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BMW Group’s innovative Edge Ecosystem wins award.

BMW:BMW Group’s innovative Edge Ecosystem wins award.

+++ Cloud-based software suite for worldwide edge device management
+++ Central app catalogue rolled out in the BMW Group production
network +++ Zero-touch installation for fully automated setup +++

 

Munich. The BMW Group’s Edge Ecosystem has won the
Microsoft Intelligent Manufacturing Award 2021 in the Envision
category. The cloud-based software suite allows production-related
applications (apps) on edge devices to be distribut-ed, configured and
administered worldwide. This means software innovations can now be
rolled out efficiently by users themselves without deviating from
standard-ised business processes.

The Edge Ecosystem significantly reduces the effort involved in the
manual man-agement of many thousands of devices around the world. It
also helps prevent faulty configurations from causing production
shutdowns and saves on maintenance costs.  These advantages make the
innovative Edge Ecosystem a key driver in the digitalisation of the
entire BMW Group production system.

Because it is open and uses standard IT technologies, the Edge
Ecosystem also allows external partners and suppliers to integrate
their hard- and software compo-nents around the world into the BMW
Group’s production system – efficiently and without special
adjustments. Fast hardware integration is enabled by a zero-touch
installer that integrates new edge devices into the ecosystem fully
automatically and without user input.

Increasing efficiency and cutting downtimes in production.

App configuration is managed centrally by the cloud platform and
allows hot-swapping – which is particularly important for production.
So if an edge device fails, it takes just a matter of minutes to load
the complete application and configuration onto a new device. This
reduces downtimes in production to a minimum and elimi-nates the need
for separate, complex backup management.

Worldwide distribution of AI models.

The BMW Group’s Edge Ecosystem is already in use in several
applications world-wide. In production, it connects the cameras and
edge devices of specialised deep learning models used for inline
quality assurance. It also allows image data, which undergoes
application-specific processing locally, to be managed and offers the
necessary flexibility for the agile exchange of AI models.

The Edge Ecosystem is being used in the press shop as well. Here,
sheet metal must be oiled before being formed, but the amount of
lubrication required depends on a range of factors, such as storage
time. To ensure the optimum amount of lu-brication, a deep-learning
model was developed that transmits the lubrication pa-rameters for
each sheet to the machine and controls the system in real time. The
model has been distributed and is constantly updated in the BMW Group
Edge Ecosystem as an application for BMW Group presses around the
world so that only as much oil is used as necessary.

Retrofitting to existing systems.

The Edge Ecosystem can also be used to update existing systems so
that they too can work with modern applications in the cloud. This is
done by installing a special gateway software on an edge device in the
system which then converts its data into cloud-compatible formats. For
example, the technology is being used to integrate loading machines
and fire doors into the network of autonomous transport systems in logistics.

Edge Ecosystem wins award.

The value-adding impact the BMW Group Edge Ecosystem will have on
future production has now been confirmed by an independent source. The
system has now scooped the Microsoft Intelligent Manufacturing Award
2021 pre-sented by Microsoft and Roland Berger, in the Envision category.

Original Press Release

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BMW Group joins sustainable lithium mining project in Chile

BMW:BMW Group joins sustainable lithium mining project in Chile

Munich. Responsible management of natural resources
is one of the core elements of the BMW Group’s commitment to
sustainability. Within the framework of these activities, the company
has joined the cross-sector “Responsible Lithium Partnership” project.
The aim of the project is to reach a shared understanding of
responsible management of natural resources with local interest groups
and develop a vision for the future of the Salar de Atacama salt flat
in Chile.

The “Responsible Lithium Partnership” was initiated in spring 2021 by
BASF, the Mercedes-Benz Group AG, Daimler Truck AG, Fairphone and the
Volkswagen Group for a planned duration of three years. The project
does not promote lithium sourcing or the purchase or sale of mineral
raw materials.

BMW Group becomes new member, shares scientific study

The BMW Group is the sixth member to join the initiative. One of the
ways in which it is supporting the project is by sharing scientific
findings on the impact of lithium mining on water resources in Chile’s
Salar de Atacama. Together with BASF, the BMW Group had already
commissioned a study by the University of Alaska Anchorage and the
University of Massachusetts Amherst into the effects of lithium mining
on local water balances in Latin America in late 2020.

The aim of the study is to gain a better scientific understanding of
the interdependencies between freshwater and lithium brine layers,
evaluate various technologies and acquire the expertise to assess
sustainable lithium mining. The study provides a scientific basis for
future decisions about lithium sourcing.

“Responsible Lithium Partnership” brings relevant players to
the table

The German Agency for International Cooperation (GIZ) is coordinating
the project, aimed at developing a joint vision for the future of the
water catchment areas of the Salar de Atacama. Representatives from
lithium and copper mining, agriculture, tourism, indigenous
communities and government are invited to a local multi-stakeholder
platform where they will develop measures together. A further aim is
to develop a joint action plan to improve long-term management of
natural resources and implement initial steps.

Original Press Release

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“WE ARE M” – BMW M celebrates its 50th anniversary with emotional campaign.

BMW:“WE ARE M” – BMW M celebrates its 50th anniversary with emotional campaign.

Munich. When the 50th anniversary of the founding of
BMW M GmbH takes place on 24 May, the celebrations will already be in
full swing. Celebrations for the anniversary kick off on 24 February
with a unique event: in a film, various BMW M vehicles along with
their drivers get together for a huddle. This kind of huddle for
coordinating strategies, motivating and cheering each other on is
known from almost every team sport. It is impressively staged with
many BMW M models.

The film about this most sporting of gatherings shows in a very
emotional way what the international BMW M community is all about.
However different the vehicles and their people might be – they all
love the accelerated heartbeat and the goose bumps that every BMW M
triggers. Excited and enthusiastic as they are, they go their own way,
are courageous and take a stance. What unites them is the passion for
that special feeling every driver of a BMW M experiences. They all
feel: WE ARE M.

“We are proud of the roaring start to our anniversary year on 24
February. The film “Huddle Speech” is in the tradition of
extraordinary films for BMW M, but is nevertheless different: it
heralds our transformation. We are looking ahead, but continuing to
create a feeling of home that defines the great BMW M fanbase,” says
Timo Resch, Head of Customer, Brand, Sales at BMW M GmbH. “We want to
celebrate with all the fans, with our international community,
therefore we have surprises in store for all communication channels,
all year round. We are really looking forward to it.”

WE ARE M stands for everything that was and will continue to be.

The claim created especially for the anniversary year shows the
sentiment of the campaign: BMW M is exceedingly multifaceted, always
appearing different and new, but instantly recognisable. From the M1
Procar and the i4 M50 to the XM Concept: BMW M is defined by a true
firework of vehicles. What unites them, despite all their differences,
is this main characteristic: being BMW M, thus always different,
unique and edgy – which is exactly what the campaign picks up on.

The 50 Years campaign is divided into four chapters, each of which is
activated over a period of one quarter. Whilst the first chapter, the
“Huddle Speech”, heralds the basic theme of 50 years of BMW M, the
second will be predominantly about BMW M’s 50-year motorsport history.
The third chapter deals with electrification, while the fourth focuses
on the unique lifestyle. During the course of the year, BMW M GmbH
will present a host of spectacular new vehicles. In addition, the
brand will present itself at numerous major international events. The
recently unveiled “BMW Motorsport Anniversary Emblem” is just one of
many more surprises for the global BMW M community.

With its heritage, BMW M is setting its sights on the future.

The holistic communication on the occasion of the 50th anniversary
also takes a look back at the unparalleled history of BMW M GmbH
experiences, achievements and successes in the performance and
high-performance segment. One example of this is the digital campaign
“Only in M Town” from the year 2018, which, even at that time, gave
BMW M enthusiasts the feeling to be at home.

But BMW M does not rest on its laurels. It utilises this strength for
its future transformation. As the next three chapters of the campaign
already imply, BMW M is oriented towards new performance,
electrification and the typical BMW M lifestyle. Because BMW M is and
will remain the Ultimate Driving Machine. After half a century and in
the future.

Link to the campaign film:

https://youtu.be/Jt_JL29K6Us

Original Press Release

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The new BMW 2 Series Active Tourer – Additional pictures.

BMW:The new BMW 2 Series Active Tourer – Additional pictures.

Do you need help? Please contact our support team from 9 to 17 CET via support.pressclub@bmwgroup.com.

PressClub Global · Article.

Wed Feb 23 00:01:00 CET 2022 Press Release

Please find attached on location pictures of the International Media Launch of the new BMW 2 Series Active Tourer.

Please find attached on location pictures of the International Media
Launch of the new BMW 2 Series Active Tourer.

CO2 EMISSIONS & CONSUMPTION.

The all-new BMW 220i Active Tourer:
Fuel consumption, combined: 6.5 – 5.9 l/100 km
(43.5 – 47.9 mpg imp), CO2 emissions, combined: 148 – 133 g/km based
on WLTP cycle.

The all-new BMW 223i Active Tourer:

Fuel consumption, combined: 6.6 – 6.0 l/100 km (42.8 – 47.1 mpg
imp), CO2 emissions, combined: 149 – 137 g/km based on the
WLTP cycle.

The all-new BMW 230e xDrive Active Tourer:

Fuel consumption combined: 1.4 – 1.1 l/100 km [201.8 – 256.8 mpg
imp]; electric power consumption combined: 20.0 kWh – 17.9 kWh/100 km;
CO2 emissions combined: 30 – 22 g/km based on the WLTP cycle.

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LAS VEGAS CES 2022.

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CO2 emission information.

Fuel consumption, CO2 emission figures and power consumption were measured using the methods required according to Regulation VO (EC) 2007/715 as amended. They refer to vehicles on the automotive market in Germany. For ranges, the NEDC figures take into account differences in the selected wheel and tyre size, while the WLTP figures take into account the effects of any optional equipment.

All figures are already calculated on the basis of the new WLTP test cycle. NEDC values listed have been calculated back to the NEDC measurement procedure where applicable. WLTP values are used as a basis for the definition of taxes and other vehicle-related levies that are (also) based on CO2 emissions and, where applicable, for the purposes of vehicle- specific subsidies. Further information on the WLTP and NEDC measurement procedures is also available at bmw.de/wltp.

For further details of the official fuel consumption figures and official specific CO2 emissions of new cars, please refer to the following web site www.dat.de.

Original Press Release

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Stylish understatement and powerful sporty flair: the MINI John Cooper Works Clubman in the Untold Edition.

BMW:Stylish understatement and powerful sporty flair: the MINI John Cooper Works Clubman in the Untold Edition.

Munich. As a modern interpretation of the classic
shooting brake concept, the MINI Clubman clearly stands apart from its
competitors in the premium compact segment. This status is reflected
in its individual body concept and stylish understatement and is now
brought to bear to even greater effect in the Untold Edition. Its
specific design features and a body finish in Sage Green metallic –
available for the first time in the MINI Clubman – lend a charismatic
look to the edition model, which will be available from March 2022.

Added to this are exclusive indications of hallmark driving pleasure,
which in the case of the MINI John Cooper Works Clubman (combined fuel
consumption: 7.9 – 7.4 l/100 km; combined CO2 emissions:
180 – 168 g/km according to WLTP) in the Untold Edition authentically
emphasise the athletic power of its engine. The design of the front
and rear aprons, inspired by the John Cooper Works Aerodynamic Kit,
reflects the model’s extremely spirited and agile character, powered
as it is by a 2.0-litre, 225 kW/306 hp 4-cylinder turbo engine. This
outstanding power goes on the road via an 8-speed Steptronic Sport
transmission and the all-wheel drive system ALL4. The MINI John Cooper
Works Clubman in the Untold Edition reaches the 100 km/h mark from a
standstill within 4.9 seconds, accelerating on rapidly right up to the
top speed of 250 km/h.

Another exclusive design feature of the MINI John Cooper Works
Clubman in the Untold Edition are the surrounds at the lower end of
the bodywork, which for the first time are finished in dark green. The
five parallel sport stripes running centrally across the bonnet and
roof are also specific to the edition model. 3D-printed, high-quality
side scuttles echo this sport stripes pattern, which is also to be
found in the logo projected from the door mirrors and on the door sill
trims. The car’s expressive design features emphasise the extravagant
body concept, which also offers exceptionally versatile functionality
with four doors, a particularly long roof line and two laterally
opening split doors at the rear.

A black finish is available as an option for the roof and exterior
mirror caps, while the door handles, exhaust tailpipe trims, MINI
logos and model inscription in Piano Black are integral to the
edition-specific design. The 18-inch light alloy wheels in Untold
Spoke design with Bicolor surfaces in the combination Jet
Black/Refined Brass were developed exclusively for the edition
vehicles. Reminiscent of refined brass as its name suggests, this
colour scheme is also applied to the radiator grille surround and
crossbar, as well as for the “Clubman” inscription on the split doors
at the rear.

The anthracite-coloured roof liner and the sports seats in MINI Yours
Leather Lounge Sage Green add a touch of sporty and exclusive flair to
the interior of the MINI Cooper S Clubman in the Untold Edition.
Bright stitching and piping along with textile inserts in the upper
and outer areas of the seat backrests particularly emphasise the
stylish atmosphere of the interior. As an alternative, sports seats
are also available in the variant MINI Yours Leather Lounge Carbon
Black. In the cockpit, illuminated accentuation strips in Sage Green
are combined with exclusively designed interior surfaces featuring a
striped pattern and a green finish. The surrounds in Refined Brass on
the air vents create a particularly elegant appearance. The MINI
Untold Edition emblem is to be found on the lower spoke of the Nappa
leather sports steering wheel and on the floor mats.

In addition to its exclusive design features, the MINI Clubman in the
Untold Edition also offers particularly high-quality equipment. This
includes adaptive LED headlights, the MINI Excitement Package and the
MINI Driving Modes as well as the lighting package for the interior.

Connected Media – which comes as standard – features an 8.8-inch
touchscreen display in the central instrument, the MINI Online digital
service, Remote Services and smartphone integration for the use of
Apple CarPlay and other apps via the vehicle operating system. The
latest generation of the MINI operating system optimises the quick and
intuitive control of vehicle functions, audio programme,
communication, navigation and apps. Live widgets on the 8.8-inch
touchscreen display of the central instrument are used to activate the
desired menu item, which can be selected as on a smartphone by means
of a swiping motion. The optional Connected Navigation Plus package
ensures intelligent connectivity at the very highest level, including
a multifunctional instrument display, a navigation system, the MINI
Head-Up Display and telephony with wireless charging, as well as
numerous digital services including the Amazon Alexa voice assistant,
Remote Services and Real Time Traffic Information.

In case of queries, please contact:

Corporate Communications

Julian Kisch, Press Officer Product Communications MINI
Tel.:
+49-89-382-38072
E-mail: julian.kisch@mini.com

Andreas Lampka, Head of Communications MINI
Tel.:
+49-89-382-23662
E-mail: andreas.lampka@mini.com


Jennifer Treiber-Ruckenbrod, Head of Communications MINI and BMW
Motorrad
Tel.: +49-89-382-35108
E-mail: jennifer.ruckenbrod@bmwgroup.com

The BMW Group

With its four brands BMW, MINI, Rolls-Royce and BMW Motorrad, the BMW
Group is the world’s leading premium manufacturer of automobiles and
motorcycles and also provides premium financial and mobility services.
The BMW Group production network comprises 31 production and assembly
facilities in 15 countries; the company has a global sales network in
more than 140 countries.

In 2021, the BMW Group sold over 2.5 million automobiles and more
than 194.000 motorcycles worldwide. The profit before tax in the
financial year 2020 was € 5,222 billion on revenues amounting to €
98,990 billion. As of 31 December 2020, the BMW Group had a workforce
of 120,726 employees.

The success of the BMW Group has always been based on long-term
thinking and responsible action. The company set the course for the
future at an early stage and consistently makes sustainability and
efficient resource management central to its strategic direction, from
the supply chain through production to the end of the use phase of all products.

www.bmwgroup.com
www.press.bmwgroup.com/deutschland

Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/BMWGroup
Twitter:
http://twitter.com/BMWGroup
YouTube:
http://www.youtube.com/BMWGroupView
YouTube:
https://www.youtube.com/MINI
Instagram:
https://www.instagram.com/bmwgroup
Instagram:
https://www.instagram.com/mini.news
LinkedIn:
https://www.linkedin.com/company/bmw-group/

Original Press Release

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‘MBEDDED’ #5: New episode of the video documentary offers exclusive look behind the scenes of the Daytona 24 Hours.

BMW:‘MBEDDED’ #5: New episode of the video documentary offers exclusive look behind the scenes of the Daytona 24 Hours.

Do you need help? Please contact our support team from 9 to 17 CET via support.pressclub@bmwgroup.com.

PressClub Global · Article.

Tue Feb 22 16:23:17 CET 2022 Press Release

In the 2022 season, the BMW M Motorsport real-time video documentary ‘MBEDDED’ continues to share exclusive behind-the-scenes footage of racing programmes, gets up close and personal with those in charge, and gives viewers a totally new perspective of how major decisions are made.

Munich. In the 2022 season, the BMW M Motorsport real-time
video documentary ‘MBEDDED’ continues to share exclusive
behind-the-scenes footage of racing programmes, gets up close and
personal with those in charge, and gives viewers a totally new
perspective of how major decisions are made. The fifth episode shows
BMW M Team RLL and the BMW M works drivers up close and personal at
the 24 Hours of Daytona (USA). Starting with Head of BMW M
Motorsport Mike Krack’s farewell speech, ‘MBEDDED’ #5 reveals both
the fascination and relentlessness of racing for man and machine.
The episode also links the history of BMW M Motorsport to the future
of LMDh. You can watch the video on the BMW M Motorsport YouTube
channel here:
https://youtu.be/YRjKyIjyJ-0
. 
 

“Team inside” are the opening words of the video – and are the theme
of the 15 minutes that follow. The episode shows what the team members
go through and their experiences at a 24-hour race as challenging as
the one at Daytona. From sporting competition on the track, through
the everyday problems of the BMW M works drivers, to discussions on
what to call next season’s LMDh car, every perspective of the major
event is covered – including a look at the unique fan culture in US motorsport.

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BMW Group Streaming

LAS VEGAS CES 2022.

Here you can see our webcast with the press conference and the innovation highlights.

Open Streaming Page

CO2 emission information.

Fuel consumption, CO2 emission figures and power consumption were measured using the methods required according to Regulation VO (EC) 2007/715 as amended. They refer to vehicles on the automotive market in Germany. For ranges, the NEDC figures take into account differences in the selected wheel and tyre size, while the WLTP figures take into account the effects of any optional equipment.

All figures are already calculated on the basis of the new WLTP test cycle. NEDC values listed have been calculated back to the NEDC measurement procedure where applicable. WLTP values are used as a basis for the definition of taxes and other vehicle-related levies that are (also) based on CO2 emissions and, where applicable, for the purposes of vehicle- specific subsidies. Further information on the WLTP and NEDC measurement procedures is also available at bmw.de/wltp.

For further details of the official fuel consumption figures and official specific CO2 emissions of new cars, please refer to the following web site www.dat.de.

Original Press Release

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BMW Welt Jazz Award 2022 kicks off. “Key Position” interpreted by the trios of Julia Hülsmann and Jacob Karlzon.

BMW:

BMW Welt Jazz Award 2022 kicks off. “Key Position” interpreted by the trios of Julia Hülsmann and Jacob Karlzon.

Munich. With the Julia Hülsmann Trio
on March 8 and the Jacob Karlzon
Trio on March 22, the BMW Welt Jazz Award
2022 kicks off its thirteenth season. A total of six free concerts
given on Tuesday evenings from March to April 2022 will see
international jazz ensembles interpret this year’s theme “Key
Position” in the Double Cone of BMW Welt. Following the
concerts, an expert jury will nominate two finalists to compete for
the award on July 9, 2022. In addition, the viewers can help their
favorite ensemble to win the audience award.

On March 8, the German ensemble Julia
Hülsmann Trio will kick off this year’s BMW Welt Jazz
Award. Berlin-based pianist Hülsmann is one of the selected German
musicians “who give fresh impetus to the world of European jazz”, said
the jury of SWR Jazz Award as early as 2016. Hülsmann first made her
mark with lyrical interpretations for the label ACT in collaboration
with prominent vocalists such as Rebekka Bakken, Anna Lauvergnac and
Roger Cicero. Since moving to ECM in 2008, she has to date released
seven albums, all featuring her inimitable, delicate and completely
pared-down performances on the piano interpreting her own
compositions. At the heart of each project is her trio with bassist
Marc Muellbauer and drummer Heinrich Köbberling, which has performed
in this constellation for 20 years. This year, the current awardee of
the German Jazz Prize and her trio will be on stage at the BMW Welt
Jazz Award.

For the second concert on March 22, BMW Welt will be
host to the Jacob Karlzon Trio. Swedish musician
Jacob Karlzon counts among the outstanding jazz pianists coming out of
Scandinavia in recent years. Following a long period as accompanist of
vocalist Viktoria Tolstoy, Karlzon made his name on the international
stage with numerous projects of his own. Combining his passion for
improvisation with unexpected rock rhythms and an open style
characteristic to Scandinavian jazz, he prefers the term “alternative
artist” to jazz pianist. True to his own style, Karlzon’s albums to
date show influences from Ravel to hard bop, from metal to EDM, merged
effortlessly by his preference for minimalist melodies. He is
currently in Munich, promoting his new album “Wanderlust”, released by
Warner and featuring the trio’s other members, bassist Morten Ramsbøl
and drummer Rasmus Kihlberg.

Evening concerts of the BMW Welt Jazz Award 2022

March 8, 2022         Julia Hülsmann Trio

March 22, 2022       Jacob Karlzon Trio

April 5, 2022            Anat Fort Trio

April 12, 2022         Giovanni Guidi Quintet

April 19, 2022         Marco Mezquida Trio

April 26, 2022         Ashley Henry Quartet

The concerts in the Double Cone of BMW Welt are offered free of
charge; however, seating is limited and cannot be guaranteed. Doors
open at 6.00 pm, the concerts start at 7.00 pm. BMW Welt follows the
latest rules regarding social distancing and hygiene that apply to
events. Current information on the concerts of the BMW Welt Jazz Award
can be found at www.bmw-welt.com.

The final concert featuring the two shortlisted
finalists will be at the auditorium of BMW Welt on July 9,
2022 at 7.00 pm. Tickets will be available at München
Ticket as of March 8, 2022.

This year‘s events will again be hosted by Hannah Weiss, winner of
the BMW Welt Young Artist Jazz Award 2019.

Jury
The jury, headed by Oliver
Hochkeppel (journalist for music and cultural affairs,
Süddeutsche Zeitung), consists of Heike Lies
(Musicologist, Music and Music Theatre Division of the Department of
Cultural Affairs of the state capital Munich ), Christiane
Böhnke-Geisse (Director of schwere reiter Musik),
Roland Spiegel (Editor and jazz expert at German
broadcasting station Bayerischer Rundfunk BR‑KLASSIK) and
Andreas Kolb (Editor-in-chief of JazzZeitung.de and
nmz – neue musikzeitung). 

Original Press Release

Posted on

The first fully electric BMW xDrive system in the BMW iX and the BMW i4 M50

BMW:The first fully electric BMW xDrive system in the BMW iX and the BMW i4 M50

Faster, more precise, more efficient: The first fully electric
BMW xDrive system in the BMW iX and the BMW i4 M50.

Two engines, four driven wheels and a globally unique drive torque
control system ensure optimal traction, driving stability and dynamics
in every situation.

Munich. More than 35 years ago, all-wheel drive
provided a new form of driving pleasure for the first time in a BMW,
and the intelligent distribution of power between the front and rear
axles has been known as BMW xDrive for almost two decades. The
fascination of four driven wheels now reaches an additional,
particularly sustainable dimension. The first fully electric BMW
xDrive system can now be experienced on the road. It makes its debut
in the BMW iX and the BMW i4 M50 (combined power consumption:
22.5 – 18.0 kWh/100 km according to WLTP; combined CO2
emissions: 0 g/km).

Like all BMW iX vehicle types, the fully electric Gran Coupé from BMW
M GmbH is powered by an engine on both the front and rear axles. This
creates an axle-parallel all-wheel drive without a mechanical
connection between the front and rear wheels. The interaction of the
two engines is optimised by an innovative and globally unique drive
torque control system. The electric BMW xDrive system thus ensures the
ideal form of power transmission in every driving situation – combined
with a typical BMW driving experience.

Intelligent networking of driving stability control, actuator
contiguous wheel slip limitation and drive control.

The fully electric BMW xDrive system makes it possible to transform
outstanding drive power, expressed for example in the BMW i4 M50 with
a system output of up to 400 kW/544 hp and a maximum torque of 795 Nm,
into superior driving dynamics. This requires precise distribution of
the drive torque. This is ensured by linking the DSC (driving
stability control) system with the all-wheel drive-specific version of
the actuator contiguous wheel slip limitation and the Combined
Charging Unit (CCU), whose highly integrated range of functions for
the first time includes both charging and drive electronics.

The intelligent networking of all systems makes it possible to
distribute the drive torque requested by the driver between the two
engines in such a way that traction and driving stability, dynamics
and efficiency are guaranteed to an optimum extent in the respective
driving situation. DSC defines the general conditions under which the
electric BMW xDrive system can operate. It permanently analyses the
vehicle’s wheel speeds, steering angle, driving speed, longitudinal
and lateral acceleration and yaw rate. Based on these parameters, a
speed corridor is determined in which the two drive units may be
active to ensure a stable driving condition. The My Mode selected by
the driver and whether the DTC (Dynamic Traction Control) is activated
are also taken into account. This mode is a special DSC mode in which,
in interaction with actuator contiguous wheel slip limitation and
other control functions, an even sportier driving style is possible on
normal surfaces without interventions, among other things through
increased intervention thresholds. In addition, a maximum drive is
achieved on loose ground such as snow, sand or gravel.

From the data supplied by DSC and the drive torque requested by the
driver, the CCU calculates the ideal distribution between front and
rear-wheel drive. The fully electric xDrive system can react
noticeably faster and with significantly higher control quality to any
change in driving situation than would be possible with a transfer box
between the axles familiar from BMW models with combustion engines.

The drive control of the CCU, actuator contiguous wheel slip
limitation and the driving stability control system interact flexibly
and precisely. If required, the data supplied by DSC about the driving
situation can already proactively include an all-wheel drive request.
In many driving situations, a change in the distribution of drive
torque between the front and rear engines alone can increase driving
stability without requiring any further intervention. If one wheel
threatens to lose grip with the road surface, actuator contiguous
wheel slip limitation with its particularly fast and precise reactions
comes into play first. Only in critical situations does DSC also
assist with wheel-specific braking interventions.

Optimal traction, perfect directional stability, maximum efficiency.

During driving off and accelerating, the desired drive torque is
distributed between both engines by the CCU to provide optimised
traction. In addition to the road friction values and the driver’s
choice, the electric BMW xDrive and actuator contiguous wheel slip
limitation also take into account environmental parameters such as
wind, uphill or downhill gradients, the vehicle settings of the My
Modes and the DTC, as well as the dynamic axle-load distribution,
which provides more weight and better power transmission to the rear
axle during acceleration. Due to the direct integration of actuator
contiguous wheel slip limitation into the drive torque control system
of the CCU, long signal paths to the driving stability control system
are eliminated, meaning that interventions can be performed at a speed
that is up to 10 times higher and in a particularly precise dosage.
This ensures unwavering directional stability of the vehicle even
during extremely dynamic acceleration manoeuvres.

When the accelerator pedal is pressed moderately, a continuously
higher proportion of drive torque is provided by the rear electric
drive unit as the speed increases. In phases of constant driving, the
drive is finally provided solely by the engine acting on the rear
wheels. This creates the traditional BMW driving experience. At the
same time, the efficiency of the drive system and, with it, the range
of the vehicle is optimised.

Full all-wheel drive functionality is available at all times. For
example, even when driving in My Mode Efficient, any spontaneous load
demand is immediately met with a significant increase in drive torque
on the front axle. When cornering dynamically, on the other hand, the
proportion of rear-wheel drive is increased. The front wheels can
therefore absorb higher cornering forces due to the reduced drive
torque. In this way, the vehicle’s driving stability and agility are
increased in equal measure. Depending on the driving situation, the
fully variable electric BMW xDrive system can implement any form of
power transmission: traction-optimised all-wheel drive with variable
torque distribution as well as pure front or rear-wheel drive.

Precisely controlled energy recovery optimises driving stability and efficiency.

In coasting and braking phases, both engines can feed energy back
into the high-voltage battery by means of a generator function. This
makes a significantly higher recuperation performance possible than
just one motor. The fully electric BMW xDrive system also makes it
possible to control these energy recovery processes in such a way as
to ensure maximum driving stability and efficiency at all times. The
system is designed so that the more powerful engine on the rear axle
also takes on the main role in recovering energy. In curves and in
adverse road conditions, on the other hand, a higher proportion of
energy recovery performance is provided by the front engine.

Just like the drive torque, the energy recovery torque can also be
divided quickly and precisely between the two engines. In addition,
the intelligently networked drive torque control system ensures that a
stable driving condition is also guaranteed during deceleration
processes. The slip control set by DSC helps to prevent unstable
driving conditions caused by excessive braking recovery. The
transition from deceleration through recovery to the intervention of
the hydraulic braking system is not perceptible to the driver. The
integrated braking system also contributes to this, providing a
constant pedal feel at all times.

The figures for fuel consumption, CO2 emissions, power
consumption and range are measured using the methods required
according to Regulation (EC) 2007/715 as amended. These figures refer
to vehicles on the automotive market in Germany. For span widths, the
specifications take into account the effects of any optional equipment.

All values were calculated based on the new WLTP test cycle. WLTP
values are taken as the basis for determining vehicle-related taxes or
other duties based (at least inter alia) on CO2 emissions
as well as eligibility for any applicable vehicle-specific subsidies.
Further information on the WLTP and NEDC measurement procedures can
also be found at www.bmw.de/wltp.

More information about the official fuel consumption figures and the
official specific CO2 emissions of new passenger cars can
be obtained from the “Guideline on fuel consumption,
CO2 emissions and power consumption of new passenger
cars”, available free of charge from all outlets, from Deutschen
Automobil Treuhand GmbH (DAT), Hellmuth-Hirth-Str. 1, 73760
Ostfildern-Scharnhausen, and at https://www.dat.de/co2/.

 

Please address any queries to:

Corporate Communications and Policies

 

Bernhard Ederer, BMW Group Innovations and Design
Communications
Tel.: +49 (0) 176 601 28556, Email: Bernhard.Ederer@bmwgroup.com

Dieter Falkensteiner, BMW Group Innovations and Design Communications

Tel: +49 (0) 151 601 51813, Email: Dieter.Falkensteiner@bmwgroup.com

Almut. Stollberg, Head of Communication Innovation, Design, Technology

Tel: +49 (0) 151 601 96543, Email: Almut.Stollberg@bmwgroup.com

Internet: www.press.bmwgroup.com/deutschland

E-mail: presse@bmw.de

 

 

The BMW Group

With its four brands BMW, MINI, Rolls-Royce and BMW Motorrad, the BMW
Group is the world’s leading premium manufacturer of automobiles and
motorcycles and also provides premium financial and mobility services.
The BMW Group production network comprises 31 production and assembly
facilities in 15 countries; the company has a global sales network in
more than 140 countries.

In 2021, the BMW Group sold over 2.5 million passenger vehicles and
more than 194,000 motorcycles worldwide. The profit before tax in the
financial year 2020 was € 5.222 billion on revenues amounting to
€ 98.990 billion. As of 31 December 2020, the BMW Group had a
workforce of 120,726 employees.

The success of the BMW Group has always been based on long-term
thinking and responsible action. The company set the course for the
future at an early stage and consistently makes sustainability and
efficient resource management central to its strategic direction, from
the supply chain through production to the end of the use phase of all products.

www.bmwgroup.com

Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/BMWGroup

Twitter: http://twitter.com/BMWGroup

YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/BMWGroupView

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bmwgroup

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/bmw-group/

Original Press Release

Posted on

For the highest level of well-being in the luxury segment: the BMW i7 undergoes acoustic testing at the new FIZ North site.

BMW:For the highest level of well-being in the luxury segment: the BMW i7 undergoes acoustic testing at the new FIZ North site.

Munich. The BMW i7 (combined power consumption: 22.5
– 19.5 kWh/100 km according to WLTP; CO2 emissions: 0 g/km; forecast
based on the vehicle’s development status to date) is being developed
with the aim of combining hallmark driving pleasure with a level of
comfort that is in a class of its own. One key factor here is the
acoustic properties. The level of well-being in the interior of the
purely electrically powered luxury sedan is largely determined by the
degree to which disturbing noises can be kept away from the occupants.
There are a variety of potential noise sources to be taken into
account here, so near-production prototypes of the BMW i7 – and indeed
all other model variants of the future BMW 7 Series – undergo an
extensive programme as part of their acoustic testing.

At the Research and Innovation Centre (FIZ) in Munich, test and
development engineers check the full range of the vehicle’s sound
emissions and immissions. Motor and rolling noise are analysed in
detail, as are the aeroacoustics and vibration comfort, in order to
fully determine the acoustic properties of the new luxury sedans. This
also includes precise alignment of acoustic pedestrian protection and
the motor sound emitted in the interior of the BMW i7 – the latter
having been developed as part of BMW IconicSounds Electric, a
collaborative venture between the BMW Group and Hollywood film music
composer Hans Zimmer.

The driver of the BMW i7 has a choice: characteristic silence
or BMW IconicSounds Electric developed in collaboration with Hans Zimmer.

The acoustic test benches at the new branch of the BMW Group’s
Research and Innovation Centre FIZ North are specially designed to
meet the requirements of electromobility and enable all driving
situations to be simulated realistically. Here, any irritating noises
registered by development engineers during test drives on the road can
be recreated and selectively eliminated. Roller dynamometers with a
unique quiescent level and interchangeable surface coverings enable
the measurement and validation of drive acoustics and tyre noise on
all road surfaces that are relevant to day-to-day traffic anywhere in
the world.

The BMW i7 aspires to redefine the high standards of the luxury
segment – and this very much applies to acoustic comfort as well.
Great importance was attached to noiseless power delivery of the
electric motor. Contributing factors here include acoustic
optimisation of the electric drive units, a model-specific mount
concept and a newly developed noise encapsulation for the electric
motors. Taken together, these measures enable the BMW i7 to achieve
effective acoustic decoupling across a wide frequency range, thereby
ensuring maximum acoustic comfort in the interior in all driving
situations. As a result, the driver of the purely electrically powered
luxury sedan always has the choice of enjoying either the
characteristic silence of the motor or the emotionally powerful BMW
IconicSounds Electric developed in collaboration with Hans Zimmer.

Increased body rigidity at the front end and tyres with a foam
absorber on the inside for integrated noise insulation likewise help
raise the acoustic and vibration comfort of the new luxury sedans to
an outstanding level.

Acoustic testing on the climatic test bench and in the wind tunnel.

In order to be able to test the effectiveness of all measures under
extreme climatic conditions too, the development engineers at FIZ
North use an acoustic climate test bench specially designed for this
purpose. Here, all globally relevant conditions can be simulated and a
wide variety of noise sources can be analysed and optimised such as
the acoustics of the air conditioning and ventilation system
throughout the entire vehicle – in particular at very low or very high temperatures.

In the same way as the motor and tyre rolling acoustics, ambient
noise can also be selectively reduced. For this purpose, the
aeroacoustics of the BMW i7 are perfected in the acoustic wind tunnel.
Clear-cut body surfaces, flush-integrated door handles,
aerodynamically optimised exterior mirrors and an almost completely
closed underbody not only contribute to the low air resistance of the
luxury sedan, they also help create its excellent acoustics.

Innovative materials for optimised sound insulation.

In addition to the noise and vibrations emanating from the vehicle
itself, it is primarily the noise sources from the outside that can
impair the experience of comfort while driving. The new acoustic
simulator at FIZ North enables the noise emitted in day-to-day traffic
to be simulated under laboratory conditions – this includes the sounds
made at road construction sites and by passing trucks, for example.
Numerous loudspeakers are used to project these sounds onto the
vehicle prototypes from all directions to test the effectiveness of
the interior noise insulation.

Highly effective and also weight-optimised sound insulation is
enabled by the use of innovative materials developed in conjunction
with acoustic lightweight construction. One of the ways in which
outstanding shielding of external and intrinsic noise is achieved is
by means of sound absorbers incorporated in the pillar trim, seats,
roof liner and rear shelf. Together with the comfort glazing, which
prevents unwelcome noise from entering through the window panes, this
adds the final touch of perfection to the customer experience. There
are also fleece elements in the doors and on the sill and wheel arch
trim which reduce rolling noise, thereby maximising the experience of comfort.

Intense testing of electromagnetic compatibility.

With their detailed analyses and precise optimisation, the
development and test engineers seek to ensure that the new luxury
sedans offer the best comfort experience ever realised in a BMW. This
also includes an analysis of electromagnetic compatibility (EMC). In
the so-called EMC absorber hall at the FIZ, prototypes of the new
luxury sedans are exposed to powerful electromagnetic fields so as to
test the susceptibility of their electrical systems to interference
and see how they interact with the environment.

The test engineers are able to analyse the diagnostic results
transmitted from the vehicle in real time via fibre optic cables. The
test programme in the EMC absorber hall enables comprehensive
protection of the entire vehicle, ensuring absolutely reliable
functioning of the suspension control and assistance systems and
interference-free reception of online data, telephone, radio, TV and
navigation signals.

The BMW i7

Combined power consumption: 22.5 – 19.5 kWh/100 km
according to WLTP; CO2 emissions: 0 g/km; forecast based on the
vehicle’s development status to date. 

Original Press Release

Posted on

Joint winners in the BMW Munich – Urban Production architecture competition

BMW:Joint winners in the BMW Munich – Urban Production architecture competition

Munich. The winners of the BMW Munich – Urban
Production architecture competition for outstanding, future-proof
production at the home plant in Munich have been decided. The jury of
the international contest voted unanimously in favour of designs by
Rotterdam’s OMA and Copenhagen’s 3XN architects. After a day and a
half of intense deliberation, they concluded that the winning
solutions of both practices were of the same high standard. Both had
interpreted the task very well and convinced the jury with their
different focal points. All six of the participating projects from
international architecture practices were of excellent quality and had
offered various solutions for successfully integrating innovative,
sustainable, competitive production into an urban environment.

“The two first prizes have gone to projects with quite different
winning characteristics. Both harbour major potential for a masterplan
that meets the needs of the special, inner-city environment of BMW
Plant Munich and will ready it for the future,” said Dieter Reiter,
Lord Mayor of Munich.

“Our industry is in the middle of the transformation to
electromobility, digitalisation and circularity, a transformation made
possible by our employees. Creating the perfect environment for them
to perform, identify with our company and experience valuable
encounters is fundamental to our success – today and in the future. 
But we are also a part of the social system around us and take
responsibility for the development of our urban environment. Together
with our stakeholders, we are developing a masterplan that will offer
a long-term perspective to people inside and outside the plant. Our
aim is to create a progressive environment for work and production
that focuses firmly on sustainability, urban planning, transport and
logistics, as well as the local neighbourhood,” said Ilka Horstmeier,
BMW AG Board Member for HR and Labour Relations Director.

“To mark its centenary, we are shaping the future of our home plant
with a top-class architecture competition – a strong commitment by the
BMW Group to this unique plant in the middle of Munich,” said Milan
Nedeljković, BMW AG Board Member for Production. “The winning designs
by OMA and 3XN are convincing, forward-looking proposals that coincide
with our own vision for an innovative and integrative working world.
As the transformation to electromobility continues, production at BMW
is becoming more efficient, flexible, digital and sustainable than ever.”

The aim of the BMW Munich – Urban Production planning competition was
to find a design that is both functional and convincing in terms of
urban development. The focus should be on efficient, competitive
production on the one hand and embedding the plant into its urban
environment on the other. The BMW Group will now join forces with the
award-winners to further their proposals develop, so that the company
can benefit as fully as possible from the various opportunities of the
different approaches and their synergies, and to develop a coherent,
forward-looking masterplan.

Members of the jury

The members of the award jury were: Dieter Reiter, Lord Mayor of
Munich; BMW AG Board Members Ilka Horstmeier and Dr. Milan
Nedeljković; Prof. Elisabeth Merk, Planning Director of the City of
Munich; Michael Hardi, Head of Planning of the City of Munich; various
renowned architects, landscape architects, transport planners, and
further representatives of the Munich City Council.

OMA OFFICE FOR METROPOLITAN ARCHITECTURE

OMA is an international practice operating in the field of
architecture and urbanism. AMO, a research and design studio, applies
architectural thinking to domains beyond architecture.

Rem Koolhaas founded OMA in 1975 together with Elia and Zoe Zenghelis
and Madelon Vriesendorp. He is also a professor at Harvard University
and at the Central Academy of Fine Arts in Beijing.

Today, OMA is led by eight partners – Rem Koolhaas, Reinier de Graaf,
Ellen van Loon, Shohei Shigematsu, Iyad Alsaka, Chris van Duijn, Jason
Long, and Managing Partner-Architect David Gianotten – and maintains
offices in Rotterdam, New York, Hong Kong, Doha, and Australia.

OMA-designed buildings currently under construction are the
renovation of Kaufhaus des Westens (KaDeWe) in Berlin, The Factory in
Manchester, Hangzhou Prism, the CMG Times Center in Shenzhen and the
Simone Veil Bridge in Bordeaux.

OMA was supported by Vogt Landschaftsarchitekten GmbH, Berlin,
Systematica S.r.l., Mailand, Transsolar Energietechnik GmbH, Munich,
Ingenieursgesellschaft Prof. Dr. Sieker mbH, Hoppegarten,
knippershelbig GmbH, Berlin and Büro Stanek, Berlin.

3XN
3XN was founded in 1986 and has more than 30
years of experience in creating cultural, office and residential
environments, which positively affect behaviour, productivity and
social interaction. In 2007, 3XN extended with a research and
innovation department “GXN Innovation”, who’s research and prime
services in Behavioural-, Circular-, and Parametric design channels
directly into 3XN’s designs and strategies to meet the challenges of
the 21st century. The synergy between 3XN and GXN – between Practice
and Research – not only allows us to design some of the most
sustainable buildings in the world. We design buildings that place
users at the heart of our designs, with the intention to foster
well-being and social dynamics across age, culture and background. 

3XN we believes that “architecture shapes behaviour”. This philosophy
is a fundamental pillar in 3XN design approach, as 3XN believes that
Architecture can positively shape people’s behaviour for learning. 3XN
approach is that new buildings should add new and positive qualities
to their environment, the wider area and the brief in order to unlock
potentials for social interaction and interdisciplinary work. Driven
from a Scandinavian approach, 3XN has grown to employ more 180
architects and researchers from 25 different nationalities, who have
local and international experience. 3XN holds offices in Copenhagen
(HQ), Sydney, New York, London and Stockholm, of which their global
capacity gives them the ability to design buildings from a global best
practice, while respecting local cultures and new perspectives.


3XN was supported by Latz + Partner LandschaftsArchitekten
Stadtplaner, Kranzberg,  WSP Germany, Munich, GXN, Kopenhagen and
Harald Niemöller Prüfgesellschaft, Munich.

If you have any questions, please contact:

Corporate Communications

Hanns Huber, Communications Production Network BMW Group

Mobile:   +49-151-601-31181

Mail: hanns.ha.huber@bmw.de

Internet: www.press.bmwgroup.com/deutschland

E-mail: presse@bmwgroup.com

Die BMW Group

With its four brands BMW, MINI, Rolls-Royce and BMW Motorrad, the BMW
Group is the world’s leading premium manufacturer of automobiles and
motorcycles and also provides premium financial and mobility services.
The BMW Group production network comprises 31 production and assembly
facilities in 15 countries; the company has a global sales network in
more than 140 countries.

In 2020, the BMW Group sold over 2.3 million passenger vehicles and
more than 169,000 motorcycles worldwide. The profit before tax in the
financial year 2020 was € 5.222 billion on revenues amounting to
€ 98.990 billion. As of 31 December 2020, the BMW Group had a
workforce of 120,726 employees.

The success of the BMW Group has always been based on long-term
thinking and responsible action. The company set the course for the
future at an early stage and consistently makes sustainability and
efficient resource management central to its strategic direction, from
the supply chain through production to the end of the use phase of all products.

www.bmwgroup.com

Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/BMWGroup

Twitter: http://twitter.com/BMWGroup

YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/BMWGroupView

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bmwgroup

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/bmw-group/

Original Press Release