Cadillac ATS Wins 2013 North American Car of the Year
General Motors. Photo By: Associated Press.
A jury of 49 automotive journalists considered every new car released in the past year, and selected ATS as the winner. The award was announced at a press conference opening the 25th annual North American International Auto Show.
"This is a very meaningful honor for the entire Cadillac team, especially the men and women who build the ATS in Lansing, Michigan, and our dedicated and talented designers and engineers,” said Bob Ferguson, GM vice president, global Cadillac. “A car like ATS is the result of incredible commitment and focus. That’s the only method for creating a great performing luxury car."
The new ATS is the lightest car in its class with a unique architecture designed for nimble driving performance. The North American Car of the Year award is the latest in a growing list of accolades for the ATS, which was named Car of the Year by Esquire, and the Motor Press Guild, as well as several other awards.
A compact sport sedan, the ATS is offered in rear- and all-wheel drive versions, with a choice of powerful and efficient four- and six-cylinder engines. It recently received a 5-Star overall crash test rating in the New Car Assessment Program run by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.
Cadillac has been a leading luxury auto brand since 1902. In recent years, Cadillac has engineered a historic renaissance led by artful engineering and advanced technology. More information on Cadillac can be found at media.cadillac.com.
Goodwill Classic
Moritz of North Arlington is proud once again to be a part of the Goodwill Classic on November 5th, 2012 at Ridglea Country Club in Fort Worth.This is the fifth year for the tournament to be held and Moritz has been honored to be a part of this spectacular event for each and every year.
The tournament benefits Goodwill Industries of Fort Worth, an organization that has been serving the area for more than 60 years.Goodwill’s philosophy is simple; when you support Goodwill Industries you are you are supporting an organization that believes in giving “a hand up, not a hand out.”Most are familiar with Goodwill’s capacity to recycle household goods and clothing but you may not be aware that Goodwill also focuses on job training and placement programs as well. Nolan Ryan and former mayor Mike Moncrief have co-chaired this event since it's inception and this year is no different.
We will be sponsoring two hole-in-one holes for the Classic.On hole number 17 we will have the 2013 BMW X5 and on hole number 7 we will have the all new Cadillac ATS.
Visit our Facebook Pages for more pictures and news of the Goodwill Classic in action by clicking on one of the links below and be sure to "Like" one or all of our pages online to receive the latest and greatest from each brand and Moritz throughout the year.
Moritz Cadillac XTS Launch Party at Olenjack’s Grille
Moritz Cadillac is teaming up with Olenjack’s Grille to launch the new full-size 2013 Cadillac XTS with a wine tasting and hors d'oeuvres event Thursday July 19th 6:00-9:00 p.m. Olenjack’s Grille 770 Road to Six Flags E #100 Arlington, TX 76011
We couldn’t imagine a better venue for you to be able to get your first glimpse of the Cadillac XTS, take it out on the road and then head back to Olenjack’s for some great food and wine served with upscale flair.
We hope you will join us as we introduce the all new full-size 2013 Cadillac XTS. This is the vehicle that will launch Cadillac into the future; The vehicle that artistically melds futuristic technology with pure Cadillac luxury. The XTS offers a sleek exterior design, beautifully crafted interior, Revolutionary CUE Technology that connects up to 10 devices via Bluetooth along with a flawless ride from the 3.6 L V6 Engine that pumps 304 Horsepower. We will have our sales specialists on hand to answer any questions you may have about the XTS and CUE Technology system.
We will be giving away raffle items throughout the evening including 4 tickets to a Ranger’s home game, 6 $100.00 Olenjack’s Gift Certificates, One complete auto detail, Cadillac accessories and dinner for a group to Olenjack’s to name a few with a grand prize of a *suite to a Texas Rangers home game.
*If you want to take the car out for a test drive please make sure you have your driver’s license and current proof of insurance. We will begin registration check-ins at 5:45 to get the test drives started promptly at 6:00. Pre-register online to RSVP and cut down your registration time upon arrival. *suite doesn’t include food or drink but is available to you.
Technology Meets Luxury
If you're a luxury car driver who loves having the latest technology at your disposal, you need to check out the 2013 Cadillac XTS. Cadillac has really stepped its game up to deliver technology with the luxury that is synonymous with the name Cadillac. With the purchase of each 2013 Cadillac XTS, General Motors will include a brand-new iPad with each vehicle. General Motors is looking to lead the way with the onboard technology and performance front.
The new iPad on the Cadillac XTS isn't just a way to attract consumers to the vehicle. The iPad actually works in conjunction with the vehicle, using the MyCadillac app which allows users to access the CUE info-tainment system, along with OnStar RemoteLink, providing not only all the functionality one could want from an onboard system but also all of the extra features that iPad’s have to offer.
With an increased dosage of connectivity, drivers will be able to track their performance and stay engaged on the standard front-wheel drive edition that achieves 17 miles per gallon city and 28 mpg highway. An all-wheel drive variant is also available on the 3.6-liter direct-injection engine that churns out 300 horsepower in a six-speed automatic transmission.
While we can list out all of the performance features of the new Cadillac XTS, drivers tend to forget many after they purchase or lease their new vehicle and drive away. With the iPad, drivers can connect more in depth with their vehicle, learn about all the performance specifications, and the CUE system as they please, by bringing the device wherever they go. In turn, this will create luxury car drivers who can cruise the streets with full working knowledge of their vehicle.
If you would like to learn more about the all new Cadillac XTS stop in to our Moritz Cadillac showroom between the hours of 8:30 a.m. and 8:00 p.m. and we would be happy to answer any questions you may have. Our sales and loan specialists are always here to help you find the right plan for you and your family to get you behind the wheel of the Cadillac of your dreams.
South Texans....Start Your Engines
Everything is bigger in Texas. Pretty soon it could be faster too as the state considers posting an 85 mile per hour limit on a stretch of road currently under construction. That would be the highest posted speed limit in the nation -- not to mention the entire Western Hemisphere. The proposed 85 mile per hour speed limit is legal thanks to a bill that was approved last year by the state.
The roadway in question, Texas State Highway 130, is currently under construction between Austin and San Antonio. The proposed toll road is to be an alternative to Interstate 35, one of the Lone Star State's most congested if not the most congested stretch of road in the state. While the proposed increased limit would offer a much faster alternative when making the jaunt between Austin and San Antonio it is being met with cries of not so fast from many critics.
According to the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) higher speeds can lead to more severe car crashes, injuries and a higher fatality rate. While there are many studies that do tend to suggest that variations in speed (such as merging vehicles) can be a factor in car crashes they tend to suggest that speed is the root of the problem. "The risk of death and severe injury is a direct exponential function of speed, not speed differences,” this according to the IIHS.
Transportation officials are testing a 41-mile stretch of Highway 130 between Austin and Seguin to see if it’s safe to raise the posted speed limit to 85 mph. The limit on that section of the new toll road is already 80 mph, according to TxDot.
In separate bills last year, the Texas Legislature approved changing the speed limit to 75 mph on certain approved roads and to 80 mph or 85 mph on other roads designed to accommodate higher speeds, according to TxDot. Texas now has about 3,200 miles of roadway with a 75-mph speed limit, representing about 4 percent of the state’s 80,000 highway miles, said Penny Mason of TxDot. The remainder of the roadways has a posted speed limit set of 65 or 70 miles per hour. With the exception of 575 miles of road that do post an 80 mile per hour limit. This accounts for less than 1% of all Texas roadways.
The MINI Fever Spread by Word of Mouth
Mr. Walt Disney himself once said, “Do what you do so well that people cannot resist telling others about you.”The employees at Moritz MINI have taken these words to heart.They fully believe that purchasing a vehicle doesn’t have to be intimidating or worry-some; it should be fun just like the products that they sell.
Like the picture indicates, this story is complicated, but does show the importance of a good product, good service and good old fashioned word of mouth advertising.
Upon arriving at Moritz MINI Mr. Frank Correri was greeted by Samantha Miller.Mr. Correri, a longtime Honda customer, had never even sat in a MINI before let alone had any designs on buying one that day.After spending some learning about the different MINI models and options he was hooked and purchased his very first MINI that very day… a Hardtop.
Mr. Correri went home that night and showed the car to his girlfriend Cynthia Weatherford who too fell in love with the MINI.After all, what’s not to love?The very next day Ms. Weatherford, also a longtime Honda customer, purchased her very first MINI as well…a Hardtop.
Within hours of Ms. Weatherford purchasing her car Frank and Cynthia’s neighbors Frank and Amber Jones were in talking with Samantha about purchasing their very first MINI.They too closed the deal and joined the MINI Hardtop club.
Obviously happy with their purchase they were telling all their friends and family member what all MINI owners know…There is no finer car or culture than MINI.Within a couple of days another family member Michelle Jones, Franks’ mother was ready to take the plunge too.She opted for the MINI Countryman.
From looking at the picture you might think that this is where the story ends.Well, that isn’t the case at all.Just a few days after this photo was taken Morgan Myers, Michelle’s daughter, was in buying her very first MINI as well.Like her mother she opted for the Countryman.Make no mistake about it, the story won’t end with Morgan.
The point of this whole story you might ask…The employees at Moritz MINI are not your typical car sales people.They have a legitimate love of their product, their environment and their customers and in return their customers share the love too.Stop in and see what all the buzz is about!
Cadillac Awards
Moritz Cadillac was recently awarded the 2012 Master Dealer Award from General Motors.This very prestigious award is awarded to 59 dealers nationwide and Moritz Cadillac is pleased once again to be in such an elite group of dealers.In order to qualify for the Master Dealers Award you have to betop ranked in several categories including sales numbers, customer satisfaction and dealer training program completion to name a few.
Cadillac also bestowed top honors to three of the Cadillac salesmen here at Moritz; awarding them with the Crest Club Award.The Crest Club Award is handed out to the top 20 salesmen within each the 5 regions in the United States.The Crest Club Award was given to Moritz’s very own Chauncey Bivins, Mark Carter and Bob Paul.Each of these men possesses not only great knowledge of their product but also great people skills and the drive that it takes to be successful in this competitive sales market.
Moritz Cadillac has been the premier Cadillac Dealership in the North Arlington/ DFW Metroplex area since 1973 and has taken great pride in offering award winning service year in and year out.Stop in and visit any of our fine sales team members.We look forward to serving you!
MINI TAKES THE STATES
MINI Takes the States
Registration has begun for the MINI TAKES THE STATES ultimate cross-country road rally contest. The rally will begin on July 4th, 2012 in New York City and wind its ways across 16 states, 13 cities and countless other towns in between before ending in Los Angeles, CA.The lucky winner of the rally will get the chance to cheer on Team USA in this Summer’s Olympic games in historic London, England.
MINI TAKES THE STATES is no ordinary event and this is no ordinary contest. From now until July you can prove just how much you know about all things MINI in the weekly challenge. The rally may not begin until July, but you can jump start the competition and begin earning points now. Why wait, when you can get started now? Once you hit the road, the fun will get even more exciting with online quizzes and what can only be classified as the greatest scavenger hunt ever undertaken in the United States.
Everything you do in life counts and in these MINI GAMES you can win by everything you do.
Your score and your position will be posted daily on our Leader Boards. MINI TAKES THE STATES may not be a race, but it is however, a challenge. The challenge is in….Do you accept?
MINI Goodwood
Who says bigger is better?MINI lovers sure don’t!Keeping with the tradition of always pushing the limits MINI has teamed with Rolls Royce to provide what can only be described as simple British elegance paired with good old fashioned fun.
The MINI Goodwood is a limited production vehicle with only 1000 being made world wide.Of that 1000 vehicles, only about 140 have found their way to the United States.
The Goodwood has the body and engine of the MINI Cooper S and is available in Diamond Black and Reef Blue only giving the Goodwood true exclusivity.The interior, which was designed by the Chief Interior Designer from Rolls-Royce Motor Cars Alan Sheppard, comes well appointed with a premium harman/kardon sound system, MINI Connected with Navigation, walnut surfaces and the finest cornsilk-beige leather hand-picked at the Goodwood factory.
The Goodwood’s MSRP is $52,000.00.Please contact Moritz MINI for more information regarding this limited edition vehicle.
BMW 3 Series Sedan Named Top Safety Pick By IIHS
Some very exciting news for BMW and the consumers that drive BMW’s was announced recently. The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) named the all-new 2012 BMW 3 Series Sedan as a “Top Safety Pick”, continuing the company’s long-standing commitment to offering luxury and safety with each model that is introduced to the general public.
In order to qualify as a “Top Safety Pick”, a car must receive a rating of “good”, which is the Institute’s highest rating in all of four tests that they conduct. These tests include the 40 mph frontal offset impact, side impact, rear impact protection/head restraint and rollover protection. The vehicles must also be equipped with an electronic stability control system like BMW’s Dynamic Stability Control to qualify for this award.
Please feel free to contact us at 1-800-614-8776 or visit our Facebook page for constant updates and information about the entire line of BMW’s. We look forward to putting you into your own ultimate driving machine
Free General Motors Plant Tours
FREE PUBLIC TOURS OF GM ARLINGTON ASSEMBLY PLANT
UAW Local 276 and General Motors are putting out the welcome mat for visitors and locals with a three day Open House featuring plant tours, vehicle displays The General Motors (GM) assembly plant in Arlington is welcoming the public to an open house and tours of its state-of-the-art manufacturing facility.
The GM assembly plant will open its doors to the public for a rare behind-the-scenes look at Chevy, GMC and Cadillac vehicles being made on the active assembly line. As a special treat, GM will be inviting cameras into the facility during the open house only, so the community can share the experience with friends and family.
IMPORTANT SAFETY NOTICE: Proper footwear is required. Visitors must wear closed-toe shoes. No open-toed, open-heeled shoes or high heels in the manufacturing area. No sandals, Crocs or flip flops allowed.
The GM assembly plant in Arlington began production in January of 1954 and currently employs more than 2,500 people, producing GMC Yukon, Chevrolet Suburban, Chevrolet Tahoe, and Cadillac Escalade sport utility vehicles. The plant produces approximately 1,162 vehicles daily.
Tuesday, June 12 – Thursday, June 14, 2012 Tour Times Available 11:30a.m. – 3 p.m. and 6 p.m. – 7:40 p.m.
General Motors Assembly Plant 2525 East Abram Street Arlington, TX 76010
Cadillac to provide concierge service for its XTS buyers
THE DETROIT NEWS
Cadillac to provide concierge service for its XTS buyers
Cadillac will offer U.S. customers a free concierge service centered around its new infotainment system CUE (Cadillac User Experience), which debuts on the new 2013 XTS luxury sedan that's expected to hit dealer lots in the next few weeks. In addition, every XTS buyer will be given an iPad loaded with videos to help them navigate CUE.
General Motors Co.'s luxury brand, battling against popular German and Japanese imports and cross-town rival Lincoln for the U.S. luxury market, is expected to make the announcement today during the CTIA-The Wireless Association conference in New Orleans.
"As first customers start driving away with their XTS, we want to be able to provide the support for those first customers," said Mark Harland, connected-customer manager for GM.
CUE offers drivers infotainment, navigation and communication tools while on the road, and is compatible with many devices such as iPods and iPads. Its center is an eight-inch touch screen that works much like a smartphone or tablet. Drivers can tap or swipe the screen to pull up information or make selections.
Cadillac expects that with the new XTS and the small luxury sedan ATS coming out this summer, they'll serve customers from younger 20-somethings who are tech savvy, to those in their 70s who may shy away from technology.
GM will hire at least 25 specialists to work with Cadillac dealers and customers nationally — even going to customers' homes or businesses to help them with CUE, Harland said. In addition, Cadillac's 900-plus dealerships across the U.S. each will have at least two certified technology experts to aid customers, he said.
Cadillac dealers will go over CUE extensively at vehicle delivery, but Harland knows customers won't remember everything: "When you get home and say 'What did they say again?,' we want to provide those tools."
Customers will be able to contact their dealer, press the blue OnStar button in their car for help or use a toll-free contact number to reach CUE infotainment experts, Harland said. GM and Cadillac also will monitor and answer questions through chat rooms and use other social media to reach customers.
"We're going to give an iPad to every XTS customer loaded with 12 how-to videos for everything from pairing a phone to tagging a song," said GM infotainment spokesman Scott Fosgard.
Cadillac plans to give customers high-level service on par with Apple Store's Genius Bar, GM said.
GM didn't have specifics on cost of the program, but sees it helping with growth and loyalty of the Cadillac and GM brands.
"The metric for us is customer retention," Harland said. "So if we increase sales retention or service retention, then the return on investments is substantial."
Luxury automakers including Lincoln, Lexus and Infiniti have some type of concierge services.
Lincoln announced last month that it will begin providing 24-hour online concierge services early next year. Its service will include interaction through video and a personalized product portfolio of customer vehicle preferences that can be accessed on an iPad or smartphone.
GM plans other infotainment concierge programs for its other brands' systems including Chevy MyLink, and Buick and GMC's IntelliLink, though it may not be as broad as Cadillac's, Harland said. "Each division is going to have their own sort of spin on it."
The XTS is expected to begin hitting dealer lots by the end of May or the first of June. The ATS will begin arriving at dealer showrooms in August, said David Caldwell, a Cadillac spokesman.
This Friday April 20th Moritz MINI is hosting the MINI Takedown Event. What is the MINI Take Down Event you ask? Well, it is a chance for you to come out to the dealership and test drive a VW Beetle, Nissan Juke and of course your favorite MINI and compare the three vehicles.
We are so confident that our MINI will put the “smack-down” on the competition that we will be offering a $750 voucher to all that come out and participate in the comparison drive. The voucher is good on the MINI of your choice; you must take delivery by July 2nd 2012.
When: Friday April 20th from 11:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. Where:Moritz MINI 2001 N. Collins Arlington, TX 76011
Contact the dealership if you have any questions regarding the MINI Take Down at (800) 614-8792
BMW Announces Recall for Turbocharged BMW, MINI Models
BMW today announced a global recall of some 9,200 vehicles for a possible problem with the cooling pump. The issue affects BMW models equipped with the company's turbocharged 8- and 12-cylinder engines, as well as two Mini models. Most of the affected vehicles are model year 2012 vehicles produced around April 2011.
According to the recall notice, the circuit board for the auxiliary water pump could overheat, leading to "a smoldering of the pump or an engine compartment or vehicle fire." Models subject to the recall are as follows: 2011 BMW 5-Series and 5-Series Gran Turismo, 2012 BMW 7-Series and 6-Series convertible, and the 2012 BMW X5 and X6 as well as the 2011 MINI Cooper S and MINI John Cooper Works.
The recall will begin this month, with BMW notifying owners about the recall and dealers replacing the auxiliary water pump free of charge.
BMW owners can contact the manufacturer's customer relations department directly at (800) 525-7417.
Contact Moritz BMW service at (800) 614-8773 or Moritz MINI service at (800) 614-8793 to schedule your appointment if your vehicle is one on the recall list and you have not yet resolved this recall.
May Mobile Pet Adoption Event
Join us this Saturday, May 5th from 10:30 a.m.-3:30 p.m. at Moritz of North Arlington for a Mobile Pet Adoption Event in conjuntion with the Arlington Animal Shelter.
There will also be a mobile pet groomer and microchip provider Respect-A-Bull will beon hand as well providing microchips for $10.00. This service is available for all pets not just those that are adopted on Saturday. The animals will be discounted from the normal adoption rate at this event.
There are many great animals looking for their "fur-ever" homes. Maybe yours is that home. We hope to see you Saturday.
The All New 3 Series Are Rolling In
BMW has started to roll out its next generation 3-series and everyone is all a buzz. The new 3’s began arriving at Arlington Moritz BMW in very late February and we couldn’t be more excited than we are about everything BMW has in store for the new 3 series models.
The car shares its front end layout with the next-gen 1-series and doesn’t use the double wishbones of the 5, 6, or 7-series cars.
The four-door sedan is a downsized 5-series more or less and longer and more sleek than its predecessor. The coupe is a two-door sedan with a lower roofline featuring more sculptured flanks, a more steeply raked windshield and rear window, a sportier front end with a completely remodeled rear end.
Contrary to earlier plans, the convertible is now likely to retain the retractable hardtop, which is particularly popular in North America and China. There have been discussions of possibly offering the new 3’s with a cloth roof, but for the time being that is just purely talk as we have yet to see any actual plans to indicate that they intend to produce them with a cloth roof.
Both the wagon and the GT3 will feature a longer wheelbase for added rear legroom and a more spacious luggage compartment.
The next-generation M3 will only come in coupe and convertible versions. In both cases, the 420-hp V-8 will be replaced by a 3.0-liter twin-turbo straight six good for around 450 hp. Star engines in the new 3-series will be a family of upgraded fours, ranging from 136-hp 1.6-liter to 252-hp 2.0-liter gas models and 150-hp 1.6-liter to 245-hp 2.0-liter turbo-diesels.
For more information on BMW's new 3 series check out:
North Texas Cadillac enthusiasts will get their first glimpse of Cadillac’s newest jewel in its already adorned crown. The Cadillac XTS will make its North Texas debut on March 21st at the Dallas Auto Show. The Cadillac XTS will replace the DTS and STS in the full size market and will be available in two or all wheel drive.
No one does luxury like Cadillac does luxury and the XTS is just another glowing example of this. From its sleek design both inside and out, to its high performance handling, to CUE (short for Cadillac User Experience) the Cadillac XTS is sure to take the market by storm.
We here at Moritz Cadillac are anxious to get our first glimpse and can’t wait for you all to see it too! Stop by and check out the North Texas unveiling and let us know what you think on Facebook or Twitter.
UTA prof's endorsement of Moritz dealership veers from typical marketing strategies
Fort Worth Star Telegram
Posted Wednesday, Feb. 29, 20121
By Barry Shlachter, Scott Nishimura and Sandra Baker
Star-Telegram Staff Writers
Actors make commercial endorsements. So do pro athletes.
But a 73-year-old political science professor from Arlington?
Allan Saxe's face peers out from a billboard on Interstate 20 in southwest Arlington that says, "I trust Moritz," referring to the local car dealer.
Clearly, linking up with one of Tarrant County's most respected personages -- Saxe has given away more than $2 million to worthy causes -- is no doubt a clever, if offbeat, marketing strategy.
And while celebrities get paid richly for lending their names -- actor Tommy Lee Jones reportedly got more than $1 million to endorse natural gas drilling here for Chesapeake Energy -- the University of Texas at Arlington professor says he agreed to do it for nada. (He did receive three $60 gift cards for Olenjack's Grille, which he promptly gave away.)
"A lot people wouldn't believe it or understand" that he did it for free, Saxe said.
But he has known the Moritz family for years, worked on some charities with its members and bought his BMW from its dealership -- a 2007 model he bought used and is still paying off.
The response has been wholly positive, he insists.
But Saxe says he's not likely to get more offers.
"I am an ugly little man."
When it was suggested that he is better-looking than Woody Allen, the academic said after a pause, "Yes, I am. But he has other things going for him."
“The Fashion World of Jean Paul Gaultier from the Sidewalk to the Catwalk” in a riveting exhibit full of emotion, passion, culture, and luxury. Mr. Gaultier, like Cadillac, has become a name synonymous with luxury. Over the span of his career he has dressed some of the most famous people in the world. He has designed for the likes of Nirvanna, Kylie Minogue, Sarah Jessica Parker and the ever fashionable if not a little over top Madonna just to name a few. His designs have been seen on runways, red-carpets, concert stages and movie sets all over the world.
Jean Paul Gaultier, whose early work in the 1970s earned him the nickname “enfant terrible” of fashion, is unquestionably one of the most important fashion designers in recent decades. The very appropriate moniker roughly translates to “a terrifyingly candid child that will say anything to embarrass adults.” He has himself expressed that he draws inspiration from dance, pop-rock, cinema, television, photography, and world cultures.
The exhibition highlights Gaultier’s eclectic and vibrant sources of inspiration through a selection of roughly 140 haute couture dresses and ready-to-wear pieces made between the early 1970s and 2010. Placed throughout the galleries there are 30 animated, talking mannequins made from the likes of Gaultier’s actual models, including one of Gaultier himself, that add life to a visually stunning display of fashion and art.
The Metroplex Cadillac Dealers are a proud sponsor of the exhibit that has been on display since November of last year. Dallas is the first of only two U.S. cities on the international tour. The exhibit closes on February 12th, 2012. If you haven’t had a chance to have a look at this one of a kind exhibit it is a definite must-see.
*The dress pictured above named "Punk Cancan" is on display at the Dallas Museum of Art. It was worn by Sarah Jessica Parker to the MTV Awards in 2000 and took 312 hours to make.
CTS Touring Package Offers Look of CTS-V Without Added Power
www.moritzcadillac.com
Cadillac has a little surprise for all you CTS-V lovers who really like the appearance but don’t need all the power that the CTS-V has to offer.
They have decided to make certain features of the CTS-V available on 2012 coupes, sedans and wagons when the Touring Package is ordered.
The CTS Touring Package includes features like the famed Recaro seats, suede steering-wheel and seat inserts, high-intensity-output headlamps and V-specific spoiler and wheels.
The package is priced separately based on the CTS' two engines.
The 3-liter V-6 versions, the $2,065 Touring Package includes 18-inch pearl-nickel-finished wheels, dual exhaust, dark-finish grille, HID headlamps and fog lights, V-Series center-mounted stop lamp (except on wagon models), suede interior details, Midnight Sapele wood trim in the cabin and metal pedals. The 3.6-liter V-6 versions, the package costs $2,810, and adds Recaro seats and 19-inch polished wheels with a choice of summer performance or all-season tires.
The 3-liter engine is standard in sedans and wagons. The 3.6-liter is standard in coupes and optional for the other body styles. But what about the V model's unparalleled supercharged V-8? If you want the 556-horsepower, 6.2-liter V-8 you will have to spring for the actual CTS-V. Sedan, wagon and coupe versions of Cadillac's speed machine start at $63,215. CTS pricing begins at $35,915.
New Operating Hours
Moritz of North Arlington
Happy 2012 to you all!Effective today January 2nd, 2012 we will be operating on winter hours. Our sales department will be open from 8:30 a.m.-7:00 p.m. Monday-Friday and 9:00 a.m.-6:00 p.m. on Saturday.Service hours will remain the same 7:30 a.m.-7:00 p.m. Monday-Friday and 8:00 a.m.-2:00 p.m. on Saturday. Normal business hours will resume in March.
Last Minute Shopping...Is it Worth it
Moritz of North Arlington
If you are still shopping for gifts at this point you are undoubtedly tired from the crowds, stressed from not being able to find the right gift, or even frazzled because the parking place you were waiting for got taken right in front of you as you waited. We have all been there. An alarming fact of the matter is this after fighting the crowds of people and leaving the store with what you hope is the perfect gift nearly 46.28 billion-yes billion dollars worth of holiday gifts will be returned. Which begs the question…Is it worth it?
So, if you want to avoid your gift from being returned what should you avoid? Clothing, games or toys, electronics, beauty items or jewelry; in other words all the normal gifts that we give and receive every year. That is what is so interesting about polls. Yes, 74% of all clothing purchases will be returned after the holiday season. What the polls don’t tell you is why. Was the size wrong? Was the color wrong? Was it just awful? We don’t know. One theory is that you can return the item after the holidays and in some cases repurchase the same exact item for 30-40% less.
While retailers have red signs all over the place indicating sales at this time of the year, the sad truth is the real sales come in January. The last quarter of the year is when businesses are really pushing to make their year-end numbers and quite frankly retailers know they don’t have to steeply discount their goods right now because you need them just as badly as they need you. In prior years there were some fairly decent sales come December due to a downturn in the economy. This year however has marked higher sales than the previous 3 years which is good for retailers and bad for bargain shoppers.
This has spurred many to switch to gift cards only as gifts during the Holiday season. While gift cards are wonderful, don’t get me wrong, I personally still love a nice gift wrapped present with a big bow on top for a couple of reasons. 1) Who doesn’t love to open gifts? The sound of the paper ripping, the element of surprise, the look on the recipients face as they open the box and the inevitable mountain of wrapping paper after all the gifts are opened. 2) How boring would it be if you simply opened gift card after gift card? Ideally a mix makes for a wonderful Christmas.
This leads to a question…Are you offended if someone takes back a gift you bought them? Think about that question….Not disappointed, not understanding but flat out offended. Last year American Express conducted a poll and found that 12% of all gift givers said they are actually offended when someone returns a gift that they purchased no matter what the reason for the return. The same poll found that 56% didn’t care if someone had to make a return and that 62% of all consumers polled claimed that they included gift receipts with all the gifts they gave.
While the stress of the Holiday shopping may lead some to wonder is it worth it, personally I say yes. Even the greatest major leaguers strike out sometimes but that makes the homeruns that much sweeter. The same goes for gift giving. The occasional miss in gift giving pales in comparison to when you watch a loved one open a gift that they truly love knowing how much thought you put into it. Of course, that is just one opinion.
BMW Hoping for Major Increase in Sales in 2011
Auto News
In an interview for Automotive News, BMW of North America head Ludwig Willisch says the company aims to boost the brand’s annual U.S. vehicle sales by 25 percent.
“In the mid-term, we expect U.S. sales of 300,000 units for the BMW brand,” the carmaker’s U.S. boss, Willisch, told Automotive News Europe. No specific deadline has been declared by Willisch, but he feels confident that the target is fully attainable due to a vast and renewed portfolio in 2012, including the new 3 Series and X1 SAV.
According to company sources, the 300,000 goal could and should be reached in 2013/2014.
In a separate interview, BMW head of global sales and marketing Ian Robertson echoed the sentiment that BMW wants to finish this year as the No.1 premium brand in the U.S.
“We want to be the No. 1 premium brand in the U.S. – this year and in the future,” Robertson told Automotive News Europe in a separate interview. “Year to date, we are ahead of Mercedes in the Unites States. And we intend to defend that position.”
BMW’s aim is to increase this year’s sales in the US by 20,000 units over last year’s sales of 220,113.
BMW’s is heavily relying on its U.S. plant to help it continue its U.S. growth.
The U.S. is the largest market for combined sales of the BMW and MINI brands – with 246,600 units sold through October 2011 compared with 244,400 in Germany and 181,200 in China.
[Source: Auto News ]
Cadillac ATS to Debut at College of Creative Studies
Cadillac announced Friday their plans to reveal its ATS luxury sedan at the College for Creative Studies in Detroit on Jan. 8 -- the night before the North American International Auto Show opens for the media.
The ATS, which is set to be available for sale by late summer, is a compact luxury sedan that is a crucial addition to Cadillac's product expansion plans for 2012. This vehicle thrusts Cadillac into the most significant segment in the luxury car market, which includes such competing cars as the BMW 3 Series, Mercedes-Benz C-Class, Audi 4 and Lexus ES350.
The vehicle will be porduced at GM's Lansing Grand River assembly plant. GM is hiring about 600 new workers for the ATS,, which is great news for Michigan.
Cadillac picked the College for Creative Studies as the venue because GM donated to the school's $145-million renovation in 2009, and because the company likes to occasionally reveal its new cars in unique locations, said Cadillac spokesman David Caldwell.
"Sometimes it can be a little bit refreshing to step outside of the box," Caldwell said. "We can also do a few things there that we can't do as part of a traditional exhibit."
The ATS is one of five production or concept vehicles that GM plans to introduce as part of the 2012 North American International Auto Show.
Christmas Mobile Pet Adoptions
Moritz of North Arlington
We certainly hope you can join us this Saturday, December 10th from 10:00 a.m.-2:00 p.m. as we team up with the Arlington Animal Shelter to host a mobile pet adoption event. Santa Claus will be on hand to take pictures with children and pets alike. We will have face painting and Santa's favorite snacks will be served as well. We will also be taking collections for the Toys for Tots toy drive in each of our showrooms. We hope to see you there.
Toys for Tots
Moritz of North Arlington
Moritz of North Arlington is proud to announce that we have teamed up with the Toys for Tots Foundation to be an official drop off point.We will be collecting unwrapped toys in each of our showrooms (BMW, MINI, Cadillac and Pre-Owned) from now until December 17th.Please stop in and help a child to have a Merry Christmas!
Cadillac XTS
www.cadillac.com
2013 Cadillac XTS Introduces a New Formula for Luxury
LOS ANGELES – Cadillac unveiled the 2013 XTS today, the newest addition to the Cadillac luxury sedan lineup. It arrives in showrooms in the spring of 2012 as the most technologically advanced production car in the brand’s history.
Larger than the CTS, the new XTS delivers the space, elegance and dramatic presence that are Cadillac signatures, but with entirely new and technically advanced methods tuned for a new generation of luxury customers. It also marks the debut of CUE, a comprehensive in-vehicle experience that merges intuitive design with auto industry-first controls and commands for information and media data.
In addition to the CUE interface and connectivity, many other advanced technologies are integral to the new XTS. It will be the only luxury sedan with standard Magnetic Ride Control – the world’s fastest-reacting suspension. Advanced technologies that enhance vision are available as well.
Positioned directly above the centerpiece CTS family in Cadillac’s revamped lineup, the new XTS features a 3.6L direct injection engine and advanced all-wheel drive system, marking a shift to more-efficient performance in a spacious luxury sedan.
“The Cadillac XTS represents a new formula for luxury, driven by advanced technology,” said Don Butler, vice president of Cadillac Marketing. “XTS showcases the evolution of our Art & Science philosophy, merging the best technical ideas with the continued refinement of Cadillac design.”
Cadillac CUE is the highly customizable user interface that exemplifies XTS’ blend of advanced technology and artistic design. The heart of CUE, which stands for Cadillac User Experience, is the standard eight-inch (203 mm) screen in the “center stack,” the faceplate below the screen and the steering wheel controls. CUE features several industry firsts, including capacitive-touch control with proximity sensing, gesture recognition and natural voice recognition.
Available exclusively on the XTS is the 12.3-inch (312 mm) reconfigurable cluster. It features vibrant graphic displays showcased among four driver-selectable themes, ranging from minimal to extensive information. And while it is the prominent element in the XTS’ technological character, CUE is part of a more comprehensive and layered approach to the car’s design, capabilities and performance
“The more you look, the more layers you see in XTS,” said Butler. “They aren’t always apparent to the eye, but they build on one another in important ways to reinforce the car’s strength of design, comfort and driving experience.”
Highlights include:
Advanced Haldex all-wheel-drive system with electronically controlled limited-slip differential
Magnetic Ride Control, rear air suspension, HiPer Strut front suspension and Brembo brakes – all standard
Standard 19-inch wheels and available 20-inch wheels
Direct-injected 3.6L V-6 with lightweight features, including integrated cylinder heads/exhaust manifolds
Capless fuel tank filler for easier, cleaner refueling
Folding rear-seat headrests that enhance rear visibility
Safety Alert Seat that vibrates to alert the driver
Intervening braking system that lessens or avoids potential collisions
Short- and long-range radar systems that support:
ØAdaptive Cruise Control
ØFront and Rear Automatic Brakes
ØRear Cross Traffic Alert.
The XTS is also the most-spacious Cadillac sedan, tailored to provide roominess in a more efficiently sized package. It offers more interior space than midsize luxury cars and comparable to full-size sedans, particularly in the rear seat area, where it has 40 inches (1,016 mm) of rear legroom. That’s about four more inches than the BMW 5 Series, and Mercedes-Benz E-Class and about two more inches than the Audi A6 – and comparable to larger sedans.
And when it comes to trunk space, the XTS is in a league of its own, with 18 cubic feet (509 L), exceeding both midsize and full-size competitors – more than Audi A6 and A8L, BMW 5 and 7 Series and Mercedes-Benz E- and S-Class. For XTS customers, the cargo advantage means room for five or more suitcases.
XTS’ hardware and spatial dimensions are the foundational layers that support a new level of surface detail. Multidimensional exterior and interior elements, including the grille, headlamps and new use of accent lighting, coalesce to give the XTS a presence and attention to detail unlike any Cadillac that has come before it.
“The XTS’ technology is woven into its design in ways that affirm the driving experience is of primary importance to a new generation of luxury customers,” said Clay Dean, design director and Cadillac brand champion. “This is the new expression of luxury at Cadillac and it shows in the multilayered details, authentic materials and unprecedented connectivity.”
CUE, for example, represents the pinnacle of technology, but it is being showcased using a subtle and sophisticated interior appearance that blends with other features to create a soothing and inviting feel. It offers more capability and driver-selectable choices than ever before from Cadillac, but the center stack has only seven buttons – four of them for the radio. That’s less than half the controls found on the center stack of the typical car.
“Technology helps the XTS deliver more with less,” said Dean. “Choreographed interior lighting and other unique features tailored to individual driver preferences complement CUE to create an exceptionally refined and advanced ambience.”
The XTS’ surface details also convey a more-nuanced design philosophy, with elements that support the long, sleek proportion that is a welcome return to Cadillac. They bring forward more beauty and elegance with refined, graceful forms and surfaces working harmoniously with established Cadillac linear forms. It is a car that conveys the next step in Cadillac form and surface vocabulary.
“It is a bold, elegant design and also very efficient in the ways it encompasses passengers and cargo,” said Dean. “It’s a new proportion for Cadillac and a new era in luxury.”
The XTS Platinum is the fullest expression of Cadillac’s multidimensional philosophy, with features that include a chrome/satin-chrome grille finish, polished 20-inch aluminum wheels with chrome inserts, a fully wrapped leather interior with Alcantara headliner and more.
Advanced safety features based on ‘control and alert’ strategy
The XTS’ technology fundamentally supports a suite of advanced safety features, based on a “control and alert” strategy that extends the vision around the vehicle. It helps drivers identify potential crash situations and even intervenes when a crash threat appears more imminent, employing layers of visual, audible and tactile (vibration) alerts, depending on the alert feature.
The alerts are designed to identify obstacles with sufficient warning to give the driver time to react and make changes – including the Safety Alert Seat feature, which vibrates either the left or right side of the driver’s seat cushion, depending on the location of the impending concern. The intervening features, including Automatic Collision Preparation, take over if the threat appears more immediate or the driver does not react to previous alerts.
Two levels of control-and-alert protection are offered in the XTS’ Enhanced Safety Strategy (ESS) packages.
ESS I includes:
Lane Departure Warning
Forward Collision Alert
Safety Alert Seat
Side Blind Zone Alert
Rear Cross Traffic Alert
Reflected LED display.
ESS II includes all ESS I content plus:
Head-up display (in color)
Front and Rear Automatic Brake
Adaptive Cruise Control
Automatic Collision Preparation
XTS also features OnStar as standard. OnStar service also includes myCadillac and OnStar myLink mobile apps, whichoffer vehicle information and OnStar services via the customer’s smartphone.
AWD and Magnetic Ride Control support new driving experience
A layered approach to the driving experience relies on new and established technologies – all rooted in a stiff structure. The body is infused with strategically placed ultra-high-strength steel for strength and crash protection and serves as the foundation for the advanced-chassis system.
A smart Haldex all-wheel-drive system – with an electronic limited-slip differential that splits torque between the rear wheels – complements an advanced HiPer Strut front suspension and standard Magnetic Ride Control real-time damping to give the XTS sure-footed, confident and comfortable ride and handling traits. A linked H-arm design with “air springs” comprises the rear suspension.
HiPer Strut is based on the MacPherson strut front suspension design and features dual-path top mountings that separate the transfer of spring and damper loads to the body structure. It improves ride-and-handling characteristics in four significant ways:
Provides more linear and communicative steering through improved camber control
Improves impact isolation on bumps and rough surfaces
Reduces torque steer
Improves vehicle sensitivity to tire irregularities and wheel imbalance.
Magnetic Ride Control delivers precise body motion control – “reading” the road every millisecond and changing damping in just five milliseconds. It replaces conventional mechanical-valve shocks with electronically controlled shocks filled with a magneto-rheological fluid containing minute iron particles. Under the presence of magnetic charge, the iron particles align to provide damping resistance almost instantly.
StabiliTrak electronic stability control is standard on all models, along with variable-effort steering and Brembo four-wheel disc brakes with four-channel antilock brakes – all features that add important layers of control to the driving experience. Like Magnetic Ride Control, XTS borrows the Brembo braking technology from Cadillac’s V-Series of high performance models.
Horsepower for the XTS comes from an advanced 3.6L V-6 that’s known by its “LFX” engine code. It is rated at an estimated 300 horsepower (224 kW). Lightweight features help reduce overall weight for greater efficiency and a more favorable front-to-rear weight balance. Examples include a composite intake manifold saves approximately 5.5 pounds (2.5 kg) over the weight of a comparable aluminum intake and an integrated cylinder head/exhaust manifold design that saves approximately 13 pounds (6 kg) per engine.
The LFX engine is matched with the Hydra-Matic 6T70 six-speed automatic transmission with tap-shift control.
The XTS will begin production in Oshawa, Ontario in spring 2012.
For more information and pictures of the all new XTS please visit Cadillac’s website via the included link.
BMW is recalling about 32,000 cars and crossovers because the circuit board for the electric auxiliary water pump can overheat.
The recall covers the 5-series sedan and Gran Turismo, the 7-series, the X5 and the X6 from the 2008 to 2011 model years equipped with V8 or V12 engines.
Two engine fires have resulted from 102 failures, according to BMW. It starts with smoldering of the pump and could spread elsewhere under the hood.
Please contact our service department at :(800) 614.8773 to schedule an appointment to bring your vehicle in to make the necessary recall repairs.
Goodwill Classic
Moritz of North Arlington
Moritz of North Arlington is proud once again to be a part of the Goodwill Classic on November 7th, 2011 at Ridglea Country Club in Fort Worth. This is the fourth year for the tournament to be held and Moritz has been honored to be a part of this spectacular event for each and every year.
The tournament benefits Goodwill Industries of Fort Worth, an organization that has been serving the area for more than 60 years. Goodwill’s philosophy is simple; when you support Goodwill Industries you are you are supporting an organization that believes in giving “a hand up, not a hand out.” Most are familiar with Goodwill’s capacity to recycle household goods and clothing but you may not be aware that Goodwill also focuses on job training and placement programs as well.
We will be sponsoring two hole-in-one holes for the Classic. On one hole we will have a 2012 MINI Countryman; the Countryman is the largest of the MINI fleet also dubbed “MINI Maximus”. The Countryman is MINI’s first dip into the crossover market; it comfortably seats 4 adults, is available in all wheel drive and boasts 26 miles to the gallon in the city and 32 on the highway. MINI has had a strong desire to extend their reach a bit and appeal to families. The Countryman has certainly done that.
On the second hole we will have a 2012 Cadillac SRX. The SRX is one of the top crossovers currently on the road with features only a Cadillac can offer. From its sleek design and unparalleled power to the practical points such as great storage space and equally great gas mileage, the Cadillac SRX is certainly a jewel in Cadillac’s crown.
Visit our Facebook Pages for more pictures and news of the Goodwill Classic in action by clicking on one of the links below and be sure to "Like" one or all of our pages online to receive the latest and greatest from each brand and Moritz throughout the year.
Motortober is coming to an end here at Moritz MINI, but not before we have one huge blowout celebration! Join us on Saturday October 29th for a Texas sized barbecue featuring college football and “DJ Brillo”-Most of you MINI customers know him as Bryan Brookman, a former service advisor. Everyone that stops in to visit will leave with a gift. We will be taking registrations from 10:00-4:00 for a $750.00 voucher to be used between now and January 3rd on the purchase of a new MINI. The offer is valid for in stock items as well as special orders. When you register for your voucher you will also be registered to win an iPad 2. The winner will be notified by October 31st.
The day is sure to be a lot of fun, with all remaining 2011's red tagged and ready to find a new home. Football, barbecue, music, money and the chance to win an iPad; who could ask for more? We look forward to seeing you here on Saturday the 29th!
Team Duchenne Team Members: Daryl Johnston, Rocket Ismael, Dan Pastorini and Clay Matthews.
Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD) is a recessive form of muscular dystrophy, which results in muscle degeneration, difficulty walking, breathing, and death. The incidence is 1 in 3,000. Females and males are affected, though females are rarely affected and are more often carriers. Currently there is no cure for Duchenne muscular dystrophy. The life expectancy typically ranges from the late teens to the mid-20’s although there have been rare cases where individuals have lived into their 40’s.
CureDuchenne was founded by Paul and Debra Miller whose son was diagnosed with DMD in November 2002. Paul is a vice-president of a food company and Debra was in advertising sales before giving up her career to be a stay-at-home mom. Paul and Debra are confident that their business backgrounds will enable them to effectively communicate the need for awareness and funding for Duchenne muscular dystrophy.
“When we got our son’s diagnosis, the pain was unbelievable. We always had faith, but we never truly knew how much we would have to rely on it. We respect and welcome people of all faiths and beliefs, and hope that they are provided the comfort needed to get through these difficult times. Saving these boys has become our life’s work.”
Contact Information: CureDuchenne 3334 E. Coast Hwy. #157 Corona Del Mar, CA 92625 949-872-2552
Team members for TeamEscalade Team Strength are Mike Modano, Brent Sevryn, ND Kalu, Ellen DeGeneres and many Rock n’ Roll bands including the Gin Blossoms
The Love Hope Strength Foundation is “an international, music-centric cancer charity dedicated to saving lives, one concert at a time. The mission is to save lives, right now, with the advances that have already been made in cancer care.” The funds that are raised are used to build and support cancer centers, build awareness and build and international database with their “Get On The List” campaign.
The Love Hope Strength Foundation was co-founded in 2007 by leukemia survivors Mike Peters of The Alarm and James Chippendale the President of CSI Entertainment. They believe that things like early detection, awareness and proper treatment should be accessible by all people that are affected by Cancer no matter who or where they are.
They Love Hope Strength foundation raises their funds through concerts and musical pilgrimages. They have put on shows in 6 continents in just 3 years time.
Joining the Love Hope Strength Army in the battle against cancer are musicians from every corner of the globe. High school bands and Nepalese folk singers, to legends in rock n’ roll such as members of The Cult, The Stray Cats, Donavon Frankenreiter, Big Head Todd and the Monsters, Jason Mraz, Disco Biscuits, Flight of the Conchords, Brett Dennen, Michael Franti, Gin Blossoms, The Fixx, Tokyo Police Club, Squeeze, Candlebox, Seether, Smithereens, Dick Dale, Everclear and hundreds more have done their part to help spread the word through music. Each event is documented under the guidance of critically acclaimed producer, Alex Coletti, to build awareness through programs like Everest Rocks, now airing on MTV’s High Def channel, Palladia and NBC’s Universal Sports.
For more information about the Love Hope Strength Foundation please visit their website at http://lovehopestrength.org/
Taylor's Gift
www.moritzcadillac.com
With the launch of TeamEscalade last week what better chance is there than right now to inform you about some fantastic charities doing some amazing work to better or save lives?
The charity of the day is Taylor’s Gift. Taylor’s Gift was started by the parents of Taylor Storch. Taylor’s life was cut tragically short at the young age of 13 while on a ski vacation with her family. When the doctor’s notified Taylor’s mother and father that she would never regain consciousness they found themselves facing a choice. When the doctors asked if they would consider donating Taylor’s organs to help save other her parents made the decision to donate her organs.
Taylor’s organs went to a number of different people in need: her heart to a 39-year-old mother of two in Arizona; her pancreas and one kidney to a 49-year-old husband and father in Colorado; her other kidney to a 33-year-old husband in Colorado; her corneas and liver changed two other lives in other parts of the country.
Taylor’s Gift Foundation was founded to honor the wonderful girl with many talents and gifts. Her ultimate gift was saving and drastically changing the lives of 5 people across the country. With just 13 years on this planet with her parents, her legacy lives on. Taylor’s Gift Foundation works to raise awareness to the importance of organ donation.
Please log on to http://taylorsgift.org/ to read more about this amazing girl, make a donation or learn how to get involved with this live saving charity.
Team Escalade Team Taylor's Gift consists of Everson Walls, Mike Renfro and Danille Manning.
Enter to Win Lunch with Ron Washington
www.moritzcadillac.com
Stop into the Moritz Cadillac showroom between now and October 1st to register for a chance to win lunch with our very own Rangers manager Ron Washington.
One lucky grand prize winner will win a tour of the ESPN Dallas Studio, the opportunity to sit in on a Ben and Skin show and lunch from Olenjack’s with Ben and Skin and Ron Washington.
The contest is sponsored by Moritz Cadillac and the drawing will be held live on October 5th during the Ben and Skin Show. All entries must be received by October 1st. Each entrant must be 16 years of age or older.
Moritz Cadillac is located in North Arlington just north of I-30 on Collins. 2001 N. Collins Arlington, TX 76011
Dealership hours are Monday thru Friday 8:30-8:00 and Saturday 9:00-6:00. Stop in today for your chance to win!
Rolling Hills Country Club Emerald Cup Day 1
Moritz of North Arlington
Opening round of golf begins today at Rolling Hills Country for the 2011 Emerald Cup. Yesterday’s events were a lot of fun with teams registering and spending their $100 vouchers in the mobile Titleist shop that was set in the club grill. This was a departure from the way that team check in has been done in the past and overall was very well received by all of the teams. Dinner was served at 6:00 with the Calcutta beginning at 7:00. For those of you that have never attended a Calcutta, you really should see this in action some time. The evening was full of energy, laughter and even a little trash talking…all in good fun I assure you!
Today’s Hole in One sponsored hole will be on hole number 11. We have one of our great MINI’s parked there ready to give away should anyone find the right stroke to claim it. Good luck gentlemen! Looking forward to another great day at Rolling Hills!
We will be posting daily score updates as well as pictures from the all the day’s events. Check back with us daily and follow your favorite team as we follow them around the course for you.
Visit our Facebook Pages for more pictures and videos of the Rolling Hills Ladies and Gentlemen in action by clicking on one of the links below and be sure to "Like" one or all of our pages online to receive the laterst and greatest from each brand and Moritz throughout the year.
Moritz of North Arlington is proud to once again be the title sponsor of the Rolling Hills Country Club Emerald Cup Golf Tournament.The Emerald Cup is the largest member event of the year at Rolling Hills Country Club.The tournament begins on Wednesday September 14th with registration and the practice round from 2:00-7:00 and ends on Saturday September 17th with awards following completion of the final round.
Some of the highlights from the 4 day event include breakfast and lunch daily, dinner served on Thursday and Friday and the Ladies Luncheon on Saturday at 11:00 a.m.There will be individual Skills competitions that will include the longest drive, closest to the pin and putting.The Skills Competition will take place on Thursday during round 1.There will also be two hole in one opportunities to win a 2011 MINI from Moritz MINI of North Arlington.
We will be following the event very closely and posting pictures as well as the leader board daily.
The event is sure to be a good time.We hope to see you all there.
Visit our Facebook Pages for more pics and videos of the Rolling Hills Ladies and Gentlemen in action by clicking the links below and be sure to "Like" Moritz BMW Cadillac MINI online to receive the latest and greatest from each brand and Moritz all year long:
OnStar RemoteLink Mobile App Navigation Enhancement
Today OnStar officially launched an exciting new enhancement to their OnStar RemoteLink mobile app making it possible for subscribers to find their destination on their smartphone and send it directly to their vehicle.
RemoteLink Navigation features:
•Send OnStar Turnby Turn directions directly from your smartphone to your vehicle, either through the in-dash vehicle navigation system or by using the voice commands.
•Search for a destination by text, address book or voice
•View destinations in list or visual form
•See last 5 destinations requested
Eligibility:
•Vehicle must be an OnStar RemoteLink-eligible this includes model years 2010-2012.
•Subscribers must have a subscription to Directions & Connections
•User must install RemoteLink v1.3 on their Android or iPhone (existing OnStar RemoteLink mobile app users will receive an automatic update. New users will download v1.3)
Please contact OnStar by pressing your blue OnStar button in your vehicle should you have any questions regarding these changes.
GP MINI Sighting Moritz MINI
Moritz of North Arlington
GP MINI Sighting Moritz MINI.
This is MINI is #0461, one of only 2,000 produced "GP" models that MINI launched in 2006 to "mark the end of the first generation of '21st Century' MINI, developed by MINI under the ownership of BMW and first sold in England in 2001." Of the 2000 units produced only 415 made it to the United States.
There are several features that make the GP unique.For starters it was assembled in Bertone, Italy from a kit that was manufactured in Oxford, England.It has the most powerful first generation production engine with the John Cooper Works upgrade that was given an additional boost to approximately 215hp.By removing the rear seat and substituting aluminum control bars there was a weight savings of approximately 100 lbs.The GP was made in “Thunder Blue” with a silver roof and red mirror caps. The GP also has a unique aero kit that includes a carbon fiber spoiler and underbody paneling and 18” lightweight wheels.On the interior the speedometer and the rev counter dials are both “anthracite.”
The owner of #0461 stopped today to have some new rubbers put on and was kind enough to let us take some pictures to share with you all.
Cadillac tops the University of Michigan Annual American Customer Satisfaction Index.
The ACSI - University of Michigan
Lexus, Cadillac & Toyota topped the University of Michigan Annual American Customer Satisfaction Index. The ACSI was established in 1994 by the center to provide a new economic indicator tracking the quality of products and services from the perspective of the customer.
Hampered by recalls last year, Toyota & Lexus saw their customer satisfaction drop, but in 2011 they increased their CSI scores significantly along with Cadillac which led all GM makes. Toyota was the only non-premium brand in the top five.
The latest Dealer Attitude Survey by the NADA shows that auto dealers' satisfaction with their manufacturers is on the rise with dealers' opinion of product quality hitting an all-time high.
Learn more about the ACSI and Cadillac by visiting:
Stop Texting and Driving...There is an App for That
Moritz of North Arlington
Stop Texting and Driving...There's an App for That!
Every time you turn around you are hearing of great new apps.There are apps for just about everything you can think of from finding great restaurants to following sports play by play.After recently learning of a brand new app I felt obliged to share this information as it may be one of the best apps for drivers yet.
A recent study by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration found that distracted driving was the leading cause in 448,000 accidents and 5,474 highway deaths in 2009, a 16% increase from 2008.For every 6 seconds of drive time, a driver sending or receiving a text message spends 4.6 of those seconds with their eyes off the road. This makes texting the most distracting of all cell phone related tasks. Texting while driving is about 6 times more likely to result in an accident than driving while intoxicated. These numbers are expected to be even higher than the prior year’s numbers once they become available for 2010 and 2011.
Lucky for us technology is on our side.There is an application available for your Smartphone from the people at iSpeech that will help “keep your eyes on the road and your hands upon the wheel” to quote Jim Morrison and the Doors. New services – like http://www.drivesafe.ly/ – have sprung up that eliminate the need to read text messages as well as the need to respond.
Here's how it works… You download an application to your phone. Then, when you get ready to drive, you turn the application on. When you receive a text message, the application automatically reads it to you. After it reads the message, the app sends an automatic response that informs whomever is texting you that you are driving and you will respond as soon as it is safe to do so.
After researching you will find that there are two options available.There is a free option and a pay option.
There is also a family package available for $34.95 annually.As with most other apps I would recommend trying out the free version first, but really $13.95 a year seems like a small price to pay to help you avoid an accident that could result in injury or worse.
This year Moritz of North Arlington was once again honored to sponsor Swingfest at Shady Valley Country Club.For four days Shady Valley was home to this wonderful event that provided some strong competition, fantastic food and great entertainment; let’s not forget to mention the tournaments alliance with Mission Arlington.Mission Arlington/Mission Metroplex is an invaluable local charity that works within the community to help those in need, whatever the need may be.
While Moritz sponsored the four day event, BMW of North America stopped in on Saturday to hold the BMW Golf Cup International, an incentive by BMW to enhance local member tournaments in over 35 countries.The BMW Golf Cup International is a series of amateur tournaments that BMW has been involved with since the early 1990’s.The top two finishers from Saturday’s round Terry Zang and Chris Cowart qualified to go play in the BMW Golf Cup US Final at beautiful Pinehurst Resort in North Carolina.From there US Finalists compete for the chance to represent Team USA at the BMW Golf Cup International World Final that will be held in Singapore in March of 2012.
In addition to awarding two players from Saturday the opportunity to play at Pinehurst Resort, there were two other prizes up for grabs.While no one was able to claim the coveted 7 Series BMW for a hole in one, we were able to award a closest to the pin prize to Mr. Stanfield Hughes of Arlington.With his closest to the pin shot Mr. Hughes has won a day at the BMW Experience in Spartanburg, NC. He will get to enjoy a day of M driving at its finest with through a variety of exercises on a slalom course, autocross and wet skid pad.Congratulations to Mr. Hughes for his prize valued at $1295.00!Hole 17 was our home for the day and we were able to meet and visit with some real characters.We want to thank you all for the opportunity to come out to your beautiful club and spend some time with you all!We truly enjoy the chance to come out into the community and meet new friends.
I feel I would be remiss if I didn’t mention that Neal Kruger, a guest of Mr. Bobby Barton, did make a hole in one on the 13th hole on Sunday.While there was not a prize for a hole in one on Sunday, this is a feat that must be mentioned and praised.I was speaking with a gentleman that played with Mr. Kruger and he said it was, “an absolutely beautiful golf shot that just disappeared.”I humbly tip my hat to Mr. Kruger!His shot was definitely the buzz at the closing luncheon on Sunday.
I spoke with Mr. John Hopkins, the chairman of the Swingfest committee at the close of the weekend to get his take on how he felt the weekend went.He issued the following statement: “As Chairman of the Swingfest committee our goal is to be sure that everyone has a great time on the course and at all the social functions, and have received full value of the dollars they have spent. By all of the comments after the Sunday Dinner, it looks like we met all of our goals.”I couldn’t agree more Mr. Hopkins!
P.S. Visit our Facebook Pages for more pics and videos of the Shady Valley Ladies and Gentlemen in action by clicking the links below and be sure to "Like" Moritz BMW Cadillac MINI online to receive the latest and greatest from each brand and Moritz all year long:
With us now in our 39th day of temperatures above 100 degrees, I felt it important to share some tips for your car to help both you and your vehicle deal with the extreme heat.Keep in mind that some of these things may seem obvious and yet so many of us are not doing the ones that seem the most obvious.
First and foremost…NEVER leave a child or an animal in your vehicle.Every summer we hear or read stories of children succumbing to the heat while being inside a vehicle.Even if you crack the window the temperature inside your vehicle can reach upwards in the neighborhood of 200 degrees very quickly depending on car color and where it is parked. For example on an 80 degree day the interior of your vehicle can reach 99 degrees within 10 minutes.As we all would welcome an 80 degree day right now, just imagine what the inside would be with the weather that we have been having within that same 10 minutes. In extreme heat children tend to become lethargic so they are not likely able to call for help or cry even for smaller children/babies. Leaving a child or animal in a car in any weather is illegal and dangerous but in high temperatures it can be deadly.If you see a car with a child or animal inside please call 911 immediately even if the windows are cracked.
Most of us have a set routine each day.One parent is normally in charge of getting your baby or small child to day care each day.On days when the other parent steps in it is important to break your usual pattern so that you don’t accidentally forget you have the baby with you.Some may laugh at this or question how in the world this could happen, but if the baby falls asleep you could actually just set off in auto-pilot and head straight on your normal routine. When transporting a baby in the car with you another good idea is to put something in the backseat with the child that you absolutely can’t get through your day without.This could be a brief case, a purse, a laptop etc.
Always lock your vehicle, even in your driveway.
This is not only a good idea from a theft standpoint, but also if you have children.There have been many stories of children playing outside their homes where the children have gotten into vehicles and were not able to get out.Even if you live in an apartment and you yourself don’t have children this is important.Kids don’t seem to know or care if the car is theirs or not, especially if they are small.If the door is unlocked it is an opportunity.They may not be intending anything other than to hide or play and it could have an awful ending.
Window Tint/Window Shades
While some just think of window tint as a cool add-on feature, tint can drastically cut the temperature inside a vehicle. In the state of Texas state law says that the side and rear windows must have a light transmittance value of 25% or more. What that means is that at least 25% of the light must pass through the tint.This can drastically cut back on the amount of direct light that gets into your vehicle thus keeping it cooler.If window tinting isn’t in your budget right now then invest in window shades to use when your vehicle is parked.
Window shades not only cut back on the amount of heat, but they also will help the life of your dashboard and steering wheel.Without covers they can fade or even crack.Let’s also not forget that the steering wheel can get hot to the touch, making driving difficult.Parking in the shade is also a good idea.Too obvious?Maybe, but how many of us try to find a close parking place instead of a good parking place?Now one thing to keep in mind is that parking next to trees does come with its risks…birds. Need I say more?
Service your vehicle regularly
In hot climates it is important to regularly check your fluid levels, belts, tires and oil.This doesn’t mean that you have to make a lot of trips to a service provider.These are all things that you can check yourself on a regular basis to ensure that vehicle won’t fail you when you need it.When checking your tires it is important to make sure that they are aired to the recommended level (this varies) and that the tread on your tires is in good shape.The penny trick isn’t a bad gauge to test your tire tread since most of us can’t tell by looking.
The Penny Test
·Pinch a Lincoln-head penny, from the base, between your thumb and forefinger, so that the top of Lincoln's head and the words "In God We Trust" are showing.
·Place the top of Lincoln's head into one of the tire tread grooves -- try to measure in the lowest point within the tread.
·If any part of Lincoln's head is obscured by the tread, you're all set -- you have a legal and safe amount of tread. However, if you can see above Lincoln's head or any of the "In God We Trust" letters above his head, then you are ready for a new tire.
·Check your tires in several tread locations. Be sure to check both inner and outer and middle grooves of each tire, because tires can wear differently on each side, due to improper wheel alignment and/or low inflation.
Items that you should and shouldn’t have in your car
A couple of items that you should always keep in your car are bottled water, snacks such as granola or crackers, a first aid kit with sunscreen towelettes and an emergency kit.In an emergency kit consider including things like a flashlight, flares, jumper cables, gloves, paper towels and a blanket.A few basic tools might not be a bad idea either.
Now, things you shouldn’t leave in your car.No matter how smart any of us are we have at one time or another left something in the car that we shouldn’t have.Like the time we left a Sippy cup full of milk in the car. YUCK! Anyway in extreme heat never leave bottles of sunscreen (the heat can actually cause a bottle of sunscreen to explode, which is why toweletts are best to have in the car), cleaning solutions with ammonia of alcohol or anything packaged under pressure like hair spray or sodas.
If you can follow some of these obvious yet not always heeded tips, you too can survive the summer of 2011!
Sources
Hedding, Judy. About.com Phoenix. 9 August 2011 <http://phoenix.about.com/od/car/a/summercar_2.htm>.
National Weather Service. 9th August 2011 <http://ggweather.com/heat/hot_car_10min.jpg>.
Smith, Rick. Reviews Online. 28 January 2003. 9 August 2011 <http://www.reviewsonline.com/auto/tt03-1.htm>.
Texas Department of Public Safety. September 2009. 9th August 2011 <http://www.txdps.state.tx.us/vi/misc/faq/tint.htm>.
Swingfest 2011
www.moritzbmw.com
Swingfest/BMW Golf Cup 2011
Mortiz of North Arlington is proud to sponsor the 2011 Shady Valley Swingfest, a 4 day long member tournament beginning on Thursday August the 4th at 8:30 a.m. and concluding Sunday August 7th. Representatives from Moritz of North Arlington will be on hand to answer any questions you should have regarding any of our outstanding BMW, Cadillac or MINI models.
We are also very pleased to announce that BMW of North America will be on hand Saturday August 6th sponsoring the BMW Golf Cup. BMW has been participating in the Golf Cup since 1991. Shady Valley has been selected as one of only 100 clubs to hold such an event this year. The top two finishers on Saturday will be invited to compete in the BMW US Golf Cup Final at Pinehurst Resort in beautiful North Carolina.
In addition to prizes for the top two finishers there will also be incentives for closet to the pin as well as a hole in one give-away. The player who gets closest to the pin will be awarded with a trip to the BMW M Driving School Experience. The prize for a hole in one is a 2011 BMW.
For more information on the BMW Golf Cup please visit:
Since the ''M5'' badge was first placed on the deck lid of a BMW back in 1988, this iconic model has exemplified the luxury and daily usability of a top range BMW sedan combined with true super-car performance. Now, in its 5th generation, the all-new BMW M5 is again poised to redefine the performance envelope possible in a luxury sedan.
The new BMW M5 is a high-performance sports car whose exceptional dynamic potential is geared squarely towards the demands of track use, while – at the same time – sets a new benchmark in daily driving with its touring comfort and innovative equipment features. It also sets the pace in its class in terms of efficiency.
In order to achieve these lofty performance goals, the new BMW M5 introduces the most powerful engine ever fitted in a series-produced model from BMW M GmbH mated to a new high-torque 7-speed M-Double Clutch (M-DCT). An innovative Active M Differential, which optimizes power transfer to the rear wheels combined with extensive chassis upgrades developed on the history of extensive racing expertise, ensures that the engine's performance can be transferred to the ground.
The OnStar MyLink Mobile App* brings unmatched vehicle connectivity to the palm of your hand. You can use your smartphone to access real-time vehicle data, lock/unlock your doors, sound your horn/flash your lights or remotely start your engine.
* Requires automatic door locks.
* Requires factory remote start.
* Available on Android™ and iPhone® platforms
Launch of the BMW M3 DTM Concept Car
BMW USA
Munich - July 15, 2011... Just two weeks after the official roll-out of the new racing car for the 2012 DTM season, BMW presented the BMW M3 DTM Concept Car. Dr. Klaus Draeger, Member of the Board of Management of BMW AG responsible for development, and BMW Motorsport Director Jens Marquardt unveiled the car on Friday evening in the Double Cone building at Munich’s BMW Welt. As part of the DTM event in the Olympic Stadium, the BMW M3 DTM Concept Car will be on show to motorsport fans and visitors to BMW Welt at the weekend.
The car offers an initial impression of what the BMW M3 DTM will look like when it lines up at the start of the 2012 season. However, the vehicle was not the only star of the evening at BMW Welt: BMW Motorsport also presented the first two drivers to be confirmed as wearing the company colours in the DTM as of next season – Andy Priaulx (GB) and Augusto Farfus (BR). Furthermore, the first partners of BMW Motorsport for 2012 were introduced.
“It is good to see how our DTM project is picking up speed,” said Dr. Draeger. ”Next year, BMW returns to the DTM after two decades. We will be facing our main competitors in the premium sector – and are already looking forward to this challenge. The DTM comeback sees BMW return to its roots. We have enjoyed great success in production car racing in the past, and I am convinced we will follow on in 2012 where we left off. Everyone at BMW Motorsport is working hard to ensure we get off to a successful start next season.”
Marquardt added: “Getting a new racing programme up and running is a bit like doing a jigsaw. New pieces are added almost every day, and we must put them together to create the big picture. The BMW M3 DTM Concept Car is an important milestone on our route to the start of the 2012 season. The roll-out of the car was successful, and we are now starting our test programme out on the track. Drivers Andy Priaulx and Augusto Farfus are also involved and will form part of our driving line-up in 2012. Their impressive performances in touring car and GT racing make them ideally suited to the DTM, and we are sure they will leave their mark on this series too. It is obviously just as important to have strong partners on board, and we were able to present some of them today. The pieces are fitting together perfectly, so we can definitely say: our preparations for the 2012 season are going according to plan.”
Moritz BMW DRIVE FOR TEAM USA
http://www.bmwusa.com/driveforteamusa
BMW DRIVE FOR TEAM USA
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IT'S MORE THAN JUST A TEST DRIVE. IT'S THE CHANCE TO MAKE A DIFFERENCE.
BMW and Team USA. Both are made to compete at the highest level. And both are at the top of their respective games. So, in the spirit of friendly competition, we're hosting a unique event at BMW centers around the country.
The BMW Drive for Team USA Event gives you the opportunity to get behind the wheel of a 3 Series, 5 Series, 7 Series and the all-new 6 Series Convertible. And we'll also give you the chance to test drive the competition so you can truly see how BMW is at the top of its game. What's more, BMW will donate $10 to Team USA for every drive that's scheduled. So when you get behind the wheel, you'll be helping American athletes train and compete in the Olympic and Paralympic Games.
Be sure to sign up for this very special event for your chance to experience exhilaration and to help make a difference.
DETROIT –The Cadillac brand is now ranked among the top 10 in the industry for initial quality (ranking 9th overall), with the Escalade topping the large premium crossover/SUV segment, according to the 2011 J.D. Power and Associates Initial Quality StudySM.
2012 BMW 528i Receives Latest in EfficientDynamics Technologies
BMW USA
2012 BMW 528i Receives Latest in EfficientDynamics Technologies New TwinPower Turbo four-cylinder, Auto Stop/start and xDrive AWD ensure that most popular 5 Series model set to become even more popular
Woodcliff Lake, NJ – July 5, 2011… BMW today announced significant enhancements for the 2012 BMW 528i Sedan, most significantly BMW’s new TwinPower Turbo 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine. To further enhance its efficiency in everyday driving, the 2012 BMW 528i also receives auto start/stop technology. For those who face the realities of four-season driving, the 2012 528i becomes the newest member of the 5 Series family in the US to offer BMW xDrive all-wheel drive as an option. When the 2012 model arrives in BMW showrooms this fall the most popular model in the 5 Series line-up is destined to become even more so.
The MINI John Cooper Works Coupe Endurance
MINI USA
Born for the "Green Hell" adventure: The MINI John Cooper Works Coupé Endurance.
Racing car celebrates world premiere in 24-hour race at the Nürburgring-Nordschleife.
Munich. Motor sport is in the MINI genes. And now the carmaker is set to add a new chapter to its racing heritage with the arrival of the MINI John Cooper Works Coupé Endurance. The newly developed racer will line up at this year's 24-hour race at the Nürburgring-Nordschleife circuit, previewing the series-production version of the car due to be unveiled to the public in autumn 2011.
With the participation of the MINI John Cooper Works Coupé Endurance, the Nürburgring 24-hour race will be staging an automotive world premiere for the first time in its history. At the same time, the extreme demands of the classic endurance event ensure the new MINI model will be given a baptism of fire.
Cadillac Unveils New Luxury Design for Dealerships
Cadillac News
Designed by Gensler architects and Cadillac designers, the new showroom layout features open, well-lit displays allowing customers to interact with the cars and dealership staff, and relax in a customer lounge with a coffee bar with custom-designed art and designer furniture. The design includes contemporary architecture and premium materials, such as English Oak, matte porcelain tile and brushed stainless steel accents.
In select markets, the redesigned dealerships will be stand-alone Cadillac dealers. Multi-brand dealerships will feature dedicated covered service drives.
“The new facility design and furnishings provide a great stage for our exciting new automobiles,” said Kurt McNeil, vice president of Cadillac Sales and Service, “but our main goal is to create a highly positive first impression that creates that defining moment in our customers’ minds that we will exceed their expectations before, during and after the sale.”
BMW is back in Hollywood with Mission: Impossible
BMW USA
BMW is back in Hollywood with Mission: Impossible – Ghost Protocol
Munich/Los Angeles - June 30, 2011... Back in Hollywood. BMW is pleased to announce their participation in the upcoming Paramount Pictures release “Mission: Impossible - Ghost Protocol” as the film’s main automotive partner.
High performance with fewer emissions is the name of the game: One of the BMW vehicles provided for Tom Cruise´s next film is the BMW Vision EfficientDynamics concept car. It has been recognized as having the most sophisticated technology and the most striking design among the current concept electric supercars. In a few years the BMW i8, which was inspired by the BMW Vision Efficient Dynamics concept vehicle, will enter series production.
“We are thrilled to be involved again in another Hollywood Blockbuster,” said Ian Robertson, BMW AG Board Member for Sales and Marketing. “The BMW Group leads the way in developing future mobility with a focus on sustainability. One great example is the BMW Vision EfficientDynamics concept car which will be presented in the film. With its futuristic design and large glass surfaces, the car offers a fascinating perspective on the future of sheer driving pleasure – in combination with maximum efficiency. Also with BMW ConnectedDrive technology, it is the perfect car for Ethan Hunt to outsmart his pursuers through narrow streets and busy city traffic.”
Having provided vehicles for outstanding film projects, TV productions, etc. for more than 75 years, entertainment marketing is firmly established as an important building block for the BMW Group’s long-term image and product communications.
“Mission: Impossible – Ghost Protocol”, directed by Brad Bird, is scheduled for release mid of December 2011.
$129,000 RAISED FROM AUCTION OF FOUR KISS MINI COUNTRYMAN.
MINI USA
$129,000 RAISED FROM AUCTION OF FOUR KISS MINI COUNTRYMAN.
Proceeds donated to UNICEF to help children in Japan and worldwide
WOODCLIFF LAKE, NJ – June 27, 2011— The world watched in horror as the earthquake and tsunami devastated Japan; so the legendary rock band KISS partnered with MINI USA and unleashed the power of The KISS Army to battle the elements with dollars – and plenty of them.
KISS (www.KISSonline.com) and MINI USA raised $129,000 during an eBay online charity auction of four custom-painted and autographed MINI Countryman vehicles. After shipping, all proceeds will be donated to UNICEF to help children in Japan and other emergency efforts around the world.
And the initiative keeps on giving… KISS vehicle wraps based on the auctioned designs are still available for purchase through www.MINIUSA.COM/KISS or local MINI dealerships. MINI USA’s proceeds from those sales will continue to help those in need.
“The KISS Army is the greatest army in the world and when they heard the cry for help, they fought back in the best way that they knew how – with their wallets,” said Paul Stanley. “The KISS MINIs are the ultimate way to show your KISS Army colors and it’s a reminder that we have the best fans in the world.”
The four custom-painted vehicles are the all-new 2011 MINI Countryman, and each vehicle features the iconic makeup and costume association of one KISS member, including co-founder and rhythm guitarist Paul Stanley (Starchild), co-founder and bassist Gene Simmons (The Demon), lead guitarist Tommy Thayer (Spaceman) and drummer Eric Singer (Catman).
All of the MINIs are autographed by all four members of KISS and have become instant collector’s items.
“The KISS MINIs are rare one-of-a-kind collector’s items and KISS salutes the winners of the auction,” said Gene Simmons. “The new owners have the satisfaction of knowing that they not only have an instant investment that will keep growing in value, but every time they look at the car, they’ll also be reminded that the real value is knowing that their dollars helped children in the greatest need.”
“Thank you to the auction participants and MINI owners who bought vehicle wraps, thereby contributing to this charitable effort. MINI USA is proud that our vehicles were featured as part of such a remarkable initiative and helped raise much needed funds,” said Jim McDowell, Vice President MINI USA. “It is fantastic to see what started as a simple idea grow into something that will touch the lives of so many. UNICEF does great work and I hope that the ties with KISS and MINI have elevated awareness and support of their tireless efforts.”
The eBay auction winners are located in North Carolina, Oregon, and Massachusetts. The vehicles will be delivered in the coming weeks to their new homes.
For more information, visit www.KISSonline.com or www.miniusanews.com.
Here are a few images from Moritz MINIs very own MINI Rocks the Rivals
2012 MINI Coupe is priced and ready for production
www.moritzmini.com
***Update: The ALL New COUPE will be visiting Moritz MINI in Arlington, TX on Friday, July 29 – August 1!
The all new MINI coupe is headed our way and Moritz MINI is ready. The Coupe will come with your choice of automatic or manul tranmission as always and starting at only $22,000:
>See what Car and Driver Had to Say about the all new model:
'From the waist down, the Coupe Concept is basically a Mini John Cooper Works, with a few custom bits such as darkened headlamps, painted wheel inserts, and painted mini-blind (get it?) grille slats. Above the waist, however, this car is crazy different. The trailing edge of the rear window is moved forward several inches, creating what looks like a trunk, although the car remains a hatchback, albeit one with only 8.8 cubic feet of cargo space. For reference, a Mini Cooper hardtop hatchback can hold 5.7 cubes with the rear seats up and 24.0 with the seats folded—of course, you lose the utility of rear seats in this concept. The brightly capped upper body is distinct with its integrated spoiler, blacked-out B-pillars, and chopped aluminum roof. The windshield, too, is faster than that of the standard Mini.
The Coupe concept is will be able to accommodate any of the Mini’s available powertrains, though this one was outfitted with the most sporting of them, the turbocharged 1.6-liter from the aforementioned JCW edition that produces 208 hp and 192 lb-ft of torque (206 lb-ft in “overboost” mode). Weight balance is “perfect” in Coupe form, and the lower center of gravity makes for even better handling, which would make us very happy campers indeed.
--- Mini is calling the Coupe concept “an unusually attractive vision of how the model family may well develop in the future,” and we’d have to agree with the unusual and attractive points. The news that it is “how the family may well develop in the future” (can’t you just hear the British accent in that?) is rather intriguing—the long-rumored Mini Speedster would be pretty easy to create from this concept—and we’ll take it as a promise.'
The new BMW M5. High-speed testing at the Nardo Ring.
Score A Goal in the Classroom and Moritz BMW partner to motivate school attendance
www.moritzbmw.com
When the 2010-11 school year began, students had a little something extra to look forward to this year. At a large pep-rally hosted by Seguin High School, it was announced that a 2011 Moritz BMW 128i was going to be the reward for the student that exemplified the best attendance all year long... there were just too many students to choose from! To give everyone a sporting chance, all year long, students had their names entered into a pool if they had perfect attendance every few weeks. The more times you had perfect attendance during these weekly periods, the greater the chances that your name would be on of the lucky few.
Once the end of the school year rolled around, six candidates were drawn at random from the pool of attendance candidaates to attend the presentation ceremony for the car at which students would each receive a BMW key and try to start the Crimson Red, brand new BMW from Moritz of North Arlingon.
The six finalists who drew their big chance to win the car out of 20,400 entries were:
Nghia Nguyen, 10th grader at Bowie High School
Miguel Paniagua, 10th grader at Lamar High School
Benjamin Hunter, 11th grader at Martin High School
Neda Langroodi, 10th grader at Martin High School
Mark Martinez, 9th grader at Seguin High School
Krystal Taylor, 11th grader at Seguin High School
More photos from the Finalist Selection afternoon with Nolan Ryan at Moritz BMW and the Selection Eveningare available by CLICKING HERE
At the end of the day, it turned out that Mark Martinez was the big winner... to read more about his story visit the links below.
The last DTS will join an illustrious line of automobiles in Bulgari’s collection, which he houses at facilities in Rome and Allentown, Pa. The grandson of a silversmith who opened a jewelry shop in Rome in 1884, Nicola Bulgari has helped the company grow into a global network of 293 stores selling high-end jewelry, watches, leather goods, perfumes and fashion accessories.
Bulgari developed his passion for automobiles, particularly American automobiles, as a child growing up in post-World War II Italy. He remembers seeing U.S. soldiers and dignitaries driving all makes and models of American automobiles through the streets of Rome. His collection includes every GM model made in 1941, the year he was born.
“It’s something that goes back a long time,” Bulgari said. “It started when I was 5 or 6 years old. It cultivated an incredible passion that has grown and gotten more sophisticated as I’ve come to understand the history better.”
When he was 25, Bulgari bought his first Cadillac – a 1938 Cadillac V-16 Town Car. With its smooth, powerful engine, the Cadillac V-16 is considered by most experts as one of the finest automobiles of all time. Bulgari has sold his V-16 but said he would add another to his collection if he found the right one.
“It was quite an experience to drive that car because the quality was second to none,” Bulgari said. “The suspension design, the power, the engine… Everything was built with extraordinary quality.
Relaunch of the BMW Welt Junior Campus
BMW Group
Relaunch of the BMW Welt Junior Campus. New focus on sustainability in automotive production.
27.05.2011
Munich. The reopening of the Junior Campus at BMW Welt was celebrated with a function yesterday morning. Willi Weitzel, “guest educator” and moderator of the event, joined a class of elementary school children in exploring the redesigned Campus Portal together with other guests included representatives of the press, the public and the company. Later, Weitzel and a group of seventh-grade girls built a solar vehicle in keeping with the revised Campus concept. The relaunch of the learning and experience space, located directly at BMW Welt, aims to give children aged 5 to 13 an understanding of sustainability and mobility. To this end, children have a chance to research, test and experiment in an interactive setup – for instance, to find out what sustainability means throughout a vehicle’s lifecycle.
A discovery tour of the world of mobility.
The guided three-part learning concept of the Junior Campus (Discover – Immerse – Create together) is designed to strengthen the interactive and lasting acquisition of knowledge. The three sections – Campus Portal, Campus Lab and Campus Workshop – are an inherent part of BMW Welt in Munich. Since the opening in fall 2007, thousands of children and school classes have experienced mobility with all their senses. The underlying concept was developed with pedagogy and social sciences experts, featuring topics and sequences that are aligned with the age-based development of the 5 to 13-year-old visitors. All assignments and information are available in both German and English.
“With the educational concept of the Junior Campus, we have sparked children’s interest in mobility for almost four years now. As the most sustainable automobile company worldwide, we have now revised the Portal and developed new workshops to raise more awareness for sustainability among young people,” Harald Krüger, Member of the Board of Management of BMW AG, explained the company’s latest initiative. “Children and teenagers will be the ones to shape our future society. This is why they are so important to us. If we want to initiate changes in society, they are the ones we will have to start with.”
Consequently, young people play a key role in the BMW Group’s CSR activities, which include educational projects on various scientific topics, technology, road safety and mobility – and increasingly on sustainability
issues.
MINI at LIFEBALL 2011
BMW Group
DSQUARED² presents exclusive Life Ball MINI 2011. Creative car design for the benefit of Aids Life.
21.05.2011
Munich/Vienna. Dean and Dan Caten, better known as the Canadian designer duo DSQUARED², unveil their exclusive Life Ball MINI 2011 in Vienna on May 21st. The twin brothers refashioned their MINI Cooper S to ensure that it would be armed for adventures of all kinds. Among its striking features are the front guard, rally headlamps, tinted side windows with grilles and the spare tyre on the tailgate. But that’s not all: the vehicle’s raised chassis and deep-tread all-terrain tyres instantly evoke a sense of adventure. When it came to the interior, our two designers similarly scrutinised every detail. If road signs are unclear, there’s a compass to help you head in the right direction, while floormats made of structured aluminium sheeting protect the inside from dirt. The trademark DSQUARED2 maple leaf on the leather head restraints and the side doors rounds off the cabin of this robust MINI with a stylish flour. Dean and Dan are delighted with the result: “Our MINI ‘Red Mudder’ is 100 per cent DSQUARED².” On Saturday evening this one-off was gliding along the red carpet at the legendary Life Ball.
This year sees carmaker MINI supporting Europe’s biggest AIDS charity event for the 11th time. Each year a one-off MINI is created for the Life Ball, the proceeds of which support projects combating HIV/AIDS. Since 2001 more than half a million euros has been generated by these specially styled Life Ball MINI models on behalf of Aids Life. Gery Keszler, the founder and organiser of the Life Ball, is impressed by this longstanding collaboration: “MINI has been a partner of the Life Ball for 11 years and each year it demonstrates anew its creativity, enthusiasm and passion for this good cause. This year’s Life Ball MINI designed by DSQUARED² provides further persuasive evidence of this.” In previous years, designers such as Agent Provocateur, Donatella Versace, Diesel, Missoni and Gianfranco Ferré obliged with their own designs for a Life Ball MINI.
Ron Washington receives a Moritz Cadillac El Dorado restored from the Texas Rangers
Live Coverage at the Event
Moritz Cadillac helps to restore a 1985 Cadillac El Dorado Biarritz to it's original luster for Texas Ranger's Manager, Ron Washington. At 11:45am on Thursday, May 26th, 2011, Ron Washington received a touching replacement for the Cadillac El Dorado that he had previously owned and lost during Katrina. The Texas Rangers, Nolan Ryan and Moritz Cadillac partnered to make this a special afternoon for Ron in thanks of his work and dedication to baseball and the Rangers. There was quite a crowd around to witness the delivery. See the links and sources below to view more video coverage or click this link to see exclusive photos from Ron's El Do Day.
Enjoy direct quotes from Nolan and Ron's Day here:
"It's a fun thing to do something like that," said club president Nolan Ryan. "Our organization felt that we wanted to help Ron replace that car, and there are so few of them that it was kind of a neat opportunity."
"I think that goes to show how much they care about their employees," Ron Washington said. "Words couldn't express what I feel about them replacing my 1985 [Biarritz], because it meant everything to me. It was hard for me to let it go, and then they find one and sent it to me."
When the Rangers decided on the gift, they joined forces with Moritz Cadillac in Arlington, Tx in order to find a suitable car, then figure out how to install a sun roof and do a custom seat replacement in the white leather version, just like the one Washington saw and loved on the showroom floor 25 years ago.
"One thing is for sure, when they got it, it wasn't, but they made it to be the same one I got off the showroom floor," Washington said of the Moritz Cadillac El Do's transformation. "This one didn't have a sun roof, and they put a sun roof in it. It didn't have white seats, they put white seats in it. Everything else is exactly the same."
"To tell you the truth, I don't know how they found out," Ron said about how Moritz got the El Dorado just right. "Somebody went through my wife, but I don't know how they found out everything because that's not something I talk about. If we're talking about Katrina I'll say, 'Yeah, I lost my Biarritz in Katrina, but they did their due diligence.'"
Various Sources:
Video: Rangers give Ron Washington 1985 Cadillac Biarritz
"The club worked with Moritz Cadillac in an extensive search and was able to purchase one as a gift to the manager. The Rangers originally announced the ..."
"When the Rangers decided on the gift, they had to team up with Moritz Cadillac in order to find a suitable car, but then they had to make a sun roof and ... "
Most people can find a reason to celebrate, but the question is how much? Moritz MINI has recently taken a new approach and is now on the KISS Rock the Rivals program. "Every night and every day..." as long as they don't run out of Reb Bull. Friday, May 20th was no different. The 2011 MINI Rock the Rivals Tour arrived in the Moritz MINI showroom and brought with it, a new cousin to the MINI family.
This MINI is bigger, has four doors, 32mpg Highway and enough power and agility to make any commute entertaining as well as efficient. Meet the all new MINI Countryman that was lanuched earlier in 2011 at Moritz MINI in Arlington, TX. But this visitor was not your typical MINI Countryman... not that any MINIs are typical. THIS was a KISS-edition, signed by the band, ready to rock, country-touring, custom MINI Countryman S that had traveled all the way from the New York City launch of the 2011 Rock the Rivals Tour benefitting UNISEF in their ongoing efforts to aid children in Japan and emergency efforts around the world.
Though KISS did not make it to the stage at Moritz, Rock and Rollover, a KISS/rock cover band that performs throughout the Texas, did show up in full KISS attire and setup to Rock the Rivals from 4-6pm. They were the real deal from shoes to skills... ready to shred the makeshift stage outside of the MINI showroom. The only thing that held up a killer show was RAIN! Though this first concert effort was rained out, the ground was laid for a reunion tour sometime soon. Feel free to visit the album of photos from the days adventure and remember to like Moritz MINI on http://www.facebook.com/MoritzMINI to be notified the next time a special day comes to Arlington. Motor On!
IntelliChoice Recognizes MINI as a superior value for 2011
awards.intellichoice.com - 2011
IntelliChoice Announces 2011 Best Overall Values of the Year
21 New Vehicles that Provide Best Bang for the Buck
San Francisco, Calif. (February 05, 2010) – IntelliChoice, the market leader in automotive ownership cost and car value analysis, announced today the winners of the 2011 Best Overall Value of the Year (BOVY) awards at the 2011 National Automobile Dealers Association (NADA) convention in San Francisco.
Amidst a recovering economy and a buying public wary of big-ticket spending, the annual BOVY Awards help to identify best-in-class vehicles that deliver outstanding value and lower than expected costs over time; offering consumers a quick reference to determine which vehicles give them the most bang for their buck.
Unlike previous years when there have been as many as 46 winners, this year’s BOVYs were distilled to highlight a collection of 21 class winners, honing in on specific buyer market segments. The vehicles in each category represent best values and illustrate the results of a careful and practical analysis of ownership costs, including: depreciation, maintenance, repairs, fuel, fees, financing and insurance.
The 2011 BOVY award winners are as follows:
CLASS
BRAND
MODEL
Compact Passenger Car
Honda
Fit
Premium Compact Passenger Car
Lexus
IS 250
Passenger Car
Toyota
Prius
Premium Passenger Car
Toyota
Avalon
Luxury Passenger Car
Infiniti
M37
Convertible
MINI
Cooper Convertible
Premium Convertible
Lexus
IS 250C
Sporty/Coupe
MINI
Cooper Hatchback
Premium Sporty/Coupe
Volvo
C30
Performance Car
Chevrolet
Corvette
Compact Crossover/Wagon
Toyota
RAV4 4cyl
Premium Compact Crossover/Wagon
Audi
A3
Crossover/Wagon
Subaru
Outback
Premium Crossover/Wagon
Lexus
RX 350
Luxury Crossover/Wagon
Volvo
XC90 3.2
Minivan
Toyota
Sienna
SUV
Toyota
4Runner
Full-Size SUV
GMC
Yukon
Premium Full-Size SUV
Lexus
GX 460
Compact Pickup
Toyota
Tacoma
Full-Size Pickup
Toyota
Tundra
“As the economy slowly builds back up, consumers are getting ready to re-enter the buyer’s market, but they are concerned of what’s going to give them the most value for the longest period of time. That’s where we come in with a mission that has remained the same for the last 25 years; we empower consumers to make better purchase decisions, by providing independent and essential automotive information and tools,” said Vogelheim. “The BOVYs are another tool that help consumers recognize cars and trucks whose total cost of ownership is significantly lower than expected compared to their peers. In essence, the awards provide a quick reference to highlight vehicles that promise the best value over duration of ownership.”
While this year’s awards reflected a diverse group of winners across a range of price points and manufacturers, it was Asian manufacturers that continued to show the strongest best overall value, with Toyota accumulating seven wins of the 21 total categories, once again making it the highest award winner. Lexus accounted for another four category wins, including Premium Passenger Car, Premium Full-Size SUV, Premium Convertible and Premium Crossover/Wagon.
Certain cars and trucks made repeat appearances on IntelliChoice’s Best Overall Values ranking. Not surprisingly, were wins from Chevrolet Corvette and MINI Cooper Convertible; both were awarded honors for their class leading value retention and lower cost to insure.
“The most important thing about choosing a car wisely is knowing that it’s not just about the lowest sticker price,” said IntelliChoice Executive Editor, Charlie Vogelheim. “In fact, the purchase price is just the first cost; there are many other factors to consider when gauging overall cost.”
Throughout the year, IntelliChoice aggregates and analyzes data on nearly 1800 vehicle models to determine its Best Overall Values. Data gleaned from auto manufacturers, the U.S. government, and third-party data resources is used to determine the actual costs of ownership for new vehicles over a five-year period. After determining ownership costs, IntelliChoice assigns a value rating to each vehicle and compares that rating relative to their peer models to determine a Best Overall Value in vehicle class.
BMW gambles sporty image on electric cars
USA TODAY
NEW YORK — BMW, gambling its image as a high-performance brand, will put 700 of its 1 Series coupes on the streets this fall with an all-electric drive that it says will satisfy sports car fans and also use no petroleum.
BMW promised the ActiveE will be “100% electric and 100% BMW.” And it will go about 100 miles on a charge, the automaker says.
It is the start of a move toward electric power by the car company famous for its smooth, powerful gasoline engines and its crisp-handling sedans.
If the test of the so-called ActiveE coupe is successful, BMW will follow in 2013 with an electric vehicle it has designed from scratch to run on battery power, using a lightweight aluminum chassis and a strong, light carbon-fiber passenger-compartment cell.
That car will be called i3, even though BMW says it won't resemble the current 3-Series sedan.The company’s first test was of a handful of electric Mini Coopers.
The 170-hp ActiveE was shown Monday at a Manhattan dealership at an event ahead of the New York International Auto Show that begins later this week.
BMW will lease 700 ActiveE’s to interested drivers in U.S. coastal cities this fall for 24 months at $499 per month, plus a $2,250 payment at the start of the lease.
BMW says the ActiveE will accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in about 9 seconds. That’s only about as quick as an average family sedan, but should feel brisk enough to suit many buyers, it says.
The announcement was the second ahead of the show here of an electric performance car.
Nissan’s NISMO performance division has crafted a racing version of the company’s battery-power Leaf that it hopes will spark interest in an electric-car racing series.
Automakers are being pushed toward dramatic powertrain shifts by regulations here, and especially in Europe, that limit carbon emissions. The more petroleum a car burns, the more carbon it emits. Performance models could put a halo, or positive image, on electrics generally and ease their acceptance.
BMW Evolve App
BMW
BMW launches Evolve, an iPhone app that gives conventional car drivers a taste of how electric-vehicles work. The mobile app is available for iPhone and Android smartphones and it works…without you owning an electric vehicle.
Customers considering an electric-vehicle but are concerned about driving range and battery recharging, now have the opportunity to virtually own and drive an EV. Using the app, each day you start out with 100-miles driving range. Through the GPS chip embedded in your phone, the app tracks your daily driving distance and again, virtually, lets you charge your electric vehicle at destinations or while parked.
At the end of the trip, the Evolve app tallies your trip length and distance, and tells how much time you spent driving, parked, and charging. It will also tell you how much less CO2 emissions you would have added to the environment and how many gallons of gas you could have saved if you were driving an EV, another concern among conventional car drivers.
Overall, Evolve is more of an educational app and a way to accustom ourselves with electric vehicles and their unique way to travel distances. Future improvements are needed, such as tracking the speed you travel with, driving conditions and other factors that impact driving range, but based on feedback, we expect the BMW developers in Palo Alto to enhance functionality.
Moritz BMW Hosts a Dream Day for a Local Cancer Survivor
On site reporting
A Dream Day to remember at Moritz BMW with the Experience Genie
by John Brunson
Words cannot describe the exciting scene upon which the crisp morning sun rose on April 2nd. As we setup to surprise our local cancer survivor Tarrie, a very deserving young woman with two small children, we quickly realized how much this was going to mean to her. She was escorted to the press conference at the dealership by her Sister's Network pals, and had NO idea what was about to unfold. Just as we were taking photos as a group with Tarrie, our BMW advisors, and the Sister's Network team, a sleek BMW 740Li crept upon the scene...
The meet and greet... she might have taken a step back at first, but warmed up to the blue man quickly!!!
The Experience Genie, to all of our surprise in his full red suit and BMW t-Shirt, stepped out of the 740Li and announced that his was her VIP Dream Day escort vehicle for the day. Tarrie got to forget about the daily struggles and just her wishes for the day come true. The only treatments and care she was given that day were pampering at a local spa, valet rides in a Moritz 2011 BMW 740Li, helicopter flying lessons, VIP dinner and club experience in downtown Dallas and more.
Speaking from the heart, this is one of the most touching events we have been a part of and we hope to do more for other unsuspecting and deserving individuals in the near future. See the pictures and footage of the Dream Day by clicking the various links below.
Local Channel 11 and WFAA 8 News showed up to highlight the day with some praise and encouragement for Tarrie!
Big Thanks to the Experience Genie and Ingrid!
READ MORE ABOUT TARRIES DAY on their Genie BLOG:
http://www.experiencegenie.com/blog/
http://www.experiencegenie.com/blog/feed/
_____________________________
In Tarries own words:
_____________________________
"My day started off with a big surprise, and I didn't know where I was going... I was just by the Sister's Network that we were headed to the Moritz BMW location in Arlington, Texas. There were camera's and everything when I got there and and I came to find out it was all about me! There was this day to pamper me with a nice relaxing spa visit, nice hotel, VIP Dallas Zoo visit and more that night, just a wonderful day in the 740Li."
-Tarrie
____________________________
from: Veronica S. to: john_brunson@moritzmail.com - John Brunson Moritz Marketing Manager date: Wed, Apr 13, 2011 at 8:23 AM subject: Experience Genie DreamDay
John,
On behalf of Sisters Network Dallas Chapter, I would like to thank you for your cooperation in making Tarrie’s day with the Genie a big success. It was exciting and touching to see the surprise on her face. She had a wonderful time and said she hated for it to end. It helped to put a more positive light on her life at this point and a positive attitude will help her fight her cancer. It also helped for her to be able to ride around in one of your luxuries BMW’s (by the way, my dream car) for the day. Again, I would like to thank you for helping to make Tarrie’s experience with the Genie unforgettable.
Sincerely,
Veronica Slade Vice President of Sisters Network - Dallas Chapter
----------------------------------------------
"We would like to thank all who participated to make this a special day for Tarrie... people and relationships are what we are about at Moritz. Always remember... Pay it forward."
-Moritz BMW in Arlington, TX
BMW xDrive Live Tour 2011
Back in March, BMW Romania held a new BMW xDrive event. An annual event, the xDrive Live Tour returns in 2011 with a newvehicle added to the X-lineup: the new BMW X3. 24 BMWs equipped with the xDrive system (BMW 320d xDrive, BMW 535d xDrive Gran Turismo, BMW 740d xDrive, BMW X1 xDrive 20d, BMW X3 xDrive 35i, BMW X3 xDrive 20d, BMW X6 xDrive 30d) were made available to journalists and other attendees.
The event included three different segments: Dynamics, Agility and Traction. The day started with an xDrive classroom where BMW specialists and local racing driver, Claudiu David, explained to the audience the benefits of the xDrive system and how the traction is being distributed under different driving conditions.
To experience the full benefits of BMW’s xDrive system, the 50 participants moved onto the “playground” where BMW staff assisted them through the different exercises.
Let’s have a look at the extensive gallery and videos, and we’re looking forward to a similar event in the United States.
BMW Wireless - charging vehicles
BMW and Siemens partnering for wireless-charging Electric Vehicles Author: Horatiu B. Wireless charging your electric vehicle might be closer to reality that you think. A recent press release issued by Siemens reports on a partnership with BMW to charge future electric vehicles.
MINI E fleet trials
In the US, the MINI E pilot continues ended last year and the North American market is preparing to welcome the ActiveE this summer, a similar field trial that takes place in selected cities around the country.
But the MINI E pilot continues in Europe. BMW Group, along with Vattenfall Europe, has announced that the Mini E field trial in Berlin, Germany is entering phase two. In 2009, BMW has teamed up with its partner Vattenfall to release 50 of the cars to customers in Berlin as part of a project supported by the Federal Ministry for the Environment, Nature Conservation and Nuclear Safety.
The new fleet counts seventy MINI Es, with 30 going to private customers and 40 earmarked for fleet users. In order to support the ongoing field trial, a total of 50 plug-in vehicle charging stations have been installed in and around Berlin.
The MINI E Fleet trials began in 2009 in the USA (New York, Los Angeles and in the state of New Jersey), UK (Oxford / London) and Germany (Munich and Berlin). This fleet tests subsequently expanded into France (Paris), Japan (Tokyo) and China (Beijing and Shenzhen). In the first phase, the Mini Es in Berlin have racked up a reported 310,686 miles and three out of every four of the drivers advocate the exclusive use of renewable energy sources for charging up electric vehicles in the future. Initial results from the Berlin study after more than six months of usage show that the electric car’s limited range is proving – in the vast majority of cases – to be sufficient for the participants under everyday conditions.
MINI Goodwood
BMW Blog
World Premiere: MINI Goodwood
Author: Horatiu B.
As the first premium model in the small car segment, MINI has been a genuine trailblazer, the unsurpassed scope of its equipment features and accessories allowing it to meet the most varied requirements. And now MINI fans can express their appreciation of exclusive individuality, eye for stylish elegance and penchant for uncompromising premium quality with even greater sophistication. MINI INSPIRED BY GOODWOOD adds another layer to the MINI brand experience with a generous dose of automotive luxury and exclusivity in its highest form. Close collaboration with the Rolls-Royce Motor Cars design team has produced a limited-run special edition MINI, whose exterior and interior design is inspired by fine materials and the British luxury car marque’s commitment to absolutely flawless workmanship.
Production of the MINI INSPIRED BY GOODWOOD – which celebrates its world premiere at the Auto Shanghai 2011 show – is restricted to 1,000 units. Deliveries of the model, which will launch as part of the exclusive MINI Yours product line, are scheduled to start in spring 2012.
The British origins of the two brands, their shared belief in meeting the individual needs and desires of their customers, and the creative pooling of ideas between the various brands at BMW Group Design provided the fuel for the collaboration between Rolls-Royce and MINI. At the Rolls-Royce headquarters in Goodwood, southern England, Rolls-Royce interior designer Alan Sheppard has overseen the emergence of a MINI which reproduces the hallmark majestic allure of the historic luxury brand and an interior ambience born of exquisite materials and outstanding workmanship in a representative of the small car community for the first time.
The exclusive status of the MINI INSPIRED BY GOODWOOD is rooted in a materials and colour concept which reflects the unmistakable and globally unique Rolls-Royce style not only in its individual component parts, but also in the configuration put together for the special-edition model. Exclusive ambience created by harmonious colours, select materials and unbeatable workmanship. In this way, the MINI INSPIRED BY GOODWOOD generates an interior ambience defined by stylistic harmony, masterful workmanship and British understatement. The dominant colour is the exclusive Rolls-Royce variant Corn Silk, a warm and natural shade of beige which washes over the instrument panel (including the Centre Speedo and air vent surrounds), centre console, carpet surfaces, seat upholstery, roof liner, and door, side and body pillar trim. Only the upper section of the instrument panel, which is lined with extremely high-quality, soft full-grain leather, is in black.
The surface of the instrument panel and door pulls boasts a Walnut Burr finish likewise exclusive to Rolls-Royce. These veneers are selected at the Goodwood factory exclusively for the MINI INSPIRED BY GOODWOOD. In its flawless surface finish and distinctive stitching, the Cornsilk Tipped Leather used for the door panels also displays the unparalleled level of quality refined by the famous marque. Another stylish touch comes in the form of the high- quality Piano Black gloss finish on the multifunction steering wheel buttons and the control panel below the Centre Speedo.
The matching black dials for the speedometer and rev counter bear the same typeface as their Rolls-Royce counterparts. The MINI INSPIRED BY GOODWOOD is adorned with seats in Lounge Leather upholstery, a soft full-grain leather steering wheel and rugs in a quality of deep wool fleece also enjoyed by passengers in current Rolls-Royce models. The trim for the headlining, sun visors and luggage compartment cover boasts a likewise extremely high-grade Rolls-Royce cashmere blend.
When it comes to the exterior paintwork, customers can look forward to the Diamond Black metallic shade developed by Rolls-Royce Design. Alternatively, the MINI colour variant Reef Blue metallic can be specified as an option. The chosen paint shade is also used for the exterior mirror caps and roof spoiler of the MINI INSPIRED BY GOODWOOD. The exclusivity of the special-edition model is also reflected in its body design. The car’s front and rear apron are the same as those found on the MINI Cooper S, but are combined with the bonnet from the MINI Cooper D. Rather than carrying over the air scoop of the MINI Cooper S, it boasts a harmoniously flowing surface which underlines the stylishly elegant appearance of the MINI INSPIRED BY GOODWOOD.
Another identifying feature of the MINI INSPIRED BY GOODWOOD are the sporty and elegant 17-inch multispoke light-alloy wheels. There are also high-class aluminium badges stamped with the lettering “MINI INSPIRED BY GOODWOOD” on the side indicator surrounds above the front wheel arches and on the door sills. Another badge, also featuring the legend “One of 1000”, can be found on the centre console in front of the gearshift lever (or selector lever, if the automatic gearbox is specified).
Inspired by Goodwood, built in Oxford. The exterior and interior features specially developed for the MINI INSPIRED BY GOODWOOD embody the inimitable style of Rolls-Royce Design. From the initial inspiration, the selection of materials and the detailed preparation of the colour concept, to the fine-tuning of the production process to ensure unimpeachable quality standards, the entire development process in Goodwood was carried out in close collaboration with the MINI plant in Oxford and the BMW Group’s development centre in Munich. The special-edition car will be built at the Oxford MINI plant, where the MINI, MINI Clubman and MINI Convertible are also produced for the global market.
Beyond the signature features of the special-edition model, the standard equipment fitted in the MINI INSPIRED BY GOODWOOD also meets the highest expectations of a premium car. Its innovative and high-quality character is underlined by technology including Adaptive Headlights with xenon light, Park Distance Control, automatic climate control, an on-board computer and the MINI Visual Boost Radio audio system including a Harman Kardon hi-fi loudspeaker system.
Twin-scroll turbocharged engine delivers customary MINI driving fun. The four-cylinder turbocharged engine familiar from the MINI Cooper S ensures that the hallmark MINI driving fun and imposing power reserves are available on tap. The 1.6-litre drive unit – equipped with a turbocharger based on the twin-scroll principle, petrol direct injection and variable valve control – develops 135 kW/184 hp and maximum torque of 240 Newton metres (177 lb-ft), which can be raised to 260 Newton metres (192 lb-ft) for a short time using the Overboost function.
The most efficient engine in its displacement class combines its outstanding power development with exceptionally low fuel consumption and emissions figures. The sprint from 0 to 100 km/h (62 mph) is all over in 7.0 seconds, while fuel consumption in the EU test cycle stands at 5.8 litres per 100 kilometres (48.7 mpg imp) and CO2 emissions come in at 136 grams per kilometre. As an alternative to the standard six-speed manual gearbox, the MINI INSPIRED BY GOODWOOD can also be ordered as an option with a six- speed automatic.
BMW and Siemens partnering for wireless-charging Electric Vehicles
Wireless charging your electric vehicle might be closer to reality that you think. A recent press release issued by Siemens reports on a partnership with BMW to charge future electric vehicles.
The Siemens-BMW partnership begins in May when a prototype with a charging power of 3.6 kilowatts will be tested in an electric vehicle. Beginning in June, the test will be followed by trials in Berlin to determine which improvements are needed to integrate the system into series-produced vehicles under real-life conditions and to obtain customer feedback for future customer-oriented charging solutions.
The associated charging stations can be easily incorporated into practically any setting, making them nearly invisible and effectively protecting them against vandalism and wear and tear.
More in the press release below.
Cable-free Charging of Electric Cars Via Coils
Apr. 09, 2011 | In the future, motorists will no longer need a cable to recharge the batteries of their electric cars, thanks to a development project for inductive charging, which Siemens presented at Hannover Messe 2011. Developed in cooperation with BMW, this non-contact technology also works if drivers only make a short stop to recharge. The associated charging stations can be easily incorporated into practically any setting, making them nearly invisible and effectively protecting them against vandalism and wear and tear. In June 2011, the system’s capabilities will be tested in a project funded by the German Environment Ministry and involving several vehicles in Berlin.
A big obstacle to the expansion of electric mobility is the lack of an extensive and reliable charging infrastructure. Because electric cars have to recharge their batteries more often than vehicles with combustion engines need to refuel, various charging techniques are required that are adapted to the needs of the drivers and vehicles. Siemens’ inductive energy transmission concept would make it possible to automatically recharge vehicles such as taxis waiting at cab stands.
The charging station is connected to the public grid by a primary coil that is completely underground. A secondary coil is attached to the car, and the distance between the two coils is typically between eight and 15 centimeters. When the driver starts the charging process, an electric current begins to flow through the primary coil. The resulting magnetic field induces an electric current in the secondary coil, which recharges the battery. Electricity is transmitted from the grid through all of the components to the battery at an efficiency of more than 90 percent. The magnetic field is generated only in an exactly predetermined area between the two coils. The system therefore generates a magnetic field whose strength in and around the vehicle is far below the internationally recommended limit of 6.25 microteslas.
Starting in May, a prototype with a charging power of 3.6 kilowatts will be tested in an electric vehicle. Beginning in June, the test will be followed by trials in Berlin to determine which improvements are needed to integrate the system into series-produced vehicles under real-life conditions and to obtain customer feedback for future customer-oriented charging solutions. The system also enables the smart use of energy, whereby the car also serves as a storage unit and most of the energy is surplus electricity from solar and wind power facilities. At Hannover Messe, Siemens presented its complete range of electric mobility systems from the Energy (charging stations, smart grid technology) and Industry (electric motors) sectors.
Shopper Activity For Japanese Brands Starting Immediately After Quake And Continuing Downward Momentum Since
Dealer Refresh News
Nashville, TN —03/29/2011—
Dataium, LLC, today released additional data on online automotive shopper behavior of the American consumer that illustrates a downward shift, particularly for Japanese brands. The company utilized its ASI index which aggregates and weighs nearly a dozen different behaviors to determine consumer intensity, motivation, and engagement in the automotive market. The ASI index had made positive gains through February, however after the quake, illustrated a dramatic reversal in consumer behavior. It should be noted that all automotive makes are being impacted; however Japanese manufacturers have felt the brunt of the declines in consumer behavior.
World Events – A Timeline for Auto Market Decline
Declines in the ASI index began almost immediately after the Libyan crisis erupted and average gas prices broke $3.45 per gallon. Domestic brands as a group saw the greatest declines at 7%, with Dodge and GMC having the most significant declines – each with nearly a 17% decline in online auto shopper intensity. Japanese imports posted gains of around 9%; with Honda posting a 25% increase for the same time period, likely due to the higher fleet MPG for these makes. All imports were up by 1%.
These trends shifted dramatically after the Japanese quake, tsunami, and nuclear disaster occurred. Immediately following these events, Japanese imports posted a 16% decline – reversing the earlier gains, while domestic brands saw a 13% increase in their group’s index. However, it did not take long for the gravity of the disaster in Japan, continued unrest in the Middle East, and rising gas prices to erode the gains first posted by domestic brands.
Adding to the already staggering reversal in consumer behavior, Japanese imports have seen their ASI index decline an additional 13% in the weeks following the quake; this comes after posting a 1% gain in the 10 days prior to the quake that rocked Japan on March 11. Unrest has not been solely on the Japanese brands, the U.S. domestic auto brands have lost 1% following the quake, compared to a 4% decline for the 10 days prior. The ASI index for both imports and luxury brands have declined nearly 7%, and the overall automotive market index is down nearly 5% since the quake, versus 2%, 1%, and 2% declines prior to the quake.
Impact of Quake on Automotive Brands
“The data we have collected from online auto shopping behavior across the Internet clearly indicates that the automotive market was beginning to soften in response to world events and continued gas price increases prior to the catastrophic events in Japan”, stated Eric Brown, CEO of Dataium. He added, “The Japanese nameplates were actually out-performing the domestic brands until the quake. After the quake, these trends inverted and the Japanese imports began a significant decline.” He continued, “it should be noted however, that all automotive brands are being impacted by events around the world.”
Cost of driving has risen 3.4%, study finds
USA TODAY
Rising gas prices. Costlier tires. Lousy deals on vehicle resales. If it seems that it’s costing more to operate a motor vehicle these days, that’s because it is — 3.4% more than a year ago, according to auto club AAA.
The average annual cost to own and operate a sedan in the USA, based on 15,000 miles of driving, rose 1.9 cents per mile to 58.5 cents per mile, or $8,776, says AAA’s 2011 “Your Driving Costs” study.
The increased costs to own and operate a vehicle were driven mainly by large increases in fuel prices, depreciation costs and tire prices, says John Nielsen, AAA national director of auto repair, buying and consumer programs.
“Tires are up a lot,” he says. “That’s based on two things. The cost of raw materials, energy and transportation has gone up. And the average tire cost is going up, because the manufacturer is putting a better grade of tire on as original equipment.”
The cost of tires showed the largest percentage increase in this year’s study, rising 15.7% to an average of 0.96 cents per mile for sedan owners.
Rising gas prices fueled an 8.6% increase to an average of 12.34 cents per mile to operate a sedan. Average depreciation costs, the largest cost for vehicle owners, rose 4.9% to an annual average of $3,728 for sedans.
Among the good news in this year’s report:
“As buyers were responding to their economic concerns and began purchasing either a used car or smaller vehicle, that caused the resale value of that category to hold up well,” Nielsen says.
Maintenance and insurance costs both declined. Maintenance costs fell 2.2% to an average of 4.44 cents per mile for sedans, reflecting a trend by automakers to include a portion of scheduled maintenance in the purchase price and extend recommended maintenance intervals. Average insurance costs for sedans fell 6.1% to $968 a year, based on estimates for low-risk drivers with excellent records.
To calculate the costs of driving, AAA incorporates standardized criteria designed to model the average AAA member’s use of a vehicle for personal transportation over five years and 75,000 miles of ownership.
The auto club has published the annual “Your Driving Costs” since 1950. That year, it cost 9 cents a mile to drive a car 10,000 miles per year, and gas cost 27 cents a gallon.
Gas prices in metro Detroit are thisclose to $4 a gallon
DETROIT FREE PRESS BUSINESS WRITER
Gas prices in metro Detroit are a whisker away from $4 a gallon in some cases as the average price jumped 10 cents a gallon during the weekend.
The BP station at Middlebelt and Wick roads near Metro Airport was charging $3.999.
Regular prices in the metro Detroit area range from $3.53 a gallon to $3.99. The average for the area jumped 10 cents a gallon over the weekend from $3.627 on Friday to $3.731 this morning, according to AAA Daily Fuel Gauge Report. Grand Rapids, Jackson and Lansing were even higher with averages of $3.78, $3.78 and $3.79, respectively.
Diesel prices average $3.99 in Michigan, an increase of 20 cents a gallon in a week.
Aside from the war in Libya and unrest elsewhere in the Middle East, a large BP refinery near Gary, Ind., is scheduled to go down for maintenance this week, said Patrick DeHaan, senior petroleum analyst with Gasbuddy.com in Brooklyn Park, Minn.
A phone call and e-mail to BP officials in Houston were not returned.
DeHaan said the refinery in northwest Indiana is one of the largest in the Midwest and could add to the upward pressure on wholesale and retail gas prices in coming days. He said he didn’t know how long the maintenance work would go on.
West Texas Intermediate, the form of crude oil that many U.S. refineries process, was trading at $108.32 a barrel this afternoon, up about 38 cents from Friday’s close.
Reformulated Blendstock of Oxygen Blending (RBOB) futures were trading at $3.157 this afternoon. RBOB prices are close to the wholesale price most retailers pay for their gas, De Haan said
Naomi Smith, 23, of Royal Oak, Mich. eyes the running total as she fills her car at the Marathon station at E. Twelve Mile Road and N. Stephenson in Madison Heights, Mich. where regular gas credit was $3.95 per gallon on Monday, April 4, 2011.
"It's just extremely high and I don't understand the reasoning behind it. I haven't heard anything in the news to expect prices to be rising." A recent MSU graduate Smith works as an animal care technician and customer service representative at the Michigan Humane Society in Rochester Hills. She says she has a 15 to 20 minute commute on I-75. /
PATRICIA BECK/Detroit Free Press
MINI Rocketman Destined for Production
Autoblog
Mini Rocketman Concept – Click above for high-res image gallery
This year's Geneva Motor Show was loaded with concept cars. Even though most of them will never make it past the show's floor, the Mini Rocketman just might eventually roll into dealerships. According to Autocar,Mini plans to launch a production Rocketman based on BMW's front-drive platform and its eco-conscious "i" technologies.
If it enters the production schedule, the Rocketman would slot in below Mini's current three-door Cooperhatchback (at least in terms of overall size) and add to the automaker's rapidly expanding range of vehicles. BMW sales and marketing boss, Ian Robertson, told Autocar that:
The themes in the car [Mini Rocketman] are not just about a smaller Mini. Lightweight construction, and new types of components will go on to Minis. The BMW i-concept [technology] will be available to all members of the group.
So, what would be a proper nickname for the production version of the Mini Rocketman? The "mini" Mini?
BMW Confirms new energy Vehicle
Autoblog
2010 BMW ActiveHybrid 5 Concept – Click above for high-res image gallery
The Chinese will get their very own plug-in hybrid BMW at next month's Shanghai Motor Show when BMW debuts the 2011 5 Series New Energy Vehicle. According to BMW CEO Norbert Reithofer, the car – based on the long-wheelbase 5 Series – is aimed specifically at the Chinese market.
There wasn't much else to be had from BMW about the New Energy Vehicle, except that it probably won't hit North American shores. It may, however, loan some of its technology to the ActiveHybrid 5, which BMW showed off as a concept last year. So far, we're still waiting on the production version of that car, which uses a more traditional gasoline-electric hybrid set up.
First Spy Shot: MINI Hybrid
Back in February, BMW Group and PSA announced their partnership to produce hybrid technologies in upcoming vehicles. The 50-50 equity joint venture named BMW Peugeot Citroen Electrification will focus on developing and producing hybrid components, including battery packs. The new hybrid components will equip both partners’ vehicles from 2014 onwards.
Today, first spy photos of a MINI Hybrid made their way onto the interwebs and the question arises whether these test mules are using hybrid components developed by the two companies. The MINI Hatchback R56 spied here shows us some interesting components. At the rear axle, you immediately notice the new design of fairly chunky enclosure that seem to be the housing for the electric motor components.
The battery technology will also most likely be placed at the rear of the vehicle, similar to the MINI E.
Since the electric motor is located on the rear axle, it becomes clear that the rear-wheels are also driven by the electric unit. The internal combustion engine will continue to power the front wheels.
The current generation R56 MINI simply serves as a test bed for the hybrid technology and the next generation MINI due in 2013 will be the first one to use the hybrid platform.
BMW X3 voted "Four-Wheel Drive Car of the Year 2011"
BMW
Amidst an impressive start on the international automotive markets, the new BMW X3 has rapidly become the shooting star in its segment. Winning the title of “Four-Wheel Drive Car of the Year 2011” awarded by the specialist car magazine “Auto Bild Allrad” is current proof of the new BMW X3’s exceptionally high degree of popularity. The success in the reader survey conducted by Europe’s biggest-selling specialist journal for four-wheel drive cars is already the BMW X3’s second title victory this year. Only a few weeks ago, readers of the magazine “Off Road” voted the Sports Activity Vehicle “Off-road Vehicle of the Year 2011”. With this double success, the new BMW X3 is quick in following the traces of its predecessor, which, in 2006 and 2007, was able to secure the readers’ vote of both periodicals twice in succession.
For the eleventh time now, readers of “Auto Bild Allrad” were asked to name their favourite models from those available on the German car market. In nine categories, there were more than 130 four-wheel drive vehicles to choose from. The new BMW X3 promptly secured first place in the category “Off-road vehicles and SUVs ranging from 25,000 to 40,000 Euros”. The associated title of “Four-Wheel Drive Car of the Year 2011” was awarded during a festive ceremony in Frankfurt on 24 March 2011. With a captivating design, a unique combination of sportiness and efficiency as well as the largest and most variable luggage compartment in the competitive environment, the BMW X3, which has been on sale in Germany since November 2010, yet again sets standards in driving pleasure, versatility and premium quality. Compared to the predecessor model, with which BMW established the concept of the Sports Activity Vehicle in this segment, it offers a noticeable increase in space, even more efficient engines, optimum motoring comfort and a widened choice of innovative equipment features. Both at the front and at the rear the new BMW X3 convinces through outstanding travel comfort and a high-class ambience. With a 550-litre loading capacity, which can be increased to 1,600 litres, and 40:20:40 split-folding rear seats, the vehicle’s carrying capacities also set new benchmarks for the segment.
In the spring of 2011, the engine portfolio for the new BMW X3 will comprise two petrol engines and two diesel engines with a power output ranging from 135 kW/184 bhp to 225 kW/306 bhp. Depending on the engine variant, the new BMW X3 features an eight-speed automatic transmission either as standard or as an option. The still unique, intelligent four-wheel drive system xDrive has been optimised even further. Electronically controlled power distribution ensures not only supreme traction and maximum road stability on slippery surfaces, but also superior dynamics on the road, thus providing that unmistakable driving pleasure that is so typical of BMW. Moreover, the new BMW X3 shoots way ahead of competition thanks to an extensive choice of innovative equipment features, driving assistance systems and mobility services from BMW ConnectedDrive. For example, the new BMW X3 is the only model in its class to be optionally fitted with a Head-Up Display and offer in-car Internet access.
[Source: BMW ]
BMW 1M ranks higher than Infiniti IPL G37 and Audi TT RS
BMW BLOG
In the latest issue of Car and Driver, the popular U.S. magazine had the opportunity to test drive the new BMW 1 Series M Coupe. To make the drive even more interesting, they decided to place the 1M against Audi’s TT RS and the Infiniti IPL G37. The chosen place? The famous Tail of the Dragon roadway in Great Smoky Mountains.
The 1M ran 0 to 60 mph in 4.5 seconds and magazine declares the 1M as “the clear winner”. In straight-line though, the Audi TT RS reported an impressive number: 3.6 seconds to get to 60 mph.
The attributes of the BMW 1 Series M Coupe are being laid out by C&D: “fantastic brakes, balanced handling, perfect stance”. Furthermore, they make a reference to the wide fenders we came to love: “…the absurd and kind of awesome fender flares…”
And the following phrase proves to us that we made the right choice by ordering an 1M this summer:
“The 1M’s super-quick steering(2.2 turns lock-to-lock) combined with a short wheelbase, makes it feel like the go-kart of the group, despite its upright, relatively tall seating position. The 1M certainly requires more skill to drive quickly than the Audi but is ultimately better-balanced machine. Its grip is stunning.”
Even the N54 gets praised.
“We were comforted by this N54′s flexibility, though, which provides a driver with more gear-selection options than a peaky engine would. You can take most of the Tail of the Dragon in third gear, never bothering with the short-throw shifter, you’ll power out of corners with gusto.”
For the full review and photos, visit your local newspaper stand and grab a copy of Car and Driver.
Moritz Cadillac and the Taste of the NFL with
http://www.moritzcadillac.com/
Moritz Cadillac and DFW area Cadillac dealers take active roll in helping to raise $300,000 for local DFW Food Banks with the Taste of the NFL.
Far Left: Tom Hauswirth, Moritz Cadillac Arlington, Texas
Tom D’Angelo, Regional Marketing Manager for Cadillac
Kent Rathbun, Executive Chef for Jaspers and Arcodoros
Darrell Johnson, Former Dallas Cowboy and representative for Taste of NFL
visit the Taste of the NFL webpage:http://www.tasteofthenfl.com/
Taste of the NFL Raises $1 Million to Kick Hunger!
The guests have all gone home. The chefs have all returned to their home city restaurants and the bright lights have all come down, but the effects from the Taste of the NFL's 20th Anniversary Super Bowl "Party with a Purpose" continue to make a difference. Thank you to everyone who helped make the 20th Annual Taste of the NFL on February 5, 2011 in North Texas the biggest event to date!
More than 3500 guests filled the sold-out Fort Worth convention center, sampled amazing food from the brightest culinary stars representing every NFL city and mingled with current and former NFL greats. Highlights included appearances by several founding chefs and players, Miss America 2011 Teresa Scanlan, Roger Staubach, Daryl Johnston, a special cake from TLC's "Cake Boss", and a rockin' performance by 4-time CMA Female Vocalist of the Year, Martina McBride.
The Super Bowl celebration may be over, but the need to help the hungry continues. You can still help by donating to the Taste of the NFL. See you in Indianapolis in 2012
First Spy Photos: MINI Coupe
GMotors
Later this fall, the new MINI Coupe will make its U.S. debut. In an short interview at 2011 Detroit Auto Show, MINI Communication Manager Nathalie Bauters toldAutoblog that the Coupe will be a 2012 model year and will be followed by the MINI Roadster six months later.
In the mean time, MINI Coupe prototypes continues their testing trials back in Europe. Courtesy of Gmotorswe have the first spy photo of the new Coupe.
MINI Coupe Concept is based on the John Cooper Works bodystyle, measures 146.1 inches overall, 66.1 inches wide and 53.3 inches tall. It was designed as a two seater which brings out the idea of a MINI roadstervehicle rather than a coupe. Due to its rear-end design line, the MINI Coupe Concept lacks trunk space, the only storage space is behind the seats. The cargo space measures about 8.8 cubic feet and in the production model, it will be accessible through the a big hatch.
Under the hood, MINI Coupe Concept uses the same engine from JCW, a 1.6 liter four cylinder turbocharged engine which produces 211 horsepower and 260 Nm (192 lb-ft) of torque.
Inside, the MINI Coupe Concept sports an exclusive range of colors and materials. A three-spoke leather sports steering wheel with multifunction buttons enables the driver to steer precisely into bends and control the audio or communication functions with maximum ease. All other control units, in turn, are arranged ergonomically on the dashboard, taking their frequency of use into account.
Horizontal lines and air vents placed far to the outside emphasize the sheer width of the instrument panel and, at the same time, the generous style of the interior, the slender center console giving the driver and passenger maximum legroom.
Pricing will most likely going to be announced this summer.
2012 BMW 1 Series Prototype testing in Munich
GMotors
The 2012 BMW 1 Series continues its testing trials. The latest prototypes were spotted in Munich sporting the same little camouflage we have seen in the previous spy photos. In the summer, BMW will officially unveil the second generation F20 1 Series which goes on sale in early 2012.
The first model to come to market is the three and five-door hatchback, followed a year later by the coupe and convertible variants.
The new generation 1 Series hatchback is built under the codename F20, and will feature a slightly longer wheelbase and wider track than the current model. It uses the new modular/expendable platform. The backbone of these models was designed especially for this purpose so every model can have a variation backbone, simply be moving suspension points and firewalls to areas that will benefit each vehicle. Corroborated with more parts sharing, this new approach will allow BMW to reduce even more the production costs.
The 1er will remain a rear-wheel drive vehicle and shares the same L7 architecture as the next 3 series. At the same time, the L7 has the flexible firewall location geometry that will allow it to accommodate FWD, RWD, or AWD models.
Along with the redesigned bodystyle, the new 1er family will offer a wide range of engines, including turbo-petrol engines with three or four cylinders. First, a couple 2.0-liter four-cylinder will be introduced, producing 204 and 238 horsepower. But this is only the first step, because the engineers have set themselves the goal to integrate diesel and gasoline more closely together.
The gasoline version, dubbed N30, comes in displacements of 1.2 and 1.5 liters with power output of ranging from 70 to 184 horsepower. At the high-end of the line-up, it is expect that BMW will continue to offer the six-cylinder N55 Twin-Scroll engine for its 135i Coupe model.
The first electric vehicle to launch under the new BMW i sub-brand was once again spied during cold weather testing. BMW i3 will make its official debut in 2013, but a concept version is expected to be unveiled later this year.
At launch, Megacity will be offered in a two-door, four-seat configuration. The car will measure around 157 inches. In the future, the MCV sub-brand will include two additional models.
First one due in 2015 and dubbed ICV, short Intracity Vehicle, will be a two-door, two-seat car. In 2017, UCV – Urban Commuter Vehicle -will extend the length of the initial MCV and has four doors while hosting five people.
BMW Megacity is powered by a lithium-ion battery with 35 kWh of capacity placed below the vehicle’s floor. Rear-wheels approach remains in BMW’s philosophy and the power is sent to the rear wheels through a rear-mounted 150-hp electric motor. Driving range is expected to top at 100 miles and top speed at 95 mph.
The price of the i3 is not yet decided, but BMW sources mentioned in the past that the i3 will be above 40,000 euros in Europe.
BMW also said is looking at different channels to put these cars on the street, one of them is the Zipcar-like approach, a car sharing process more and more popular around the world.
A BMW 3 Series GT has been rumored for quite some time now and several reports have been published by us in the past, but today, first spy photos of the 3 Series GT surfaced on the interwebs. As expected, the 3 Series Gran Turismo features some design cues as seen on the bigger 5GT, a hatch (simplified this time) and a raised ride height. The 3 Series GT will offer similar attributes and design ideas as the bigger GT, but with a more attractive and sleeker lines.
The car has a high belt line that completely wraps around the car, therefore allowing the roof to be lower and sleeker.
The core idea of a Gran Turismo vehicle remains, traveling in style and luxury, but without sacrificing performance. Even though not officially confirmed, we expect the 3 GT to be also a vehicle built from inside out, same as the first Gran Turismo penned by Christopher Weil.
Our sources says the 3 Series GT will offer a simple hatch function forgoing the twin trunk arrangement on the 5er GT. BMW intends to offer both turbocharged petrol and diesel four cylinder engines. For the high-end 3 Series GT, a choice of six cylinders and a hybrid drivetrain will be available. BMW’s all-wheel-drive platform, xDrive, will be optional as well.
We learned that internally the 3GT is referred as the “Progressive Activity Coupe.”
The 3er GT build on the success of the 5 Series GT which has sold over 20,000 units since its introduction at the end of 2009. In the US, the 5er GT has already eclipsed over two-years combined sales of the 5 Series Touring.
With first test mules hitting the ground in late March, we anticipate that BMW will unveil the 3 Series GT in a concept form at the home show in Frankfurt.
2011 Top Safety Pick
IIHS
IIHS Names MINI Countryman as a “2011 Top Safety Pick” Winner In recent testing, the 2011 MINI Cooper Countryman has earned the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety’s (IIHS) designation as a “Top Safety Pick” for achieving “Good” ratings for front, side, rollover, and rear impact protection. The Countryman is the first MINI vehicle to be named an IIHS “Top Safety Pick,” and the second model from the BMW Group to achieve top results since the IIHS tightened the criteria to include “Good” performance for roof strength in rollover crashes. The roof of the Countryman withstood a force equal to nearly 5 times the car's weight, which is more than three times the current federal standard (1.5 times weight). “Safety is a top priority for MINI, and we are very pleased that the Countryman performed so well in the Institute’s safety tests,” said Jim McDowell, Vice President, MINI USA. “These results reinforce the idea that small cars are a safe choice in addition to being a practical one; and with a MINI, owners get an important premium small car feature... driving fun.” In addition to “Good” crash test ratings, winners must have electronic stability control (ESC), an important crash-avoidance feature, which is standard on all MINI models.
MINI ranked highest for customer satisfaction
IIHS
Hot on the heels of last week’s announcement naming the Countryman an IIHS Best Pick for safety. MINI has now been named No. 1 for customer satisfaction with dealer service by JD Power. MINIs top Power survey of dealer service experience MINI ranked highest for customer satisfaction with dealer service in J.D. Power and Associates' 2011 Customer Service Index Study released today. MINI scored the highest out of 21 brands, moving up from fifth place last year because of improvements in the quality of service and the vehicle pick-up experience.
Higher Gas Prices Make Consumers Edgy
UCN
Higher Gas Prices Make Consumers Edgy
Consumers expect gas prices to continue rising and that could affect their car buying decisions.
A poll by Gallup Inc. finds Americans, on average, expect gas prices to surge to $4.36 a gallon where they live this year. More than one in four predict gas prices in their area will reach or exceed $5 a gallon this year.
The lowest peak expectation for the year is in the South at $4.27 while the highest is in the West at $4.49 a gallon. The East is at $4.37 and the Midwest at $4.36.
These concerns could affect consumer sentiment.
“Consumer behavior is highly influenced by expectations,” said Dennis Jacobe, Gallup’s chief economist, “that is why the Federal Reserve Board is so concerned about the possibility of inflation concerns taking root in the U.S.”
A recent survey by RBC Capital found growing concern about inflation, with consumers expecting that higher raw material costs would drive even greater price increases in the sectors already giving them the most trouble.
Consumers’ concerns could affect what kind of cars consumers buy as well.
A study by Kelley Blue Book finds 80 percent on car shoppers saying high gas prices are affecting their considerations.
They are considering smaller engine option or small cars due to a combination of high gas prices and economic weakness.
"Consumers frequently make long-term decisions, like buying a vehicle, based on short-term information, like today's fuel prices," said Jack R. Nerad, executive market analyst for Kelley Blue Book's kbb.com.
Those decisions could turn out to be poor ones.
“While we certainly support fuel efficient vehicles as a principle, the mistake we see many people make is automatically thinking an electric or hybrid vehicle will inevitably save them more money than the car they currently own,” said David Thomas, Cars.com senior editor.
X1 and 6 Series Convertible spied in California
BMW Blog
The extensively delayed BMW X1 and the upcoming BMW 6 Series Convertible were spotted somewhere in California. The U.S. launch of the X1 has been postponed to an unknown future date, but BMW continues to test these vehicles across the country.
The spied test mule features the Montego Blue and judging by the photos, it’s one of the entry-level models in the U.S. market, most likely the xDrive28i.
On the other hand, the 2012 BMW 6 Series Convertible is getting close to its official market launch. First model available at launch is the 650i variant that has a starting price of $91,375.
Going on sale as a 2012 model, the 650i Convertible features BMW’s 4.4-liter, “reverse flow” V-8 engine with 400 horsepower and 450 lb-ft of torque. Two transmissions are available including the standard 6-speed manual and BMW’s brilliant optional 8-speed automatic, both suited perfectly to the sport-luxury mission of the 6 Series.
As with the previous 6 Series Convertible, the new 650i Convertible features a super insulated folding soft top which can retract in a mere 19 seconds at vehicle speeds up to 25 miles per hour. The interior of the new 650i Convertible features a fresh, ergonomic design with more passenger space, improved ergonomics, and superb materials choices, including optional full-leather trim with contrasting stitching.
The BMW X1 has been a hit for the Munich-based automaker. Sales have exceeded all the expectations and the Leipzig plant is running at full capacity to produce enough units for the demanding European market. One of the reasons for the U.S. launch delay is strictly related to production capacity and the ability to satisfy the requests from all markets. While BMW of North America has refrained from commenting on the new launch date, we anticipate to see the first model sometimes at the end of this year.
First Videos: 2012 BMW 6 Series Coupe
BMW BLOG
MINI Coupe and Roadster spied together
TotalMINI
The upcoming MINI Coupe and Roadster have been spotted together during an usual testing session. Interesting enough, the two prototypes reveal that a basic model of the two is in works as well. Initially it was believed MINI will offer the two new models as John Cooper Works model, with two additional variants, Cooper S and Cooper SD, but latest spy photos reveal the MINI Coupe with a single tail pipe on the right side – the typical sign of a basic model from MINI. This indicates a smaller diesel or petrol engine with around 120 horsepower.
When the concept launched at Los Angeles Auto Show in 2009, MINI stated that the Coupe Concept is based on the John Cooper Works bodystyle, measuring 146.1 inches overall, 66.1 inches wide and 53.3 inches tall. It was designed as a two seater which brings out the idea of a MINI roadster vehicle rather than a coupe. Due to its rear-end design line, the MINI Coupe Concept lacks trunk space, the only storage space is behind the seats. The cargo space measures about 8.8 cubic feet and in the production model, it will be accessible through the a big hatch.
MINI Coupe Concept is based on the John Cooper Works bodystyle, measures 146.1 inches overall, 66.1 inches wide and 53.3 inches tall. It was designed as a two seater which brings out the idea of a MINI roadster vehicle rather than a coupe. Due to its rear-end design line, the MINI Coupe Concept lacks trunk space, the only storage space is behind the seats. The cargospace measures about 8.8 cubic feet and in the production model, it will be accessible through the a big hatch.
The MINI Roadster Concept is a two seater vehicle sporting a tight-fitting soft roof and innovative rear-end design. It is a new model that opens up new perspectives both in the context of the brand and in the segment of compact roadsters. The new two-seater measures 3,714 millimeters (146.2″) in length and 1,683 millimeters (66.3″) in width. Height of the car is 1,356 millimeters or 53.4″.
Back in 2009, MINI said the MINI Roadster Concept is powered by the 1.6-liter twin-scroll turbocharged engine already featured in the MINI Cooper S. Boasting direct gasoline injection, this power unit delivers maximum output of 175 horsepower and peak torque of 240 Nm/177 lb-ft increasing briefly with the Overboost function to an even more superior 260 Nm/192 lb-ft.
On the other hand, MINI Coupe Concept uses the an engine from JCW, a 1.6 liter four cylinder turbocharged engine which produces 211 horsepower and 260 Nm (192 lb-ft) of torque.
The Coupe will be a 2012 model year and will be followed by the MINI Roadster six months later.
[Source: TotalMini | BigBlogg ]
BMW i8 spotted during winter testing
GMotors
A BMW i8 Vision EfficientDynamics was spotted during winter testing in Sweden. The plugin-hybrid sportscar will launch in 2014 and it’s currently undergoing extensive testing.
When it was first unveiled to the world at the 2009 Frankfurt Motor Show, BMW introduced the Vision EfficientDynamics Concept with a 3-cylinder turbodiesel engine rear/mid-mounted. The diesel engine was said to be aided by a second electric motor residing between the turbodiesel engine and the 6-Speed DCT gearbox. The 1.5-liter 3-cylinder turbodiesel engine outputs 163 horsepower and 214 lb-ft. of torque. The rear-mounted electric motor produces 33 horsepower continuously(51 hp peak) and maximum torque of 214 lb-ft. The synchronous electric motor placed at the front axle constantly outputs 80 horsepower. Extra power of 112 hp is available for 30 seconds and for 10 seconds, 139 horsepower. Total torque: 162 lb-ft.
In a recent interview, Dr. Klaus Draeger, Head of R&D, said a gasoline engine will be used instead in conjunction with the electric motors, most likely one of the new four-cylinder turbo engines or a brand-new three-cylinder co-developed with BMW Motorrad.
The car spotted in Sweden is most likely the same prototype we had a chance to ride in last year when BMW offered an exclusive preview at the Leipzig plant. At the time, BMW engineers said the car was running at 60 percent of its full power potential.
BMW i8 will be built under the umbrella of Project i and assembled at the Leipzig plant in Germany. Speaking at the official launch of the BMW 1 Series M Coupe in London last year, Ian Robertson indicated that the price for BMW i8 would be “less than £150,000 ($240,000),” which suggests a U.S. price of around $200,000. This puts the BMW VED in a segment with the upcoming 2013 Mercedes-Benz SLS E-Cell.
[Source: Gmotors ]
BMW i3 MegaCity spotted for the first time
GMotors
Along with the i8 prototype sent out for testing in Sweden, BMW is also conducting tests with the i3 Megacity vehicle. Due to launch right before the i8 sportscar, Megacity is the first product to be marketed under the new i sub-brand.
At launch, Megacity will be offered in a two-door, four-seat configuration. The car will measure around 157 inches. In the future, the MCV sub-brand will include two additional models. First one due in 2015 and dubbed ICV, short Intracity Vehicle, will be a two-door, two-seat car. In 2017, UCV – Urban Commuter Vehicle -will extend the length of the initial MCV and has four doors while hosting five people.
BMW Megacity is powered by a lithium-ion battery with 35 kWh of capacity placed below the vehicle’s floor. Rear-wheels approach remains in BMW’s philosophy and the power is sent to the rear wheels through a rear-mounted 150-hp electric motor. Driving range is expected to top at 100 miles and top speed at 95 mph.
A concept version of the Megacity is expected to debut this fall at Frankfurt Motor Show.
Spy photos: 2012 F30 BMW 3 series showing new design details
World car fans
The next generation F30 BMW 3 Series shows up again in the front of the lens of spy photographers, but this time, the test mule are revealing slightly more design details. As expected, the new 3er gets a full LED treatment.
At the front, the white Corona ring headlights seem to be slightly longer than the current model with the side indicators placed just underneath the main “character line”. In the back, LED taillights are still mostly covered and the final design and shape are still a guessing game. (More photos at WCF)
The test mule spotted also features the “usual” LED strips in the side mirrors, a common element in early prototypes. But this time, the BMW insider Scott27 states that due to upcoming legislations both in the US and Europe, the side indicators need to be placed higher and more visible. Without a second source to confirm this, we will label it as a rumor for now.
We learned in the past that the new 3 Series is built on a new modular platform and design wise, it returns to the “slimmer look”, dynamic lines with squat proportions and short rear overhangs. The typical proportions of a 3 Series remain, but the exterior design is more toned and muscular, bringing some the aggressiveness and design lines seen in the recent models, including the F10 5 Series. An expected move seen across the new BMW design language.
BMW is getting back to basics with clean uncluttered shapes, plus lower and wider kidney grille openings. The sedan model has a longer wheelbase, at least 1.5″ longer than the current generation. The F30 will sport a “pushing nose”, somewhat similar to the E89 Z4 front-end.
BMW will live under the umbrella of EfficientDynamics, and technologies like aerodynamically designed wheels, solar roof panel for extra energy efficiency in the use of interior controls, brake energy regeneration , stop-start technology, and pre-heating technology for the engine, gearbox and differential, will be incorporated into the new model.
Next generation 3-series engine options will include a full range of turbo and naturally aspirated 6-cylinder motors, 4-cylinder motors, and possibly even a new 3-cylinder motor.
The all-star BMW M3 will continue to sport the aggressive and super sporty bodystyle we have seen in the past. The new M3 will also feature a twin-turbo six-cylinder engine producing somewhere around 450 horsepower.
New 2012 BMW 3 Series to feature square-shaped Angel Eyes Headlights
Gmotors
Judging by the latest spy photos, the next generation 2012 BMW 3 Series will feature square-shaped angel eyes lights. Back in 2009, the Vision Concept was the first BMW to sport the new headlights design, followed shortly by the Gran Coupe and late last year, the 6 Series Coupe Concept.
The 2012 BMW 3 Series will be the first car entering production with the new Angel Eyes and most likely other models will follow.
Our own Hugo Becker shared with us some his thoughts on the new F30 3 Series. “What BMWBLOG expects the new F30 2012 BMW 3 Series to be is based on what we can discern from press releases, our understanding of BMW’s ‘platform matrix’, and the continuing march forward of EfficientDynamics. As we previously wrote, the latest X3 is a good place to look for insights into the new 3er”, said Becker in recent editorial.
Further more, Becker says “the suspension will be the tried and true double-joint spring-strut (MacPherson strut) up front with the multi-link setup in the rear. It works well so there’s no big reason to fiddle with it. Engine options should be the new turbo four cylinder in the 328i and the N55 turbo six in the 335i. Expect the next generation M3 to get a turbo six cylinder also. There’s some hope that the Dynamic Handling Package will be available as an option.”
In our opinion, the new 2012 BMW 3 Series will be an evolution of the existing 3. It will appeal to a large number of potential buyers looking for a sporting premium sedan. And the new design language will make the car even more attractive, starting with the square-shaped lights.
On the Rise Again... What will fuel prices be tomorrow? Moritz MINI has the answer.
“Markets tend to go up and down, but revolutions tend to go on and on. In 2008, it was more of a market-driven phenomenon; in 2011 the situation is more geopolitically driven.”
-BruceBullock Director of the Maguire Energy Institute at Southern Methodist University (quoted from an articleBy ELENA HARDING, JESSICA L. HUSEMAN and AMBER BELL in the DallasMorning News2.23.11)
As we look to new technology, automakers and the government to provide solutions for the rising cost of fuel, the price of petroleum is adversely affecting many DFW homes and businesses in regards to heating/cooling costs, airfare fees, electricity bills, and of course,automotive transportation. Your daily commute now affects your budget more and more every day and unfortunately, it is not entirely within our control to alleviate the pressures overseas that have placed tension on our supply of oil/petroleum.
Back in 2008 when fuel topped $5/gallon in most states, the aerage car-buyer changed how they look at vehicle options. No longer are consumers focusing their attention on gas guzzling SUV's and people haulers. Not only were buyers looking at different types of vehicles like emerging crossovers and roomier compact vehicles, they were also looking for the more efficient ways to save money... and fast. To learn more about the auto-market in the fuel climate of 2008 click here.
We certainly have learned a few things in the past couple of years and it is the time to be proactive before the market forces you and before your choices are limited. Don't wait until your truck or SUV costs you $100 a week to operate. Don't wait until it depreciates to the point you are upside down and owe more on your vehicle than it is worth. Don't wait until it is too late to choose from one of our more than 200 brand new MINI Cooper options that all get better than 32 mpg highway.
Moritz MINI is here with top values for your trade-in, the best selection of 2011 MINI Cooper models we have ever had, a brand new MINI Countryman model that is both 4-door, Crossover SUV and capable, and a collection of specials and incentives that are unmatched. Contact us today by clicking below to get proactive by enjoying what you drive and saving what you own.
Rendering 2013 BMW M6
BMW Blog
Next year, BMW will unveil the newest and latest generation M6. Built atop the 6 Series Coupe platform, the most expensive M models in the line-up will join another exciting 6 Series variant due out around the same time, the Gran Coupe.
Rumored to be phased out when the new bodystyle arrives, the M6 prototypes showed recently that F12 M6 project is still on track. Therefore, rendering artists are beginning to illustrate the design of the new M flagship. Jon Sibal draws out the new M6 for LeftLaneNews and showcases a car that continues to carry the typical wider rear fenders and the usual four-tailpipe exhaust system characteristic to M models.
At the front end, a more aggressive and typical M-style bumper with integrated diffuser is included as well. A cloth top will return in an effort to both keep the droptop’s weight to a minimum and to give it a more distinct, classic appearance.
The new M6 will likely be powered by an upgraded version of the 4.4 liter V8 engine, producing near 600 horsepower. A similar engine but will less output is rumored to appear in the next M5 as well.
The power is exclusively directed to the rear wheels and should make for an impressive acceleration. A regular sprint to 60mph is not expected to take more than 4 seconds.
The 2013 BMW M6 will debut next year most likely at the Paris Motor Show.
2012 BMW 3 Series
BMW Blog
As the launch date of the new F30 3 Series draws closer, more info will start to appear online and in magazines. It won’t be too awfully long before we start reading first driving impressions and start hearing the moan of fanboix the world over picking apart one aspect or another of the new 3er to complain about.
What BMWBLOG expects the new F30 2012 BMW 3 Series to be is based on what we can discern from press releases, our understanding of BMW’s ‘platform matrix’, and the continuing march forward of EfficientDynamics. As we previously wrote, the latest X3 is a good place to look for insights into the new 3er.
The 3 Series is BMW’s cash cow, subsequently don’t look for exaggerated styling since the 3er has to appeal to an extremely broad market in North America, unlike the 1er, for example. Expect the looks of the car to reflect the styling idioms incorporated in the 7er and 5er. The wheelbase will be stretched a bit, possibly three or so inches, while the overall length of the vehicle should remain under 180 inches. The styling should be crisp, with a minimum of superfluous lines but with subtle detail that is revealed in light and shadow.
The suspension will be the tried and true double-joint spring-strut (MacPherson strut) up front with the multi-link setup in the rear. It works well so there’s no big reason to fiddle with it. Engine options should be the new turbo four cylinder in the 328i and the N55 turbo six in the 335i. Expect the next generation M3 to get a turbo six cylinder also. There’s some hope that the Dynamic Handling Package will be available as an option.
The automatic transmission should be the ZF eight speed (8HP). A manual transmission almost certainly will be available for the 335i at least, if not the 328i. What will interesting is will BMW avail themselves of two other options that the 8HP provides, an eight speed dual clutch gearbox and a hybrid drivetrain (an electric motor nose on the transmission and additional batteries). If a hybrid is done – and we expect it will be, it should be on the 328i and stop/start technology would be included with it.
On the subject of EfficientDynamics we should expect that weight should be less than or no more than the current 3er. In addition, and here’s where the wailing starts, the 3er will be equipped with electrically assisted power steering. It provides sufficient fuel economy savings to warrant it’s inclusion.
Different rendering approach
Elements of BMW’s ConnectedDrive should be available as should active cruise control and other electronic safety features that use of the FlexRay bus enables. The development costs of these features needs to be spread across as wide a range of vehicles as possible and the new 3er will benefit from them.
The new 2012 BMW 3 Series will be an evolution of the existing 3. It will appeal to a large number of potential buyers looking for a sporting premium sedan. It will have the power and handling we expect from a BMW, coupled with luxury accommodations and an expansive – or should that read expensive – list of options.
[Rendering by Jon Sibal for LeftLaneNews ]
MINI Concept: ROCKETMAN
MINI
The long-time rumored mini-MINI makes its world debut today when the Oxford-based company unveils the new MINI Rocketman Concept. The urban-oriented vehiclewill make its public debut next week at the Geneva Motor Show.
The study car brings back the exterior dimensions of the classic MINI, but with an infusion of new ideas and design language. The unique 3+1 seater features three doors and has length just over 3 meters, cater to the urban lifestyle in big cities.
MINI Rocketman makes use of lightweight design principles and an interior geared to maximum driving fun and unbeatable variability. A carbon spaceframe construction, whose striking surface structure is visible at the front end of the car, around its doors and in the interior, forms the basis for a weight-minimizing construction. Wide-opening doors with double-hinge joints and integrated sills facilitate entry into the MINI Rocketman Concept.
The MINI Rocketman Concept measures 3.419 meters (approx. 11 ft. 3 in.) in length, adding just a few extra centimeters to the front and rear of the brand’s founding father born in 1959. The new study is 1.907 meters (approx. 6 ft. 3 in.) wide, including the exterior mirrors, and stands 1.398 meters (approx. 4 ft. 7 in) tall.
The roof of the MINI Rocketman Concept also puts on an extraordinary light show. The full-surface glass roof is segmented by illuminated braces to recreate the look of Britain’s Union Jack flag. When not illuminated, the longitudinal, horizontal and diagonal braces glow a bright Porcelain White.
Full details can be found in the press release below.
The creation of innovative concepts for urban mobility has seen MINI grow into the successful brand we know today. A constant stream of new ideas from its beginnings more than 50 years ago to the present day have ensured that driving fun has continued to grow even though space on our roads has become ever tighter. Underpinning this success has been the creative use of space, a principle that enters new territory with the MINI Rocketman Concept.
The study car, which will be revealed to the public worldwide for the first time at the International Geneva Motor Show (3 – 13 March 2011), harks back to the classic Mini in terms of its exterior dimensions, while its technology points to the future of automotive design. A 3+1-seater with three doors and a length of just over three meters (approx. 10 ft.), the MINI Rocketman Concept responds to the fundamental requirements of mobile lifestyles in the big cities of the future by pooling the brand’s core values in concentrated form. Ingenious functionality, smile-inducing agility, exceptional efficiency and irresistible design come together into an extraordinarily attractive and groundbreaking, yet typically MINI, subcompact car concept for the premium segment.
Displaying both an awareness of tradition, and talent for innovation, the MINI design team developed the vision of a car that takes up impressively little space on the road but boasts an enviably spacious interior. The MINI Rocketman Concept therefore carries over the classic virtues of the brand into a groundbreaking vehicle concept. It offers a fresh interpretation of unmistakable MINI design features, and uses cuttingedge construction and manufacturing technology to create unique solutions in body and interior design.
The innovative character of the study is defined by the systematic application of lightweight design principles and a pure-bred interior geared to maximum driving fun and unbeatable variability. A carbon spaceframe construction, whose striking surface structure is visible at the front end of the car, around its doors and in the interior, forms the basis for a weight-minimizing construction. Indeed, the MINI Rocketman Concept offers the ideal platform for achieving outstanding efficiency. To this end, it is designed to allow the integration of a drive system which combines further enhanced sprinting ability with average fuel consumption of just three liters per 100 kilometers (94 mpg imp).
Wide-opening doors with double-hinge joints and integrated sills facilitate entry into the MINI Rocketman Concept. The lightweight seats are contoured in customary MINI style and can be arranged in a variety of different positions. This allows owners to choose between maximum driving fun two-up, a comfortable amount of room for three occupants, or even an exceptionally efficient division of space accommodating four seats.
The capacity of the luggage compartment can be adapted to passenger requirements just as flexibly. The two-part tailgate consists of one section which is attached to the roof and opens extremely high, and a lower section which extends out of the body in the form of a drawer.
The operating logic of the MINI Rocketman Concept is also geared to the multi-layered demands of a contemporary target group, whose mobility needs are shaped by their desire for driving fun, flexible usage possibilities and extensive connectivity with their lives outside the car. The central control unit can be taken out of the car and configured on a computer before the journey begins to update navigation destinations, the music playlist or contact details for mo-bile communications.
Body design: hallmark MINI design language in particularly concentrated form.
The MINI Rocketman Concept body is shaped by an avant-garde interpretation of time-honored brand features. Innovative construction techniques allow the principle used in the classic Mini – of providing the maximum amount of room on the smallest possible footprint – to be carried over to the mobility challenges of urban areas in the 21st century. The MINI Rocketman Concept measures 3.419 meters (approx. 11 ft. 3 in.) in length, adding just a few extra centimeters to the front and rear of the brand’s founding father born in 1959. The new study is 1.907 meters (approx. 6 ft. 3 in.) wide, including the exterior mirrors, and stands 1.398 meters (approx. 4 ft. 7 in) tall. Its proportions also display clear symmetries with both the classic Mini and the brand’s present-day lineup. The brand’s familiar appearance is therefore concentrated into a new set of dimensions, with the concept for a newvehiclesegment remaining unmistakably recognizable as a MINI.
The interpretation of the characteristic MINI design language chosen for the study car also exudes a powerful and dynamic allure. Tightly contoured surfaces, large wheels and a basic form dictated by straight lines help give the MINI Rocketman Concept a resoundingly solid structure. In addition to its tell-tale proportions, a sprinkling of distinctive design features ensure that its brand affiliation is immediately clear.
Large, circular headlights and a radiator grille with chrome surround dominate the front end. While the exterior contours of the headlights fit the familiar visual template, their inner structure has been further developed for the new study. The centrally positioned LED units generating full beam are bordered by an eye-catching light ring for dipped-beam mode. Direction indicators integrated into the headlight units are a feature shared with the current range of series-produced MINI models.
The dimensions of the headlights reflect those of the current MINI, which means they come across as particularly large when set against the smaller face of the study car. As stand-out features of MINI design they symbolize the core values of the brand, which remain reassuringly intact in the new vehicle concept represented by the study.
In the area surrounding the headlights and around the front apron and radiator grille, sections of the carbon spaceframe are visible alongside the painted and chromed surfaces. Its striking surface structure serves as a reminder of the study’s innovative construction blueprint.
Powerful silhouette, innovative door concept.
Large wheels and the three-level structural split of body, “wraparound” greenhouse and roof resting on top give the flanks the same appearance as the MINI models already in series production. The windows taper as they extend back towards the rear, emphasizing the body’s dynamic wedge shape and offering an immediate hint of the vehicle’s sporty and agile character. The high waist-line, accentuated on the MINI by a chrome frame ringing the vehicle, takes the form of a light strip on the MINI Rocketman Concept and throws the study’s powerful silhouette into even sharper focus.
The study’s 18-inch wheels likewise leave no doubt that the sure-footed road-holding and sporty handling properties of a MINI can also play a key role in a car with smaller dimensions. The weight-saving wheels specially developed for the MINI Rocketman Concept have an aerodynamically highly effective, enclosed surface structure. And the carbon wing contour of the directional wheels also helps to reduce drag. An aluminum trim strip on the wheel rim adds an attractive stylistic touch.
Among the car’s key design and functionality related innovations are the two side doors. Their length and the specially designed arrangement of the door sills allow extremely comfortable access to all the seats in the MINI Rocketman Concept. When opened, the doors pivot outwards complete with their sills, enabling the driver and front passenger to climb in right next to their seats and get settled in comfort. Entry to the rear seats is also made much easier by the car’s unusual door concept. The carbon spaceframe construction, together with the impressively high torsional stiffness of the under-body structure, allows the arrangement of the side sills to be combined with extremely high body rigidity.
In addition, an extremely sophisticated opening mechanism ensures easy access into the car, even in tight parking spaces. The front-hinged doors have a double-hinge joint, which also allows a large opening angle when space is restricted. The innovative character of this construction element is also evident when the doors are closed, the carbon hinges standing out visibly in form and color from the rest of the body. The MINI Rocketman Concept thus takes a stylistic cue from the classic Mini, whose exterior-mounted door hinges also went on to become an identifying characteristic. Projector-style rear lights, transparent and illuminated glass for the roof.
The rear lights of the MINI Rocketman Concept have a trapezoidal stirrup design – into which all the light functions are integrated – and work using projector technology. The lamp assembly projects the rear and braking light and the light for the direction indicators onto the car body. The high-output LED units used for the lights ensure that even this indirect illumination concept produces the accustomed intensity of light that is necessary for safety.
The roof of the MINI Rocketman Concept also puts on an extraordinary light show. The full-surface glass roof is segmented by illuminated braces to recreate the look of Britain’s Union Jack flag. When not illuminated, the longitudinal, horizontal and diagonal braces glow a bright Porcelain White. In darkness the integrated optical fibers give the interior of the MINI Rocketman Concept a pleasantly indirect illumination and, as a result, a more effective nocturnal appearance.
The bright color of the roof and mirror caps – likewise painted Porcelain White – create an attractive contrast to the Bermuda (a warm shade of grey) of the body. The areas of carbon visible at the front end and around the doors add further striking touches.
Split tailgate with drawer and integrated rear cargo carrier.
The MINI Rocketman Concept also uses creative design and innovative technical solutions to open up new layout options for the luggage area. This enhances the versatility of the existing space and means it can be used more efficiently. The split two-part tailgate consists of one section which is attached to the roof and opens extremely high and a lower section which extends out 350 millimeters from the body in the form of a drawer unit. The drawer represents the further development of the downward-opening tailgate seen on the classic Mini. This construction principle allows room to be made for pieces of luggage and travel items even when the car is carrying four occupants. The MINI Rocketman Concept literally grows as a vehicle when it’s time to start loading up the gear.
An intelligent folding mechanism makes it possible to lock the cargo drawer of the MINI Rocketman Concept either higher up or further in towards the passenger compartment, as the loading scenario demands. This allows loads to be transported out of sight and protected from the weather. If required, items can also be loaded through into the passenger compartment. In addition, the open-top cargo drawer can also serve as a rear luggage carrier. Here, purpose-built inserts make it easier to transport snowboards and other bulky items of sports equipment. Added to which, the glass tailgate, which extends well into the roof, helps to enhance loading flexibility. It is connected with the body via a centrally positioned hinge with integrated gas strut system, which also allows it to be opened when the rear carrier is loaded with gear.
Seat concept: the ideal position for every mobility requirement.
The arrangement of the seats and control elements in the passenger compartment of the MINI Rocketman Concept ensures maximum versatility for the widest possible range of mobility needs. The low-weight seats, which are traditional MINI in form, offer a high level of comfort and optimum lateral support even for sporty drivers. The amount of space for the driver and passengers can be varied as required. Three individual seats slide fore and aft, allowing a high level of comfort with generous head, leg and shoulder room. There is also an additional seat in the rear, whose backrest can be folded down fully to serve as a stowage surface.
Three mobility scenarios have been developed to define the real-life usage possibilities offered by the interior of the study. In a layout designed specially to enhance a sporting driving experience, the MINI Rocketman Concept offers just the right amount of space for the driver and front passenger. The front seats are pushed back as far as possible and the instrument cluster also slides fore and aft to provide the ideal position for a full-blooded driving experience.
If an additional passenger joins the two already on board, the front passenger can move his seat forward again to take a position slightly further forward than the driver. In this configuration, the front passenger’s legroom is reduced to standard MINI levels to accommodate an equally generously sized rear seat behind him.
The MINI Rocketman Concept also offers a practical solution for travelling with four people. Once the driver has returned both his seat and the instrument cluster to the standard position, a second rear seat allows a fourth person to climb aboard for shorter journeys, at least.
Innovative mix of materials, hallmark MINI design.
The impressive variability of the interior is complemented by a pure-bred de-sign which spotlights both the unmistakable style of the brand and the study car’s pioneering technology. The intention behind the selection of materials and interior trim structure was to create a feeling of contemporary functionality and lightness. To this end, the carbon structure of the body frame has been left exposed in the footwells and around the center console.
A fresh interpretation of customary MINI design features emphasizes the further development of the brand’s characteristic design language inside the study car as well. The door panels house the door pulls and the stowage compartments, which feature trim elements whose elliptical form reaches past the B-pillar into the rear compartment. The surface design offers a stylistic nod to the variable division of space and shared driving experience provided by the MINI Rocketman Concept interior.
Inside the car, leather covers and high-gloss painted surfaces combine with armrest sand trim strips made from a special paper that has been pressed and folded into the desired structure. The trim strips are backlit by LED-powered fiber optics. Plus, a light strip that wraps around the interior at waistline height generates a particularly harmonious ambience.
Innovative operating concept: trackball on the steering wheel, 3D-effect graphics in the Center Speedo. An operating concept developed for the MINI Rocketman Concept brings together principles from the MINI design handbook, innovative new functions and a pioneering operating system to serve up even greater driving fun over both short and long journeys. A cockpit instrument, positioned above the steering wheel and therefore directly in the driver’s field of view, houses the rev counter and on-board computer display. The large-format Center Speedo with peripheral speedometer and multifunctional color display also adheres to the system logic familiar from the current range of series-produced MINI cars as far as display arrangement is concerned. The development of the rigorously applied display/control element separation principle, meanwhile, has been taken to the next level.
In addition to multifunction buttons on the steering wheel, the current MINI also has a joystick on the center console for operating vehicle-related, navigation, entertainment and communications functions. By contrast, the MINI Rocketman Concept concentrates all the control elements on the steering wheel. This reflects an ongoing commitment to the concept of simple and intuitive operation, and means that the driver can operate more functions than ever while keeping both hands on the steering wheel at all times.
A press of the thumb on the relevant multifunction buttons on the left-hand steering wheel spoke is all that is required to use front-line controls such as the volume for the audio system and the call pick-up function for incoming telephone calls. In addition, a trackball is integrated into the right-hand steering wheel spoke. Inspired by computer operating, this element allows the driver to control an impressively wide range of processes. For example, to navigate through the menu levels the driver turns the trackball horizontally, while vertical movements allow him to scroll up and down lists.
The driver then selects the desired function with a press of the trackball. With selected functions such as in-car internet, the driver uses his thumb to move the cursor around the display in any direction. The graphics in the color display of the Center Speedo are more diverse, higher quality and sharper than ever. High-resolution 3-D graphics open up new possibilities in the need-based selection of functions using the trackball and display. According to the driver’s preference and the driving situation, particularly relevant displays and alerts are moved into the foreground, while the remaining status displays remain visible on a display level further back. This makes it significantly easier to move quickly and intuitively between the navigation map display, music program selection and telephone contacts list.
Flawless connectivity and new ways of personalizing the car configuration.
The navigation, communications and entertainment systems in the MINI Rocketman Concept represent the consistent further development of the functions already available through MINI Connected in current series-produced MINI cars. Intelligent connectivity turns the car into a mobile element of the driver’s personal lifestyle. Internet-based services for communications, integrated navigation and an almost limitlessly expandable entertainment program play a key role in maximizing driving fun, comfort and safety. With the control elements developed for the MINI Rocketman Concept, personalized usage of these functions reaches a new level.
The removable control unit (for comfort and connectivity functions) integrated into the Center Speedo can be configured on a computer before the start of a journey, enabling the driver to transfer new music files, a navigation destination and contact details for mobile communications and internet usage into the vehicle with maximum convenience.
These innovative control systems allow driving fun in a MINI to become an integrated component of the driver’s personal lifestyle more than ever. Indeed, information, images, data, contacts and media can be made available in digital form for mobile usage anywhere – at home, at the workplace or while on the move. The mobile control unit stores telephone numbers and email contacts, as well as navigation data, internet addresses and full websites or messages from online social networks, music files, photos and videos. This provides a direct route into the MINI for additional sources of driving fun in the shape of new destinations, important contacts, up-to-date information, exciting sounds and powerful images. This extended connectivity can also enrich everyday life outside the car; for example, new contact details from telephone calls or online connections can also be made available outside the car via the MINI Rocketman Concept.
MINI Rocketman Concept: compact dimensions, new format, the usual driving fun.
The MINI Rocketman Concept once again brings the traditional principles of the classic Mini onto the road through the introduction of innovative ideas. The creativity of the MINI design team enables them to transfer fundamental MINI features and values into a groundbreaking new vehicle concept in untarnished form. As a vision of the urban mobility of tomorrow, the MINI Rocketman Concept captures the imagination with its unflappable charisma, surprising variability, and lifestyle-oriented functionality, and provides the ideal platform for agile and efficient driving characteristics.
While the study showcases a new format, MINI still remains true to its heritage. More than 50 years ago the brand’s first car triggered a revolution in the small car segment. The classic Mini met the needs of urban mobility more comprehensively than any other vehicle before it, while at the same time offering the driving fun and individual style that sealed its legendary status. Today MINI continues to fulfill – in its own unique way – the desires of demanding target groups with a sense for the creative use of space, inspiring handling and premium quality. The MINI Rocketman Concept offers a glimpse of how these features may look in the future. Using innovative technology and creative solutions, the study reflects the brand’s unsurpassed expertise in the development of vehicle concepts producing maximum interior versatility within minimal exterior dimensions – and all while delivering unbeatable driving fun.
Building the MINI WRC
BMW Blog
MINI Youtube channel uploads a video describing the evolution of MINI’s WRC baby – from the first design of the MINI WRC Concept Car to the signing of MINI’s contract with Prodrive to the test drives en route to MINI’s WRC kickoff.
The 2010 Paris Motor Show was the host of the world premiere of the MINI Countryman WRC. The return of theMINI to WRC was celebrated in big style by the Oxford-based company and FIA’s boss Jean Todt was also present at the official unveiling.
MINI WRC is powered by a 1.6-litre, four-cylinder Di turbo-charged engine. The power transmission takes place via an Xtrac 6-speed, sequential gearbox. For its outings on the rally stages, the MINI Countryman chassis has been fitted with a roll cage developed by Prodrive, which exceeds the strict safety.
The company began development of the car in 2009, and it is a joint project with Prodrive.
The 2011 World Rally Championship will see thenewMINI WRC contesting in six of 13 scheduled rounds, with MINI competing in the full 2012 season. In addition, Prodrive plans to make available customer versions to independent teams for use in the championship.
BMW Canada has just released pricing on their new X1 vehicle in the Canadian market. The X1 did not make an appearance at the show today, but to take a closer look please hit the jump for our X1 coverage.
Pricing has been released at $38,500 MSRP for the base model without any option upgrades.
The X1 will fit well into Canadian life as a versatile daily driver that retains the closeness and connection to the road of the 3 series car that its chassis is based upon. The X1′s all wheel drive system will be popular with Canadian drivers who frequent snow covered roads in their daily travels. While the X1 does sit higher off the ground than its purely “car” based siblings, it will maintain a very sporty, lightweight feel among a sea of heavy SUVs in the market.
April 2011: BMW X6 to be offered with a 3-seat rear bench
Skiddmark
Updated: Confirmed by BMW through a press release
Back in 2010, we reported on the BMW X6 being offered in the future with a 3-seat rear bench. Nearly a year later, Skiddmark confirms our initial assumptions. Starting from April 2011, BMW X6 will be offered with a rear bench increasing the number of X6 occupants to five.
Currently, BMW fitted the Sports Activity Coupe with a pair of rear buckets divided by a study centerconsolewith a cubby and cupholders.
The rear seats are currently only capable of accommodating two passengers, since the large rear center console is not removable. While the bucket seats are comfortable and supportive, legroom and headroom feel a bit cramped.
While not officially confirmed Confirmed by BMW also, Skiddmark mentions that the process of moving to a 3-seat rear bench has not been a simple one. The X6′s rear compartment was specifically designed for two and the bench height positioned to optimize the passenger’s view forwards whilst minimizing obstruction to the drivers’ view through the rear window.
Interesting enough, the UK publications says “due to the significant changes required to accommodate the three-seat rear bench, BMW’s X6 will no longer be available in its original 4-seater configuration.”
But back in 2010, Jim O’Donnell, BMWNA CEO said the following:
The X6 has surpassed our expectations–double what we originally thought in terms of segment share. We’re closing in on 100,000 vehicles in two years. We only offered it with two rear seats, and we have changed that and will offer an optional bench seat, but not in the 2011 model year. We would have sold more cars if we had the bench–it will be 70 percent of the volume. The consumer wanted that, and we thought he didn’t.
For the 2011 X6 models, the original way to operate the shift paddles returns, exactly like the ones in M cars. When manual operation of the eight-speed sport automatic is chosen, the right paddle shift the gears up while the left paddle is now for downshifts. Other changes include upgrades to the ConnecteDrive System and the addition of BMW Apps.
The addition of an optional 3-seat rear bench will most likely make its way into the usual facelifted model that is released mid-way into the production cycle.
[Source: Skiddmark ]
The All New Game Changing X3 Built in Spartanburg
BMW
BMW Super Bowl commercials champion diesel and... American roots?
BMW
BMW Super Bowl Ad - Click above to watch the videos after the jump
BMW was one of the few companies to keep its Super Bowl advertising plans to itself until kick off time, but the Roundel came to the game packing two 30-second spots. The company said it wanted to get two messages across to Americans: that its diesels are cleaner and more powerful than ever and that the German manufacturer is continuing to invest in America even as the economy struggles to recover. In order to make that happen, BMW enlisted the vocal talents of actor Chris Pine (of Star Trek fame) for the two spots. Pine is now the official voice of BMW advertising here in the States.
The first ad is clearly aimed at distinguishing the 335d from the American perception of diesel – sluggish oldVolvo wagons, rough-idling Mercedes-Benz sedans and soot-spewing trucks and busses. The second ad focuses on the company's efforts in Spartanburg, South Carolina, including producing every X3 on the planet. Hit the jump to check out both spots as well as the full press release.
[Source: BMW]
MINI Cram It Commercial
MINI USA
MINI USA launches the all NEW MINI Countryman for 2011 with available All4 all-wheel drive. Check it out today at Moritz MINI in Arlington, TX. THis is the MINI corporate cramit commercial!
At the DetroitAutoShow, MINI unveiled their latest and newest concept. Following the same steps as the X5 and X6 models, MINI launches a coupe version of the Countryman under the Paceman name tag.
The Sports Activity Coupe from MINI retains the familiar MINI family front end, but adds its own distinctive design cues. At a first glance, MINI Paceman resembles the last year’s release Countryman. The large headlights with chrome surrounds extend far into the front wings and, together with the strikingly contoured bonnet, emphasize the imposing front end.
Just like the MINI Countryman being built in Graz, Austria, the Paceman will be joining the production lines at Magna Steyr as well. Dr. Klaus Draeger confirmed today for a small newspaper that production of Paceman will begin in late 2012 with first units arriving at dealerships in 2013.
While the Mini Countryman production is expected to deliver 100,000 units a year, Paceman production will bring to the market around 20,000 units. BMW X6 sales counted 46,404 units in 201, almost half as many customers as the X5, which came to 102,178 units.
Just like the Countryman, Paceman is a front-wheel drive or all-wheel drive vehicle.
The Magna Graz plant is becoming increasingly important for MINI, but the main production lines still run at the Oxford factory.
Along with a new, fresh design, the BMW 6 Series Coupe Concept offers a state-of-the-art interior design that has been much craved by BMW fans. As with the new 5 and 7 Series, the aesthetics of the interior design have moved up the luxury scale, with fluid lines and higher quality materials. The interior is dominated by the large 10.2 inch display that reveals the latest infotainment system from BMW.
Framed by a chrome plated frame, the flat-screen takes a more upright position, in contrast to the built-in approach we have seen in previous models.
BMW remains true to its core design elements and the BMW Concept 6 Series Coupe continues to feature the driver-oriented cockpit, which underlines the sporty character of the 6 Series. The center section of the instrument panel, featuring the iDrive Control Display, the central air vents and the audio and climate controls, is inclined slightly but visibly towards the driver. The electronic gear selector and the Drive Dynamic Control buttons are mounted on the driver’s side of the front console.
High-quality leather trim with double stitching in a contrasting color accentuates the dynamic transition between the centre console and the instrument panel. The instrument panel features the same Black Panel technology seen in the 5 Series family and the 7 Series flagship. The BMW Concept 6 Series Coupe is also fitted with a Head-Up Display. Developed by BMW, this system offers unique functionality and allows important driver information to be projected directly onto the windscreen in the driver’s line of sight.
The BMW Concept 6 Series Coupe has a panoramic glass roof which enhances the lightness of this design language. Carefully selected materials, coupled with meticulous craftsmanship and build quality, underscore the luxurious character of the concept model.
BMW continues to market the 6er Coupe as 2+2 seater, and BMW claims that the rear seats offer comfortable headroom, legroom and shoulder room.
Another highlight of the new 6 Series Coupe is the audio system designed by the Danish audio gurus at Bang & Olufsen. The hi-fi system that was developed specially for this concept model and sets new standards for in-car listening enjoyment. It is specially matched to the interior acoustics of this 2+2-seater, and according to the press release, the “superior audio experience comes courtesy of extra-high-quality system components – plus innovative sound control technology never before featured in acar hi-fi system.”.
Bang & Olufsen Surround Sound System features 16 speakers distributed around the cabin.
Here is a description of the system:
“This is a fully active system, which means the two bass speakers, seven mid-range speakers and seven tweeters all have individual amplifiers. The electrical signals are converted into precisely defined sound waves using neodymium magnet drives which combine very high performance with low weight, making them the ideal solution for a car hi-fi system. The mid-range speakers also feature extremely stiff yet extremely lightweight Hexacone diaphragms. The exceptional sound quality is due not only to vehicle-specific placement of high-quality speakers in the interior but also to innovative amplifier technology. Digital signal processing allows the signals to each speaker to be individually controlled. This technology compensates for any sound reflections inside the vehicle by means of appropriate signal modifications.”
The Bang & Olufsen Surround Sound System uses Dirac Dimensions technology to recreate the acoustics of a given “reference” listening environment in the passenger compartment. This prevents the inevitable closeness of vehicle passengers to the speakers from affecting the sound experience. All passengers will also be able to completely enjoy the same high quality sound independent from their seating position.
The production model will suffer slight changes, mostly around the trim offerings.
The car will be shown in its final form in November, followed in March 2011 by the official unveiling at the Geneva Motor Show.
2012 BMW 6 Series Coupe spotted without Camoflauge
G Motors
Spy photographers just spotted the new BMW 6 Series Coupe without any camouflage. The 2012 6er Coupe is set to launch this fall, shortly after the convertiblemodelis introduced.
The new 6er Coupe debuted in a concept form last year at the Paris Motor Show and it was shortly followed by the 6 Series Convertible. The F12 6 Series showcases the new design language at BMW, as seen in the new 5 Series and other upcoming models.
The production model of the 6 Series Coupe goes through minimal changes compared to the Concept version, a set of new wheels and different mirrors.
Looks-wise, the 6 Series concept appears stronger, more sculpted, and more fluid designed that the current model. Flame surfacing is out and the car features more hardened lines running across its side.
BMW’s Chief Designer Adrian van Hooydonk describes the front-end as “a shark-like nose” with a slightly forward-leaning kidney grille and a full-width air duct within the lower part of the bumper. The front-end design reflect both the sophistication and aggressiveness that went into this design. The kidney-grille are unique across the lineup with glass inserts along the top ridge.
The long bonnet and shorter overhangs are what perfectly describe a 6 Series model, and BMW enhanced these traits even more in the latest model. Also notable are the swollen front fenders, after which a sharp, chiseled upper body emerges.
In 2012, BMW will introduce two new members of the 6 Series family, the M6 and the new four-dour Gran Coupe. When it goes on sale later this year, the 6 Series Coupe is expected to be priced slightly below $90,000.
Next generation BMW 3 Series is due out in 2012 and the car will be unveiled later this year at the Frankfurt Motor Show. The rendering masters at Schulte Design take a chance and attempt to “draw” the lines of the next F30 3 Series.
Built on a new modular platform, the F30 3er models, returns to the “slimmer look”, dynamic lines with squat proportions and short rear overhangs. The typical proportions of a 3 Series remain, but the exterior design is more toned and muscular, bringing some the aggressiveness and design lines seen in the recent models, including the F10 5 Series.
BMW is getting back to basics with clean uncluttered shapes, plus lower and wider kidney grille openings. The sedan model has a longer wheelbase, at least 1.5″ longer than the current generation. The F30 will sport a “pushing nose”, somewhat similar to the E89 Z4 front-end.
The hood design will also most likely mimic one found in the Z4 and the new 5 Series, with more aggressive, but still fluent design lines.
The expected range of powerplants includes 6-cylinder engines, complemented by a new range of 4-cylinder engines and possibly even a 3-cylinder variant for Europe.
The 203 M3 will feature a six-cylinder engine as well.
Woodcliff Lake, NJ – January 10, 2011, 12:00pm Eastern Time… BMW announces the base prices for several new models which debuted today at the 2011 North American International Auto Show in Detroit. The hotly-anticipated 2011 BMW 1 Series M Coupe will go on sale with a base MSRP of $47,010.
The stunning, all-new 2012 BMW 650i Convertible will start at $91,375. Finally, the updated and better-equipped 2012 BMW 1 Series models will be priced as-follows: 128i Coupe, $31,825, 135i Coupe, $39,925, 128i Convertible, $37,475, 135i Convertible, $44,675. All prices include $875 Destination & Handling fee.
The all-new BMW 1 Series M Coupe, at $47,010, is a car built by BMW’s most enthusiastic engineers for BMW’s most enthusiastic drivers, and signals the youthful, energetic future of BMW M. Essentially a BMW M3 chassis with Competition Package packed into a modified 1 Series body, the 1 Series M Coupe is one of the fastest, most remarkable M vehicles ever built. It features one of the most powerful inline-6 engines BMW has ever built, massive brakes, and a very wide footprint for maximum agility and stability in the spirit of the original BMW M3, which was a race-ready homologation special. The 1 Series M Coupe will be available in limited quantity as a 2011 model.
MINI USA announces its first partnership to develop third-party apps for MINI Connected
BMW Blog
Pandora internet radio named as the first MINI Connected Approved App
* MINI USA and Pandora ® collaborate to enable Pandora service through MINI Connected on MY 2011 MINI vehicles * Customers will be able to operate Pandora using existing vehicle controls * Additional third-party apps to be announced soon
Las Vegas – January 5, 2011… MINI USA announced today that the company is collaborating with Pandora to develop the first third party app for MINI Connected. Upon completion, Pandora internet radio will be available at no charge and allow customers to access and control Pandora through the existing MINI Connected system.
All 2011 MINIs equipped with MINI Connected will be able to stream Pandora, enabling access to personalized internet radio across the entire vehicle lineup. Unique features to the MINI Connected app will include popular Pandora features, such as: easy access to existing stations, the ability to create new ones using the carinterface and high-resolution, color display of album art.
The first Mini model with four doors and a large tailgate has claimed a top 5-star score in the latest Euro NCAP crash test results.
In this internationally-recognised test programme - which was further tightened recently by the addition of more test criteria - the Mini Countryman put in a convincing performance with its wide range of standard-fitted safety equipment designed to ensure highly-effective occupant protection for both adults and children in various types of collision.
Alongside the high levels of active and passive safety designed to reduce the risk of injury inside the Mini Countryman, its pedestrian protection measures also played their part in securing the top rating.
In the frontal collision at a speed of up to 64km/h, which forms part of the Euro NCAP crash test, the passenger cell of the Mini Countryman proved to be extremely stable.
Irrespective of the size and sitting position of the passengers, only a slight risk of injury was detected. The Countryman earned the maximum number of points for occupant protection in a side-on collision, while the testers also rated the risk of injury to the cervical vertebrae in a rear-end collision as low.
The crash test results were just as positive when it came to the use of seat systems for three-year-old and 18-month-old children. Both in the frontal and the side-on collision, a stable position and minimal head movements at the moment of impact were registered in each case.
Among the equipment protecting the passengers inside the car are front and side airbags, curtain head airbags covering both rows of seats, three-point inertia-reel seatbelts for all seats and Isofix child seat attachments in the rear.
The front seats have belt tensioners and belt force limiters, while the safety steering column of the Mini Countryman also comes with a deformation element. The body structure, restraint systems and safety electronics are perfectly co-ordinated to minimise the consequences of any type of collision.
The technology contributing to the Countryman's active safety includes Dynamic Stability Control (DSC), which is fitted as standard. This system comprises not only anti-lock brakes (ABS) but also Electronic Brake Force Distribution (EBD), Cornering Brake Control (CBC), Brake Assist and Hill Assist. The car also has a runflat indicator as a standard feature. This system monitors the tyres and uses a visual signal in the on-board computer display to alert the driver to any tyre damage.
The Countryman is the second of the brand's current range of models to undergo the Euro NCAP crash test and immediately scoop the top 5-star rating. Prior to this the Mini Cooper had already secured the coveted maximum score from the independent NCAP testers by virtue of its comprehensive standard-fitted safety features and its exemplary crash behaviour in a diverse range of collisions.
Acquired by the BMW Group in 1994, the Mini brand includes the Mini Cooper and Cooper S, Mini Cooper Cabrio, Mini Clubman and the Mini John Cooper Works range of models and will soon include the brand new vehicle in the Countryman, a Sports Activity Vehicle (SAV).
BMW Makes Two North American Premieres and New Technology at 2010 Los Angeles Auto Show.
Woodcliff Lake, New Jersey, November 5, 2010… The all-new BMW X3 Sports Activity Vehicle® and BMW Concept 6 Series Coupe will make their North American debuts at the Los Angeles Auto Show November 19-28. The all-new BMW X3 boasts enhanced dynamics, ride comfort, interior space and versatility. The BMW Concept 6 Series Coupe is a design study for a premium-class 2+2-seater and is the embodiment of a passion for aesthetics and dynamics. Also previewed will be BMW ConnectedDrive, which offers new innovations and functions that connect the driver and vehicle with the wider world.
The All-New BMW X3 Sports Activity Vehicle. In 2004, BMW introduced a new concept to the market: the small, premium Sports Activity Vehicle with all-road capability and unparalleled driving dynamics. This first generation BMW X3 became a best seller in the BMW line…both in the United States and in Europe. The new second generation BMW X3 builds on the success of the original by developing its core competencies while adding new technology to establish new benchmarks for agility, efficiency and comfort. The new BMW X3 will be produced in an expansion of the BMW Spartanburg, South Carolina plant and is expected to arrive in US BMW Centers by the end of 2010.
Exterior design. The design of the new BMW X3 conveys elegance, agility and ruggedness. Up front, the forward-slanting BMW kidney grille and large headlight assembly combine with a powerful-looking front apron and hood boasting six contour lines sweeping down to meet at the kidney grill, giving the X3 a bold presence. The twin round headlights combined with the round fog lamps form the triangular light pattern that is characteristic of BMW SAV design.
NEW YORK -- BMW North America is returning to the Super Bowl after a 10-year hiatus, as the car maker enters one of the busiest periods of new model and product launches in its history.
According to the auto manufacturer -- which globally operates out of Germany but has U.S. headquarters in Woodcliff Lake, N.J. -- between 2010 and 2011, over 60 percent of its total inventory will be new vehicles.
"We're in the window of our biggest launch period in history and the Super Bowl gives us the stage to make that big impact," Stacy Morris, marketing communications manager at BMW, said on Thursday. Among those launches are the new BMW 6 Series coupe and convertible models, the 5 Series sedan, the 2011 X3 sports utility vehicle, and the much-discussed ActiveE, BMW's electric car that bows next summer.
Morris declined to reveal details about the media buy, such as the number of spots purchased and the length of them. But she did note that the agency tasked to create the Super Bowl work will be MDC Partners' Kirshenbaum Bond Senecal & Partners. The agency referred calls to BMW.
The selection of that agency suggests BMW could be plotting to use the game, the biggest advertising event on TV, to introduce consumers to its electric vehicle. KBS&P -- which has been on the BMW roster via its digital arm, Dotglu -- is understood to have been appointed with handling the launch of the ActiveE. BMW's media-planning and buying agency is Interpublic Group of Cos.' Universal McCann.
BMW is slated to split with its lead global creative agency, Omnicom Group's GSD&M Idea City in Austin, effective Dec. 31 of this year. The agency recently initiated a breakup with BMW after a five-year run. The car maker has said it doesn't currently intend to replace Idea City's role, but will work instead with its current roster, which in addition to KBS&P and Universal McCann includes WPP's Grey.
That BMW is electing to return to the Super Bowl after 10 years is a sign that it's committing to heavily reinvesting in advertising ahead of its string of new car launches. In 2009, the automaker devoted $138 million to domestic measured media, and it's on track to surpass that this year, having spent $83 million in the first six months of 2010 alone.
2011 BMW X5 Combining seven-passenger utility, all-weather capability and BMW performance, the X5 appeals to those looking for extra helpings of both sport and utility. Strong resale values are proof of its wide-ranging appeal.
2011 BMW X6 The 2011 BMW X6 offers the road presence and elevated seating position of a crossover, but with decidedly more expressive styling and less of the soccer-mom stigma that taints some utilities.
The new BMW 1 Series hatchback model will feature a slightly longer wheelbase and wider track than the current model.
It will be available in three and five door variants with both models using the new modular/expendable platform. The backbone of these models was designed especially for this purpose so every model can have a variation backbone, simply be moving suspension points and firewalls to areas that will benefit each vehicle. Corroborated with more parts sharing, this new approach will allow BMW to reduce even more the production costs.
BMW has scrapped any plans to offer an electric and hybrid drive for the new 1 Series. The decision to move forward with the highly-efficient N57 1.5 liter diesel engine was driven by the results obtained in testing the Vision EfficientDynamics vehicle. The horsepower range for the three-cylinder powerplants goes from 95 to 177 horsepower.
The gasoline version, dubbed N30, comes in displacements of 1.2 and 1.5 liters with power output of ranging from 70 to 184 horsepower.
At the high-end of the line-up, it is expect that BMW will continue to offer the six-cylinder N55 Twin-Scroll engine for its 135i Coupe model.
The new BMW 1 Series Hatchback Concept will be unveiled at the Frankfurt Motor Show in September 2011.
A Vision Becomes Reality. Shaping The Future. Two slogans that underline a BMW hosted event at its Leipzig plant in East Germany. A small selective group of journalists were invited to experience the BMW Vision EfficientDynamics Concept.
BMWBLOG headed to Germany to take part in a co-driving experience of what we believe will be the supercar of the future. The stunning diesel-electric hybrid is labeled in this stage as the “Full Runner”, and its performance was said to be running at 60 percent at the date of the event. Developed under the Project i umbrella, Vision EfficientDynamics will make its debut as a production car at the end of 2013, with deliveries beginning in early 2014.
Since in some parts of the world we’re in winter season, we would like to continue sharing some videos showing different BMW vehicles and their handling on snowed surfaces.
The two vehicles in question are the BMW X6 Sports Activity Coupe and a camouflaged BMW X5 since the footage was filmed prior to the facelift unveiling that took place this year.
Just as a reminder, BMW offers an extensive Snow and Ice Training which can be proven to be useful in difficult road situations.
Spy Shots: 2011 BMW M5 frolics in a winter wonderland
by Steven J. Ewing(RSS feed) on Dec 22nd 2010
That bulging front end hides a twin-turbocharged 4.4-liter V8 estimated to produce in excess of 560 horsepower and 530 pound-feet of torque, with the full force being sent to the ground solely via the two rear wheels. Of course, the improved suspension geometry means that the M5 will be full of finesse for track day storming, and we cannot stress how imperative it is that BMW releases the full onslaught of details sooner rather than later.
BMW's Detroit Auto Show stage is already reserved for the 2012 1 Series M Coupe and 6 Series convertible, which makes us think we may finally see the new M5 at the Geneva show in March. We're having a hard time staying patient.
Plant Spartanburg and the BMW Performance Center Make Martha Stewart’s X3 Dream Come True
Martha Stewart accepted BMW’s invitation to design her dream BMW X3 Sports Activity Vehicle using BMW’s “Dream It. Build It. Drive It.” program. Recently, Martha and “The Martha Stewart Show” crew went to Spartanburg, South Carolina to watch the production of her BMW X3. Martha experienced firsthand where BMW makes all BMW X3, X5 and X6 vehicles and interviewed X3 Product Manager Joe Wierda and other BMW associates. The last stop of the day was the BMW Performance Center where Martha tested out the Ultimate Driving Machine.
Martha’s visit to Spartanburg aired Tuesday, December 14, 2010 on “The Martha Stewart Show” on the Hallmark Channel. To watch the BMW segment on “The Martha Stewart Show,” please visit
When we launched the first generation X3 in 2004, BMW’s small, premium Sports Activity Vehicle (SAV) quickly became the standard-bearer—and a best seller.
With the launch of the second generation X3, BMW leads the way again by establishing new benchmarks for agility, efficiency and comfort—that will help us achieve our goal of segment leadership.
Let’s take a look at the highlights:
Return of Two-Model Approach
The 2011MY X3 is available in two models:
Entry X3 xDrive28i at a base price of $37,625; 240 hp; 8-speed automatic, zero to 60 mph in 6.7 seconds.
Top X3 xDrive35i at a base price of $41,925; 300 hp; 8-speed automatic; zero to 60 mph in 5.5 seconds.
Both model variants deliver significantly more standard features (e.g. privacy glass, alarm system, Servotronic power steering, Bluetooth and iPod® adapter, etc)—equipping you for a great price/value sales story to your prospects.
Improved Road Presence
A wider track, five-link rear axle, as well as the optional Dynamic Driving Control and the Performance Control & Dynamic Damping Control will deliver improved performance and handling—classic BMW product attributes.
Latest EfficientDynamics
Complimenting the vehicle's driving pleasure, are technology that provide more responsible fuel efficiency:
Brake Energy Regeneration. When braking or coasting, the car’s kinetic energy is captured and fed back into the special battery.
Optimized Aerodynamics. Works to reduce fuel consumption.
Valvetronic Throttle Intake. Unlike conventional intakes, Valvetronic eliminates pumping losses associated with a traditional throttle, providing sharper response and improving fuel efficiency by at least five percent.
Eight-Speed Automatic Transmission. Offers increased ride and shift comfort, faster gearshifts, and increased use of optimum range.
Premium, Intelligent Interior
Our new X3 is about the same size as the previous generation X5 (E53), and as such, allows for a more spacious interior between driver and passenger, as well as to the doors.
Upholstered door panels and other high-grade materials in the cabin create a first-class ambience, while larger door pockets, cup holders in front of the gear shifter, and the optional 40/20/40 read seats improve functionality.
Infotainment Borrowed From the 7 Series
Our engineers have migrated key technologies from our flagship to provide even greater value:
Standard iDrive with Screen.
8.8” Display (with Optional Navigation)
In-Car Connectivity (ConnectedDrive)
Head-Up Display (optional)
Top View/Rear View Camera (optional)
New 2011 X3
BMW USA
All-New BMW X3 SAV Pricing Announced
2011 X3 xDrive28i base price trumps 2010 model by $2,100.
Woodcliff Lake, NJ - October 13, 2010 - 12:00pm EDT … BMW announces a base price of $37,625 for the all-new BMW X3 Sports Activity Vehicle®, which arrives in dealer showrooms by the end of the year. That is the Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price for the refined, 240-horsepower X3 xDrive28i. The turbocharged, 300-horsepower X3 xDrive35i will have an MSRP of $41,925. Both prices include $875 Destination & Handling fee. Both models feature a standard 8-speed automatic transmission and BMW’s acclaimed xDrive intelligent all-wheel drive system.
BMW sparked the creation of today’s hottest industry segment with the 2004 introduction of the original BMW X3, a vehicle designed to be the best-handling light truck in the world – a true BMW – while affording its owners generous space and versatility to accommodate their active lifestyles. If imitation is the sincerest form of flattery then the competition has been very sincere indeed. The impact of the original X3 became unquestionable as other manufacturers rushed to join its unique place in the market.
For the second-generation BMW X3, the designers and engineers took inspiration from every lesson learned in the original X3’s seven-year life cycle and forged two new models that extend the reach and strength of the original. More versatile than ever – with a rear seat that can fold in three sections, not just two. Faster. More fuel efficient. Refined. The new X3 will re-establish the benchmark for the segment the original X3 spawned.
FORTH WORTH, TEXAS - The Cadillac CTS-V has been named the 2010 Car of Texas by the Texas Auto Writers Association after topping the competition this week at the group's Spring Challenge.
DETROIT - Cadillac unveiled the XTS Platinum Concept at the 2010 North American International Auto Show, suggesting a new paradigm for the luxury sedan of the future. The concept showcases Cadillac's emerging top-of-the-line Platinum series of models, emphasizing new expressions of luxury and technological features, including a plug-in hybrid propulsion system.
MINI Cooper Named a 2010 Top 10 Green Car by Kelley Blue Book's KBB.COM
BMW USA
For the third year in a row, MINI is honored to be named as one of the Top 10 Green Cars for 2010 by Kelley Blue Book's kbb.com. The MINI Cooper has been named to the list every year since its inception in 2008, a nod to the brand's commitment to being environmentally friendly.
Cadillac Ranked First In Vehicle Satisfaction By Autopacific Consumer Surveys
Cadillac
DETROIT - Cadillac was selected as the top brand in overall vehicle satisfaction in a survey of new vehicle buyers released today. AutoPacific's 2010 Vehicle Satisfaction Awards, generated from the experiences of actual new car and truck owners, named Cadillac as Top Brand for the third consecutive year.
The complete MINI clan gathered at BMW's Oxford factory yesterday, marking the first time all six family members (three current and three future) have been brought together. The event was the media launch of the latest versions of the current MINI range, which features a significantly revised engine line-up:
More Minis are sold in the U.S. than anywhere else in the world. Now, with the new 4 x 4 version created specifically for the American market, the little car 'that couldn't' is about to take on the small SUV market. Is the Mini changing us or are we changing the Mini?
BMW likes to introduce a new kind of technology with every new 5-Series models. The last gen came with an electronic steering system which turned out to be rubbish, so for the new 2011 model they went for safety and came up with the brake intervention, which detects collisions, warns the driver and if needed applies the brakes. All that is to reduce the impact of the crash, making it more comfi hitting things!
It's really a shame that the word "hybrid" has such a miserly connotation. It's as though everything stamped with the word has to be either economical, eco-friendly or worse: both! How are giant luxury cars with twin-turbocharged V8s supposed to fit in a category like that?
Since the electric motor is located on the rear axle, it becomes clear that the rear-wheels are also driven by the electric unit. The internal combustion engine will continue to power the front wheels.
And the following phrase proves to us that we made the right choice by ordering an 1M this summer:
The guests have all gone home. The chefs have all returned to their home city restaurants and the bright lights have all come down, but the effects from the Taste of the NFL's 20th Anniversary Super Bowl "Party with a Purpose" continue to make a difference. Thank you to everyone who helped make the 20th Annual Taste of the NFL on February 5, 2011 in North Texas the biggest event to date!
