Andrew

I still have no idea who you are? I can interpret the comment in context. Which is what I have done. People need to stop getting so sensitive when they get suspended. If I happen across a thread with something I don't like, I can suspend the person. Ultimately I get a phone call from someway saying 'Your forum is racist and I don't like it'. Neither do I.

Who the f**k are you? Banned To the others who consistently make racist comments I am personally getting sick of it.

Media information 16 July 2008 CASTROL REVS UP BMW RACE SERIES The New Zealand BMW Race Series today welcomed Castrol New Zealand as its primary sponsor. Castrol has committed to a three-season sponsorship of the amateur racing series, New Zealand’s biggest-ever single-make series. The announcement marks a further step in Castrol’s involvement in the series, which it has supported from its very beginning. Beginning on September 13 and 14 at Pukekohe Park Raceway, drivers in the series will compete over six rounds at the Pukekohe, Manfield and Taupo racetracks. This year’s season will also see a major inaugural meeting at the soon-to-open Hampton Downs racetrack. Jayne McEwan, Castrol’s Consumer Marketing Manager, says Castrol and BMW have a long and successful heritage of working together in motorsport both in New Zealand and overseas. “Together we have set records, won race championships and helped develop the careers of some of New Zealand’s best race drivers. Internationally, we have won world championships together and taken historic victories at some of the world’s most testing and best-loved races. Castrol backed the NZ BMW Race Series from the outset and we are pleased and proud to now step up to a role as primary sponsor.” The BMW Racing Series focuses on the iconic E30 BMW 3 Series, a car that in M3 form helped BMW win the first ever World Touring Car Championship and sparked the runaway success of the 3 Series. This main E30 class is for 3 Series cars manufactured between 1984 and 1991 and using either 1.8-litre four-cylinder engines or 2.0-litre six-cylinder engines. Mf… -2- In addition, the “open” class allows a wide range of classic and current-model BMWs onto the track to race in a separate category within the series. The open class is for any BMW running original, standard specification engines. NZ BMW E30 Race Series founder and committee member Colin Briscoe says the BMW and Castrol brands have long been synonymous with motor racing success at the highest levels. “We are thrilled to have Castrol alongside BMW to support the racing series which brings a tremendous level of qudos and credibility to our sport,” he said. In New Zealand, the BMW race heritage extends back through the New Zealand Touring Car Championship to the launch of the BMW New Zealand Race Team, run by Lyall Williamson’s International Motorsport, and to Castrol’s support of the all-conquering Schnitzer factory-supported team when it raced E30 M3s at the Wellington Street Races in the 1980s. Castrol and BMW were together in motorsport as Craig Baird and Brett Riley took factory-specification E36 3 Series Coupes to an unprecedented run of New Zealand Touring Car Championship titles. The relationship continued as the cars became four door E36 3 Series, then four door E46 3 Series, netting further titles for Brett Riley and Jason Richards. The NZ BMW Race Series has its own television coverage package and has grown rapidly in size and popularity, with more than 100 competitors in the North Island alone, 70 of whom race in the E30 class. Many series members also compete in their BMWs in other track races and the Targa road rally series. Existing sponsors of the NZ BMW Race Series include BMW New Zealand, Radio Sport, Toyo Tyres, Koni Shocks and King Springs; the series is supported by the BMW Car Club of New Zealand. BMW uses Castrol lubricants in the assembly of all new BMW cars, Castrol is the specified lubricant for use in BMW’s range of high performance M cars, and throughout New Zealand Castrol lubricants are available from the BMW dealer network. Internationally, Castrol and BMW continue their touring car relationship in the FIA World Touring Car Championship. -End- 2008-2009 NZ BMW Race Series dates 13-14 September 2008 Pukekohe 14-16 November 2008MG Car Club Classic Manfield 24-25 January 2009 Tasman GP ( Formula 5000) Pukekohe 1-2 February 2009 Tasman Revival meeting Taupo 28-29 March 2009 Summer classic Hampton Downs 11-12 April. 2009 (Easter meeting) Hampton Downs Distributed in New Zealand on behalf of Castrol NZ by: Mark Baker, Veritas Communications Limited For further information, please contact: Jayne McEwan, Castrol New Zealand Telephone 09 639 0000 Email [email protected] Mark Baker, Director, Veritas Communications Limited Telephone 09 296 8636 Mobile 021 212 0607 Email [email protected]

BADASS- 100 unit seems a little low though. Maybe 10000

Mercedes-Benz and BMW are planning on making a final decision on the details of their cooperation by the end of November 2008. According to Auto Motor und Sport, both companies are looking to make an announcement by the LA Auto Show in November. Earlier in April, BMW CEO Reithofer was very vocal about his willingness to team up with rival Mercedes-Benz. Reithofer said that he feels both, Mercedes-Benz and BMW, should team up to fight the effects of a weak dollar. At the time Mercedes-Benz response to Reithofer’s statement was: “We are not commenting on Mr. Reithofer’s statements.” According to sources, both companies have agreed to jointly develop components such as air conditioning units and brakes for future cars. Both have previously been reported to discuss small-car development as well.

BMW is working on the next-generation BMW M3 CSL which will arrive with the updated 2010 M3 model year. Like its predecessor, the new M3 CSL will drop all the standard equipment to lose weight. So that means no radio, no navigation system and no air-conditioning. BMW will also drop a lot of weight with the extensive use of carbon fiber in the front apron, hood, roof, side panels and rear bumper. Like the old CSL the luggage compartment will be made of extremely lightweight cardboard. Of course, you’re all wondering what’s going to be under the hood. According to AutoZeitung, power will come from the same 420-hp 4.0L V8 engine of the standard M3. However, the ‘M’ division will make some mechanical changes to extract an additional 50 horses for a total of 470-hp. 0-60 is expected to come in well under the 4.5 seconds of the standard M3 with top speed rumored to be around 185mph. The 2010 BMW M3 CSL is expected to make its debut at the 2009 Frankfurt Motor Show with sales to kick-off in the beginning of 2010. BMW will make only 100 units of the M3 CSL with pricing estimated at less than 90,000 euros (USD$143,176).

Can't do it in this area of the forum - I have it turned off.

I wish it was allowed in the V8 Supercar series. BAdass

It's true.. i seen him!

Get an iPhone

A bad representation of an awesome bill hicks joke

piece of sh*t

At the 2008 Chicago Auto Show in February, BMW announced that it will be returning to the American Le Mans Series in early 2009 with a racing version of the new BMW M3. Based on the new 2008 BMW M3, power comes from a BMW P65 V8 485-hp engine. BMW hopes that the M3 racing version will be an immediate front-runner when it makes its return to the American Le Mans Series next year - which will be made possible by a parternship between BMW of North America and Rahal Letterman Racing.

So you remember that top-secret BMW event we told you about at the beginning of this month that we thought wasn’t related to the new 2009 BMW 7-Series - well, it was. BMW built the world’s biggest hour-glass on the Red Square in Moscow. The 2009 BMW 7-Series will arrive in the U.S. in spring of 2009 in two versions including the 750i and the 750Li. Power comes from the X6 xDrive50i’s 4.4L twin-turbo V8 producing 400-hp and 450 lb-ft of torque. The engine will be mated to a 6-speed automatic transmission.

BMW has released the official press release along with a bunch of images of the 2009 BMW 3-Series which will arrive in dealerships starting October 2008. Besides the facelift to the front and rear of the new 3-Series, BMW has added an extended range of diesel and gasoline engines, the next-generation of iDrive with BMW ConnectedDrive, optimised all-wheel drive available for 5-engines and for the first time ever - a 7-speed sports automatic transmission with double clutch. New this year is the BMW 330d - powered by a 3.0L 6-cylinder diesel with a turbocharger that produces 245-hp with a peak torque of 384 lb-ft. 0-62mph comes in at 6.1 seconds with a top speed of 155mph. Even with all that performance the BMW 330d gets 42mpg - but we most likely won’t get it on the stateside (we’ll be getting the 335d later this year). Click through for a complete list for the 2009 BMW 3-Series powertrain range). BMW has also added a double-clutch 7-speed sports automatic transmission from the new 2008 M3 to the BMW 335i coupe and convertible. BMW says that the transmission offers even more dynamic performance along with optimized fuel-consumption figures. We’ll get more details of the U.S. 2009 BMW 3-Series lineup in a couple of months. 2009 BMW 3-Series: Press Release: • The new BMW 3 Series Saloon and the new BMW 3 Series Touring extend their lead further in terms of driving dynamics, premium quality and innovative technology. • The new BMW 3 Series Saloon and the new BMW 3 Series Touring combine elegance with a driving experience which is unique within the competitive field. • The extended range of engines and the application of BMW EfficientDynamics measures make the BMW 3 Series the benchmark for sheer driving pleasure in combination with exemplary fuel consumption and exhaust emission levels. • A new vehicle front, a side view with greater emphasis of the dynamically elongated line, the rear section has a broader effect due to more detailed lines. New headlamps, rear lights with new contours characteristic of the brand, innovative lighting technology and 3D effects. • Refinement of the interior trim with selected operating elements in a new design and newly harmonised choice of colours and materials. The characteristic combination of convex and concave surfaces characteristic of the exterior is continued in the interior. Ergonomically optimised positioning of the window lift operating panel on the driver side, new and enlarged storage facilities. • New generation of the operating system BMW iDrive in conjunction with optional navigation systems: ergonomically optimised iDrive Controller for function selection and control by means of turning, pressing and tilting movements, blind operation of buttons on the Controller for fast and intuitive menu selection. Freely programmable functional bookmarks for even easier operation. Navigation system Professional with extended functions for destination entry, trip planning and map display. For the first time, routes freely planned on the internet can be fed into the navigation system using BMW ConnectedDrive. BMW ConnectedDrive world premiere: unlimited internet use inside the vehicle as an optional extra. • Newly developed in-line 6-cylinder diesel engine in the BMW 330d: aluminium crankcase, common rail direct injection of the third generation with piezo injectors and maximum injection pressure of 1,800 bar, turbocharger with variable turbine geometry, output: 180 kW/245 bhp, maximum torque: 520 Nm, diesel particulate filter and oxidation catalytic converter as standard, exhaust gas norm EU 5, optional BMW BluePerformance technology with NOX storage catalytic converter for the reduction of nitrogen oxide emissions as a requirement for adherence to the threshold levels of the planned exhaust gas norm EU 6. • Variety of engines which is unique within the vehicle segment: five petrol and five diesel engines, with output ranging from 105 kW/143 bhp in the BMW 318i and BMW 318d to 225 kW/306 bhp in the BMW 335i. All engine types with BMW EfficientDynamics measures: modelspecific use of Brake Energy Regeneration, Auto Start/Stop Function, Shift Point Display, needs-related control of auxiliary units and active aerodynamics with Automatic Air Intake Flaps. All engine types with unsurpassed fuel consumption and exhaust emission levels as compared to the relevant competitors. BMW 318d, BMW 320d, BMW 330d and BMW 330xd are within the threshold levels of the future exhaust gas norm EU 5. • 6-speed automatic transmission with optimised shift dynamics and minimised converter slip now optionally available for the BMW 318d too. • Optimised all-wheel drive BMW xDrive enhances driving stability, driving dynamics and traction. New additional DSC function with controlled brake intervention including torque compensation increases driving stability on bends. BMW xDrive now optionally available for five engine types of the BMW 3 Series Saloon and the BMW 3 Series Touring, also for the BMW 320xd �" the first ever combination of BMW xDrive with a 4-cylinder engine in the BMW 3 Series. • For the first time, 7-speed sports automatic transmission with double clutch for the models BMW 335i Coupé and BMW 335i Convertible. The world’s first 7-speed double clutch transmission designed for high performance engines, shifting without interruption of traction for unequalled dynamic acceleration, optionally automated or manual, unique combination of the comfort of an automatic transmission with maximum dynamic performance, further optimised acceleration and fuel consumption figures. • Comprehensive safety concept with extremely solid body structure, defined impact paths, selective use of high-strength steels and special deformation elements. Six airbags, 3-point automatic belts and headrests for all seats as well as crash-active headrests for the front seats so as to reduce the risk of head injury in the event of a rear-on collision as standard. • Engine types: BMW 335i: in-line 6-cylinder petrol engine with Twin Turbo and direct injection (High Precision Injection), capacity: 2,979 cc, output: 225 kW/306 bhp at 5,800 rpm, max. torque: 400 Nm at 1,300�"5,000 rpm, acceleration [0�"100 km/h]: 5.6 seconds (Touring: 5.7 seconds), maximum speed: 250 km/h, average fuel consumption according to EU: 9.1 litres/100 kilometres (9.3 litres), CO2 emissions according to EU: 218 g/km (222 g/km). BMW 330i: in-line 6-cylinder-petrol engine with direct injection, capacity: 2,996 cc, output: 200 kW/272 bhp at 6,700 rpm, max. torque: 320 Nm at 2,750�"3,000 rpm, acceleration [0�"100 km/h]: 6.1 seconds (Touring: 6.2 seconds), maximum speed: 250 km/h, average fuel consumption according to EU: 7.2 litres/100 kilometres (7.3 litres), CO2 emissions according to EU: 173 g/km (175 g/km). BMW 325i: in-line 6-cylinder-petrol engine with direct injection, capacity: 2,996 cc, output: 160 kW/218 bhp at 6,100 rpm, max. torque: 270 Nm at 2,400�"4,200 rpm, acceleration [0�"100 km/h]: 6.7 seconds (Touring: 6.9 seconds), maximum speed: 250 km/h (248 km/h), average fuel consumption according to EU: 7.1 litres/100 kilometres (7.2 litres), CO2 emissions according to EU: 170 g/km (173 g/km). BMW 320i: in-line 4-cylinder petrol engine with direct injection, capacity: 1,995 cc, output: 125 kW/170 bhp at 6,700 rpm, max. torque: 210 Nm at 4,250 rpm, acceleration [0�"100 km/h]: 8.2 seconds (Touring: 8.4 seconds), maximum speed: 228 km/h (226 km/h), average fuel consumption according to EU: 6.1 litres/100 kilometres (6,2 litres), CO2 emissions according to EU: 146 g/km (148 g/km). BMW 318i: in-line 4-cylinder-petrol engine with direct injection, Capacity: 1,995 cc, output: 105 kW/143 bhp at 6,000 rpm, max. torque: 190 Nm at 4,250 rpm, acceleration [0�"100 km/h]: 9.1 seconds (Touring: 9.5 seconds), maximum speed: 210 km/h (210 km/h), average fuel consumption according to EU: 5.9 litres/100 kilometres (6.0 litres), CO2 emissions according to EU: 142 g/km (144 g/km). BMW 335d: in-line 6-cylinder-diesel engine with all-aluminium crankcase, common rail direct injection of the third generation and Variable Twin Turbo, capacity: 2,993 cc, output: 210 kW/286 bhp at 4,400 rpm, max. torque: 580 Nm at 1,750�"2,250 rpm, acceleration [0�"100 km/h]: 6.0 seconds (Touring: 6.1 seconds), maximum speed: 250 km/h, average fuel consumption according to EU: 6.7 litres/100 kilometres (6.8 litres), CO2 emissions according to EU: 177 g/km (178 g/km). BMW 330d: in-line 6-cylinder-diesel engine with all-aluminium crankcase, common rail direct injection of the third generation and turbocharger with variable turbine geometry capacity: 2,993 cc, output: 180 kW/245 bhp at 4,000 rpm, max. torque: 520 Nm at 1,750�"3,000 rpm, acceleration [0�"100 km/h]: 6.1 seconds (Touring: 6.2 seconds), maximum speed: 250 km/h, average fuel consumption according to EU: 5.7 litres/100 kilometres (5.9 litres), CO2 emissions according to EU: 152 g/km (155 g/km). BMW 325d: in-line 6-cylinder-diesel engine with all-aluminium crankcase, common rail direct injection of the third generation and turbocharger with variable turbine geometry capacity: 2,993 cc, output: 145 kW/197 bhp at 4,000 rpm, max. torque: 400 Nm at 1,300�"3,250 rpm, acceleration [0�"100 km/h]: 7.4 seconds (Touring: 7.6 seconds), maximum speed: 235 km/h (233 km/h), average fuel consumption according to EU: 5.7 litres/100 kilometres (5.9 litres), CO2 emissions according to EU: 153 g/km (155 g/km). BMW 320d: 4-cylinder diesel engine with all-aluminium crankcase, common rail direct injection of the third generation and turbocharger with variable turbine geometry capacity: 1,995 cc, output: 130 kW/177 bhp at 4,000 rpm, max. torque: 350 Nm at 1,750�"3,000 rpm, acceleration [0�"100 km/h]: 7.9 seconds (Touring: 8.1 seconds), maximum speed: 230 km/h (228 km/h), average fuel consumption according to EU: 4.8 litres/100 kilometres (4.9 litres), CO2 emissions according to EU: 128 g/km (130 g/km). BMW 318d: 4-cylinder diesel engine with all-aluminium crankcase, common rail direct injection of the third generation and turbocharger with variable turbine geometry capacity: 1,995 cc, output: 105 kW/143 bhp at 4,000 rpm, max. torque: 300 Nm at 1,750�"2,500 rpm, acceleration [0�"100 km/h]: 9.3 seconds (Touring: 9.6 seconds), maximum speed: 210 km/h (210 km/h), average fuel consumption according to EU: 4.7 litres/100 kilometres (4.8 litres), CO2 emissions according to EU: 123 g/km (125 g/km). The new BMW 3 Series. It is the epitome of sporty flair in its segment and for years it has maintained the leading position as the mostly widely sold premium vehicle in the world. Now the BMW 3 Series sets out to extend its lead even further. Specific design modifications, a further refined interior design, the new generation of the optional operating concept BMW iDrive, new services provided by BMW ConnectedDrive, a revised range of engines and innovations in the areas of drive technology, safety and comfort make both the new BMW 3 Series Saloon and the new BMW 3 Series Touring more attractive than ever before. With rear-wheel drive, harmonious axle load distribution, outstanding steering precision and highly sophisticated chassis technology, the BMW 3 Series sets unsurpassed standards for driving dynamics in its segment. More than ever before, this unique driving pleasure can now be combined with an awareness of economy and minimised pollutant emissions. Thanks to BMW EfficientDynamics the new BMW 3 Series achieves significantly lower fuel consumption and exhaust emission levels with each of the ten engine variations available than those of the relevant competitors in the premium segment. The new features in the powertrain field include the further optimised electronically controlled all-wheel drive system BMW xDrive. This intelligent all-wheel drive system which variably distributes the drive force between front and rear wheels to enhance driving dynamics as well as ride stability and traction can now be combined with five engine types. The new BMW 320d xDrive is available as a Saloon and Touring model. Another new feature for both body versions: the BMW 318d �" by far the most efficient vehicle of its category with an average fuel consumption of just 4.7 litres per 100 kilometres �" is now also available with a 6-speed automatic transmission. Parallel to the market launch of the new BMW 3 Series Saloon and the new BMW 3 Series Touring, a new 7-speed sports automatic transmission with double clutch will be presented for the Coupé and the Convertible of the series. This allows further improved acceleration figures in the models BMW 335i Coupé and BMW 335i Convertible, and combines this added dynamic performance �" as compared to the standard 6-speed manual transmission �" with the comfort features of an automatic transmission. The 7-speed sports automatic transmission with double clutch shifts without interrupting traction. New design accentuations for a sporty, elegant appearance. With striking design accentuations to the front section, the side perspective and the rear, the dynamic character of the new BMW 3 Series Saloon has been given additional emphasis, while the new BMW 3 Series Touring enhances its sporty, elegant profile with new visual features which are recognisable from all perspectives. Front section with bold shapes and an emphasis of width. The front view of the Saloon and Touring models of the new BMW 3 Series is characterised by a clear emphasis of vehicle width. The characteristic brand look of the double circular headlights is underscored by means of chrome tubes, and their corona rings can now also be used in the BMW 3 Series Saloon and the Touring model with optional bi-xenon headlamps as daytime running lights. The light sources of the direction indicators have a ribbed structure and LED direction indicator lights are installed in conjunction with the optional bi-xenon headlamps. Side view with elegantly elongated lines. Powerfully taut surfaces and striking character lines dominate the side view of the new BMW 3 Series. The contour edges of the side skirts have been set higher and modelled in a more distinctive fashion. Another new feature is the exterior mirrors with two distinctive character lines, echoing the interplay between the convex and concave shaping of the surfaces. The mirrors also offer an enlarged field of vision. The rear: sporty and tight with a new lighting design. Greater emphasis of the vehicle’s power and sporty character likewise characterises the rear view of the new BMW 3 Series. To achieve this effect, the rear bumpers, rear lights and luggage compartment handle have been completely redesigned. The dual section rear lights are now structured according to the characteristic BMW L shape. The two LED rear light clusters and the direction indicators in LED technology are designed to create a striking, high-quality appearance. The widened track of the new BMW 3 Series especially contributes to its powerful appearance. Depending on the model, the track of the rear axle has been widened by up to 24 millimetres by means of a new wheel carrier and other modified details. High-quality materials and optimised ergonomics in the interior. The modern, high-quality interior of the BMW 3 Series has been further enhanced by means of specific modifications in the selection of materials and surface design. Here the modern design concept is also applied, with its convex-concave surfaces, sporty elegance and technology-oriented aesthetic style. Premiere for the new generation of the operating concept BMW iDrive. The operating system BMW iDrive is optionally available in the new BMW 3 Series for the activation and control of entertainment, information, navigation and telecommunications functions, whether standard or optional. The new generation of iDrive is available in conjunction with the optional navigation system Professional. What is more, the new iDrive supports multi-mode operation by voice entry. With the new iDrive generation, BMW extends its lead over comparable systems made by other manufacturers in terms of display quality and intuitive operation. Using the four direct selection buttons grouped around the Controller, it is especially easy to switch spontaneously between CD, radio, telephone and navigation functions. The functional bookmarks are supplemented with three control buttons. Control Display with high-resolution graphics and variable layout. The new iDrive in the BMW 3 Series is presented with a 8.8 inch Control Display whose dimensions surpass all graphic displays available to date in the automobile field. With its high image resolution it offers significant improvement in the display of detailed graphics. The structure of the user menu also makes it easier to locate desired functions. All functions controllable by iDrive are listed in the starter menu. Hard drive for audio files and navigation system. The features of the navigation system Professional include a hard drive integrated in the vehicle. The storage medium with a capacity of 80 GB provides outstandingly fast access to digital maps for navigation purposes and can also be used for an extensive collection of music files. The system enables music files to be transferred to the hard drive from a CD, MP3 player or USB stick. World premiere for unlimited internet use inside the vehicle. BMW ConnectedDrive makes BMW the first automobile manufacturer in the world to enable unlimited use of the internet inside the vehicle when stationary. Internet access is available for the new BMW 3 Series as a special equipment option at attractive flat-rate conditions. The transfer of data is based on EDGE technology (Enhanced Data Rates for GSM Evolution), which unlike UMTS offers full geographical coverage and is three to four times faster than the mobile phone standard GPRS. The basis for internet use in the vehicle is provided by the further developed functions of iDrive. By pushing the Controller in different directions, the mouse can be moved across the web page shown in the Control Display. BMW ConnectedDrive with extended range. As a dynamic concept, BMW ConnectedDrive offers the products BMW Assist, BMW Online, BMW TeleServices and BMW Tracking, depending on the country in question. At the same time BMW ConnectedDrive is designed for the ongoing further development of services to increase mobility and information convenience. The Enhanced Emergency Call with automatic positioning and remote control functions are examples of safety-related options which are already available, extending the lead of BMW ConnectedDrive over the competition.

Following AC Schnitzer’s updated 2008 BMW 6-Series tuning package, HAMANN has just released their upgraded packages for the new facelifted 6-Series. Design wise the basic package for the HAMANN BMW 6-Series offers a new front and rear spoiler, and additional pair of side skirts and a rear-roof spoiler. HAMANN designers also created a new package called EDITION RACE that gives the 6-series a new front wing, 4-part wing broadening in the back and huge side skirts that give the 6-series a German Touring Car Masters look. When it came to power, HAMANN said that its engineers focused on ‘evolution instead of revolution.’ Through some engine management HAMANN increased horsepower by 21-hp for the 6-Series lineup including the 630i, 650i and the diesel 635d. The extra bump gives the 650i a top speed of 167mph. 270 km/h. HAMANN also added a new sports exhaust system, stainless steel mufflers with four round tail-pipes and wheels measuring 21-inches. Click through for more images and the press release. HAMANN BMW 6-Series: Press Release: The HAMANN tuning programme for the new BMW 6-series When it comes to exclusively refining BMWs, HAMANN-Motorsport is one of the first addresses. Again, the Laupheim-based company gives proof to this by introducing its latest refinements for the new BMW 6-series. By developing an entire tuning programme not only for the coupé, but also the convertible, HAMANN-Motorsport renders an additional sportive and individual touch to the facelift already applied by BMW. Already the design elements create this impression and increase the aerodynamics as well. The front- and rear spoiler reduce the buoyant forces of the HAMANN 6-series which has a significant effect on the car´s handling and agility. This is also achieved with an additional pair of side skirts which significantly calms the air flow between both axles. The roof- and rear spoiler also ensure the necessary surface pressure on the asphalt. Mainly on country roads with winding sections, the HAMANN-aerodynamic package unfolds its strengths and generates pure enjoyment of driving. At HAMANN-Motorsport, the individual wishes of our customers are also top of the list. This has been taken into account when designing the tuning package for the BMW 6-series. Due to the large interest in different optical programmes, our designers developed another aerodynamics package called EDITION RACE. This turns the BMW in an impressive sports car, as it consequently emphasizes the broadening components. New front wings, 4-part wing broadenings in the back and enormous side skirts transform the BMW 6-series into an automobile which looks like a race car from the German Touring Car Masters or other touring car championships. But there is even more to the HAMANN sport tuning elements under the bonnet. When developing the 6-series programme, our technicians rather concentrated on evolution instead of revolution. Basically, the sport limousine has a good motorisation, therefore we put a special focus on the performance enhancement for the 630i, 650i and the diesel 635d. Adapting the motor management with up to 21 hp more and the powerful torque increase can be felt immediately when accelerating. Moreover, HAMANN customers can look forward to the Vmax abolition. This enables the 650i to boost the maximum speed from 250 to 270 km/h. The HAMANN sport exhaust system renders an earthy and impressive sound. The stainless steel muffler with its four round tail pipes can be optically perked up with metal catalysts, sport fan manifolds and a middle pipe set. The rim programme is also impressive in terms of dimension and diversity. No matter if you are looking for something sporty, elegant or noble – HAMANN offers varying wheel-designs and sizes. The designation HM EVO reveals a one-piece wheel with 20 inches. Its modern style is underlined with its black-lacquered varnish, diamond-grinded hub star and a discreet recess. Five extended and vaulted triple spokes display the optical and technical finesse. The recommended front wheel-tyre combination is 8,5Jx20 inches with tyres measuring 245/35ZR20 and 10,5Jx20 inches with 285/30ZR20 tyres in the back. One of the technical highlights of the offered tuning programme is the 21-inch model called HM EVO “FORGED“. Manufactured in forge technology, it is extremely light and improves the handling, acceleration and braking characteristics by its reduced unsuspended masses. The front wheel-tyre combination is offered in 9,0Jx21 inches with tyres measuring 255/30ZR21 and 10,5Jx21 inches with tyres measuring 295/25ZR21 in the back. Prices starting at 7,620 euros. HAMANN recommends high performance tyres type S1 EVO from its technology partner HANKOOK. The extended product programme of HAMMAN´s sport accessories includes progressively coiled chassis springs for lowering the chassis, a height adjustable coil-overs and a sport braking system. HAMANN tunes the interior with a 3-spoke sport steering wheel with an air-bag, a black instrumental dial with a scale up to 300 km/h as well as matching pedals, leg rests and hand brake handles made of aluminium.

BMW’s new museum just opened for business last month. Covering over 5,000 square meters, visitors can enjoy over 120 exhibits and one of those 120 exhibits is the BMW Kinetic Sculpture display. The display includes 714 steel balls that are suspended on thin wires and moved by programmed motors in the ceiling. We have to make a trip out Munich just to see this. It’s brilliant. Check out this amazing video of display after the jump. Note: Be patient with the 6 minute video, it starts getting exciting after the first minute.

According to Tom Kowaleski, BMW’s North American vice president of corporate communications, BMW is not planning on increasing the production for MINI any time soon despite high demand and record sales. With gas-prices on the rise, MINI dealers in the U.S. have just 1,051 cars in their inventory as of July 1st. During the first half of 2008, MINI sales were up a record 33.6 percent with a total 26,400 units sold. That’s a substantial increase compared to the 19,759 units sold during the same period in 2007. Kowaleski says that MINI marketing execs are working on a new forecast for the demand of the cars in the U.S. before they head over to BMW to increase production. Since MINI plants are pumping out Coopers at full capacity, a production increase would force BMW to spend more to expand the plant. According to Kowaleski 2009 model prices are under review due to the higher cost of commodities and the weak dollar.

My 2c. Electric cars are the only viable green future. Why can't somebody build a sub $30000 electric car that does 500kms per charge. Then we get nuclear or some other green power and the stupid fuel/carbon emission BS problem is solved. Sounds simple to me - why f**k around with hydrogen and hybrids. GM were right with the EV-1 in the early 90s and only now they are back to market in 2010 with the Volt. Meh - ELECTRIC CARS FTW.

BMW is planning on building about 500 electric versions of its MINI Cooper for California. The electric Coopers are built at MINI’s Oxford, England plant without engines, gearboxes or fuel tanks. They are then shipped to Munich, Germany to be fitted with electric powertrains. According to a BMW source, 490 of the electric MINIs making their way to California will be leased to selected customers while the other 10 will be used as show cars for advertising. The source also said the electric MINIs are painted silver with a yellow roof. The program is a part of a new division called Project i established by BMW to test and develop low-emission cit cars. The new electric MINIs will help BMW meet new California rules that will require automakers to sell cars with zero emissions. A spokesman for BMW told Automotive News Europe: “BMW will announce whether it will build electric vehicles or not later this year.”

Who knows what the BT stack is capable of now. Some things in the SDK beg to differ. As Martyn said - there is full third party possibilities with a killer SDK and a killer device. It's dirt cheap and the touchscreen is easy to use - i can still rock 60wpm on it.

http://www.turnermotorsport.com/html/detai...ID=E30TMSJSTOCK $2100 USD gets you the BEST suspension hands down and has matched shocks/springs/sways set up by people that know what they are doing. It is by far the easiest bolt in package and I personally vouch for it. You can buy parts of that kit (it comes with all reinforment bits etc) Get the shocks/springs then do the sways and bushes and reinforcement bits as you get the cash.

A full satnav device with unlimited third party options as well as a 3g modem, tv remote control, full wireless stereo and so on..

Veritas has a very special and significant place in the automotive history. The company, founded by Ernst Lo of, Schorsch Meyer and Lorenz Dietrich, was a famous West German race car company that used the BMW 328 as the basis to build the first ever BMW Veritas. The car won a series of racetrack victories post World War II including 13 German Championships and 20 first place victories. Being absent from the motor racing and automotive engineering scene for nearly 50 years, Vermont AG has now resurrected the Veritas name for its new RS III - continuing the the success story of the original BMW Veritas. The Veritas RS III weight only 2,380 pounds and comes in two different variants. First is a 5.0L V8 engine producing 480-hp mated to a manual transmission. 0-62mph comes in 3.6 seconds with a top speed of 204mph. The second is a 5.0L V10 from the M5 which has been modified to produce 600-hp. 0-60mph comes in 3.2 seconds with a top speed of 215mph. Click through for a video of the Veritas RS III. Vermont Veritas RS III:

Update: “Mini U.S. dealers would have the possibility to also sell Alfa Romeo cars,” a Fiat spokesman told Automotive News Europe today. Fiat and BMW said today that they are exploring the possibilities of cooperating on platforms and components on future small-car models. Both automakers have agreed not to give out more information on the possible collaboration, BMW said. “We are currently examining with Fiat group possibilities for the joint use of components and systems in Mini and Alfa Romeo vehicles in order to achieve economies of scale and thus cost reductions ,” said BMW brand development head Friedrich Eichiner. Sources told Automotive News Europe that the companies will collaborate on a joint platform that will be the basis for the next Fiat Grand Punto, BMW’s 3rd-generation MINI and Alfa Romeo’s next-generation Mi.To. Another industry source said that the two companies are also considering teaming up on a family of gasoline and diesel engines. Funny - since we thought MINI would go head-to-head with Alfa Romeo’s Mi.To. “The proposed co-operation with BMW is a significant cornerstone of our strategy of alliances. We are delighted to work with such an esteemed and respected partner in the automotive industry with the clear objective of improving the competitive position of both parties,” Sergio Marchionne, CEO of Fiat Group and FGA, said in Turin. Read the press release below for more info. —— BMW Group and Fiat Group Automobiles sign Memorandum of Understanding Munich/Turin. The BMW Group and Fiat Group Automobiles (FGA) are considering the possibility of co-operation in the areas of architectures and components for their MINI and Alfa Romeo vehicles. A Memorandum of Understanding to this effect was signed by Friedrich Eichiner, member of the Board of Management of BMW AG responsible for Corporate and Brand Development, and Alfredo Altavilla, Senior Vice President, Business Development, Fiat Group Automobiles and CEO of Fiat Powertrain Technologies. “We are currently examining with the Fiat Group possibilities for the joint use of components and systems in MINI and Alfa Romeo vehicles in order to achieve economies of scale and thus cost reductions within the framework of our Strategy Number ONE”, Eichiner said in Munich. “The proposed co-operation with BMW is a significant cornerstone of our strategy of alliances. We are delighted to work with such an esteemed and respected partner in the automotive industry with the clear objective of improving the competitive position of both parties,” Sergio Marchionne, CEO of Fiat Group and FGA, said in Turin. The two partners have agreed not to divulge details of the possible collaboration. The results of the cooperation discussions will probably be achieved by the end of the year.