Category: BMW News
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.
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.
For more information or to register your interest, click here.
A former Clitheroe Grammar School student has won through to the world final of a prestigious amateur golf tournament.
21 year-old Louis Barrett, from Wilpshire, will represent Bowker BMW in Blackburn at the BMW Golf Cup International in South Africa in March 2020.
The Royal Lytham and St Anne’s and Clitheroe Golf Club member beat more than 25 amateur golfers from throughout the UK at the national final in St Andrews.
Playing off a handicap of five, Louis managed to score 37 points in difficult, windy conditions, eventually winning by two points.
Louis will now compete amongst 150 finalists from over 50 countries for a chance of winning the coveted title on the Fancourt Golf Resort.
Now in its 37th year, over 100,000 golfers have competed in earlier rounds of the BMW Golf Cup globally.
For Bowker BMW Chris Eccles said:
“We are all sports fans here at Bowker. And many of our staff and customers are keen golfers. That’s why we’ve been so pleased to follow Louis’ success in this year’s competition.
“It’s an incredible achievement. Louis’ performances throughout the competition have caught the eye. And the dealership is proud that one of our customers will be representing Bowker BMW Centre in Blackburn on such a prestigious global stage.”
Louis is the second golfer representing Bowker BMW to make it through to the national final at St Andrews in as many years. Last year, Elaine Hough, from Newton, qualified to represent the region thanks to successive victories at Pleasington and Royal Birkdale.
Andrew Holden, who works at Bowker BMW and MINI in Blackburn, has been honoured as the best Motability specialist in the country.
The award recognised Andrew as the best from over 18,000 motability specialists in the country. It acknowledges consistently high standards of service and support to customers of the Motability Car Scheme throughout 2018.
What is Motability?
The Motability Scheme is the UK’s leading car scheme for disabled people. It provides affordable, convenient, worry-free motoring to over 600,000 disabled customers and their families.
Andrew joined Bowker over five years ago, but has over 15 years experience in the role at dealerships throughout East Lancashire. Last year, Andrew was commended as one of the top two Motability specialists in the country.
Andrew said:
“I was commended last year. And that was a proud achievement. So to go one better this year has been a wonderful surprise. I work hard to help our motability customers enjoy the very best options that the scheme has to offer.
“In many cases we see time and time again how a car transforms our customers’ quality of life. So it’s a particularly rewarding part of the motoring retail industry. And I’m proud to be a part of it.”
The Motability Scheme Dealer Awards
The Motability Scheme Dealer Awards programme rewards best practice and ensures customers receive exemplary customer service across the nationwide car dealer network.
With prizes available across nine categories, the awards are judged on how a dealer delivers the Scheme to customers, and is assessed by customer feedback and reviews of their Motability Scheme performance.
Richard Povey, dealer development manager – Dealer Relations at Motability Operations Ltd, said:
“We are extremely proud of the achievements all our winners, including Andrew at Bowker BMW and MINI, have achieved. It’s great to see the high level of service delivered by our dealer network and we are pleased to present the latest 2019 Dealer Awards. The annual Awards allow us to thank dealers for providing consistently positive customer service, highlighting those who are doing it well and encouraging others to do the same.
“It is a testament to the outstanding standard, professional approach, and expert knowledge of Andrew at Bowker BMW and MINI that he has been recognised as a winning specialist – congratulations to him for his well-deserved 2019 Dealer Award.”
The electric car is set to go far …
We’re talking about the future of motoring here and, as usual, BMW leads the way.
The wonderful BMW i3 is a gem; whether you’re trying to eco-nomise, be eco-friendlier or simply fancy owning a very clever machine.
For many motorists the electric car remains a mystery and for those who always err towards the tried and tested, it could even be seen as a trip into the unknown.
Well, it’s time to put minds at rest; so, hop in and enjoy the ride.
FACT. An electric car saves you money. The BMW i3 costs considerably less to run than comparable petrol/diesel vehicles. Based on 10k miles per annum, we’re talking around £1.5k a year.
FACT. Cheaper to maintain too … electric motors have fewer than 20 moving parts and the engine helps by applying the braking system automatically and significantly whenever your foot leaves the accelerator. This all makes for lower maintenance costs against a fossil fuel vehicle.
FACT. There are tax and other financial advantages too with a UK Government grant (individuals) and tax benefits (businesses) for anyone investing in cars of the electric variety. Potential savings of up to £3,500 per vehicle.
FACT. Numerous environmental plusses. Always a considerate manufacturer, BMW has been in the top 20 global most sustainable corporations in the world since 2013. The BMW i3 uses renewable energy in a factory specifically built for this vehicle. The carbon fibre in the car is produced with 100% renewable energy and 25% of the thermoplastics have been replaced with recycled thermoplastics and renewable raw materials.
The extensive use of kenaf in the interior also reduces the weight of the BMW i3. Kenaf is harvested from mallow plants which convert CO2 into oxygen at an above-average rate. The natural seat coverings are breathable and help regulate the temperature between the driver and the seat.
So, if you’re serious about reducing your carbon footprint, the BMW i3 produces half of the CO2 of the cleanest non-electric car on the market.
But what about the drive itself and those niggling issues about so-called ‘range anxiety’? Questions like: Is it difficult to charge? Where do I find a charging point? Will I be stuck if there’s a traffic hold-up? Will the performance fall short of what I’m used to?
First off, the BMW i3’s all-electric motor delivers an astonishingly high level of torque, giving rapid acceleration from 0-62 mph in around 7seconds (In fact, it offers the fastest 0-30 mph performance in the entire BMW range!). Not just response either; an ultra-smooth ride and an engine so quiet it’s almost silent.
A remote ‘app’ enables ultimate access to the car from your smartphone. You can even set the app to charge your vehicle and pre-condition the interior temperature before your next journey, to maximise battery efficiency.
As for charging….
Let’s assume that you are a driver with a 20-miles-per-day need. Such demand will use up just 13% of battery and require that you charge only once per week.
A full charge takes about 6 hours from a home charge point (80% of BMW drivers only ever charge at home) with a public rapid charge taking under an hour.
If you need a top-up when out and about, there are already more than 5,000 charging locations and 17, 000 charging points in the UK.
Our region is well covered – you can even leave the i3 charging while doing the weekly shop (Booths supermarkets have recently installed charging points on some of their car parks).
Oh, forgot to mention that a charge will see you motoring ‘free from anxiety’ for around 176 miles on the eco setting. Apart from holidays or a particularly long business trip, how many of us do more than that a day?
Driving the BMW i3 – attractive styling, quirky features (the doors open a bit like a James Bond car), responsive handling and surprising speed off the mark – is a delight.
But my view (while hopefully accurate and well considered) is one thing; this is a car you really need to experience for yourself.
So, go on and try it – a single test drive will not only alleviate your concerns but also leave you wanting more.
Why not be part of the future, now?
A Lancashire golfer has become the first competitor from the county to represent the UK at the final of world’s largest amateur golf competition in over 25 years.
Over 100,000 golfers had competed in earlier rounds of the the BMW Golf Cup globally. But, Elaine Hough, from Newton, was one of only 109 team players to take part in the World Final in George, South Africa earlier this month.
Elaine was invited to take part in the tournament by Bowker BMW in Preston. She then qualified to represent the UK thanks to successive victories at Pleasington, Royal Birkdale, and St Andrews.
For Bowker BMW Tom Fox said: “Our annual golfing events are amongst the most popular and well supported. For Elaine, no shortage of skill and determination has delivered a wonderful sporting experience that will no doubt stay with her forever.
“It’s an incredible achievement. Elaine’s performances throughout the competition have been outstanding. And the dealership is proud that one of our customers has represented the Bowker BMW Centre on such a prestigious global stage.”
In the final, Elaine’s three-person UK team were the highest placed European country, finishing 5th overall with 272 points. Thailand defended the title they won last year in Dubai (UAE) with 328 points, ahead of team Malaysia (305) and team China (290).
The BMW Golf Cup World Final was contested on Montagu and Outeniqua golf courses, designed by golfing legend Gary Player.
From September 2018, all cars must have been homologated under the new WLTP (Worldwide Hamonized Light Vehicles Test Procedure) test cycle which is designed to better replicate real life driving conditions.
BMW Group has now published revised fuel economy and emissions data for its entire range of vehicles in accordance with the new test procedure (WLTP). This means the full range of BMW and MINI vehicles sold in the UK is now fully compliant with the new test regime well ahead of the deadline.
The new testing procedure of WLTP is based on an approximation of the test conditions to real-world circumstances, which means that the values determined will also have a greater relevance to reality. Among the changes this involves are redefined, significantly stricter test conditions and higher speeds together with a substantially longer test duration (30 instead of 20 minutes).
To obtain a more precise determination of CO2 emissions, the new test procedure includes not only standard equipment – as was previously the case – but also all optional equipment of a vehicle. This produces two values for each type of vehicle: the lowest and highest possible standard consumption value according to aerodynamics, weight and rolling resistance.
Thanks to WLTP, you will be able to better assess a vehicle’s consumption and CO2 emissions in the future. In the case of a specific vehicle configuration, the individual standard value will be indicated directly.
Despite the more stringent test requirements, the BMW range has increased on average by just 8g/km while the MINI average increase is just 5g/km.* BMW’s market-leading electric and plug-in hybrid range performed particularly well with the top-selling BMW 530e Saloon increasing by just 3 grams to 49g/km.
Customers can have confidence that the full range of BMW Group vehicles is compliant with the new testing requirements and offers a more compelling value proposition than ever. Buyers can also be sure that the figures supplied for all our vehicles are future-proof providing certainty in terms of future cost.
Award-winning Lancashire luxury restaurant and hotel, Northcote, has taken delivery of a new hybrid electric BMW from Bowker Motor Group.
The new BMW 2 Series Active Tourer PHEV will be put to work between the four-red-AA-star, 26-bedroom Northcote hotel in Langho featuring the Michelin star Northcote restaurant; and Café Northcote at Blackburn Cathedral.
And there may even be match day duties for Northcote at the Rovers which runs the corporate hospitality at Blackburn Rovers football stadium.
Craig Bancroft, Northcote managing director, said: “We are delighted with the arrival of the new BMW 2 Series Active Tourer which is already hard at work throughout Lancashire transporting guests as they arrive and leave or use local amenities.
“The electric hybrid engine is good news for the environment. But, above all, the agreement represents the best of two Lancashire businesses working together and continues the close working relationship between Bowker and Northcote.”
The arrival of the new hybrid BMW maintains Northcote’s focus on sustainability which was recognised in 2015 with the award of Three Star Sustainability Champion status. Northcote has two publicly-available electric car charging points. And has previously driven two all-electric BMW i3’s.
For Bowker Motor Group, Chris Eccles said: “Northcote and Bowker Motor Group share many of the same customers. But we also share many of the same business values too. Working together in partnership like this can only benefit all parties.”
Seven members of the management team at Bowker Motor Group are in training to take part in this year’s Asda Foundation Burnley 10K.
Bowker BMW, MINI and aftersales on the Blackburn site will all be represented.
Now in its sixth year, the Burnley 10K race begins and finishes in Towneley Park, outside Towneley Hall in Burnley, on Sunday July 15th.
Bowker Blackburn managing director Chris Eccles, who is also taking part, said: “Everyone in the management team decided to enter together. We work hard. So we wanted an opportunity to team build and de-stress a little!
“We have a good mix of enthusiasts and novices. And what we lack in ability we make up for in spirit! We’re organising joint training events and encouraging each other with some healthy online banter. It’s a great event and we can’t wait to get started on the day.”
Bowker Motor Group has enlisted the help of Jamie Kennedy at Burnley-based Fitness Experience with some assistance with training and nutrition. All the competitors will be monitored using a digital smartphone app and offered tailored advice in the build up to the race.
Chris added: “We’ll take any help we can get! Many of our staff live in Burnley so it means a lot to support a local community event. We just hope we do everyone proud.”
Earlier this year Bowker Motor Group became official vehicle supplier of Burnley FC in the Community (BFCitC); sourcing a fleet of four vehicles. Bowker Motor Group also sponsored the charity’s annual fundraising dinner in April.
Bowker 10K fundraising page can be found at https://www.justgiving.com/teams/Bowker10kRunners
Do you claim a car allowance? Whatever your budget and lifestyle, Bowker can help choose the best option for you, writes Victoria Bamber.
Affordable, luxurious, stylish, practical, whatever your preference, it’s likely Bowker Preston has the perfect BMW model for you.
Located on Preston Docks, Bowker Preston BMW offer the very latest and greatest in innovative car design. Providing a range of models and bespoke finance packages to suit all requirements, the convenient location and established family-run business gives Lancashire drivers a wide range of BMW models in the heart of the city. The Bowker customer journey begins here.
Using a high level of skill, experience and expertise; the award-winning team at Bowker offer friendly, helpful and professional advice in a relaxed setting. With no pressure to purchase; product specialists are available to talk through all the models and accessories available, helping make the right choice to meet each individual’s needs and requirements. Bowker also encourages all potential customers to take advantage of a test drive in their choice of BMW as they want everyone to feel happy in their buying process.
“Car showrooms can be intimidating places,” explains Paul Crowhurst, corporate sales manager at Bowker Preston BMW. “As well as being incredibly exciting, we understand that buying a car can be highly pressurised and nerve wracking. At Bowker BMW, we aim to make the experience as enjoyable, stress-free and memorable as possible. Whatever model of BMW you are considering, we can guarantee the highest level of service and satisfaction.”
As well as a vast range of approved used and new BMW models to browse, Bowker also offer finance plans to suit both business and retail needs. Taking into account a customer’s lifestyle, as well as their budget and specifications, the team tailor packages as required and provide additional products such as the Bowker Service Plan which lets you spread the discounted cost of your servicing for up to three years, by paying monthly by direct debit, in the same way you would pay your household bills.
When the time comes for your BMW to require a service, you can wait in the comfort of the customer lounge, take advantage of the free local collection and delivery service or stay on the move with a courtesy car.
Once the team at Bowker BMW have helped select the perfect car and talked carefully through the finance packages – ensuring the range of benefits are detailed before purchase – Bowker BMW’s specialist finance team will then monitor the agreement throughout its duration to ensure everyone has the best possible vehicle for their budget. All Bowker customers are also welcome to visit at any time for an individual finance health check; a reassuring prospect for all buyers.
Bowker BMW on the docks in Preston has been awarded BMW Sales Retailer of the Year 2017, beating more than 150 other BMW Centres across the UK.
The award recognises Bowker Preston for exceptional sales performance.
The award for BMW Sales Retailer of the Year was presented at a glittering ceremony in London hosted by television presenter Claudia Winkleman.
Tom Fox, Bowker BMW Preston managing director said: “We are delighted to receive this national award. It reflects our sales team’s blend of commitment and enterprise. But above all, we work hard to focus on our customers’ needs in all we do. So we are especially grateful for their support of Bowker throughout this award-winning year and beyond.”
The Preston victory makes it back-to-back years of national award-winning recognition for Bowker Motor Group.
As well as picking up BMW Sales Retailer of the Year, last year, Bowker BMW in Blackburn was crowned BMW UK Aftersales Retailer of the Year. The award recognised the retailer’s consistent aftersales performance across a wide selection of criteria including parts retailing; sales achievement; and customer satisfaction.
Also last year, Bowker Preston opened a new 30-ramp aftersales facility in Preston. The Bowker Aftersales Centre is the largest of its kind in north west of England.
Bowker Blackburn Dedicates Refurbished BMW Centre Re-opening to Amateur Rugby Unsung Heroes.
Three Blackburn Rugby Club volunteer coaches have officially reopened the newly-refurbished Bowker BMW Centre on Trident Way in Blackburn.
Martin Gaffey, Nick Koncsol and Chris Ham have coached Blackburn Rugby Club Mini rugby teams for a combined total of more than 20 years. In that time, Martin and Nick have both taken teams through from the Minis all the way to Colts (Under 19s) winning four Lancashire County trophies along the way.
And the three coaches were VIPs for the day – officially re-opening Bowker BMW in Blackburn after a £1 million refurbishment.
For Bowker Blackburn, Chris Eccles said: “We enjoy a great relationship with Blackburn Rugby Club, and have done for several years. We wanted to acknowledge the wonderful work volunteers do to make such a difference to the lives of young rugby players in Blackburn. So we dedicated our re-opening celebration to them. And we were delighted they could be our VIPs for the day.”
The celebration on Saturday April 28th and Sunday April 29th included prosecco and craft beer from Burnley brewer Moorhouses; a bouncy castle; car wash supporting Child Action NW; prize draws for stays at the new 1823 Spinning Block Hotel and Storrs Hall Hotel; and a display of classic and rare BMWs and a Hog Roast.
Local Lancashire contractors JK Beardsworth and Speakmans delivered the million pound refurbishment. The enhancements have transformed the customer experience with a new open plan design; upgraded customer spaces with free wifi; and, a mezzanine administration area.
The main showroom concourse now has electric powered bays that mean customers can experience the full range of interactive digital features available in the latest BMW models. There are even ipads alongside each car with access to interactive information.
For Blackburn Rugby Club Tony White said: “It was lovely to be part of Bowker BMW celebrations, and enjoy the VIP hospitality in the dealership over the weekend. Coaching young rugby players is a labour of love but very rewarding.
“Thanks to the hard work of volunteer coaches, many of our senior players started out in Mini Rugby. Martin and Nick are great examples. Three of their players have represented Lancashire and one has represented the North of England. Their experience working with U9 and U11 players is outstanding for the community.
“And Chris Ham is a coach and the groundsman – looking after four of the best pitches in the North West of England. Our coaches don’t expect any sort of public acknowledgement. But we enjoy it when it comes along!”
Bowker BMW on Trident Park in Blackburn has been crowned BMW UK Aftersales Retailer of the Year.
Bowker beat more than 150 other BMW retailers throughout the UK. The Aftersales Retailer of the Year award recognises the retailer’s consistent aftersales performance across a wide selection of criteria including parts retailing; sales achievement; and customer satisfaction.
The win was announced at the BMW UK Retailer Awards in Barcelona on 27 January 2017. The event hosted by TV’s Gethin Jones in front of hundreds of invited guests from throughout Europe; the new official launch of the BMW 5 Series.
The award was presented by BMW UK aftersales director Richard Price.
Bowker Blackburn managing director Chris Eccles, who collected the award in person, said: “The Aftersales Retailer of the Year is one of the most sought after awards amongst BMW centres in the UK. It covers everything from customer feedback through to important commercial performance indicators.
“Not only have we reached a high standard; but we’ve delivered consistently throughout the year. This is a wonderful compliment to our staff who have worked so hard. We are especially grateful to them and to all our customers; customers who chose to share such positive feedback about their experiences here at Bowker.”
Bowker Blackburn is one of the most awarded BMW centres in the country: In 2014 the centre won the BMW Retailer of the Year Award for Corporate Sales. And, business development manager Richard Cowell was acknowledged as Local Hero by BMW UK.
In 2013, managing director, Chris Eccles became the first person in history to hold the Dealer Principal of the Year title in both the Motor Trader Awards and AM awards simultaneously.
In the same year Chris was confirmed as one of three national Managers of the Year in the annual BMW Excellence in Sales competition. And corporate account manager Paul Bamford was announced as BMW Leasing Star of the Year for best customer service to the leasing industry.
Also in 2013, BMW Corporate Finance has placed the team first for local business sales for the fourth year in a row.
An executive at Bowker BMW and MINI on Trident Park in Blackburn has been honoured as the best Motability specialist in the country.
45 year-old Andrew Holden from Oswaldtwistle received the award at a presentation at the Bowker BMW centre in May.
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.
The Motability Scheme is the UK’s leading car scheme for disabled people. It provides affordable, convenient, worry-free motoring to over 600,000 disabled customers and their families.
Andrew joined Bowker over five years ago but has over 15 years experience in the role at dealerships throughout East Lancashire. Last year Andrew was commended as one of the top two Motability specialist in the country.
Andrew said: “I was commended last year. And that was a proud achievement. So to go one better this year has been a wonderful surprise. I work hard to help our motability customers enjoy the very best options that the scheme has to offer.
“In many cases we see time and time again how a car transforms our customers’ quality of life. So it’s a particularly rewarding part of the motoring retail industry. And I’m proud to be a part of it.”
The Motability Scheme Dealer Awards programme rewards best practice and ensures customers receive exemplary customer service across the nationwide car dealer network.
With prizes available across nine categories, the awards are judged on how a dealer delivers the Scheme to customers, and is assessed by customer feedback and reviews of their Motability Scheme performance.
Richard Povey, dealer development manager – Dealer Relations at Motability Operations Ltd, said: “We are extremely proud of the achievements all our winners, including Andrew at Bowker BMW and MINI, have achieved. It’s great to see the high level of service delivered by our dealer network and we are pleased to present the latest 2019 Dealer Awards. The annual Awards allow us to thank dealers for providing consistently positive customer service, highlighting those who are doing it well and encouraging others to do the same.
“It is a testament to the outstanding standard, professional approach, and expert knowledge of Andrew at Bowker BMW and MINI that he has been recognised as a winning specialist – congratulations to him for his well-deserved 2019 Dealer Award.”
Burnley FC in the Community has marked the fundraising success of a Lancashire car dealership boss with a player appearance and signed shirt presentation.
Burnley FC players James Tarkowski and Matt Lowton presented Bowker Motor Group managing director Chris Eccles with the signed shirt.
Chris personally raised £390 for Burnley FC in the Community when he completed this year’s Asda Foundation Burnley 10K running race. It was the highest individual sum raised from over 40 running the 10K .
The management team at Bowker Motor Group raised a group total of over £1,000 despite eleventh hour injuries to two of the Bowker team. The remaining five – representing Bowker BMW, MINI and Aftersales – all completed the course.
For Burnley FC in the Community, Marketing and Events Officer, Sinead Kennedy-Peers said: “The signed Burnley FC Shirt prize was a fun incentive to encourage our runners. We wanted to say thank you to everyone who was training so hard and running through the pain barrier for Burnley FC in the Community.
“Congratulations to Chris and his team at Bowker. We know how hard they all worked in training and raising money on our behalf. And we really appreciate it.”
The sixth annual Burnley 10K race took place on Sunday July 15th, beginning and finishing in Towneley Park, outside Towneley Hall in Burnley.
Bowker Motor Group enlisted the help of Jamie Kennedy at Burnley-based Fitness Experience with some assistance with training and nutrition. All the competitors were monitored using a digital smartphone app and offered tailored advice in the build up to the race.
Bowker Blackburn managing director Chris Eccles said: “A big thank you for this gift. We all loved being part of the 10K challenge. And I am grateful to all the friends, colleagues and customers who supported our efforts.”
Earlier this year Bowker Motor Group became official vehicle supplier of Burnley FC in the Community; sourcing a fleet of four vehicles. Bowker Motor Group also sponsored the charity’s annual fundraising dinner in April.