Author: Amy Lancaster
As this iconic sports car enters its sixth generation the BMW M3 Competition Saloon & Touring show just how much racing performance is possible with a BMW 3 Series. This comes courtesy of a 530 hp M TwinPower Turbo engine, rear-wheel drive and highly developed technologies derived from motorsport, such as the M specific suspension with Active M Differential. A perfectly graduated manual 6-speed M transmission with short, precise shifting enables particularly intensive interaction between driver and vehicle – in everyday driving as well as on the racetrack.
For more information or to arrange a test drive†, please contact us today – call 01772 769976 for Preston, or 01254 274444 for Blackburn. Alternatively complete the enquiry form on this page and we’ll call you back.
Below are our BMW Finance Examples. All quotes can be tailored to your required model, deposit and annual mileage so please contact us for a personalised quotation.
Personal Contract Hire Finance Examples.
| Model | BMW M3 Competition M xDrive Saloon | BMW M3 Competition M xDrive Touring |
|---|---|---|
| Term of Agreement | 48 Months | 48 Months |
| Initial Rental | £5,000.00 | £5,000.00 |
| Monthly Rental | 47 x £869.00 | 47 x £939.00 |
| Annual Mileage | 6,000 | 6,000 |
| Excess Mileage Charge | 25.5p | 26.44p |
Personal Contract Hire Ts&Cs
Bowker Preston Limited and Bowker Blackburn Limited are credit brokers.
Finance quote is for a BMW Personal Contract Hire agreement for the M3 Competition M xDrive Touring and an M3 Competition M xDrive Saloon shown with a contract mileage of 24,000 miles and excess mileage charge of 26.44p and 25.5p per mile. Applies to a vehicle ordered between 01/04/2026 and 30/06/2026 (subject to availability) and registered by 31/12/2026. Excess mileage, vehicle condition and other charges may be payable. Quote is valid for 30 days or until the end of the campaign period whichever comes first and may be amended or withdrawn by us at any time. If, in providing this quotation, we have made any assumptions which are incorrect, please let us know and we will prepare a further quotation. This is not an offer by us capable of acceptance by you and a proposal by you based on this quotation will be subject to acceptance by BMW Financial Services. All finance is subject to applicant status and is available to UK residents 18 or over. Your retailer introduces customers to a small number of lenders, including BMW Financial Services. If you enter into a finance agreement with BMW Financial Services, they will receive a fixed commission from BMW Financial Services which may influence them. The amount of commission varies for different vehicle models. The amount of commission will be disclosed to you in good time before you sign your finance agreement. They do not have any discretion to vary the interest rate or APR you pay under your finance agreement. They do not give independent financial advice.
†Test drive subject to availability and driver eligibility.
The BMW M2 excites and delights with the skillset of a classical high-performance sports car – reproduced in highly concentrated form, more intensive than ever and cutting-edge technology. With its compact dimensions, an inline-6-cylinder engine, a manual gearbox, rear-wheel drive and an advanced operating concept, the M automobile encapsulates the pure joy of driving.
.For more information or to arrange a test drive†, please contact us today – call 01772 769976 for Preston, or 01254 274444 for Blackburn. Alternatively complete the enquiry form on this page and we’ll call you back.
Below is our BMW Finance Example. All quotes can be tailored to your required model, deposit and annual mileage so please contact us for a personalised quotation.
Personal Contract Hire Finance Example.
| Model | BMW M2 Coupe AUTO |
|---|---|
| Term of Agreement | 48 Months |
| Initial Rental | £5,000.00 |
| Monthly Rental | 47 x £699.00 |
| Annual Mileage | 6,000 |
| Excess Mileage Charge | 16.88p |
Personal Contract Hire Ts&Cs
Bowker Preston Limited and Bowker Blackburn Limited are credit brokers.
Finance quote is for a BMW Personal Contract Hire agreement for the M2 Coupe AUTO shown with a contract mileage of 24,000 miles and excess mileage charge of 16.88p per mile. Applies to a vehicle ordered between 01/04/2026 and 30/06/2026 (subject to availability) and registered by 31/12/2026. Excess mileage, vehicle condition and other charges may be payable. Quote is valid for 30 days or until the end of the campaign period whichever comes first and may be amended or withdrawn by us at any time. If, in providing this quotation, we have made any assumptions which are incorrect, please let us know and we will prepare a further quotation. This is not an offer by us capable of acceptance by you and a proposal by you based on this quotation will be subject to acceptance by BMW Financial Services. All finance is subject to applicant status and is available to UK residents 18 or over. Your retailer introduces customers to a small number of lenders, including BMW Financial Services. If you enter into a finance agreement with BMW Financial Services, they will receive a fixed commission from BMW Financial Services which may influence them. The amount of commission varies for different vehicle models. The amount of commission will be disclosed to you in good time before you sign your finance agreement. They do not have any discretion to vary the interest rate or APR you pay under your finance agreement. They do not give independent financial advice.
†Test drive subject to availability and driver eligibility.
One of Bowker Preston BMW’s most popular staff members has retired a matter of months before his 20-year milestone with the company.
Popular with staff and customers alike, Eoghan Gilbert was one of the most familiar faces at the aftersales reception at Bowker BMW in Preston. Bringing a perfect blend of humour and efficiency to the aftersales role, Eoghan was also renowned for organising staff charity challenges, including a recent 24-mile 5200-feet climb in around 12 hours and raising over £4,000 for St Catherine’s Hospice.
Eoghan joined Bowker BMW in Preston in March 2004 as a Service Advisor before swiftly making his mark as a Senior Service Advisor, becoming one of the most recognisable members of the team for 19 years and 4 months. Prior to joining Bowker BMW, the former Darwen Vale High School student served as a service Advisor at Jacksons Mercedes Jersey and a Trade Advisor at Baxi Clean Air.
Now, Eoghan plans to take a breather from the automotive retail industry and make more time for wife Karen, to travel and to enjoy long walks with his pet dogs. Best wishes to Eoghan on his well-deserved retirement and the very best in all his future endeavours.
Lancashire-based Bowker BMW received a visit from Graham Biggs, the BMW UK communications director, for an official staff presentation of the first-ever BMW UK Sustainability Award.
The award, which recognises Bowker BMW’s unwavering commitment to sustainability, was initially announced at a ceremony in Liverpool as part of the national BMW UK Retailer Awards in January.
The award also reflects Bowker BMW’s efforts to reduce its carbon footprint and the family-owned business’s substantial financial investment of nearly £2 million in sustainability initiatives during 2022.
Statistics reflect the tangible impact of Bowker BMW’s commitment. The company has successfully reduced paper transactions and communications by 95%, demonstrating its commitment to minimising waste. Additionally, Bowker has appointed an Energy Champion to explore innovative ways of further reducing their environmental impact.
Bowker BMW’s sustainability journey began in 2007 with the launch of the “Bowker SOS” (Switch Off Something) initiative – an initiative inspired by the energy crisis of 1973, aimed to reduce energy consumption. The Group has since implemented various recycling programs and environmentally friendly practices. Only last month, Bowker BMW and MINI centres in Blackburn and Preston have taken another step towards sustainable energy use by installing 1600 new solar panels across their dealership roofs.
Chris Eccles, Director of Bowker BMW, said: “Thank you to BMW UK for taking the time to visit the centre to present this prestigious award. We are proud that BMW has acknowledged our commitment to sustainability nationally. At Bowker, we take our responsibility to minimise our impact on the environment seriously. And we want to lead by example.”
Bowker BMW’s dedication to sustainability extends beyond environmental initiatives. The company prioritises social value and continuously strives to improve working conditions for employees. They invest in new showers, changing facilities, and sourcing uniforms from sustainable suppliers.
Furthermore, Bowker has established long-standing partnerships with local colleges, offering scholarship and apprenticeship programs for over 15 years. This commitment ensures the growth and development of the industry by providing valuable opportunities for apprentices and students interested in the motor trade.
The visit of the BMW UK communications director to Bowker BMW emphasises the significance of the Group’s achievements and collaboration. It showcases the positive impact that businesses can have on the environment and their local communities, inspiring others to prioritise sustainability.
Bowker Motorrad has confirmed it will host another free to promote motorcycle safety and provide riders with essential skills to manage accidents and improve road awareness.
The new date (June 27th 2023) has been agreed upon after over 50 Lancashire motorcyclists attended the free three-hour Biker Down safety training event at the dealership on Preston Docks.
Bowker Motorrad hosted the training event in collaboration with South Lancashire Advanced Motorcyclists (SLAM). It included a complimentary hot-pot supper and refreshments before a three-hour instruction from the Biker Down team.
Lancashire Fire and Rescue Service, responsible for running Biker Down events, was also present, along with representatives from the ambulance service. SLAM distributed tourniquets following a demonstration highlighting their potential life-saving capabilities at the event.
Richard Chacewicz, from Bowker Motorrad, said: “Thank you to everyone who attended Thursday’s event. It was a huge success. We hosted our first Biker Down event for our customers last September. It was a great evening and well received. We are pleased that SLAM and the Biker Down team have agreed to follow up with our third event in June.
“Recent statistics reveal that motorcyclists are at a higher risk of being involved in road accidents than other vehicle users. These events provide invaluable guidance and support to our community.”
The Biker Down training offers a free three-hour course of instruction providing practical and potentially lifesaving advice. It gave riders of all experience levels an awareness of what to do if they were involved with or saw an injured motorcyclist and how to reduce the risks of being in a collision.
Three comprehensive modules cover incident scene management, casualty care, and the science of being seen. The course is designed to equip motorcyclists with the necessary knowledge and techniques to respond to accidents effectively while waiting for professional help.
Lancashire motorcyclists who want to learn more about the next event in June can visit here.
Explore the world with all the advantages the BMW X Series has to offer. With their uncluttered seating position, optimal traction and fuel-efficient engines, you will find that BMW’s range of SUVs, each carrying that special X model gene, are ready to handle all of life’s moments.
BMW iX1 eDrive20 M Sport
7.9% Rep. APR., £1,000 Deposit Contribution + Immediate Delivery
Experience all-electric performance with premium SUV versatility in this exceptional Approved Used BMW iX1 eDrive20 M Sport. Combining progressive design, intelligent technology and the engaging driving dynamics expected from BMW, this striking model delivers a refined electric driving experience with the added confidence of BMW Approved Used standards.
Finished in M Sport specification, this iX1 stands out with its athletic styling, elevated driving position and cutting-edge interior technology – making it an outstanding choice for drivers looking to transition into electrified mobility without compromising luxury or performance.
Key Specification Highlights
M Sport Design & Presence
M Sport exterior styling for a more dynamic look
Aerodynamic body styling and distinctive BMW kidney grille design
Sport styling details that enhance the iX1’s athletic SUV stance
Electric Performance
Smooth, responsive all-electric driving with instant torque
Quiet and refined driving experience
Ideal for both daily commuting and longer journeys
Technology & Connectivity
BMW Curved Display with fully digital cockpit
BMW Operating System with intuitive controls
Smartphone connectivity and intelligent voice control
Driver Assistance & Safety
Parking Assistant with reversing camera and sensors
Driving Assistant technologies to support everyday journeys
Advanced safety and driver support systems
Premium Comfort
Heated front seats for added comfort
Automatic climate control
High-quality interior finishes throughout the cabin
Why Choose BMW Approved Used
When you choose an Approved Used BMW, you benefit from complete peace of mind. Every vehicle undergoes meticulous checks by BMW trained technicians and comes with a minimum 12-month unlimited mileage BMW warranty, roadside assistance and verified service history.
For more information or to arrange a test drive†, please complete the enquiry form on this page. Our sales team at Bowker Preston are on hand to assist with your enquiry, or they can be contacted on 01772 769976. Click here to view our Centre opening hours.
BMW Select Finance Example
| Model | BMW iX1 eDrive20 M Sport |
|---|---|
| On The Road Cash Price* | £31,990.00 |
| Bowker Contribution | £300.00 |
| BMW FS Contribution | £700.00 |
| Customer Deposit | £500.00 |
| Total Amount Of Credit | £30,490.00 |
| Term Of Agreement | 49 Months |
| 48 Monthly Rentals | £447.00 |
| Annual Mileage | 6,000 |
| Excess Mileage Charge | 9.49p |
| Total Amount Payable | £39,383.37 |
| Option to Purchase Fee^ | £0.00 |
| Optional Final Payment^ | £16,385.13 |
| APR Representative | 7.9% |
Bowker Preston Limited is a credit broker not a lender.
Finance example is for a BMW Select agreement for an Approved Used BMW iX1 eDrive20 M Sport with an annual mileage of 6,000 miles and excess mileage charge of 9.49p per mile (subject to availability). Retail customers only. Offer valid when purchased by 22 April 2026. ^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. Offer may be varied, withdrawn or extended at any time. ‘BMW Select’ is a form of hire-purchase agreement provided by BMW Financial Services, Summit ONE, Summit Avenue, Farnborough, Hampshire GU14 0FB. You will have a 14 day statutory right to withdraw from the agreement. Bowker Blackburn Limited introduces customers to a selected panel of lenders, which includes BMW Financial Services. We receive a fixed commission for introducing you to BMW Financial Services calculated by reference to the vehicle or as a percentage of the amount you borrow. 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 availability and driver eligibility.
SAY HELLO (AGAIN) TO THE NEW MINIS.
£2,000 deposit contribution & £0 deposit until Friday 31 may.
If the thought of getting behind the wheel of your very own MINI is too exciting to delay, you’re in luck – we have a range of road-ready MINIs eager to meet you. Plus, benefit from our limited time offer of £2,000 deposit contribution & £0 deposit until Friday 31 May, when funding through MINI Financial Services.
For more information on our offers or to book your tailored appointment at our Preston or Blackburn Centre – contact us today using the buttons below or complete the form on this page.
view our offers.
MINI COUNTRYMAN.
ELECTRIC.
Powerful build, bold SUV design and imposing presence, the new all-electric MINI Countryman exudes an aura of self- confidence & adventure. Rugged good looks, sleek lines and 100% indomitable MINI spirit.
MINI COOPER.
ELECTRIC.
New MINI, new era, same iconic silhouette, same go-kart feeling; just a little refined and jazzed up. Modern and simplistic, embodying maximum driving pleasure and minimum footprint, and incorporating more innovative technology than ever before.
MINI COOPER.
PETROL.
“Less is more” with the new MINI Cooper. Sleek lines, clean surfaces and balanced proportions. Inside, the design is clean and focused, just like the original classic Mini. Whatever you require can be accessed through the OLED display & five toggle switches.
MINI COUNTRYMAN.
ELECTRIC.
MINI COOPER.
ELECTRIC.
MINI COOPER.
PETROL.
MINI Select Finance Example.
| Finance Example | MINI Cooper C 3-Door |
|---|---|
| On the Road Cash Price* | £25,700.00 |
| Customer Deposit | £0.00 |
| Deposit Contribution | £2,000.00 |
| Total Amount Of Credit | £23,700.00 |
| Term Of Agreement | 48 Months |
| 47 Monthly Rentals | £345.00 |
| Annual Mileage | 6,000 |
| Excess Mileage Charge | 9.00p |
| Total Amount payable | £30,227.49 |
| Option to Purchase Fee^ | £0.00 |
| Optional Final Payment^ | £14,012.49 |
| APR | 8.9% |
Bowker Blackburn Ltd and Bowker Preston Ltd are credit brokers and not lenders.
Finance quotes are for MINI Select agreements for the models above, with a contract mileage of 24,000 miles and excess mileage charge per mile. Applies to new vehicles ordered between 15/05/2024 and 31/05/2024 and registered by 31/05/2024. Retail customers only. Eligible vehicles must be financed by BMW Group Financial Services to qualify for the support. *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 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. Offer may be varied, withdrawn or extended at any time. ‘MINI Select’ is a form of hire-purchase agreement provided by MINI Financial Services, a trading name of BMW Financial Services (GB) Limited, 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 Ltd introduces customers to a selected panel of lenders, which includes MINI Financial Services. We receive a fixed commission for introducing you to MINI Financial Services calculated by reference to the vehicle or as a percentage of the amount you borrow. 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 availability and driver eligibility.
LEARN AT WORK WEEK
At Bowker Motor Group, we are proud to be celebrating Learning at Work Week (LAW Week – May 15th to 21st) this week.
Learning at Work Week is an annual event that shines a light on the power of continual learning and development in the workplace. Led nationally by Campaign for Learning, LAW Week aims to foster learning cultures and emphasise the importance and benefits of ongoing learning.
Throughout this LAW Week, we’ll showcase our commitment to learning and its incredible impact on our team members and organisation. We’ll share daily staff stories telling us what continual learning has meant to them and the advantages it has created.
We’ll discover the following:
- How learning is the foundation for growth and success.
- The importance of curiosity, personal development, and professional advancement.
This year, LAW Week’s theme is “Create the future.” This theme focuses on how lifelong learning in the workplace helps us personally achieve our goals but also enables us to shape our lives, communities, and the world around us. Through continuous learning, we drive innovation and achieve our organisational ambitions.
Join us as we embrace Learning at Work Week and create a brighter future together. Let’s tap into the power of lifelong learning, inspire each other, and achieve remarkable things.
At Bowker Motor Group, we’re ready to make the most of LAW Week and set our sights on an exciting journey of growth and development. Read the stories of our employees below:
Jess O'Neill
senior marketing executive
I joined Bowker in 2016 when I was 17. Since joining the company, I’ve completed my CIM (Chartered Institute of Marketing) Level 4 Certificate in Professional Digital Marketing. I’m currently completing my CIM Level 6 Diploma in Professional Digital Marketing to get my Chartership.
I truly believe my career in marketing started when I began my studies. It opened my eyes to the world of digital marketing, improved my professional knowledge, and helped my self-confidence within the job. I’ve always been naturally creative, but having the opportunity to study the theory of marketing has added another string to my bow.
I’ve learnt everything from digital marketing strategy, campaign planning, customer experience management, and the importance marketing has in business growth. I enjoyed meeting fellow marketers from different sectors in the classroom – being able to share a common interest and having the support of like-minded individuals throughout the past year has been extremely valuable.
Whilst learning at work, I have been lucky enough to have the support of my fantastic Manager, Amy Lancaster-Hall. Amy is a Chartered Marketer through the CIM Programme. I can support other employees with my new-found knowledge, which can be applied to my daily jobs. I’m incredibly proud of my promotion to senior marketing executive, which I couldn’t have achieved without my learning.
On-the-job learning has been a fantastic opportunity for me to grow as a marketer and support the growth of the business! I work within a great team, and it’s a delight to assist in decision-making and strategy planning, all supported by my learning. Likewise, this would apply to anyone in any professional sector pursuing on-the-job learning.
The digital marketing environment is constantly changing, and it is essential to maintain consistent learning whilst using my knowledge to bring new and innovative ideas to the table to stay ahead of the curve!
If you’re considering taking a course at work? I say: ”Do it!” At Bowker, we’re lucky to have an employer supporting our professional development. I encourage anyone to expand their knowledge within their department to jump in! It! It can be challenging when working full-time. You need to be prepared for the long hours of hard work. But the results make it all worthwhile.
Chris Nuttall
Workshop manager
I joined Bowker in 2003 as a Technician. I started training through the academy, working towards achieving BMW Technician status and BMW Senior Technician certification. Most recently, I am currently working towards my Management and Leadership certification.
The course highlights the positive impact of flexibility and responsiveness on individuals and group dynamics. It emphasises the importance of these qualities in creating an environment that helps us all grow and develop. This means higher motivation, engagement, and productivity among individuals and groups.
I enjoyed learning about myself and understanding my core strengths and those of others. Learning helps you prepare for different situations, including having the technical knowledge to give our customers the best experience and reassurance. Their vehicle is in our care.
I will always want to develop further. Whether at work, the Academy or home, every day is a school day! Lifelong learning is helping me keep up to date with changes and developments, including allowing us, as leaders, at all levels, to focus on how we communicate and work with one another.
Ella Grimshaw
Receptionist/showroom host
I have been working at Bowker since November 2020. I attended Blackburn College and worked in Reception at Bowker BMW.
In college, I learned how to treat customers equally and deal with complaints. I learned a lot about Bowker and the company’s working processes. I enjoyed the one day out of work to learn something different.
As part of the customer service course, I had to make journal entries on what I had done in the past week. This helped me understand my job roles and responsibilities in Reception.
Continual learning helps bring new knowledge to the business. It also encourages team-building skills and grows the business. I’ve developed a lot too! I can research different topics, have good communication skills, and adapt to different environments.
I would encourage colleagues to take the course I completed. It is a good step toward improving knowledge and understanding. It also gives the knowledge you now have to share with colleagues to improve how the team works, and we work together.
Phil Darwen
senior Technician
In 2022 I achieved Senior Technician status in the spring. I then continued studying at home and work and achieved Master Technician status during the Autumn.
It’s one of the most challenging technical accreditations in his trade, and I’m now one of only 70 Master Technicians in the country. I’ve been told that completing my senior and master technician accreditations in the same year is rare and typically takes candidates years to complete.
BMW offers pioneering technology on their vehicles, and I enjoy keeping up to date with the systems they use. The BMW Connected App and the cars’ digital systems are ever-changing. Having the opportunity to learn whilst at work, with the current range of vehicles, helps me to stay familiar with and assist customers effectively.
BMW’s hybrid/electric range is advancing rapidly. Keeping up with this technology is my current challenge and will shape my learning over the coming months.
I have over 25 years of experience in the motor industry. The product has changed so much over time. Learning has been vital to stay ahead and achieve my ambitions. Continued education is crucial to offer our customers the expected service and keep staff focused.
I encourage any of my colleagues to embrace any learning they can. Having the knowledge we need to serve our customers well also significantly increases personal job satisfaction.
Our Bowker MINI showrooms in Preston and Blackburn will trial Sunday closure from 14th May.
Whilst customers cannot physically visit our MINI retail centres on Sundays, the online showroom will still be available to view the wide range of New and Approved Used available stock and reserve vehicles online.
We are committed to maintaining our award-winning retail service over one day less. Our online retail experience via the Bowker website will remain available 24 hours a day and seven days a week as usual.
We’ve seen significant changes in customer habits since the Covid lockdown. New working patterns also mean customers have more flexibility when they visit, and higher footfall during the week bears this out.
The decision to open six days a week will provide employees with extra leisure time with families and friends. The significant decision highlights the importance of work-life balance for retail workers and represents another step towards creating a healthier, more sustainable workplace culture.
Updated Bowker MINI opening times in Blackburn and Preston are:
- Monday – Friday: 8:30 AM – 6:00 PM
- Saturday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Sunday: Closed
For more information, contact your local Bowker MINI Centre here.
Our Bowker BMW showrooms in Preston and Blackburn will trial Sunday closure from 14th May.
Whilst customers cannot physically visit our BMW retail centres on Sundays, the online showroom will still be available to view the wide range of New and Approved Used available stock and reserve vehicles online.
We are committed to maintaining our award-winning retail service over one day less. Our online retail experience via the Bowker website will remain available 24 hours a day and seven days a week as usual.
We’ve seen significant changes in customer habits since the Covid lockdown. New working patterns also mean customers have more flexibility when they visit, and higher footfall during the week bears this out.
The decision to open six days a week will provide employees with extra leisure time with families and friends. The significant decision highlights the importance of work-life balance for retail workers and represents another step towards creating a healthier, more sustainable workplace culture.
Updated Bowker BMW opening times in Blackburn and Preston are:
- Monday – Friday: 8:30 AM – 6:00 PM
- Saturday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Sunday: Closed
For more information, contact your local Bowker BMW Centre or fill out the form on this page a member of our team will be in touch.
We are delighted to have officially switched on 1600 new solar panels across our dealership roofs in Blackburn and Preston.
The new panels will allow our Centres to generate a quarter of our electricity from solar energy and reduce their carbon footprint by 130 tonnes!
The official solar panel switch-on was in recognition of Earth Day on Saturday, 22 April 2023.
Our Director, Jonathan Rogan, said: “It was perfect timing that Earth Day followed so soon after installing the new panels. We officially celebrated the switch on and joined other businesses across the globe to raise awareness of climate issues.
“Our new investment will significantly impact reducing our carbon footprint. As a company, we’re committed to leading the way in environmentally-friendly business practices. And we hope to inspire our staff, customers and others in the community about important environmental issues.”
Bowker has invested in sustainable energy before. In 2012, our Blackburn dealership installed 210 solar panels, making it the first car dealership in Lancashire to adopt solar energy. Since then, these panels have saved the company money and reduced carbon emissions by 500 tonnes.
Bowker Motor Group’s ongoing commitment to sustainability was also recognised by BMW UK after recently receiving the first-ever National Retailer Award for Sustainability. Read more here.
Earth Day is an annual event promoting environmental protection and raising awareness about our planet’s threats. This day is marked by various activities such as rallies, community clean-ups, and educational programs to encourage people to take action to protect the environment.
We are delighted to have officially switched on 1600 new solar panels across our dealership roofs in Blackburn and Preston.
The new panels will allow our Centres to generate a quarter of our electricity from solar energy and reduce their carbon footprint by 130 tonnes!
The official solar panel switch-on was in recognition of Earth Day on Saturday, 22 April 2023.
Our Director, Jonathan Rogan, said: “It was perfect timing that Earth Day followed so soon after installing the new panels. We officially celebrated the switch on and joined other businesses across the globe to raise awareness of climate issues.
“Our new investment will significantly impact reducing our carbon footprint. As a company, we’re committed to leading the way in environmentally-friendly business practices. And we hope to inspire our staff, customers and others in the community about important environmental issues.”
Bowker has invested in sustainable energy before. In 2012, our Blackburn dealership installed 210 solar panels, making it the first car dealership in Lancashire to adopt solar energy. Since then, these panels have saved the company money and reduced carbon emissions by 500 tonnes.
Our ongoing commitment to sustainability was also recognised by BMW UK after recently receiving the first-ever National BMW UK Retailer Award for Sustainability. Read more here.
Earth Day is an annual event promoting environmental protection and raising awareness about our planet’s threats. This day is marked by various activities such as rallies, community clean-ups, and educational programs to encourage people to take action to protect the environment.
The new BMW iX1 is designed to electrify every adventure that awaits you. Inspired by confidence and determination, the BMW iX1 fulfills the expectations of a Sports Activity Vehicle (SAV) in a purely electric way. With advanced technology supporting you at every turn, as well as all-new digital capabilities within the interior, the first ever BMW iX1 ensures that you can relish in the power of exploration. With a pure electric range of up to 296 miles^, the iX1 provides full flexibility.
For more information or to arrange a test drive†, please complete the enquiry form on this page.
Below are our BMW Finance Examples. All quotes can be tailored to your required model, deposit and annual mileage so please contact us for a personalised quotation.
Personal Contract Hire Finance Example.
| Model | BMW iX1 eDrive20 M Sport | BMW iX1 xDrive30 M Sport |
|---|---|---|
| Term of Agreement | 48 Months | 48 Months |
| Initial Rental | £5,000.00 | £5,000.00 |
| Monthly Rental | 47 x £419.00 | 47 x £479.00 |
| Annual Mileage | 6,000 | 6,000 |
| Excess Mileage Charge | 11.81p | 12.94p |
Personal Contract Hire Ts&Cs
Bowker Preston Limited and Bowker Blackburn Limited are credit brokers.
Rentals shown are for 48-month Personal Contract Hire agreement for the BMW iX1 eDrive20 M Sport AUTO and the BMW iX1 xDrive30 M Sport AUTO with a contract mileage of 24,000 miles and excess mileage charges of 11.81p & 12.94p. Applies for new vehicles ordered between 1 April 2026 and 30 June 2026 and registered by 31 December 2026 (subject to availability). Excess mileage, vehicle condition and other charges may be payable. Quote is valid for 30 days or until the end of the campaign period whichever comes first and may be amended or withdrawn by us at any time. If, in providing this quotation, we have made any assumptions which are incorrect, please let us know and we will prepare a further quotation. This is not an offer by us capable of acceptance by you and a proposal by you based on this quotation will be subject to acceptance by BMW Financial Services. All finance is subject to applicant status and is available to UK residents 18 or over. Your retailer introduces customers to a small number of lenders, including BMW Financial Services. If you enter into a finance agreement with BMW Financial Services, they will receive a fixed commission from BMW Financial Services which may influence them. The amount of commission varies for different vehicle models. The amount of commission will be disclosed to you in good time before you sign your finance agreement. They do not have any discretion to vary the interest rate or APR you pay under your finance agreement. They do not give independent financial advice.
†Test drive subject to availability and driver eligibility.
BMW Group UK has added Pod Point as a preferred EV home chargepoint supplier for MINI retail customers, further enhancing home charging services for retail customers.
Pod Point have entered into a three-year agreement to allow MINI customers to receive an offer of a home charger consultation and installation by Pod Point’s expert team.
This partnership will also allow MINI customers an increased access to Pod Point’s vast network of National charge points, bringing over 6,200 additional charging bays, allowing you to seamlessly connect to over 11,000 electric vehicle charging stations in the UK.
The MINI Electric and Plug-in Hybrid range offers drivers the option of a more sustainable driving experience without sacrificing the go-kart feel that MINI is known for. Both the MINI Electric and Plug-in Hybrid range are capable of driving in all-electric mode, producing zero emissions. With a range of up to 140-145 miles on a single charge for the MINI Electric and up to 26 miles of pure electric driving for the Plug-in Hybrid models, these vehicles are ideal for urban commuting and short trips. Plus, their compact size and agile handling make them perfect for navigating city streets and tight parking spots.
BMW Group UK has added Pod Point as a preferred EV home chargepoint supplier for BMW retail customers, further enhancing home charging services for retail customers.
The three-year agreement will see BMW customers purchasing a new electrified vehicle at a franchise retailer offered the option of home charger consultation and installation by Pod Point’s expert team. Over 3,800 BMW customers have already installed a Pod Point home charger. All home installations benefit from a three-year Pod Point warranty included as standard.
The Pod Point app’s charge activity monitoring feature provides vehicle owners with insights into energy usage, enabling them to determine how much energy they are using to charge their vehicle and the electricity cost over a specified period.
This new partnership will also provide BMW customers with increased access to public charging infrastructure with the inclusion of Pod Point’s extensive network in the BMW Charging service. As a result, in addition to the 14,000+ UK chargepoints already offered to customers through included networks (including bp pulse and IONITY), Pod Point bring over 6,200 additional charging bays thereby increasing BMW Charging access to over 70%* coverage across the UK.
Daniel Elliott, eMobility Product Manager at BMW UK said “We’re really pleased to announce our new relationship with Pod Point. They excel at providing reliable, easy to use home charging products with a proven reputation for delivering outstanding customer service. Furthermore, the inclusion of Pod Point’s public charging network within BMW Charging further cements BMW’s focus on creating easy and convenient access to public charging, anywhere, using just the BMW Charging Card or My BMW App.”
Commenting on the partnership, Erik Fairbairn, Founder and CEO of Pod Point said: “We’re delighted to be working with BMW as a preferred chargepoint supplier. BMW has won praise for having some of the best electric cars on the market with its models consistently lauded for efficiency and range, and we’re excited about the electric vehicles it will bring to market in the coming months.”
The partnership supports BMW Group’s transformation towards sustainable mobility. This year, including pre-production vehicles, BMW Group will already have 15 fully-electric models in production and by the end of 2025, the company will have more than two million fully-electric vehicles on the road, worldwide.