Author: Amy Lancaster
Unfortunately, our annual MINI Halloween Drive Out has been postponed this year, but that doesn’t mean to say, you can’t recreate the fun at home yourselves!
If you’re looking for something spooktacular to do during half term, at Bowker MINI, we’ve got the perfect plan for you!
Download our driving route and create your very own Bowker MINI Halloween Drive Out!
Our ghostly route will take you on a tour of some of Lancashire’s scariest spots. Starting and ending at Bowker Ribble Valley experience Halloween in Pendle, home of the famous Pendle Witches.
To download our MINI Drive Out click here. Don’t forget to share your spooky pictures with us using the #HalloweenatBowker!
An Accrington woman has won a new mobility scooter in a prize draw.
More than 400 Motability customers entered a prize draw organised by Bowker BMW in Blackburn. The first prize was a scooter donated by Blackburn Scootamart.
The winner, 66 year-old Carol Whalley, suffers from a variety of conditions that make breathing difficult.
Her daughter, paramedic practitioner Zoe Whalley, claimed the prize on her Mum’s behalf and explained: ”My Mum finds it hard to breathe comfortably. And that makes walking difficult too. She’s effectively a prisoner in her own home. Her carers and I take her out when we can. But it can be hard work.
“We are so excited to win a mobility scooter. It’s going to make a massive difference. My Mum will be able to visit the charity shops in Clitheroe and go down by the river at Edisford bridge. She loves it there.”
Andrew Holden from Bowker BMW and Russel Curry from Blackburn Scootamart were on hand to present Zoe with her Mum’s new scooter at the Bowker BMW centre on Trident Way in Blackburn.
For Bowker BMW, motability specialist, Andrew Holden said: “Congratulations to Carol and Zoe on winning the first prize. And thank you to Scootamart for generously donating the mobility scooter. We work together whenever we can to help people with disabilities to keep moving. This fun competition was a great example.”
For Blackburn Scootamart, Russel Curry, said: ”We were happy to link up with Bowker BMW to support this prize draw. It was lovely to meet Zoe and hear about the impact this scooter will have on her Mum’s life. Hopefully, we can continue to work together with Andrew to help more people who find it hard to get around.”
Last year, Andrew was crowned best Motability specialist in the country. The award recognised Andrew as the best from over 18,000 motability specialists in the country and acknowledges consistently high standards of service and support to customers of the Motability Car Scheme throughout 2018.
After an absence of more than 20 years, BMW’s legendary ‘ti’ model designation returns with the BMW 128ti. Designed to deliver exceptional driving enjoyment, with M Sport specification as standard, the new BMW 128ti is an authentic ‘Turismo Internazionale’.
The exclusively front-wheel-drive BMW 128ti fulfils its sporting promise with such features as the Torsen limited-slip differential, specially tuned M Sport suspension, optimised eight-speed Steptronic Sport automatic transmission and a 2.0-litre, 265hp engine with BMW TwinPower Turbo technology.
With an advanced drivetrain that includes the anti-roll bars and brakes of the flagship BMW M135i xDrive, it also features a sporty exterior and driver-focused interior that boasts exclusive details to distinguish it from other BMW 1 Series variants. It is also circa 80kg lighter than the BMW M135i xDrive.
The new BMW 128ti is due for launch in November 2020 and will be priced from £32,995 OTR.
M Sport specification as standard
The new BMW 128ti is based on the M Sport model specification available for the BMW 1 Series, which includes distinctive front and rear aprons.
The BMW 128ti adds specific additional trim, such as the outer air intakes carried over from the front apron of the flagship BMW M135i xDrive and the trim for the Air Curtains, in red. The side sills containing the ‘ti’ badge are also red on cars finished in Storm Bay metallic, Mineral Grey metallic, Sapphire Black metallic or Alpine White paintwork. If the BMW 128ti is ordered in Melbourne Red metallic or Misano Blue metallic, the accents and “ti” badge on the sill (which can all be deleted, if desired) come in black and the sill reverts to body colour.
Exclusive exterior features
The BMW 128ti has extended Shadowline trim with a black BMW kidney grille and dual 90mm diameter black chrome tailpipe finishers as standard. An even darker front-end appearance can be achieved with the optional BMW Individual lights Shadowline, which are largely devoid of chrome. The window surrounds feature BMW Individual High-gloss Black Shadowline trim and the ‘128ti’ badge on the tailgate is in chrome. The 18-inch Y‑spoke 553 M bi-colour light-alloy wheels are exclusive to the BMW 128ti.
The interior of the BMW 128ti features high-class materials, with red accents throughout creating a bold contrast to the black headlining. A large ‘Race Red’ surface adorns the front centre sections of the standard Sensatec/cloth sport seats. A red ‘ti’ is stitched into the centre armrest which – like the door armrests, the door panels, the instrument panel and floor mat edging – also features red contrast stitching. The steering wheel rim and airbag cover of the standard M Sport steering wheel also feature red stitching. Standard equipment also includes the M door sill strips on the front door openings, and M seat belts. Boston backlit trim strips are standard whilst the Berlin trim is available as an alternative.
Perforated Dakota leather and M Sport seats available as options
The M Sport seats are optionally available in perforated Dakota leather – in Black or in Magma Red with grey accents. If the latter is chosen, the contrast stitching and ‘ti’ badge are in grey and the floor mats have stitching in the BMW M colours.
The infotainment features of BMW Operating System 7.0 are accessed via a display screen of up to 10.25 inches with the optional BMW Live Cockpit Professional. Gesture control is also available and a 9.2‑inch BMW Head-Up Display can be specified as options. The load compartment has a capacity of 380 litres, rising to 1,200 litres with the rear seat folded. Electric tailgate operation is also optionally available. Folding Mirrors, Heated Seats and cabin Ambient Lighting are also included as standard.
Bespoke, lowered M Sport suspension
The new BMW 128ti is available exclusively with specially tuned, bespoke M Sport suspension. It has the firmer anti-roll bars and anti-roll bar mounts from the range‑topping BMW M135i xDrive, plus stiffer modified springs and shock absorbers – it’s also10mm lower. This, combined with a model-specific steering setup that has been designed to further minimise torque steer, results is even sharper driving dynamics. A weight saving of around 80kg over the all-wheel-drive BMW M135i xDrive contributes to the sporting performance of the BMW 128ti.
Torsen limited-slip differential for improved traction
The BMW 128ti is equipped with the same Torsen limited-slip differential as the BMW M135i xDrive. As well as increasing traction, agility and stability, the limited-slip differential also gives the car excellent cornering ability.
If the inside wheel loses grip while powering through a bend and the driver accelerates at the same time, the limited-slip differential directs more torque to the wheel with greater grip, thereby preventing wheel slip and enhancing traction and agility.
BMW Performance Control and ARB technology
The mechanical limited-slip differential is assisted by several electronic control systems. One system that has been specially modified for the BMW 128ti is BMW Performance Control, whose ‘sharper’ yaw moment distribution boosts rear axle agility. ARB (near-actuator wheel slip limitation) technology is also utilised, as it is on all models in the BMW 1 Series range. This newly developed traction control system, that made its combustion-engine debut on the 1 Series, features a slip controller positioned directly in the engine control unit rather than in the control unit for the DSC (Dynamic Stability Control) system, enabling ARB to work ten times faster. As a result, not only is operation smoother and more sensitive, the system can also make maximum use of the potential traction offered by different road surfaces. The ARB technology works with DSC to significantly reduce the power understeer that can affect front-wheel-drive cars.
Standard M Sport brakes and sport tyres
As in the BMW M135i xDrive, the BMW 128ti is fitted with M Sport brakes, which provide increased fade resistance and exceptional feel. The front callipers bear the M logo and are painted red (a first for a BMW 1 Series model). The front brakes consist of aluminium four‑piston monoblock fixed callipers and 360mm x 30mm inner-vented discs, while floating callipers with inner-vented brake discs measuring 300mm x 20mm are at the rear.
The 18-inch Y-spoke 553 M bi-colour light-alloy wheels exclusively fitted on the BMW 128ti can be specified with sport tyres (Michelin Pilot Sport 4) in 225/40 R18 format as a no-cost option.
The 19-inch double-spoke 552 M light-alloy wheel with 235/35 R19 tyres is also optionally available.
265hp, 2.0-litre engine with BMW TwinPower Turbo technology
The engine in the BMW 128ti is a direct offshoot of the BMW Group’s most powerful four-cylinder unit. The 2.0-litre engine was modified with BMW TwinPower Turbo technology and produces 265hp from 4,750-6,500rpm. Peak torque of 400Nm is available from 1,750-4,500rpm. The BMW 128ti can sprint from 0-62mph in 6.1 seconds and reach a limited top speed of 155mph. Despite this strong performance, the 128ti returns combined fuel consumption of 44.1 – 46.3mpg* and emits only 148-139g/km of CO2*. This enables it to meet the Euro 6d exhaust standard. The standard Active Sound Design (ASD) ensures the driver can enjoy a distinctive engine sound in the cabin without any increase in external noise.
Rapid gear changes with the eight-speed Steptronic Sport transmission
Like the range-topping BMW M135i xDrive, the BMW 128ti is fitted as standard with the eight-speed Steptronic Sport transmission. Fast automatic gear changes ensure the highest possible gear is always engaged. Shift paddles on the steering wheel also allow the driver to change gear manually at any point.
Lightweight M Performance Parts enhance aerodynamics and exterior styling
Customers can personalise the new BMW 128ti with accessories from the exclusive M Performance Parts range, which has been developed with the expertise of BMW M GmbH .
Various lightweight parts in new carbon-fibre look and High-gloss Black components further enhance the sporting appearance of the BMW 128ti. The M Performance front splitter, the rear diffuser and the roof-edge spoiler with air through-flow and the aero flics in High-gloss Black optimise aerodynamics. These M Performance Parts have been developed specifically for the BMW 1 Series and adapted in the wind tunnel to work together perfectly. The hand-made, high-quality carbon-fibre components that also include M Performance exterior mirror caps are sealed with clear coat and given a high-gloss polished finish. 18-inch forged wheel Y-Spoke 711 M in Ferric Grey and the 19-inch M Performance bi‑colour light-alloy wheel Double-spoke 555 M with polished finish are optionally available.
The M Performance steering wheel, complete with Alcantara covering, large thumb rests, red marking in the 12 o’clock position and silver-grey hand cross-stitching adds to the race car feel of the BMW 128ti interior. For even more sportiness, there is the M Performance Steering wheel cover in carbon fibre/Alcantara or carbon fibre/leather with M Performance lettering, plus M Performance Shift paddles in carbon fibre to operate the eight-speed Steptronic Sport transmission.
FROM SPEED BUMPS TO MOUNTAIN PEAKS.
Higher, longer, MINI – with an additional six centimetres in height and thirteen centimetres in length, the new MINI Countryman has grown noticeably compared to its predecessor, offering even more space and comfort. Wider wheel arches and a clear, modern design enhance the crossover aesthetic appeal of the rugged MINI adventurer.
Below are our Personal Contract Purchase Finance Examples. All quotes can be tailored to your required model, deposit and annual mileage so please contact us for a personalised quotation.
For more information or to arrange a test drive†, please complete the enquiry form on this page and we’ll be in touch.
Personal Contract Hire Finance Example.**
| Model | MINI Countryman C Classic |
|---|---|
| Term of Agreement | 36 Months |
| Initial Rental | £3,000.00 |
| Monthly Rental | 35 x £328.80 |
| Annual Mileage | 8,000 |
| Excess Mileage Charge | 10.5p |
BMW Select (Personal Contract Purchase) Representative Finance Examples.
| Model | MINI Countryman C Classic |
|---|---|
| Monthly Payments | £337.62 |
| Customer deposit | £3,000.00 |
| Cash price | £29,100.00 |
| Total Amount of Credit | £26,100.00 |
| Optional Final Payment | £14,993.33 |
| Total Amount Payable | £33,861.47 |
| Duration of the Agreement | 48 Months |
| Annual Mileage | 8,000 |
| Excess Mileage (pence per mile) | 10.5p |
| Representative APR | 5.9% |
**Bowker Preston Limited and Bowker Blackburn Limited are a credit broker.
Initial rental £3,000.00. Rentals shown is a 36-month Personal Contract Hire agreement for the MINI Countryman C Classic shown, with a contract mileage of 24,000 miles and excess mileage charge of 10.5p per mile. Applies for new vehicles ordered between 01/07/2025 and 30/09/2025 and registered by 31/12/2025 (subject to availability). Retail customers only. At the end of your agreement you must return the vehicle. Excess mileage, vehicle condition and other charges may be payable. Hire available subject to status to UK residents aged 18 or over. Guarantees and indemnities may be required. Terms and conditions apply. Hire provided by MINI Financial Services, a trading name of BMW Financial Services (GB) Ltd, Summit ONE, Summit Avenue, Farnborough, Hampshire GU14 0FB. Bowker Preston Limited and Bowker Blackburn Limited introduces customers to a selected panel of lenders, which includes MINI Financial Services. We will receive a fixed commission for introducing you to MINI Financial Services. We do not have any discretion to vary the amount you pay under your finance agreement. An introduction from us does not amount to independent financial advice.
Bowker Preston Limited and Bowker Blackburn Limited are credit brokers not lenders.
Finance example is for a MINI Select agreements for a new MINI Countryman C Classic, with a contract mileage of 32,000 miles and excess mileage charge of 10.5p per mile. Applies for new vehicles ordered between 01/07/2025 and 30/09/2025 and registered by 31/12/2025, (subject to availability). Retail customers only. *On the road cash price is based on manufacturer’s recommended retail price and includes 3 year MINI Retailer Warranty, MINI Emergency Service, 12 months’ road fund license, vehicle first registration fee, delivery, number plates and VAT. ^Optional final payment and option to purchase fee not payable if you opt to return the vehicle at the end of the agreement (vehicle condition, excess mileage and other charges may be payable). Finance available subject to credit acceptance to UK residents aged 18 or over. Guarantees and indemnities may be required. Terms and conditions apply. ’MINI Select’ is a form of hirepurchase agreement provided by MINI Financial Services, a trading name of BMW Financial Services (GB) Ltd, Summit ONE, Summit Avenue, Farnborough, Hampshire GU14 0FB. You will have a 14 day statutory right to withdraw from the agreement. Bowker Preston Limited and Bowker Blackburn Limited introduces customers to a selected panel of lenders, which includes MINI Financial Services. We will receive a fixed commission for introducing you to MINI Financial Services. We do not have any discretion to vary the interest rate or APR you pay under your finance agreement. An introduction from us does not amount to independent financial advice.
†Test drive subject to applicant status and availability.
We're launching a competition looking for true creatives to help us launch the all-new BMW 4 SERIES. COULD IT BE YOU?
On Saturday 24th October, we’re holding our first-ever live online car launch, to celebrate the arrival of the all-new BMW 4 Series. The online event will be live streamed across our social media channels to over 11,000 followers, and we need your help!
We’re searching for the best presenter to reveal the brand-new BMW 4 Series and are challenging the county’s acting talent to star in our live premiere and become Bowker BMW’s Official Launch Partner.
To enter, all you need to do is tell us why you feel your creativity will help us with the launch, plus send us a clip, no longer than 2 minutes long, showcasing your presenting skills. Videos should be uploaded using the form below.
Marketing Manager, Amy Lancaster-Hall said: ”New car launches are always the highlight of any year in prestige car retail. But the amount of interest in the new BMW 4 Series has surpassed all expectations. That’s why this competition is such an exciting opportunity for an untried Lancashire talent to work with a global brand like BMW.”
We must receive your entry to the Competition by 11:59 pm on 9th October 2020. Please We Transfer your entry to marketing@bowkermotorgroup.com
T&Cs apply – click here to view.
Thirty five years after the debut of the first BMW M3, BMW is presenting the latest generation of its high-performance models that fuse track-focused performance with everyday usability.
The new BMW M3 Competition Saloon and new BMW M4 Competition Coupé occupy very different territory – one a saloon with space for five occupants, the other a four-seater coupé – but they both achieve their common goal of delivering pure driving pleasure.
Class-leading levels of standard equipment plus options that take individualisation to new heights, especially for racetrack outings, ensure both models will continue the success of their formidable predecessors.
Optional equipment is offered in six main packages – Comfort, Technology Plus, Visibility, M Carbon, M Pro and Ultimate. Beyond these packages, there will be a select number of optional items including M Brakes in red, blue or black, M Carbon exterior, M Carbon seats and Park Assistant Plus with Drive Recorder.
Under the bonnet of the new BMW M3 Competition Saloon and new BMW M4 Competition Coupé lies a 510hp high-revving straight-six engine with M TwinPower Turbo technology, which teams up with an eight-speed M Steptronic transmission as it sends its power to the rear wheels.
Both models will also be available (expected from summer 2021) with M xDrive, which offers even greater directional stability and supreme traction without compromising on agility.
The new BMW M3 Competition Saloon will be built at BMW Plant Munich, while the new BMW M4 Competition Coupé will be produced at BMW Plant Dingolfing with the market launch for both models in March 2021.
For more information on the new BMW M3 Competition Saloon and M4 Competition Coupé, or to be updated on the official launch date of these two new models, please complete the enquiry form on this page.
RACING LIKE NO OTHER. INTRODUCING BMW’S NEWEST MODEL.
Your competitive spirit drives you. Your passion dominates and challenges you. The search for more defines every millisecond: pure motorsport. High performance, high-tech materials, the highest-quality workmanship and exclusivity down to the last detail: The BMW M 1000 RR is the first of its kind from BMW Motorrad.
Its genes come directly from professional racing. The M RR and M RR with M Competition package offers pure racing technology for the highest performance demands in motorsport and for adrenalin-driven perfectionists on the road. Because #NeverStopChallenging is more than a promise. It’s a commitment.
The assembly of the BMW M 1000 RR has been developed in sports racing and perfected for the road. For this purpose, we have increased the power of the four-cylinder in-line engine from the RR: For a higher torque in the mid-range. And we have increased the maximum speed by 500 rpm to 15,100 rpm. The titanium connecting rods are lighter, the rocker arms are 1.5 mm narrower, the airbox funnel has been shortened for better load changes: Millimetre work for milliseconds.
In addition, there are 2-ring forged pistons with cross-ribbing and cylinder heads with new channel geometry and reinforced bearing brackets. Overall result: More dynamics and reduced mass inertia.
For a shorter ratio, even the sprocket has been given a tooth and the chain itself and the wheelbase have also been lengthened. The anti-hopping clutch works without self-reinforcement – for the perfect launch control.
The contact pressure also determines victory or defeat. The M winglets made of carbon generate a downforce of 16.3 kg. In combination with the high windscreen, you can convert more power into pure propulsion. Before the curve, in the curve, and when accelerating out of the curve. The front wheel pulls straight into the apex and the fork keeps contact with the ground; the DTC has to intervene less. And you save the wheelie for the finish line.
Only what you feel will drive you forward. The chassis and geometry of the BMW M 1000 RR are trimmed for the racetrack. For more performance on the track and in the pits. The drivability, braking and starting pitch compensation provide more feeling for the front and rear wheel. Even on country roads. The longer wheelbase makes the M RR much more comfortable. The easily adjustable pivot point has been rescaled and enlarged. And the new rear axle – also thanks to the adapted brake piston – allows quick rear-wheel changes. This is where the pit lane meets your will to perfection.
We have developed the best brake piston on the market for us. One result, three words: Best in class. We have optimised the fluid balance for greater pressure point stability. In addition to the standard brake pad, you can also choose a different one. This comes from the Endurance World Championship and is intended exclusively for the racetrack. Together with the ideally combined operating element and saddle, this results in maximum brake stability and feedback, as well as superb coordination with the RACE ABS. The M brake is therefore an ideal reference.
For more information on the new BMW M 1000 RR, or to be updated on the official launch date, please complete the enquiry form on this page or call our sales team on 01772 767300.
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Blackburn Rugby Club has thanked parents and children who supported this year’s Summer Rugby camp.
It was the first rugby training camp to be hosted at the club since the Coronavirus lockdown.
More than 65 young rugby players attended the two-week camp on Ramsgreave Drive in Blackburn to learn new skills from RFU qualified coaches and guest professional players. The clamp covered vital core skills, fitness, game understanding and winning strategies.
Dino Radice, director of Blackburn Rugby Club and head coach, said: “We were determined not to let the Summer pass without giving our community of young players a training camp to remember. It meant a lot of extra work to ensure all the RFU guidelines were followed. But the safety and wellbeing of the children and their families were always foremost in our minds.
“After everything that’s gone on this year, I’m proud we decided to organise the coaching. I’m grateful to the families and players who supported us and the coaches who went above and beyond to deliver such high-quality training. The children loved it.
“We are also grateful to our sponsor Bowker Motor Group. Support from local businesses who care so much about grassroots sport really does make all the difference.”
Bowker Motor Group has been a long-time supporter of the club. Two years ago Blackburn Rugby Club volunteer coaches officially reopened the new £1 million-refurbished Bowker BMW centre on Whitebirk Industrial Estate in Blackburn.
For Bowker Motor Group, Chris Eccles said: “Hats off to Dino and the coaches for their efforts in putting on this great training fortnight. When we visited, the children were having a great time. The work the coaches do to inspire young players is so important. That’s why we are so happy to help out.”
talk business at bowker. Friday 4th September.
At Bowker MINI, we’re committed to providing outstanding service to our customers, which is why we’re ready to talk business. Whether you’re a sole trader, fleet manager, drive a company car or even take a cash allowance, we understand there’s questions you might want to ask.
Join us at our virtual event on Friday 4th September where our Corporate Expert will be on hand to help.
Discuss everything from company car tax, to alternative fuels for your business and compelling contract hire rates that can be tailored for you, in a no obligation 1-2-1 Zoom call. Simply book your slot and we’ll be in touch to confirm your time.
We’re here to help, so let’s talk business together.
talk business at bowker. Friday 4th September.
At Bowker BMW, we’re committed to providing outstanding service to our customers, which is why we’re ready to talk business. Whether you’re a sole trader, fleet manager, drive a company car or even take a cash allowance, we understand there’s questions you might want to ask.
Join us at our virtual event on Friday 4th September where our Corporate Expert will be on hand to help.
Discuss everything from company car tax, to alternative fuels for your business and compelling contract hire rates that can be tailored for you, in a no obligation 1-2-1 Zoom call. Simply book your slot and we’ll be in touch to confirm your time.
We’re here to help, so let’s talk business together.
Munich. With a ten-year plan for sustainability, the BMW Group is underscoring its commitment to the goals of the Paris climate agreement, the main focus being on the expansion of electrified drives. Today, the BMW and MINI brands featuring all-electric and plug-in hybrid drive systems respectively already account for approximately 13.3 of all new registrations Europe-wide (source: IHS Markit New Registrations July 2020 Report). This corresponds to 1.5-fold of the average share of all brands, which is around 8 percent. The company expects this figure to rise to a quarter by 2021, to a third by 2025 and to 50 percent by 2030.
Vehicles of the BMW and MINI brands featuring electrified drive systems are now offered in 74 markets worldwide, where more than 500,000 electrified vehicles were sold by 2019. By the end of 2021, this figure will probably rise to over a million. In spite of pandemic-related restrictions, more vehicles from the BMW Group were sold during the first half of 2020 than in the corresponding previous-year period. BMW Group sustainability goals aim at putting more than seven million vehicles with electrified drive systems on the road worldwide by 2030, two thirds of them all-electric variants. As a result of the massive expansion of electric mobility, emissions produced by BMW Group vehicles per kilometre driven will be reduced by around 40 percent by the year 2030.
“Power of choice”: effective approach for global sustainability.
The current model offensive is paving the way towards this goal, with the company following the “power of choice” approach in order to take account of customer needs and legal requirements on the global automotive markets. The BMW X3 is the first model available either with highly efficient petrol and diesel engines including 48-volt mild hybrid technology, with a plug-in hybrid drive system or all-electric drive system.
In future, further series models with electrified and with conventional drive systems will be built on a single production line. For example, the next generation of luxury sedans of the BMW 7 Series will be offered as a purely electric model variant. Also the high-volume series BMW 5 and BMW X1 will be brought to market not only with conventional internal combustion engines and plug-in hybrid systems, but also with all-electric drive units.
Electrification of drive systems is an integral part of the future field D-ACES (Design, Autonomous, Connected, Electrified und Services/Shared) defined by the BMW Group in their NUMBER ONE > NEXT strategy. Today, the BMW Group already offers the widest selection of corresponding vehicles worldwide. These models also impress with sporty characteristics. Furthermore, their attractiveness is attributable to an expressive design and advanced technology in the areas of operation and digitalisation, which are oriented to the lifestyle of contemporary target groups.
The fifth generation of BMW eDrive technology is celebrating its premiere in the new BMW iX3 (combined fuel consumption: 0.0 l/100 km; power consumption: 17.8 – 17.5 kWh/100 km; combined CO2 emissions: 0 g/km). The quality of its components – electric motor, high-voltage battery, charging technology and power electronics – is the result of the experience gained by the BMW i brand in the electric mobility sector since 2011. The BMW Group relies on the in-house development of all components for BMW eDrive technology. One example of the advancements achieved in this way is the high-voltage battery for the BMW i3, the storage capacity of which has doubled since the launch of this model despite unchanged installation space.
Pure driving pleasure, sheer driving fun: all-electric mobility with the BMW iX3, the BMW i3 and the MINI Cooper SE.
With the fifth generation of BMW eDrive technology featured in the BMW iX3, the efficiency and power development of the electric motor, the energy content of the high-voltage battery, charging capacity and the intelligent control of the overall system reach a new level. The car’s newly developed electric motor delivers 210 kW/286 hp and drives the rear wheels. The first all-electric Sports Activity Vehicle combines sportiness and a high range of up to 520 kilometres – not by means of particularly large batteries, but with an intelligent overall concept for efficiency and dynamics. As from 2021, the fifth generation of BMW eDrive technology will also be deployed in the models BMW i4 and BMW iNEXT.
All-electric drive, an aluminium chassis and a passenger cabin made from carbon fibre reinforced plastic (CFRP) – this is how the BMW i3 (combined fuel consumption: 0.0 l/100 km; power consumption: 13.1 kWh/100 km; combined CO2 emissions: 0 g/km) still convincingly asserts its role as the pioneer of premium electric mobility almost seven years after its debut. Thanks to the lightweight material carbon, the BMW i3 achieves sporty driving performance even with a comparably small battery, whereby vehicle weight is at the same level as that of a conventional model in its segment. The electric synchronous motor for the BMW i3 generates a maximum power output of 125 kW/170 hp, even achieving 135 kW/184 hp in the case of the BMW i3s (combined fuel consumption: 0.0 l/100 km; combined power consumption: 14.6 – 14.0 kWh/100 km; combined CO2 emissions: 0 g/km).
The more powerful version of the drive system is also deployed in the MINI Cooper SE. The most crucial difference to the BMW i3s is that the first purely electric vehicle from MINI features front-wheel drive, this being characteristic for the brand. In contrast, the BMW i3 and the BMW i3s rely on the classic rear-wheel drive concept. The flexibility of BMW eDrive technology is also reflected by the model-specific version of the high-voltage battery, which is T-shaped and located deeply into the vehicle floor. As a result, the amount of space available to the occupants as well as the luggage compartment volume in the MINI Cooper SE are exactly the same as those of conventionally powered model variants of the 3-door MINI.
The best of both worlds: plug-in hybrid models from BMW and MINI.
Thanks to intelligently controlled interaction between both drive systems, the plug-in hybrid models from BMW and MINI combine the best of two worlds. They facilitate purely electric driving in urban traffic and when commuting between home and the workplace as well as a long overall vehicle range for long-distance travel. Electric range is increased by means of intensive regeneration during coasting and deceleration phases. Moreover, intelligent energy management offers the possibility to save capacity of the high-voltage battery specifically for locally emission-free driving within built-up areas. Preconditioning of the interior is standard and guarantees optimised comfort in any season thanks to auxiliary heating and air conditioning.
In the plug-in hybrid models of the BMW 7 Series, the BMW X5 xDrive45e (combined fuel consumption: 2.1 – 1.6 l/100 km; combined power consumption: 23.5 – 21.3 kWh/100 km; combined CO2 emissions: 47 – 37 g/km) and the all-new BMW 545 e xDrive Sedan (combined fuel consumption: 2.4 – 2.1 l/100 km; combined power consumption: 16.3 – 15.3 kWh/100 km; combined CO2 emissions: 54 – 49 g/km), the electric motor, which is integrated into the Steptronic transmission, operates in conjunction with a straight six-cylinder petrol engine, delivering a system output of 290 kW/394 hp.
A brand-typical combination of sportiness and sustainability also characterises the models whose plug-in hybrid systems comprise a four-cylinder petrol engine and an electric motor that is also integrated into the 8-speed Steptronic transmission. Under especially high loads the system output generated by the two power units can be increased by an additional 30 kW/40 hp for a short period. This XtraBoost function enhances the system output, for example during kick-down manoeuvres, to up to 215 kW/292 hp, providing for significantly more spontaneous power development than is the case with conventional petrol and diesel engines. In the BMW 3 Series and BMW 5 Series, this plug-in hybrid system is offered for four models respectively, the Sedans and Touring models being available with four-wheel and rear-wheel drive. Furthermore, the experience of driving the BMW X3 xDrive30e (combined fuel consumption: 2.4 – 2.1 l/100 km; combined power consumption: 16.7 – 16.0 kWh/100 km; combined CO2 emissions: 54 – 47 g/km) reaps the benefit of two motors and four driven wheels.
Sporty diversity is the common characteristic of plug-in hybrid models from BMW and MINI in the premium compact segment. This is the result of hybrid-specific four-wheel drive technology that is unique within the competitive environment. The electric motor delivers torque to the rear wheels via a single-stage transmission. The three-cylinder petrol engine transfers power to a 6-speed Steptronic transmission and drives the front wheels. The result is an overall system output of 162 kW/220 hp in the BMW X1 xDrive25e (combined fuel consumption: 1.9 l/100 km; combined power consumption 13.8 kWh/100 km; combined CO2 emissions: 43 g/km) respectively and 162 kW/220 hp in the BMW X2 xDrive25e (combined fuel consumption: 1.9 l/100 km; combined power consumption: 13.7 kWh/100 km; combined CO2-emissions: 43 g/km) respectively and 162 kW/220 hp in the MINI Cooper SE Countryman ALL4 (combined fuel consumption: 2.0 – 1.7 l/100 km; combined power consumption: 14.0 – 13.1 kWh/100 km; combined CO2 emissions: 45 – 40 g/km). The BMW 225xe Active Tourer (combined fuel consumption: 1.9 l/100 km; combined power consumption: 13.5 kWh/100 km; combined CO2 emissions: 42 g/km) delivers a system output of 165 kW/224 hp.
With innovative digital services, the BMW Group contributes actively towards enhancing the proportion of electric driving offered by plug-in hybrid models. The BMW eDrive Zone function triggers an automatic switch to purely electric operating mode as soon as the vehicle enters urban low-emission zones and similar inner-city areas. In addition, local emission-free driving with a BMW plug-in hybrid model is rewarded through the globally unique premium programme BMW Points.
Products and services from BMW Charging and MINI Charging facilitate simple and comfortable charging at home and when out and about. These encompass various different Wallbox types, including installation service, individual offers for the purchase of green electricity and access to the world’s largest network of public charging stations comprising more than 155,000 charging points in Europe alone. Moreover, the BMW Group is extending its corporate charging infrastructure substantially to around 4,100 charging points in Germany alone.
From the raw material to recycling: focusing on the entire value chain.
The BMW Group combines the further development of electric mobility with a holistic understanding of sustainability, whilst always bearing in mind the entire value chain and the complete production cycle – from the procurement of raw materials, production and service life of the vehicle up to later recycling. Today, the total environmental impact of a plug-in hybrid model, known as the CO2 footprint, is already significantly lower than that of a conventionally powered vehicle. The BMW X1 xDrive25e, for example, already achieves a 31 percent lower value than the corresponding petrol-driven model when using charging current from the EU electricity mix over its complete life cycle. If the vehicle uses green electricity exclusively over its entire service life, the CO2 footprint is even 55 percent lower.
For the future, the BMW Group is developing, among other things, a sustainable reusable material cycle for battery cells. The key commodities cobalt and lithium originate exclusively from suppliers who comply with stringent standards as regards ecological and social sustainability. They are obtained by the BMW Group and passed on to the battery cell producers. The electric motor of the latest BMW eDrive generation is produced without raw materials from so-called rare earths. Furthermore, electricity from renewable sources is used exclusively for the production of all components of BMW eDrive technology of the latest generation. As a result, around 10 million tons of CO2 emissions will be avoided over the next ten years.
Overall, from this year, all of the BMW Group’s production locations worldwide will be supplied with 100 percent green electricity. The company will also substantially increase the proportion of secondary materials used in their new vehicles. In future, the further use and recycling of high-voltage batteries will become of major importance. After being used in vehicles with electrified drive systems, they can serve as stationary storage units for wind and solar power, which is currently the case on the premises of the BMW Leipzig plant. An efficient recycling of raw materials does not follow until after this. Whilst a recycling quota of 50 percent is currently demanded Europe-wide, the BMW Group and the German recycling specialist Duesenfeld have jointly developed a process with which a recycling quota of more than 95 percent is planned – including graphite and electrolyte.
Erin Baker, Editorial Director of Auto Trader, said: “This loveable builder of cool British cars claims Auto Trader’s Most Loved Brand award this year, with a range of great-looking models replete with endless personalisation options. MINI always brings a smile to the face.”
Voted for by 181,000 car owners, the awards are categorised based on customer’s lifestyles including awards for Most Fun Car to Drive and Best Car for Towing.
David George, Director, MINI UK said “This is a fantastic award to win and a very fitting one for the brand. To be over 60 years old and winning ‘Most Loved Brand’ shows our customers really understand the soul of MINI, something that’s captured perfectly in the new MINI Electric”.
All the winners from the Auto Trader New Car Awards 2020 can be found here. Information on the MINI range can be found at www.bowkermotorgroup.co.uk/mini/new-cars.
To keep the health and safety of our customers a priority, we are pleased to be providing a mail order service for MINI Genuine Parts.
You can make your purchase in four easy steps:
- Call our Parts Department (Preston 0800 1957957 | Blackburn 0800 919724)
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By choosing Genuine MINI Parts, you’re making sure everything runs exactly as intended. Accuracy, a snug fit and durability can be guaranteed. That’s why we’re happy to give you a two year unlimited mileage warranty on every Genuine MINI Part.
Think elite athletes of every field and discipline. Stand-out performers who always expect to stand highest on the podium when the medals are being handed out. Even the way they look just limbering up; that sublime mix of awesome power, supreme confidence and outstanding energy. It’s as though the rest of the field are simply competing for runner-up spot.
Hold those thoughts.
If ever a motor car suited a record-breaking athlete then that motor car is the BMW X6. It’s a beast, a fearless performer with attitude, aggression and style. A winner. But it’s not just about the turbo-charge – hugely impressive though that might be – it’s also about the look, the spectacle, the intensity, the performance.
Let’s start with the power.
All the SUV models are available with a 3-litre (or a 4.4-litre), all wheel drive and rear wheel drive with transmissions including 8-speed shiftable automatic. High-performance models, such as the xDrive30d and xDrive40i (the one I sampled), give you exactly what you might expect from a car of this calibre. And that adds up to an awful lot.
But if you want more, the 3-litre six-cylinder, twinpower, turbo M50d offers 760Nm of torque and goes from 0-62mph in only 5.2 seconds. Still not enough? Then try the 4.4L V8 M50i. Without breaking sweat, it delivers 530hp, 750Nm of torque and reaches 62mph in just 4.3 seconds. Incredible.
The BMW X6 is a real blast of a drive and you are always able to shift between comfort, eco and sport modes as and when the fancy takes you.
Externally, the expressive contours and an elegant sweeping coupé roofline afford a commanding aura. Positioned as BMW’s jewel in the crown of sports activity coupés, it boasts athletic confidence in every detail. Adding to this bravado are a selection of provocative elements – a new, iconic Glow Kidney Grille, which simply dazzles, unique Manhattan paint trim, powerful hexagonal arches, refined trapezoidal tailpipes, lightweight 22” alloys….the list goes on.
Find optional equipment like a Sky Lounge panoramic sun roof, acoustic glazing and a massage (yes, massage not message!) function which improves the physical well-being of driver and front passenger by stimulating or relaxing certain muscle groups. Also inside, exclusive design details include the Crafted Clarity glass applications with the gear selector, volume control, iDrive controller and start-stop button made of polished glass. Oh and there are sports seats, ambient light, head-up front window display, a leather dashboard…..
At the heart of the BMW X6 driving experience is the intuitive Operating System 7.0 – not only more connected but also more personal. This is matched with the latest BMW Live Cockpit Professional, which comes with a 12.3″ touchscreen information display and the largest fully digital instrument cluster. They have even remembered a memory function that allows you to upload your previous settings.
Listen to your favourite tracks as the Connected Music function lets you directly stream millions of songs courtesy of BMW’s music partners Deezer, Napster and Spotify using the SIM card installed.
Rear seat passengers are well catered for too with a couple of tilting high-definition touch screens and options for smartphones, tablets, headphones and so on.
Talking of smartphones, a ‘digital key’ even means you can get in and get going via your mobile, to save taking a ‘physical key’ along for the ride.
Safe as houses (including a reactive emergency call system), plenty of storage space and a couple of new external metallic colours just to tempt you even further. Particularly eye-catching is Riverside Blue. The BMW X6 provides a perfect mix of excitement, strength, power, comfort, ergonomics and luxury. A true athlete and a truly exceptional car.
†Test drive subject to availability and driver eligibility.
Thank you to Paul Agnew and Live Magazines for this article.
A highly efficient electric drive and a latest-generation lithium-ion battery enable an electrically powered range of up to 35 miles in the two new plug-in hybrid models. With average fuel consumption of 134.5 – 148.7 mpg* and CO2 emissions between 43 and 48 grams per kilometre*, both models set a benchmark within their competitive fields. The hybrid-specific all-wheel drive system delivers fast and precise distribution of power between the front and rear wheels, ensuring a high level of driving agility.
The plug-in hybrid system of the new BMW X1 xDrive 25e and the new BMW X2 xDrive25e consists of a 1.5 litre 3-cylinder petrol engine with BMW TwinPower Turbo Technology and an electric drive specially developed for this model, derived from the BMW Group eDrive modular technology. The petrol engine mobilises a peak output of 125hp and a maximum torque of 220Nm. It transfers its power to a 6-speed Steptronic transmission and drives the front wheels. The electric motor generates an output of 95hp and delivers 165Nm of torque to the rear wheels via a single-speed transmission. This makes for a hybrid specific all-wheel drive, which gives these models a unique level of agility in their class. The electric motor’s highly responsive power delivery provides maximum torque spontaneously from standstill, enabling the driver to react extremely quickly to changing driving conditions. In addition, the position of the electric motor above the rear axle contributes to the balanced axle load distribution. The intelligently controlled interaction between the two power units provide maximum driving stability, ride comfort and dynamic response.
Together, the combustion engine and electric motor produce a system output of 220 hp. The maximum system torque of both drive units is 385Nm. The new BMW X1 xDrive25e accelerates from 0 to 63mph in 6.9 seconds, whilst the BMW X2 xDrive25e does the same in 6.8 seconds. In addition, the electric boost provided by the drive system ensures intense sporty flair when required. The top speed of the new BMW X1 xDrive25e is 120 mph, and 121mph for the BMW X2 xDrive25e.
With the very latest high-voltage battery cell technology, the new BMW X1 xDrive25e and the new BMW X2 xDrive25e possess generous reserves of electrical energy enabling the driver to conduct most of their everyday travel locally emissions-free. The latest-generation lithium-ion battery has a gross energy content of 10 kWh. This allows for an electrically powered range of between 33 and 35 miles in both the BMW X1 xDrive25e and BMW X2 xDrive25e. The high-voltage battery can be charged at conventional household sockets using the standard-equipment charging cable. An empty battery can be fully charged in around five hours in this way. It only takes 3.8 hours for the battery to reach 80 percent of its total capacity. Using a BMW i Wallbox, the relevant charging operation from 0 to 100 percent takes less than 3.2 hours. Eighty percent of total capacity is already reached after 2.4 hours. The charging socket is located under a separate flap on the front left side wall of the car.
The driver can use the eDrive button on the centre console to influence the drive system’s operating mode. In the AUTO eDRIVE standard setting, the intelligent drive system ensures optimum interaction between the two power units in all driving situations. Navigation data is also used to manage the plug-in hybrid system to increase the efficiency as well as driving pleasure. When navigation guidance is activated, the anticipatory energy management can also take into account the route profile for controlling the drive system. The MAX eDrive mode can be activated for maximum use of the electric drive. In this mode, the new BMW X1 xDrive25e and the new BMW X2 xDrive25e reach a top speed of 84 mph. In addition there is also the SAVE BATTERY mode which enables the driver to maintain the charging state of the high-voltage battery while driving or to increase it by means of recuperation. Using this mode, battery capacity can be saved for later use, for example when arriving at your destination in purely electric mode.
The new BMW X1 xDrive25e and the new BMW X2 xDrive25e feature acoustic pedestrian protection as standard. When driving electrically at speeds of up to 19 mph, an unmistakable sound designed specifically for electrified BMW models is generated to alert other road users to the approaching car without impairing the acoustic comfort of the vehicle occupants.
The standard equipment of the two compact BMW X models with plug-in hybrid drive also includes 17-inch light alloy wheels, 2-zone automatic air conditioning as well Sports Seats and LED headlights in the UK market. The interior can be pre-conditioned remotely via BMW Connected using a smartphone. The new BMW X1 xDrive25e is available in Sport Line, xLine and M Sport in the UK. Virtually all options available on the conventionally powered BMW X1 are available for the plug-in hybrid models.
The positioning of the high-voltage battery underneath the rear seats leads to a very low centre of gravity, which optimises the agility of the BMW X1 xDrive25e and the new BMW X2 xDrive25e. In the new BMW X1 xDrive25e luggage compartment capacity is 450 litres, with standard 40:20:40 split folding backrests enabling the capacity to be increased to 1,470 litres. A trailer tow hitch with detachable ball is optionally available for the new BMW X1 xDrive25e, with a maximum trailer load of 750 kilograms.
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