BMW Motorrad's multi-media information tool for new employees of the company's subsidiaries, importers and dealerships, has won a prestigious golden award at the Integrated TV and Video Association (ITVA) awards held in Cologne on 2 November.
Launched on 15 June 2007, this platform for every new employee is designed to provide a comprehensive introduction to the world of BMW Motorrad for every new staff member. Irrespective of the area in which the employees work - whether marketing, sales, service, or in the workshop - the object of the web-based tool is to give new staff access to BMW Motorrad in a way that allows them to get started with their jobs quickly and successfully.
In order to reach as many employees as possible worldwide, the tool is currently available in German, English, Italian, French, Dutch, Spanish and Portuguese, with a Japanese language version coming soon. Using software developed by Frankfurt-based agency, C.3 GmbH, the interactive multimedia tool allows users to experience a highly entertaining tour through the world of BMW. By using the integration of different media (text, audio and videos), animated information (exercises, questions and games), and topical contents, the user can login and simply choose which road they want to take.
Highlights include comprehensive information and a history of the BMW Group and BMW Motorrad; all the details on the latest bikes, Rider Equipment and Accessories; a 'jobs and business' section describing life inside a BMW Motorrad dealership; and the Fascination of working for one of the most exciting and progressive companies in the world.
The key to the success of 'Discover BMW Motorrad' is its simple navigation, functionality and easy access. There is even a virtual tour guide called Monique, who will accompany the user on the tour through the BMW Motorrad world, occasionally addressing the user directly, motivating, asking questions and encouraging.
Since its launch, 'Discover BMW Motorrad' has been accepted and used all over the world by the subsidiaries, importers and dealers who have found that their new (and even existing) employees have substantially benefited from this innovative tool that gives users an entertaining and informative introduction to their new company and place of work.
At the end of October 2007, an independent jury of the international ITVA Committee decided that 'Discover BMW Motorrad' would be given the Golden Award in the Multimedia Application category. In collecting the award, C.3 GmbH's Bernd Helber was delighted at the recognition for this innovative and important piece of software for new BMW Motorrad colleagues.
"We're really pleased to win the Golden Award for 'Discover BMW Motorrad'," he said. "BMW Motorrad wanted to use New Media to allow young employees to discover the BMW brand values, its eventful history and all the different company segments, so we're delighted that the unique program design, innovative user guidance and navigation have been recognised in this way."
The 'Discover BMW Motorrad' information tool will now be entered in The Media Communications Association International (MCA-I) awards that recognise the best in media communications across the globe.
Tuesday, 4 December 2007
BMW announces 2008 BMW 1 Series Coupe pricing for U.S.
BMW used the LA Auto Show to officially announce pricing for its upcoming 2008 1 Series Coupe, due to hit showrooms in spring of 2008. Base prices will start at $29,375 for the 2008 BMW 128i, while the more powerful 135i will see an increase to $35,675.
So which one to chose? Well, the 128i's 230 horsepower inline-six should prove adequate for many drivers, but those looking for more power will likely opt for the 135i that shares its 300 horsepower twin-turbocharged, 3.0-liter six-cylinder engine with the 335i. And we imagine there will be more than a few buyers for the more potent version. After all, this is the car that BMW is touting as a return to the enthusiast-oriented sports coupe roots it has in its classic 2002 model, sold from 1968 to 1976.
BMW is relying on those roots to generate massive interest in its new 1 Series Coupe, and is expecting the car to be a success as soon as sales begin next year. The automaker's advertising campaign "Year One of the 1" places significance in purchasing the first model year of the 1 Series Coupe, even going so far as to engrave the vehicle's start button with the "Year One of the 1" phrase. Other incentives are given to first-year 1 Series buyers in the U.S., including a exclusive book chronicling the vehicle's development.
BMW will also sell a 1 Series Convertible in the U.S., a car that will make its debut at the Detroit Auto Show in January. Sales are expected to start months after the first 1 Series Coupes hit showrooms. At the Tokyo Motor Show last month, BMW displayed a 1 Series tii concept which emphasized the coupe's sporty nature with an Alcantara-trimmed interior, sports-oriented suspension, and aerodynamic modifications, among other changes.
So which one to chose? Well, the 128i's 230 horsepower inline-six should prove adequate for many drivers, but those looking for more power will likely opt for the 135i that shares its 300 horsepower twin-turbocharged, 3.0-liter six-cylinder engine with the 335i. And we imagine there will be more than a few buyers for the more potent version. After all, this is the car that BMW is touting as a return to the enthusiast-oriented sports coupe roots it has in its classic 2002 model, sold from 1968 to 1976.
BMW is relying on those roots to generate massive interest in its new 1 Series Coupe, and is expecting the car to be a success as soon as sales begin next year. The automaker's advertising campaign "Year One of the 1" places significance in purchasing the first model year of the 1 Series Coupe, even going so far as to engrave the vehicle's start button with the "Year One of the 1" phrase. Other incentives are given to first-year 1 Series buyers in the U.S., including a exclusive book chronicling the vehicle's development.
BMW will also sell a 1 Series Convertible in the U.S., a car that will make its debut at the Detroit Auto Show in January. Sales are expected to start months after the first 1 Series Coupes hit showrooms. At the Tokyo Motor Show last month, BMW displayed a 1 Series tii concept which emphasized the coupe's sporty nature with an Alcantara-trimmed interior, sports-oriented suspension, and aerodynamic modifications, among other changes.
BMW 1 Series Priced Starting at $29,375
LOS ANGELES — BMW announced that it will price its new 1 Series coupe starting under $30,000, with the top model at $35,675. It goes on sale in the spring at U.S. dealerships.
The small coupe made its North American debut at the 2007 Los Angeles Auto Show this week. It will be sold in 3.0-liter inline-6 form as the 128i, making 230 horsepower, and — with a twin-turbo 3.0-liter six that makes 300 hp — as the 135i. The 128i will cost $29,375, while the 135i will be priced at $35,675.
It's "Year One of the One," BMW says, claiming that the 1 Series coupe "will reinvent the niche that the legendary BMW 2002 created." The company's microsite offers prospective buyers an opportunity to sign up for the chance to pre-order.
What this means to you: Looking at the gas pump these days, it sure looks like an appropriate time to reinvent this particular niche
The small coupe made its North American debut at the 2007 Los Angeles Auto Show this week. It will be sold in 3.0-liter inline-6 form as the 128i, making 230 horsepower, and — with a twin-turbo 3.0-liter six that makes 300 hp — as the 135i. The 128i will cost $29,375, while the 135i will be priced at $35,675.
It's "Year One of the One," BMW says, claiming that the 1 Series coupe "will reinvent the niche that the legendary BMW 2002 created." The company's microsite offers prospective buyers an opportunity to sign up for the chance to pre-order.
What this means to you: Looking at the gas pump these days, it sure looks like an appropriate time to reinvent this particular niche
16 November 2007Africa awaitsWith all the publicity surrounding the...
With all the publicity surrounding the recent unveiling of the F 800 GS, it's easy to forget just how long this machine has been in development. But fortunately, the wait is now over for all those adventure sport riders who secretly hoped that BMW Motorrad's excellent 85 hp parallel-twin engine (that first made its debut in the F 800 S sports middleweight) would some day find its way onto a dedicated lightweight travel enduro.
Because the final development stages of machine parts and accessories for motorcycles such as the F 800 GS need to be tested in extreme conditions that private tracks and in-house simulators just cannot replicate, it is necessary to go 'out in the field'. Luckily, there are engineers such as Touratech Executive Director, Herbert Schwarz, who are willing to assist BMW Motorrad in certain areas of product development, helping to ensure that the products and accessories work in the toughest conditions that a rider could expect to encounter anywhere in the world.
Several months before the shiny new BMW F 800 GS was unveiled to the world's motorcycle press in Milan, Schwarz was out in equatorial Africa, helping test accessories for this eagerly awaited travel enduro. Accompanied by his new wife Ramona (who completed the Can2Mex trip with him in 2006) on a BMW G 650 Xchallenge, the couple spent over a month exploring Kenya, Tanzania, Rwanda and Burundi in order to test and develop components, and provide travel features for various motorcycle magazines.
Amazingly, in this world of global communication networks and mobile phone cameras - and despite being besieged by inquisitive locals wherever they went - the couple were able to complete their journey in secret, without a single picture of their journey making the headlines. And because the new F 800 GS is finally in the public domain, their story can now be told, so watch this space for a forthcoming interview with Herbert and Ramona, and find out the full story of what this respected globetrotter thinks of the exciting new addition to the legendary GS family.
Because the final development stages of machine parts and accessories for motorcycles such as the F 800 GS need to be tested in extreme conditions that private tracks and in-house simulators just cannot replicate, it is necessary to go 'out in the field'. Luckily, there are engineers such as Touratech Executive Director, Herbert Schwarz, who are willing to assist BMW Motorrad in certain areas of product development, helping to ensure that the products and accessories work in the toughest conditions that a rider could expect to encounter anywhere in the world.
Several months before the shiny new BMW F 800 GS was unveiled to the world's motorcycle press in Milan, Schwarz was out in equatorial Africa, helping test accessories for this eagerly awaited travel enduro. Accompanied by his new wife Ramona (who completed the Can2Mex trip with him in 2006) on a BMW G 650 Xchallenge, the couple spent over a month exploring Kenya, Tanzania, Rwanda and Burundi in order to test and develop components, and provide travel features for various motorcycle magazines.
Amazingly, in this world of global communication networks and mobile phone cameras - and despite being besieged by inquisitive locals wherever they went - the couple were able to complete their journey in secret, without a single picture of their journey making the headlines. And because the new F 800 GS is finally in the public domain, their story can now be told, so watch this space for a forthcoming interview with Herbert and Ramona, and find out the full story of what this respected globetrotter thinks of the exciting new addition to the legendary GS family.
15 November 2007GS Challenge debuts in Qu becBMW GS motorcycles have...
BMW GS motorcycles have had a dedicated following for well over 25 years and have become the most successful BMW motorcycle model series of all time. The ever-expanding enduro line-up continues to find new converts, eager for the opportunity to put their skills and their bikes to the test on the kind of terrain that GS models were designed for.
With inspiration from GS customer activities all over the world, the owner of Montreal-based Moto Internationale Motorrad dealership, Charles Gref - a BMW-certified motorcycle instructor and long-time competitor in both on and off-road events - decided that the time was right for a GS Challenge in Canada. And what better backdrop than the rolling hills and forests in the beautiful province of Québec?
Charles and his enthusiastic team worked for months to organize the very first GS Challenge in Québec, which took place at the Pouvoirie du Lac Beauregard in the heart of the Hautes-Laurentides. With more than 150 square kilometres of terrain, the Pourvoirie is the ideal venue for this type of event, with a combination of sand and gravel trails threading through the spectacular forests and hills, and offering the kind of riding to challenge GS owners of every skill level.
The debut event attracted over 40 keen BMW owners, some from as far away as Ireland and Germany! All arrived on their own bikes, spanning the complete GS range from an R 80 GS through R 1100 GS, R 1150 and 1200 GS, and F 650 GS and Dakar models. BMW Motorrad Canada provided new G 650 Xchallenge, Xcountry and HP2 Enduro models to give the enthusiastic participants a chance to experience the very latest BMW off-road technology.
The first day's itinerary was devoted to a 60 km forest course with two skill sections, and the group split into teams of three to ensure safe riding space and to promote team support.
The second day featured a slow-speed race on a mud course with tight curves and sandy hills. This was followed by a trials session in the forest on a 65-km course where riders had to deal with water crossings, mud, holes and sand. A points system was in place, with scores awarded for specific tests on a variety of terrain. Second-day skill levels were noticeably improved and camaraderie in great evidence as the riders cheered each other on in the rougher sections. The day culminated with a special awards dinner with both teams and individuals being recognised for their performances in some of the more gruelling stages.
After a fairly exacting two days, the third and final day was 'open', giving riders the option of taking test rides and excursions in the woods on the new G 650 Xchallenge and Xcountry models, as well as the formidable HP2 Enduro.
On hand for the GS Challenge in Québec was special guest Tomm Wolf, head instructor of the BMW Motorrad Enduro Park in Hechlingen, Germany. With extensive experience at other GS Challenge events, Tomm was duly impressed by the beauty of the location and by the professionalism with which the GS Challenge was organized.
"This site presents so much diversity that I can easily see an international GS Challenge taking place here," he said. Tomm's presence at the event certainly raised the bar a few notches and gave credibility to the concept of a much larger-scale event in the future.
The effort that Charles Gref and his team put into the first GS Challenge in Québec delivered results that spoke for themselves. Every person who took part in the event agreed that it was an extraordinary weekend, and local print and TV journalists commented favourably. Therefore, the intention is to promote the 2008 Québec GS Challenge in both North America and Europe with the hope of attracting up to 500 participants in the medium term.
With inspiration from GS customer activities all over the world, the owner of Montreal-based Moto Internationale Motorrad dealership, Charles Gref - a BMW-certified motorcycle instructor and long-time competitor in both on and off-road events - decided that the time was right for a GS Challenge in Canada. And what better backdrop than the rolling hills and forests in the beautiful province of Québec?
Charles and his enthusiastic team worked for months to organize the very first GS Challenge in Québec, which took place at the Pouvoirie du Lac Beauregard in the heart of the Hautes-Laurentides. With more than 150 square kilometres of terrain, the Pourvoirie is the ideal venue for this type of event, with a combination of sand and gravel trails threading through the spectacular forests and hills, and offering the kind of riding to challenge GS owners of every skill level.
The debut event attracted over 40 keen BMW owners, some from as far away as Ireland and Germany! All arrived on their own bikes, spanning the complete GS range from an R 80 GS through R 1100 GS, R 1150 and 1200 GS, and F 650 GS and Dakar models. BMW Motorrad Canada provided new G 650 Xchallenge, Xcountry and HP2 Enduro models to give the enthusiastic participants a chance to experience the very latest BMW off-road technology.
The first day's itinerary was devoted to a 60 km forest course with two skill sections, and the group split into teams of three to ensure safe riding space and to promote team support.
The second day featured a slow-speed race on a mud course with tight curves and sandy hills. This was followed by a trials session in the forest on a 65-km course where riders had to deal with water crossings, mud, holes and sand. A points system was in place, with scores awarded for specific tests on a variety of terrain. Second-day skill levels were noticeably improved and camaraderie in great evidence as the riders cheered each other on in the rougher sections. The day culminated with a special awards dinner with both teams and individuals being recognised for their performances in some of the more gruelling stages.
After a fairly exacting two days, the third and final day was 'open', giving riders the option of taking test rides and excursions in the woods on the new G 650 Xchallenge and Xcountry models, as well as the formidable HP2 Enduro.
On hand for the GS Challenge in Québec was special guest Tomm Wolf, head instructor of the BMW Motorrad Enduro Park in Hechlingen, Germany. With extensive experience at other GS Challenge events, Tomm was duly impressed by the beauty of the location and by the professionalism with which the GS Challenge was organized.
"This site presents so much diversity that I can easily see an international GS Challenge taking place here," he said. Tomm's presence at the event certainly raised the bar a few notches and gave credibility to the concept of a much larger-scale event in the future.
The effort that Charles Gref and his team put into the first GS Challenge in Québec delivered results that spoke for themselves. Every person who took part in the event agreed that it was an extraordinary weekend, and local print and TV journalists commented favourably. Therefore, the intention is to promote the 2008 Québec GS Challenge in both North America and Europe with the hope of attracting up to 500 participants in the medium term.
BMW 1 Series Coupe On Sale US Jan 2008
The BMW 1 Series Coupe, which draws inspiration from the iconic BMW 2002 of some 40 years ago, has made its North American debut at the Los Angeles Auto Show. By combining sporty rear-wheel-drive dynamics, agile handling, powerful engines and seating for four, the 1 Series Coupe will reinvent the niche created by the legendary BMW 2002.
On sale in the spring of 2008, the 1 Series Coupe will be available in two versions; the 128i and the 135i. Powered by a 3.0-liter, 230 horsepower inline 6-cyinder engine that generates 200 lb-ft of torque, the 128i Coupe will feature Valvetronic valvetrain management and aluminum/magnesium contruction-core elements of BMW’s EfficientDynamics.
The powerful 135i Coupe features BMW’s twin-turbocharged 3.0-liter inline six-cylinder engine that produces 300 horsepower and an incredible 300 lb-ft of torque from as low as 1,400 rpm. With its direct piezo gasoline injectors, twin low-mass turbochargers and air-to-air intercooling, optimum performance and economy is achieved with no loss in engine response. For the 135i Coupe, acceleration from 0-62 mph is accomplished in 5.3 seconds and top speed is electronically limited to 155 mph. Both engines feature on-demand engine coolant pumps that improve fuel economy and reduce parasitic losses for increased output.
Handsome looks with sporting intentions
The new 1 Series Coupe combines unique, dynamic and unmistakable design elements with a powerful and muscular body. The greenhouse with its characteristic “Hofmeister kink” is moved rearward and offers a particularly nimble look with its long hood. The short overhangs, long wheelbase and large frameless doors sit on a body with a striking shoulder line for a modern interpretation of BMW’s characteristic look. On the 135i Coupe, an M Aerodynamic Kit is standard.
The 1 Series boasts an aggressive rear end styling. The trunklid has an integrated spoiler chiselled into the rear end of the car to accentuate the short rear section. On the 135i, an additional lip spoiler provides greater downforce on the rear end at high speeds.
BMW K1200 LT gets the luxury treatment
The massive BMW K1200LT tourer has been given a boost for 2008, with every UK motorcycle gaining the full BMW Lux package as standard.
For 2008, the basic and SE versions of the K1200LT are being removed from the UK BMW motorcycle range, leaving only the highest-specification machine, which will be available to order.
The full £15,395 package includes virtually every extra you can imagine, with heated grips, cruise control, a heated seat, central locking for the panniers and topbox, ground lighting and an ant-theft system as standard.
Other goodies include the firm’s Xenon headlight kit, which gives a different look to the front of the bike, with an additional light below the main headlight unit. The two lamps act separately, as a high and low-beam, and offer 10 percent better illumination than conventional units. The Lux pack also includes a “Navigator preparation kit” – so BMW’s sat-nav system can easily be added.
Despite its high spec, there are still additional options to be had, including a luggage rack, higher screen, intercom and CD changer. You can even order a cup holder!
For 2008, the basic and SE versions of the K1200LT are being removed from the UK BMW motorcycle range, leaving only the highest-specification machine, which will be available to order.
The full £15,395 package includes virtually every extra you can imagine, with heated grips, cruise control, a heated seat, central locking for the panniers and topbox, ground lighting and an ant-theft system as standard.
Other goodies include the firm’s Xenon headlight kit, which gives a different look to the front of the bike, with an additional light below the main headlight unit. The two lamps act separately, as a high and low-beam, and offer 10 percent better illumination than conventional units. The Lux pack also includes a “Navigator preparation kit” – so BMW’s sat-nav system can easily be added.
Despite its high spec, there are still additional options to be had, including a luggage rack, higher screen, intercom and CD changer. You can even order a cup holder!
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