The new BMW M6 Convertible

BMW Asia has announced the launch of the new BMW M6 Convertible, which will be retailing exclusively at Munich Automobiles Pte Ltd – the world’s first dedicated BMW M dealer and authorized BMW service centre.

“Just two months after its Asian sneak preview at the Singapore Yacht Show 2012, the much-anticipated new BMW M6 Convertible has officially arrived at our shores. This latest rendition offers not only a high-performance sports car with superior performance attributes, but one with an extremely exclusive character as well,” said Mr Neil Fiorentinos, Managing Director of BMW Group Asia.

The new BMW M6 Convertible now comes with a high-revving V8 engine with BMW M TwinPower Turbo technology that can generate up to 560hp (+10%) and up to 680Nm (+30%) of torque, and the ability to complete the century sprint in just 4.3 seconds.

The new BMW M6 Convertible further sports classical proportions, bearing sporty yet elegant lines of the new BMW 6 Series and the familiar design language of BMW M Automobiles form the foundations for its eloquent body design. Powerfully taut surfaces and precise contours underline the athletic aura of the new model. Additionally, a model-specific interpretation of hallmark BMW M styling cues includes design details which are influenced directly by technical considerations – such as the cooling air required, chassis geometry and aerodynamics – and therefore further highlight the car’s outstanding performance attributes. This is a fine example of how the ultra-dynamic character which marks out this most focused version of the exclusive convertible is accurately expressed through its design.

The exclusive looks of the new BMW M6 Convertible is further underlined by the “fin” architecture of the high-quality soft-top roof. Projecting into the rear section, the fins accentuate the car’s dynamically sweeping silhouette. The heated, vertical glass rear window, which is situated just behind the rear seats, retracts independently of the soft-top itself. The automatic opening and closing process for the roof can be activated both at a standstill and while on the move at speeds of up to 40km/h using a button on the centre console. The optional Comfort Access, meanwhile, allows the roof to be opened (in 19 seconds) or closed (in 24 seconds) by pressing the remote control button on the car key.

Another attribute unmatched by any rival is the leap forward in efficiency as the new BMW M6 Convertible records average fuel consumption of 10.3 litres / 100km and CO2 emissions of 239 grams per kilometers in the EU test cycle, which effectively translates to a 30 percent reduction compared to its predecessor thanks to the Efficient Dynamics technology, such as the standard-fitted Auto Start-Stop function, Brake Energy Regeneration and the volume-controlled oil pump.

“With top-class performance attributes and an ambience defined by luxury and innovative comfort features, this work of art exudes a high level of self-confidence that is unrivalled in the premium segment of its class, whilst maintaining an everyday usability at the same time,” concluded Mr Fiorentinos.

The engine: high-revving V8 with M TwinPower Turbo technology

The new BMW M6 Convertible showcases its individual style with unique styling touches and tweaks to the character of the driving experience. But it draws the output required to serve up its inspirational performance from the same source: a high-revving V8 engine with BMW M TwinPower Turbo technology, longitudinally mounted at the front of the car, whose power is channelled to the rear wheels via a seven-speed M Double Clutch Transmission with Drivelogic. This powertrain combines construction features taken directly from motor sport with innovations developed under the banner of Efficient Dynamics. Its globally unparalleled package of technology comprises two turbochargers working according to the twin-scroll principle (including a cross-bank exhaust manifold), High Precision Direct Petrol Injection, VALVETRONIC variable valve timing and Double-Vanos continuously variable camshaft control. The engine is also served by an extremely powerful cooling system and a wet sump oil supply optimised to work under high lateral forces.

The unmistakable, typically M performance characteristics of the 4.4-litre powerplant are defined by its lightning-quick responses and forceful, linear power delivery maintained into the higher reaches of the rev range. Indeed, peak torque of 680 Newton metres is on tap between 1,500 and 5,750 rpm. The V8 achieves its maximum output of 560 hp between 6,000 and 7,000 rpm and can spin on to 7,200 rpm. All of which means the rev band available in the new models to generate maximum performance is almost three times wider than that of the engine powering its predecessor.

This instantaneous and sustained power delivery is the key to unlocking the car’s intoxicating acceleration. The new BMW M6 Convertible is able to dash from rest to 100km/h in 4.3 seconds, with a top speed that is electronically limited to 250 km/h. However, the optional M Driver’s Package will help raise this barrier to 305 km/h.

The seven-speed M Double Clutch Transmission with Drivelogic:

Harnessing the high output to dynamic effect.

Tuned seamlessly to the performance characteristics of the V8 engine, the M Double Clutch Transmission with Drivelogic converts the powerplant’s impressive thrust extremely effectively into rapid acceleration. This capability is underpinned by the DCT design principle, which effectively combines two gearboxes in-one housing – yet with virtually no size or weight penalty over a conventional manual transmission. Inside the transmission, the torque is transferred via two oil-cooled wet clutches, which are engaged alternately. This allows zero interruption in the flow of power when the driver accelerates, even during gear changes.

M DCT Drivelogic offers the driver three different shift programs, both in automated mode (D) and manual mode (S). These programs alter the transmission’s shift characteristics in terms of efficiency, shift comfort and sportiness and can be activated using the rocker switch located behind the selector lever on the centre console. Added to which, the electronics also provide a Launch Control function ensuring unbeatable acceleration from a standing start, Low Speed Assistance for easier low-speed operation and the Auto Start-Stop function for increased efficiency.

The special M gear selector is used for selecting D and S modes and for engaging reverse gear. In S mode the driver changes gears manually in a sequential format. The new BMW M6 Convertible is also equipped as standard with a newly developed M leather steering wheel, complete with multifunction buttons and fixed gearshift paddles. In typical M configuration, the driver pulls the right-hand paddle to shift up and the left-hand paddle to shift down. The model-specific steering wheel stands out with its smaller rim diameter and a design which borrows from the double-spoke construction of the M light-alloy wheels.

Active M Differential delivers outstanding traction in dynamic driving situations.

The new BMW M6 Convertible also impresses by offering optimum traction in tricky road and weather conditions and under dynamic acceleration out of corners. Working behind the scenes to this end is an innovative variable locking differential in the rear differential. The Active M Differential allows the engine’s power to be split precisely and quickly between the left and right rear wheel according to the requirements of the driving situation at any particular moment.

An electronically controlled multi-plate limited-slip differential helps to reduce the rotational speed differences between the rear wheels, which is needed to optimise traction. The Active M Differential control unit is linked up to the DSC stability control system, allowing every driving situation to be precisely analysed and a loss of traction at one wheel to be detected at an early stage. The locking effect generated in response can be varied between 0 and 100 per cent, enabling wheel spin to be prevented on slippery surfaces, in instances where the left and right rear wheel have widely differing friction coefficients, in tight bends and when changing direction extremely dynamically. Optimising traction in this way also provides unbeatable driving stability in challenging conditions and allows impressively dynamic acceleration out of corners.

M-specific chassis technology, Dynamic Damper Control, M Servotronic, DSC with M Dynamic Mode.

The chassis of the new BMW M6 Convertible has been developed to M specification and therefore combines outstanding performance attributes with the comfort-enhancing features drivers appreciate on an everyday basis. Like the integral rear axle, whose subframes are bolted rigidly to the body, the double-wishbone front axle boasts specific kinematics and newly developed components made from forged aluminium. Chassis mountings using large panels at the front and rear axle ensure dynamic forces are passed evenly through to the body. Through enthusiastically driven corners, this helps to noticeably reduce the roll movements triggered by bumps in the road surface. Both the construction of the chassis and its bespoke tuning for the BMW M6 Convertible has been defined by extensive expertise from the race track and optimised during extensive testing on the Nürburgring’s Nordschleife circuit.

The standard equipment of the convertible also includes electronically controlled dampers. The M-specific Dynamic Damper Control system adjusts damping force electrohydraulically to provide the required responses for the driving situation at hand and fulfil the wishes of the driver. A choice of three settings allows drivers to adjust the damper characteristics to their needs and preferences.

The hydraulic rack-and-pinion steering ensures unbeatable precision and a high degree of comfort. This system has a variable ratio, which enhances straightline stability and reduces the number of steering wheel turns required when parking and turning off a road. The likewise standard Servotronic speed-sensitive power assistance is specially tuned to M specification and allows drivers to choose a personal configuration with the help of three set-up options.

In addition to applying brake impulses and reducing engine output to stabilise the car, the DSC stability control system of the two high-performance sports cars also employs the services of the Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Cornering Brake Control (CBC), Dynamic Brake Control (DBC), Brake Assistant, the Brake Drying function and Start-Off Assistant. M Dynamic Mode (MDM) can be activated to override the basic setting by pressing the DSC button. By raising the intervention thresholds of DSC, this mode makes it easier to move off on snow or loose sand with slightly spinning driven wheels. MDM mode also paves the way for the familiar M self-steering response. “DSC Off” mode can likewise be activated at the touch of a button.

Lightweight design across the board, flawless occupant protection.

An intelligent blend of materials also gives the body structure impressive strength coupled with extremely low weight, allowing it to enhance both occupant protection and handling agility. In the case of the BMW M6 Convertible, its roof cover is made from the glass-fibre composite material SMC (Sheet Moulding Compound). A weight-to-power ratio of 3.5 kg/hp for the new BMW M6 Convertible points to the significant advance that has also been made in this area over the predecessor model.

Robust load-path structures, large and precisely defined deformation zones and highly efficient restraint systems provide the basis for a high level of passive safety in the model. The safety equipment fitted as standard includes front airbags and head-thorax side airbags integrated into the seat frames of the new BMW M6 Convertible. The soft-top model also benefits from roll-over bars made from high-strength aluminium. Positioned behind the rear head restraints, these protective bars extend automatically in fractions of a second should there be a danger of the car rolling over. It also comes with three-point inertial-reel seat belts on all seats, belt force limiters and belt tensioners for the front seats and ISOFIX child seat attachments in the rear.

The new BMW M6 Convertible is designed as a four-seater, and space in the rear compartment has increased substantially compared with its predecessor model. The load capacity of the new BMW M6 Convertible can carry 300 litres of luggage in the boot with the soft-top down and 350 litres with it closed.

M-specific cockpit design: flawless car control, made-to-measure luxury.

Newly developed M sports seats offer the driver and front passenger optimum lateral support through quickly-taken corners, but also a high level of comfort over long distances. The lightweight seats with integrated belt system have an M-specific design headlined by extremely prominent cushion and backrest bolsters, head restraints integrated into the backrests, eye-catching stitching emphasising the segments of the seats, and an M logo embossed into the shoulder area. The M sports seats have electric height, fore/aft and backrest angle adjustment, and also come with pneumatically adjustable lumbar support, a memory function and a manually adjustable thigh support. The M sports seats are fitted with active head restraints to reduce the risk of injury in a rear-end impact.

The luxurious interior ambience of the two cars is characterised by classy materials and dynamically moulded surfaces, and the bespoke design of the cockpit and centre console – cleverly drawing on the exclusive, high-performance sports car driving experience – lends it an extra individual flair. The instrument cluster with black-panel technology features classical circular instruments in traditional BMW M style, with red needles and white illumination, as well as model-specific displays and the M logo in the rev counter. The standard-fitted control system iDrive includes an on-board monitor with an exclusive flatscreen design, while the optional Navigation system Professional brings with it a 10.2-inch version of the Control Display bordered by a high-quality, galvanised chrome frame.

Arranged around the gearshift lever on the centre console designed specially for the new BMW M6 Convertible is the buttons allowing drivers to select their preferred settings for all the adjustable powertrain and chassis functions. The DSC mode, performance characteristics of the engine, Dynamic Damper Control mapping, M Servotronic responses and M DCT Drivelogic shift program can all be adjusted independently at the touch of a button. This allows drivers to put together a detailed set-up configuration for their car and store it by holding down one of the two M Drive buttons on the multifunction steering wheel. The two standard-fitted M Drive buttons allow the driver of the new BMW M6 Convertible to store a dynamic-led configuration under the “M1” button, for example, and a comfort-biased set-up under “M2” – and to call up either in an instant and at any time. The settings stored on the M Drive buttons can also be configured using the iDrive menu.

As with the car’s performance characteristic, the aural profile of the engine can also be tweaked at the touch of a button. A sound module is used to enhance the engine’s natural acoustic components and this soundtrack is then transported into the interior. The system’s digital signal processing technology exchanges data directly with the engine management and adjusts its output to the engine’s revs, the amount of torque being produced and the car’s speed over the road. This gives the driver an impressively accurate impression of how hard the engine is currently working and of the power being unleashed, and provides an even clearer window into the car’s response on the road.

High-quality standard equipment, exclusive options: M-specific Head-Up Display, M multifunction seats, Bang & Olufsen High-End Surround Sound System.

The exclusive character of the high-performance sports car is underlined by the high-quality and extensive array of standard equipment it has on board – not to mention an unrivalled selection of high-tech options lending further depth to the driving experience. Standard equipment for the convertible include 2-zone automatic climate control, heated seats for the driver and front passenger, fine-grain Merino leather trim with extended contents, an M driver’s footrest, exclusive carbon-fibre interior trim finishes, door sill strips with illuminated “M6” designation, plus ambient light in the interior, an automatically dimming rear-view mirror and exterior mirrors (the exterior mirrors also have a folding function), Cruise Control with braking function, an alarm system and Navigation System Professional and Bang & Olufsen High-End Surround Sound System.

This Bang & Olufsen audio system brings high performance into the world of in-car sound reproduction. The fully active system with digital signal processing comes with individual amplifiers for all the bass speakers, mid-range speakers and tweeters. Its centre speaker uses the Acoustic Lens Technology developed by Bang & Olufsen. As soon as the audio system is activated, the central element containing the integrated mid-range speaker pops up from the instrument panel, prompting the tweeter lens to extend out at the same time. With a total of 12 loudspeakers in the new BMW M6 Convertible, it’s set to deliver a uniquely rich and dynamic sound experience.

Other features in the BMW M6 Convertible include; the M multifunctional seats for driver & front passenger, Adaptive LED headlights, 20-inch M alloy wheels double-spoke 343M with mixed tyres, and soft-close function for the doors.

The range of optional driver assistance systems and mobility services available from BMW ConnectedDrive add unique touches to the new model. The M-specific version of the full-colour Head-Up Display – which, alongside a digital speed readout and tips from the optional Speed Limit Info also shows the gear currently engaged and a multicolour rev counter symbol, complete with Shift Lights – is joined in the line-up by features including Park Distance Control, a rear-view camera, High Beam Assistance. Added to which, innovative technologies optimise the integration of the Apple iPhone and other smartphones, as well as music players, and incorporate the use of internet-based services.

Source: BMW Press

BMW i3 Concept

Premiere of the first series and BMW is fast approaching. Less than two months after the last test rides i3 model car was again caught by one of the Munich car parks.

BMW i3 Concept will be the first Bavarian car manufacturer, which was from the beginning designed to use only the electric motor. In addition, BMW engineers decided to give them the number of systems to enhance safety, and enhancing comfort.

The list of add-ons will be items such as adaptive cruise control, maintaining a constant distance from the vehicle in front, and the automatic braking system in the event of danger to the accident. In conjunction with the assistant riding in traffic, automatically changing the belt that moves with great speed and parking assist makes the driver is almost a passive passenger.

Auto size to fit in between the Mini and BMW 1 Series Thanks to a very tight turning circle and a large agility to ensure high efficiency around the city. Using an electric motor eliminates the problem of combustion, but the values ​​that characterize the engine is no longer a typical city. With the power of 170 hp and 250 Nm of torque, BMW has a small spin up to 60 mph in 7.9 seconds.

With the traditional use of auto-loaded by the owner will be about as often as his telephone. Charge the battery up to 80% capacity is expected to last just one hour.

Planned date of introduction of car production in 2013 is, therefore, test a small BMW slowly reach its final stage.

Bernie's Car Show Coverage: 2012 Gold Rush Rally Meetup: Atlanta

This past Wednesday was the Atlanta stop for the Gold Rush Rally. Because I was a virgin to automotive rallies, I didn't know what to expect, so I went in positive AND with an open mind. And you know what? I'm glad I did.



I got there a little too early. Despite media registration being open from 10-5, I got there at 2, knowing I should have gotten there by 5. The Gold Rush Rally participants have partied way too hard in Vegas (well, who could blame 'em) and they got to Atlanta uber late. Which meant, when I got there, there were only 6 cars. But those 6 cars carried a bit of weight to them.



To park within the area and to partake in the actual rally aspect, you had to get decaled. Gold Rush Rally was smart, and they brought with them Vinyl Styles, a automotive graphic company out of San Francisco to decal every single car at every tour stop. Let me repeat that. Every single car at every single stop. I asked them, how many decals do you put on each vehicle. Their answer... 25. And they decaled every vehicle- from the stock Chevy Surburban that confused me to the matte black Bugatti, and all those in between.



There were 19 cars that showed up- not counting the Subaru that belonged to one of the media and the factory Chevy Surburban and GMC Yukon. There were Lambos, Ferraris, A Rolls Royce Phantom, An SLS or two, an Audi R8 that had a questionable front license plate (the Georgia Flag), a Mercedes S550 that had the AMG accessories, a Mercedes Benz CL63 that was actually the AMG level, and the car that stole the show- the Bugatti Veyron that stole the show. But everyone knows that a racing event can't be considered a racing event without the two vehicles that are considered God of the import world- the Nissan GTR and BMW M Series, and they were both there as well.



We're all friends here, so we both know that when it comes to shows, I'm a critical person. I like cars to be at shows. However, even though there were 19 vehicles there that totalled to over 5 million dollars (if they were brand new), the Gold Rush Rally stop was the most productive show I've been to since SEMA. I met some great people- The Vinyl Styles guys, The Vossen Wheel guys came (the same Vossen Wheels that I feature on my site often), Jason from ATL Autorsports, Sunny from Speed Mischief, and I did meet more but I'm horrible with names. Basically the people who showed up are those who truely had a love for cars, not guys who customize cars to get girls.



I really hope that Gold Rush Rally comes back to Atlanta. Rallies don't come here, those are mostly a West Coast thing. That's why I made sure I attended. If they do come back, I hope they listen to the Gold Rush Rally volunteer who suggested for the Rally to be in Buckhead as opposed to Midtown. Midtown Atlanta is okay, but it was a business area- everything closes early in a business area.

P.S. I wish Gold Rush Rally would have given me a gift bag. Certain media members got one and I didn't. For more photos, well not much more (I mean, there were only 19 cars), click here to check out my Gold Rush Rally gallery

BMW i premieres in London: New concepts mark the opening of the world’s first BMW i Store.

To coincide with the opening of the world’s first BMW i Store on London’s Park Lane, the BMW Group will present the BMW i3 Concept with a new interior colour and materials concept. Based on the original concept car which premiered at last year’s Frankfurt International Motor Show (IAA), the BMW i3 Concept is now influenced even more heavily by the “next premium” approach, and in so doing trains the spotlight squarely on the issue of sustainability.

Celebrating its premiere at the BMW i Store is the new BMW i Pedelec (Pedal Electric Cycle) Concept – a custom-made complement to the BMW i3 Concept. The ace up the sleeve of the compact bicycle? It can be folded up almost in the blink of an eye and, handily, there is room for two of them in the boot of the BMW i3 Concept.

The BMW Group will unveil its comprehensive 360° ELECTRIC package in London for the first time. This extensive range of products and services provides an extremely reliable, comfortable and flexible way of experiencing the benefits of electromobility on a day-to-day basis.

New BMW i sales channels are designed to give customers a user-friendly and customer-orientated access point to its range of products and services. To this end, it has demonstrated a particularly acute awareness of customers’ increasing expectations when it comes to flexibility within the purchasing process.

New BMW i3 Concept: generous feeling of space combined with a unique materials concept based around renewable raw materials.

A mixture of leather, wood, wool and other renewable raw materials shapes the face of the BMW i3 Concept interior, the extensive use of natural fibres inside the car underlining the premium blueprint of BMW i.

The eucalyptus wood used for the instruments is sourced from sustainably managed European forests. This ensures that delivery distances remain short and keeps the spotlight on sustainability through all the stages of production. The wood is treated using natural materials, giving it a high-class finish and distinctive hue.

A natural tanning agent made from olive leaves is used for the leather adorning the interior. This extract from the leaves of the olive tree provides the leather with a natural layer of protection against bleaching and wear. Production of the naturally tanned leather – which comes in the new colour tone Cassia – therefore focuses on maximising durability as well as minimising environmental impact.

The leather combines with the high-quality wool used for sections of the instrument panel and door trim to lend the interior a pleasant lounge-style

ambience.

The passenger cell – the Life module – opens up a generous feeling of space beyond the scope of any conventional series-produced car to date. There is no centre tunnel bisecting the cabin, and the interior creates an open and airy impression. The full-width seat benches in the front and rear allow passengers to swap easily from one side of the car to the other and climb out comfortably – a boon in tight parking spaces, in particular. The passengers sit in a slightly raised position, which allows good visibility in city traffic and makes it easier to get in and out of the car.

Cockpit shows off cutting-edge interface design.

One of the defining features of the cockpit is the freestanding steering column, which houses the most important controls, principally the instrument cluster, start/stop button and gearshift lever. Other units, such as the controls for the audio and climate control functions, are integrated into the instrument panel, eliminating the need for a centre console. Three large displays provide the interface between the BMW i3 Concept, its passengers and the outside world.

Together, the freestanding 6.5-inch instrument cluster on the steering column and the 8.8-inch central information display (CID) show all the relevant information, the latter also providing the link between the driver and various connectivity applications. A third display below the CID shows the functions of the audio system and automatic climate control. The displays all share cutting-edge and visually appealing graphics, and boast outstanding clarity.

BMW i Design: dynamic proportions wrapped up in a new colour scheme.

The design of the body reveals the qualities of the BMW i3 Concept the first time you set eyes on it. Dynamic and compact proportions advertise the car’s agility and the sporting prowess of its electric drive system. The car’s dominant colours are the new shade Andesite Silver and familiar High-gloss Black, with eye-catching touches added by the BMW i Blue adorning the logo, kidney grille, door sills and rear apron. The high-gloss surfaces and the contrast of black, silver and blue combine to showcase the car’s impressive product substance.

The silhouette: a light and airy “space shuttle”.

Viewed from the side, the dynamic wedge shape, flowing silhouette and long wheelbase of the BMW i3 Concept catch the eye. From this angle, the exceptional spaciousness of the interior is already evident from the outside, while the short front and rear overhangs point to the excellent manoeuvrability of the BMW i3 Concept. The car’s functional qualities are also underlined by the opposing “coach” doors, which enable extremely comfortable access to the light and airy interior. Generously sized glazed surfaces create a light-footed appearance and, together with the visible carbon structures, lend visual expression to the car’s impressively low weight.

The hallmark BMW i front end.

The clearly structured front end of the BMW i3 Concept is dominated by the strikingly designed kidney grille, which has the hallmark BMW i blue background and – thanks to the car’s all-electric drive system – is totally blanked off. Below the kidney grille, a silver-coloured layer lends the front apron its form. Black-painted surfaces mark out the functional areas of the front end, such as the load compartment under the bonnet and the air inlets, while pronounced Air Curtains provide the car’s advanced aerodynamics with an additional visual focus. Another conspicuous feature at the front of the car are the LED headlights with their signature BMW i U-shaped design.

The rear exudes practicality and offers enough space to accommodate the BMW i Pedelec Concept.

The practicality of the BMW i3 Concept is highlighted particularly vividly at the rear of the car. A large, wide-opening rear window offers optimum access to the rear compartment, while the upright roof pillars create additional load capacity.

The variable-usage boot can be further expanded by folding down the rear seats and can accommodate two folding BMW i Pedelec Concept electrically-powered bicycles, which make it significantly easier to move around urban areas, in particular, but also provide increased scope for mobility when you swap the city streets for country air. A broad rear diffuser and U-shaped rear lights integrated

into the rear window lend visual emphasis to the car’s powerful stance.

LifeDrive architecture: innovative modular design.

To exploit the potential of electric drive as effectively as possible, the BMW i3 Concept’s architecture, chassis and body are designed to meet the specific challenges facing mobility today. By implementing key features like lightweight design, use of innovative materials and crash safety today, the BMW i LifeDrive concept has already paved the way for the electric drive technology of tomorrow. As with a body-on-frame set-up, the LifeDrive architecture is a horizontally split construction consisting of two separate, independent modules. While the Drive module, most of whose components are made of aluminium, incorporates the drive system, battery and chassis, along with basic structural and crash functions, the Life module is a lightweight yet high-strength passenger cell made from carbon fibre-reinforced plastic

(CFRP).

This is the first time this high-tech material has been used on such a large scale in automotive production. The concept model also scales new dimensions in weight, structural strength and crash safety. As well as their benefits for performance and agility, these qualities also increase the driving range of the BMW i3 Concept. The LifeDrive architecture is purpose-designed for an electricdrive vehicle – for example it allows the large battery packs to be integrated entirely underfloor, in the centre of the vehicle, resulting in both a low centre of gravity and optimal balance.

eDrive: agile, powerful drive system, emission-free at the point of use.

With four seats, wide-opening doors and around 200 litres of boot space, the electrically powered BMW i3 Concept is a practical and intelligent city car which produces zero local emissions. Its electric motor develops 125 kW/170 hp and produces its peak torque of 250 Newton metres (170 lb-ft) from standstill. The electric motor provides the lightweight BMW i3 Concept with dynamic performance and impressive agility – and not only when pulling away from traffic lights. The electric concept model sprints from 0 to 60 km/h (37 mph) in under four seconds, and to 100 km/h (62 mph) in under eight seconds. The generous

torque is available across a wide rpm range, resulting in very smooth power delivery. A single-speed gearbox sends the power to the rear wheels and accelerates the BMW i3 Concept to a top speed of 150 km/h (93 mph) – without interrupting the torque.

Power electronics: intelligent and efficient.

Intelligent power electronics ensure that the electric power onboard the BMW i3 Concept is used economically and efficiently. If the driver eases up on the accelerator, the electric motor acts as a generator, converting the kinetic energy into electricity which is then fed back into the battery. This results in a braking effect which the driver can make use of as necessary. Alternatively, the driver can select coasting mode, in which the zero torque control keeps the electric motor disconnected from the drive axle. In this mode the BMW i3 Concept coasts with virtually no power consumption, driven solely by its own

kinetic energy.

With ECO PRO mode, drivers can increase the driving range of their vehicle and reduce their power consumption at the press of a button. With ECO PRO+, the BMW i3 Concept takes this a stage further and operates exclusively in range-maximising mode. In this mode the main electrical consumers such as the air-conditioning and heating systems operate at minimum power level, and auxiliary consumers such as the heated seats and heated mirrors are shut down altogether.

High-voltage battery: reliable, durable and powerful.

Another stand-out feature of the innovative electric drive system is the high power-to-size ratio of the motor. Since this compact drive unit is mounted over the rear axle, together with the power electronics, transmission and differential, there is no reduction in interior space. The power needed to drive the motor and to operate all other vehicle functions is supplied by specially developed lithium-ion battery cells. They too are positioned underfloor, in an ideal location. The optimised design of the high-voltage battery used in the BMW i3 Concept minimises the effect of variations in external factors on the amount of power the battery can provide. An intelligent heating/cooling system keeps the battery at its optimal operating temperature at all times, helping to increase the performance and life expectancy of the cells. The

battery can be fully recharged in six hours at a standard power socket. If the BMW i Wallbox high-speed charger is used, an 80 per cent charge can be achieved in just one hour.

The BMW i concept.

BMW i stands for visionary vehicles and mobility services, inspiring design and a new approach to premium mobility that is strongly focused on sustainability. Under this new sub-brand, the BMW Group is developing purpose-designed vehicle concepts which will redefine the whole concept of personal mobility. The cornerstones are the use of innovative technologies, intelligent lightweight design and innovative materials to create vehicles with minimised weight, maximised driving range, generous interior space, effortless driveability and optimised safety. Part of the same family as the BMW i8 Concept Coupe and

BMW i8 Concept Spyder hybrid models, the BMW i3 is the first all-electric vehicle from BMW i. It will go into production in 2013.

Sustainability is a defining feature of BMW i and is applied right across the value chain, from purchasing, development and production to sales and marketing. BMW i will take efficiency to new levels in the production of its vehicles: the Leipzig production plant will achieve additional 70 per cent savings on water consumption and 50 per cent savings on energy consumption per vehicle produced. Moreover, 100 per cent of the energy used will be renewable.

Source: BMW Press

CEC Wheels has a AC Schnitzer BMW M6 for sale

Stop by CEC’s Los Angeles Showroom for a rare chance to own a completely customized 2010 BMW M6. Just shy of 12,000 miles, this M6 features the best quality AC Schnitzer aerodynamics and customized details. The exterior is featured in stunning BMW Imperial Blue Metallic and Silverstone with carbon fiber trim on the interior. And it's blacked out... almost.



This powerful 5.0 liter V10 engine goes from 0-60 in less than 5 seconds yet is comfortable enough for a quality daily driver. Considered by many to be the best engine in the world, the powerful 5.0 liter, V10 engine of the M6 is being offered for the last time in 2010 models.



AC Schnitzer concentrates on transferring the technology of track to road tuning. This M6 features top quality AC Schnitzer components including:

ACS Spring Kit
ACS Carbon Fiber Diffusers
ACS Front Carbon Splitters
ACS Rear Decklid Spoiler
ACS Exhaust in Matte Black
ACS Grille in Matte Black
ACS Rear Badge



Unique additions to this vehicle including custom paint details make this M6 a true, one of a kind vehicle. Customized details include:

Powder Coated Matte Textured Black M6 Wheels
Carbon Black Kidney Grills
Carbon Fiber Roundels
Carbon Black Side Grills
Smoked Front and Rear Side Markers
Smoked Tail Lights
Lime Green Brake Calipers and Exterior Mirror Trim



For all other inquiries please contact your CEC representative at CEC Los Angeles (310) 203-3900. And if you do call, do not waste their time. But that lime green threw me off. If you buy it, please get rid of the lime green. Other than that, it looks great...

Butler Tire Shows off a BMW 650i

Butler Tire released photos of a BMW 650i Convertible wearing 22in Asanti DA174 Wheels. Check this out...