BMW is finding more ways to improve their repair and maintenance service. The latest move towards this goal is the computerized system for vehicle inspections. This effort was started by BMW NA by giving all US dealerships the option of using a software instead of the normal way of vehicle inspection.

This computerized system will help make the repair and maintenance work faster. BMW uses the MPi-EDGE/World Class Inspection software developed by Mobile Productivity. To convince dealers to use this system, BMW offers a special program subsidy for those who sign up to use this program. The dealership size and number of users is also considered in the software cost.

BMW has not made the use of this system mandatory, but its benefits are obvious. It increases the number of multi-point vehicle inspections, repair orders, service parts and profit, and happy customers by making it easier and faster for service technicians to conduct them. Technicians and mechanics will use handheld devices to check off formatted inspection points on a mobile screen. At the end of the inspection, the software produces a report that states what is working well and what needs to be fixed and the corresponding costs. This allows a transparency between the customer and the mechanic, and aids the mechanic in explaining to the customer what exactly needs to be done to keep their vehicle in good running condition.

It also includes the EDGE software system; two customer friendly reports called “Recommended Action Plan” and “Know Your Vehicle”; management reporting and analysis capabilities; consulting and training services; and process and performance metrics.

If this computerized system works well for BMW dealerships in the USA, it will most likely be used in BMW dealerships around the globe in no time.

Source: Autoward

The run-flat tires safety system that is common today because of its advantages. More automakers are now offering run-flat tires for their cars. BMW and MINI has chosen to adopt the run-flat tires system with vehicle safety in mind.

BMW says that the specially reinforced side walls and additional lateral strengthening allow the run-flat tires to still function even if there is no air pressure. In fact, the vehicle can continue driving for up to 150-250 km (this number varies per model) at a speed of up to 80 km/h without much loss in the stability of the vehicle.

Because of the usefulness of the run-flat tires system, BMW is now the leading promoter of run-flat tires in the automotive industry. Almost all BMW vehicles today are equipped with run-flat tires. It is even available for Z4 and 5 Series 2003 models. The only BMW cars today that have the traditional performance rubbers are the M cars.

BMW vice president of engineering, Tom Baloga, says that run-flat tires reduces the danger of changing a tire along the side of the road. This system also eliminates the need to carry a spare tire — which saves up space and reduces the weight of the vehicle. BMW believes that run-flat tires are more eco-friendly as this reduces tire usage by 20%. With this effort, millions of tires, natural resources, and energy needed to make tires are saved.

However, run-flat tires do not perform like traditional radial tires. It makes the ride harsher than using conventional tires, which does not make it a popular choice for those who prioritize the quality of the ride. Run-flat tires are also 20 to 30% more expensive than a conventional tires.

Many tire producers such as Dunlop, Michelin and Bridgestone have adopted this system, but the development process continues to be a struggle. However, it is expected that as the development technology is perfected, the price and performance lag will be eliminated.

Source: Autoweek

Press Release. 26.08.2010.

Munich: World star Katy Perry became the “Future Girl” for the filming of the new image campaign for the TV station ProSieben, and even resurrected Marilyn Monroe in one scene. The spot takes place in the future, and the architecture of BMW Welt still gives an ultra-modern feeling, even in 2050. Shining silver robots and a rocket also have a part to play. As part of the recording, Katy Perry also performed her new song, “Teenage Dream”, which comes out on 27 August. Filming took two days in total, with popstar Perry being available for one day. The BMW Welt Hall and Auditorium formed the backdrop for the spectacular interior recording sessions, and the Double Cone – the hallmark of BMW Welt – featured in the futuristic outside shots.

“The multipurpose Auditorium, with its flexible stage flooring and adjustable wall, and the space-age feeling of the BMW Welt architecture were the main criteria that made us decide to film this production in BMW Welt”, said ProSieben-Marketing-Chef Thorsten Pütsch. The new image campaign will be appearing on ProSieben from 1 September.

Thomas Muderlak, host and manager of BMW Welt is delighted that ProSieben chose BMW Welt, which, with 2 million visitors, is the most popular attraction in Bavaria, as the location for the unusual film shoot. He was personally on hand to show Katy Perry the hightlights of BMW Welt , after which she insisted on signing the BMW Welt guestbook by kissing it.

BMW Welt’s recipe for success is based on the diversity of the facilities it offers and its regularly changing exhibitions and focal themes. BMW Welt links technology, design and innovation with lifestyle, energy and culture and provides a public forum for encounters and dialogue. Those who wish to gain a fuller insight into the BMW brand can spend the whole day experiencing the entire complex, made up of BMW Welt, the BMW Museum and the BMW factory. The factory tours start in BMW Welt, which is directly linked via a bridge with the Museum and the Headquarters (the administrative building for the BMW Group). The authenticity and continuity of BMW, the history of the brand and its innovative production systems and technology become tangible through the extremely informative guided tours of the factory. With two restaurants, a bistro and a coffee bar, there is plenty of opportunity to eat and drink, and there are shopping facilities too. The Junior Campus is a fascinating independent section for 7- to 13-year-olds, based on the results of the latest scientific child and youth development research, and allowing visitors to discover “Mobility with every sense” in a playful way.

Inside Line puts the new 2011 BMW 535i (N55 engine) to the dyno test to its power capability. The results are  277 rwhp at 6100 RPM and 283 rw lb-ft at 4350 RPM.

The BMW 1 Series M Coupé is not just about the design. Even if the reveal did not show us the car in its entirety, what’s important is that we know the details about the car.

One controversial detail is the transmission. Reports say that the 1M will only be available with a six speed manual transmission, just like that of the E9X M3. There will be no DCT because the car was also done on a very strict budget, and yet the goal was to create the best driver’s car in history. The DCT software is expensive, and is most likely the most important factor behind the 1M being offered only in manual transmission. The fact that there is no DCT makes the 1M a car with an attitude.

Unlike other M cars that have unique engines designed by the M Division, the 1M opted to stick with the plan of taking what made the E30 M3 a classic. The M Division also did not have the budget to design a new engine for the 1M. This is why the N54 turbocharged inline six without the Valvetronic, which makes is easy to tune to more than 335 hp and an impressive torque.

The BMW 1 Series M Coupe will not only be about power and performance. It will be about the feel.