinder deactivation. The system is also rumored to feature regenerative braking and start/stop technology.

X6 ActiveHybrid has a nearly identical body as the high-end X50i model, one of the only distinctive elements is the slightly larger M3-style bonnet found on the hood.

The model will go on sale at the end of this year together with the BMW 7 Series Hybrid.

[Source: LeftLaneNews | Photo Credit: Palbay & Brenda Priddy ]

2011 BMW 6 Series

The 2011 BMW 6 Series was video spied by the folks at Edmunds Insideline.  A 6er prototype shows up at the Nurburgring track for more testing and for the first time, judging by the engine sound, we believe we’re looking at test mule powered by the powerful 4.4 liter V8 twin-turbo engine.

As we learned in the past, several powerplants will be available for the new 6 Series, starting with the the twin-turbo 6-cylinder 326 horsepower  engine, followed by a 6-cylinder diesel as well and as a surprise, the newly developed, but not yet released, Tri-Turbo 6-cylinder diesel which produces 354 horsepower.

And since we’re moving towards more fuel efficient luxury sport cars, BMW will offer a model under the 655 naming convention which is powered by the hybrid powertrain from the X6 and 7 Series hybrids.

A 6 Series rendering created together with Promotor.ro

The 2011 BMW 6 Series will use the latest 8-speed transmission as well as the 7-speed DCT one. To make the new 6er appeal eve more to car enthusiasts, a new damping system will offer four different sport settings from Comfort right through to Performance , including an option for efficient performance.

As far as the overall design, sources close to BMW confirm that the 2011 6 Series is slightly longer and wider than the current generation and that overall appearance will carry over, based on the idea of an evolutionary design which keeps the premium sport car image. As signaled by BMW’s new CS concept, the automaker will be abandoning its awkward trunk design features in favor of a more streamlined design. It will have shorter overhangs and a lower roofline which implicitly gives the car a more muscular look.

The 2011 BMW 6 Series will launch in the first half of 2010, but more revealing test mules will be seen this summer.

And the Youtube version for those of you outside the U.S.

2010 BMW X1 - Car News

If these barely disguised prototypes look familiar to you, it’s no surprise: This BMW X1 was already shown at last year's Paris auto show under the rather unimaginative but BMW-typical "Concept X1" moniker. Now BMW is testing prototypes on the Spanish island of Mallorca and releasing some details as the car is readied for its official launch later this summer. This will be BMW's fourth size of SUV—sorry, “SAV”—after the X3, X5, and X6.

The elderly X3 is having an increasingly difficult time in a changing marketplace that now includes the Audi Q5 and the Mercedes-Benz GLK. The X5 and X6, on the other hand, have been getting flak for their politically incorrect appetite for fuel—even before BMW, in a somewhat incendiary move, added the over-the-top X5 M and X6 M.

Smaller than X3, but Only Slightly

To send out a good vibe to more socially minded SUV lovers, BMW has chosen to launch a smaller, lighter, more-efficient ute. Based on the company’s small rear-wheel-drive platform, shared with the 1-series and 3-series, the X1 is about 600 pounds lighter than the current X3.

Keep Reading: 2010 BMW X1 - Car News

If the next generation 2012 BMW M5 looks like this….

I have no choice but to cut off all the extra spending, entertainment, showgirls, gadgets, you name it, so I can start saving money before the next generation BMW M5 will come out in 2012. No seriously, not even kidding this time…….

I don’t often get super excited about new models, it usually takes a while for a new bimmer to sink in and be accepted by me, but the moment I saw this rendering of the F10 BMW M5, I just fell in love. The design lines are just rights, very masculine and muscular, a wide body, extremely aggressive but yet still appealing even to the most conservative BMW fans - yes, I’m one of them.

But what I love the most about this new rendering is the fact that it does NOT resemble in any way the new 7 Series. I honestly got tired of seeing all those photoshops of the next 5er being based on the bodystyle of the 7 Series. As many people close to BMW have said, the cars are absolutely different and the only slightly similar design element are the headlights.

The details on the next M5 are sketchy and the secret is well guarded behind metal doors in Munich, but what we can tell you at this time is that the BMW M5 will drop the famous naturally aspirated V10 engine in favor of a twin-turbo V8 similar to the one offered in the X5 M/X6 M. If that will be the case, the M5 will have a little bit over 550 horsepower under the hood and will be going after the Audi RS6 and its 572 horsepower.

As far as the release date, historically the M model of the 5 Series, is expected a year later after the launch of the regular 5 Series sedan, so we should expect the new M5 in the first half of 2011.

As usual, as soon as we hear more, you’ll be the first to know.

Photo credit WildSpeed2009

BMW fan reviews the new BMW X6 M

The New York Auto Show remains in history as the first motor show where BMW has officially revealed their first all-wheel drive M car, the X6 M. Even though the X6 M is not considered by BMW as being an SUV-type of car, bimmer fans will often refer to it  as the first M SUV.

We were fortunate to attend the official launch of this new Motorsport model and we were quite excited about  the design and technologies behind this car. Despite the always crowded BMW floor, we managed to spend some time with the car and snapped some photos for you.

Since we were waiting for the production model to launch before we can share with you all of our findings, we got beaten to it by Kamil at CarGuyDad, who spent some time himself with a production ready model near the Spartanburg plant.

He goes into more details and shared with us some known and unknown things about the BMW X6 M. Head over to his blog and see what he had to say.

2010 BMW 5-series Gran Turismo - Official Photos and Info

Usually, we herald the introduction of a brand-new BMW. Even when it challenges our preconceptions about the brand—as did the 1999 X5, the 2002 7-series, and, more recently, the oddly appealing slant-back X6—we try to keep an open mind. But BMW is pushing the limits of our love with its 2010 5-series Gran Turismo, aka 5-series GT, which we first saw in concept form at the Geneva auto show. BMW claims the inaptly named GT's pragmatic sheetmetal will attract Lexus buyers.

As previewed in Geneva, the 5-series GT blends 5-series mechanicals with a none-too-sexy hatchback body and a capacious interior. On the outside, virtually nothing has changed from concept to reality, with the broad, blunt nose leading the way (and containing many pedestrian protection devices within it). While the “Corona rings” in the headlights are now LEDs and frameless windows top the aluminum doors, the most interesting exterior feature is the curious hatchback. It can be opened like a traditional hatchback and also has a separate flap that opens more like a trunk, presumably in order to make the car more palatable to people that have a stigma against hatchback designs. (Since people who stigmatize hatchbacks usually do so because of their looks, not their cargo access, the dual-mode hatch probably won’t help.) Wheel sizes will range from 18 to 20 inches, but even the biggest rollers get dwarfed by the slab sides of the GT. This fortress-on-tiny-wheels design may appeal to Lexus RX shoppers.

Keep Reading: 2010 BMW 5-series Gran Turismo - Official Photos and Info

BMW X6 R&D Team Wins Great Designs in Steel Automotive Excellence Award

At the Great Designs in Steel seminar in Livonia, MI, the Research and Development team behind the BMW X6 Sports Activity Coupe was selected as the winner of the annual Automotive Excellence Award.

The criteria used for this award was “cost-effective use of ultra high-strength steels that meet new market demands for safety, fuel efficiency and emission standards”.

The idea behind Steel Automotive Excellence Award is to recognize individuals or teams who significant contributions to the advancement of steel in the automotive marketplace. Candidates were rated in several categories, including: implementation in production; overall contribution to the advancement of steel; challenges and benefits associated with cost, mass reduction and performance; replacement of competitive materials; and structural performance and efficiency.

So why was the controversial BMW X6 chosen for this award? Ron Krupitzer, vice president of automotive applications for AISI’s SMDI, says that “The BMW X6 utilizes steel solutions that add to its unique, sporty design and meet new crash-test requirements, without sacrificing safety or increasing its weight. BMW’s innovative use of ultra high-strength steel technologies has resulted in a vehicle that is safe, lightweight, environmentally friendly and offers the best fuel economy in its class.”

BMW uses unique processing technologies and several complex, ultra high-strength steel grades in its design. The vehicle features a steel structure and steel side frames, panels, rear and B-Pillar reinforcements and longitudinal rear member, which improve cost, performance, reduce weight and meet Insurance Institute for Highway Safety side-impact crash test requirements.

While the idea behind the X6 SAC has always been somewhat criticized by the mass, no one has really disputed so far the performance, handling and technology that the X6 brings to the table. Many of the voices opposing the X6 models were focused on mostly the design and also the need of such vehicle in the current BMW line-up. Despite all of this, BMW has been satisfied with the last year X6 sales and confirmed many times that the Sports Activity Coupe is not a volume seller, but rather a niche model with its own clientele.

Bottom line: congratulations to the BMW R&D team behind the X6 and we look forward to the hybrid version.

[Source: American Iron and Steel Institute ]

Hartge offers new exhaust options for BMW X6 xDrive50i

The German tuner Hartge is known for their BMW tuning capabilities, but what they are even more known for, are the wide selection of wheels and bodykits they offer on many BMW models.

Last month, they released a complete aerodynamic kit for the new BMW X6 xDrive35d and today, they continued their X6 exterior design improvement by releasing new exhaust options for the BMW owners interested in modding their cars.

The two new products offered for the X6 xDrive50i are available with either two or four stainless exhaust pipes. The exhaust systems come with a custom rear bumper which blends in with the rear end design.

No pricing or other information are available at this time, but we expect a press release very soon.

[Source: bmwtuner ]

BMW 5 GT Interior: Best we have seen to date

With the risk of being called again fanboys or BMW lovers(which we actually are), we  have no choice but to declare the interior design of the new 5 Series GT, the best we have seen to date. If the exterior design will receive its share of criticism as it happened with the X6 back in time, the interior design can only be cataloged as the most luxurious cabin in the BMW line-up.

Let’s rewind back a few months and see what we said about the interior design:

“This is the area that the BMW 5 Series GT shines. The 7 Series was the first vehicle launched by BMW in a while that brought back the interior design quality expected by its fans, followed shortly by the BMW Z4 and now, the 5er GT. It was designed by Oliver Heilner with luxury and comfort in mind. “We wanted a car you could enter without difficulty and feel comfortable in over long journeys.”

The concept is a four-seater, but the production model will have five, losing the center console in the rear. The displays and controls are grouped according to their functions. The instrument panel enhances the very good visibility provided by the high seating position. The colors and materials for the interior design give the impression of total luxury, spaciousness, in my opinion, a very elegant approach which sends the right message to its potential buyers.

The impression of luxury is further enhanced by the ceramic elements integrated within the solid wood trim. The panoramic sunroof comes to complete this image.”

Now, if we were to rewrite the review, we will not only agree with everything we said, but we will have no other choice other than to praise it even more. If the concept was a little more conservative in a luxurious way, the production model is showing a far more sportier and realistic approach of the new interior design. Many of the wood panels have been replaced by other trim options, in a way reminding us even more of the new 7 Series. The seats are definitely a step up over any other model out there and we can only imagine how they feel and look in person.

The dashboard and gauges are definitely one of our favorite design elements and they will satisfy even the most demanding BMW customer.

We won’t to further praising this amazing cabin, so we will rather wait until we see the car in person and be able to report live our findings.

So….what’s interesting about the BMW 5 Series Gran Turismo

In the past 6 months or even more, we have heard many people criticizing the idea behind the BMW 5 Series Gran Turismo and shortly after, the design language chosen for this new invention coming out of the Munich gates. But in our opinion, we need to look past the design and move away, at least for a while, frorm all those heated discussions on whether this car will appeal to anyone or not.

What we need to do next is to focus on what the 5 Series GT brings to the table, there are many new technologies in this new concept and they seem to have been overlooked by many of us, including the media publications. The scope of this article is to show you the “real” 5 Series Gran Turismo and the things that got us excited.

So, let’s start with the design. The 5 Series Gran Turismo is also the first four-door/sedan BMW to have frameless doors, a feature available at this point only on the Coupe and Convertible models. The famous Hofmeister Kink gets a new form and it appears in “6-window” (3 windows per side) form in the rear quarter windows aft of the rear doors.

As we announced recently, BMW is moving towards building cars with plenty aluminum elements and the four aluminum doors on the 5 Series GT save about 62 lbs compared to a steel frame. Another new design elements is 2-piece bi-modal trunk with independent functionality. The system consists of two pieces: a trunklid-like opening under the rear window and a large liftgate.

The Panaromic moonroof which debuted in the first generation BMW X3 comes standard on the 550i model and it’s the first of this kind to be featured on a non-X model.

Moving inside, the 5 Series GT supports variable seating accommodations where the 4-seater configuration can turned into a 5-passenger cabin.

The highly awaited Instrument Panel in Black Panel Technology has just made our day. The entire instrument cluster is “in a high-resolution Black Panel display, in which four classic circular instruments are most prominent; other driving-relevant displays and readouts – including Navigation if present, vehicle-monitoring functions, upcoming service requirements and other information.”

Add the Head-Up Display to this already amazing technology and we have the dashboard we have never dreamed to have.

Now let’s continued with performance and technical elements. The top model, dubbed 550i, is powered by the twin-turbo V8 engine matted onto an 8-Speed automatic transmission. The new engine delivers 400 hp and does so over a range from 5500 to 6400 rpm. Maximum torque is 450 lb-ft., and available over the extremely broad range of 1800 to 4500 rpm. The high-end 5GT can accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in just 5.4 seconds. Compared to the exemplary 6-speed automatic offered in most current BMW models, the 8-speed’s “taller” cruising gears make a significant contribution to reduced fuel consumption and carbon-dioxide emissions as well as quietness. The wider spread of ratios allows the engine to run at lower speeds, mainly in the “tallest” gear, 8th.

To continue down the same efficiency path, for the first time in an U.S. BMW model, the new 5 Series GT comes equipped with the Brake Energy Regeneration system which reduces fuel consumption. Atypical to the regular alternator system, the system charges the battery only when the vehicle is decelerating or braking.

BMW introduces a new type of front suspension that achieves even better results, particularly in a large, relatively heavy and very powerful vehicle. In place of the strut, this new system has an upper lateral A-arm. The double-pivot lower arms are retained, so that on each side there are three links or arms. While the two lower arms preserve the double-pivot strut system’s advantages, the new upper arm facilitates the system’s handling and riding comfort by relieving the strut of its geometric duties. Some of the immediate advantages of this new multi-link system are large steering caster, more space for larger brakes, reduced friction and small positive steering offset.

As we suspected and mentioned many many times on here, plenty technologies and ideas have been imported from the recently launched 7 Series. The 5 Series Gran Turismo is the first 5er model to have electronically controlled shock absorbers, introduced under the name Dynamic Damping Control, an evolution of the EDC. Combine the DDC with ARS, which stands for Active Roll Stabilization and you have one of the best handling BMWs out there.

Now, let us throw another buzz phrase at you: Integrated Chassis Management and FlexRay. You might be wondering what this is and what it does….don’t worry, you weren’t the only one. BMW’s Integrated Chassis Management is an electronic control scheme which oversees several other components (DSC, DDC, ARS and Integral Active Steering) to ensure maximum stability. This is where FlexRay comes in: “Developed by a consortium of which BMW is a leading member, FlexRay achieves heretofore unheard-of communication speed, some 20 times that previously possible. In the 5 Series Gran Turismo, up to 16 electronic control units can be networked; in no other competitive automobile can longitudinal, lateral and vertical vehicle motions be so precisely monitored and influenced”.

Other 7 Series technologies are included as well, from the optional Night Vision Camera and Camera Package, to the Lane Departure Warning and even Rear Seat Entertainment.

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BMW X6 Hybrid caught undisguised

The final production version of the first all-wheel-drive hybrid from BMW, the X6, was spotted in the beautiful Munich. While the concept was officially unveiled at the L.A Auto Show last year in November, the production model has been seen around still carrying some minor camouflage. We already learned that the BMW X6 Hybrid along with 7 Series Hybrid will be launched at the end of this year.

The BMW X6 Hybrid is a two-mode hybrid based on an 8-cylinder gasoline engine which has been custom-made to meet the requirements of an SAV. The newer, greener X6 will utilize the dual-mode ActiveHybrid system, which has discrete modes for high-torque, low speed driving as well as for high-speed cruises.

The system uses a modular hybrid system which can be adapted to many different engine/vehicle combination, as opposed to a design-specific petrol engine/hybrid combination, which sees wider use in the automotive industry.

The two-mode hybrid uses about 20 percent less fuel than than a comparable vehicle with combustion engine. BMW is using a nickel metal hydride battery for the initial applications and unlike the other car manufacturers, the BMW hybrid engine will not be using cylinder deactivation. And second, if our sources are correct, then the BMW X6 Hybrid will feature the Start/Stop technology.

The body style is almost identical to the petrol versions, except the slightly larger M3-style bonnet, a funky feature that has been lightly criticized by some bimmer fans.

Even though no recent announcement has been made but judging from past spy photos, we expect to see  a hybrid version of the BMW X5 as well, most likely next year.

[Photos courtesy of Christian Wimmer at CWPhotography ]