• Highest sales volume of BMW, MINI and Rolls-Royce vehicles in the region
• Biggest market for Rolls-Royce in the Middle East and among the top five in global sales
Abu Dhabi – Abu Dhabi has become the largest market for BMW Group vehicles in the Middle East, following the announcement of Abu Dhabi Motors’ record-breaking 2010 sales results. The figures were revealed at a press conference held at The Shangri-La Hotel in the capital and attended by high-ranking officials from the BMW Group Middle East and Rolls-Royce Motor Cars Middle East.
The exclusive importer of BMW Group vehicles and sole dealer of Rolls-Royce Motor Cars in Abu Dhabi and Al Ain recorded the largest sales volume and achieved the highest growth in the Middle East. In addition they were placed among the top five markets for Rolls-Royce in the world.
Abu Dhabi Motors recorded sales of 3,616 BMW and MINI vehicles in 2010, a growth of 39% over the previous year. The success comes on the back of an active year for Abu Dhabi Motors in which a host of new models were launched, including the BMW Gran Turismo, 5 Series, X1, X5 and ActiveHybrid models of the BMW 7 Series and X6. The importer was also the top seller for BMW Motorrad motorcycles in the Middle East, selling 64 models.
The results also confirm that Abu Dhabi Motors is the biggest-selling dealer of Rolls-Royce Motor Cars in the Middle East and among the top five dealers in the world, boasting the richest bespoke specifications. The exclusive dealer celebrated the end of 2010 by receiving two exclusive bespoke models inspired by the climate and heritage of the Gulf - the Pearl of Arabia Rolls-Royce Phantom, and the Arizona Sun Rolls-Royce Ghost.
Further highlighting its commitment to customer care, Abu Dhabi Motors also recorded the highest BMW customer satisfaction results in sales in the Middle East for 2010.
Arno Husselmann, General Manager at Abu Dhabi Motors said: “Customers in Abu Dhabi demand excellence in their luxury vehicle purchases, from the brands, models and specifications they choose through to the aftersales service they can call upon afterwards. Abu Dhabi Motors has never compromised on its core value of providing these customers with quality and care at every stage of the purchasing process, and it is this dedication that has seen us overtake competing markets to become the top market in the Middle East.”
“However, we also understand that the only thing harder than reaching the top is staying there, and we are ready to face that challenge in 2011 with a host of new and exciting models including the new BMW 6 Series, BMW X3 and MINI Countryman, the first ever four-wheel drive MINI,” he added.
Abu Dhabi Motors was also the biggest seller of BMW Premium Selection, the BMW Group’s approved used-car programme, with 445 vehicles sold, an increase of 24% over the previous year. “The success of the BMW Premium Selection Programme not only proves the quality of the program but also the high resale value of BMW vehicles compared to their competitors in the luxury segment,” added Husselmann.
The sales results culminate a milestone year for Abu Dhabi Motors, in which it announced the opening of a multimillion dollar redevelopment and expansion to the Umm-Al-Nar Showroom which includes a dedicated MINI and BMW Premium Selection showroom for used cars.
Abu Dhabi Motors also announced that it has moved its Rolls-Royce operations to a new a 894 square meter building in Umm Al Nar, comprised of state of the art facilities and a showroom floor capable of displaying five cars.
12.01.2011
BMW Group importer for Abu Dhabi brings all-new BMW Motorrad model G 650 GS to the capital
Weighing just 192 kg, BMW G 650 GS delivers an impressive 35 kW (48 bhp) at 6,500 rpm
Abu Dhabi – The BMW G 650 GS, one of the world’s most popular and versatile single-cylinder motorbikes, has arrived at Abu Dhabi Motors, the exclusive importer of BMW Motorrad motorcycles in Abu Dhabi and Al Ain.
The eagerly-anticipated model, part of BMW’s 2011 enduro range of motorcycles, was launched last November at the Milan Motorcycle Show (EICMA), where it drew praise for its lean and athletic off-road stature.
Robust and powerful, the G 650 GS boasts an engine that delivers an impressive 35 kW (48 bhp) at 6,500 rpm and maximum torque of 60 Nm at 5000 rpm, yet is still extremely light at 192 kg making it ideal for beginners due to its low fuel consumption and simple handling.
Aggressively engineered for unrelenting performance in harsh environments, the new G 650 GS uses the reliable, high torque, and low consumption single-cylinder engine with 652 cc displacement. The body of the new BMW bike, developed to easily face country roads, features an unmistakable front section that makes the G 650 GS light, sporty and dynamic.
"As the most popular dual purpose single-cylinder in its category, the BMW G 650 GS has become the standard upon which single-cylinder dual purpose motorcycles are judged. Whether on the road, around the town, or on the gravel track, this machine can handle any terrain and gets you your full money's worth when it comes to riding pleasure," said Arno Husselmann, General Manager of Abu Dhabi Motors.
The new G 650 GS also excels through features and qualities typical of BMW such as a long running life, superior quality of production and optimum environmental compatibility thanks to the use of its advanced exhaust management.
"We place a huge emphasis on providing our customers with the latest and most advanced in driving machines, and the BMW G 650 GS takes this to a whole new level. We look forward to welcoming our customers for test rides so they can see what this new model can do," Husselman added.
The new BMW enduro's fittings include comfortable hand protectors, an aluminium engine guard, steel crash bars and practical Vario cases. Special equipment features make the machine safer than ever, with a centre stand offering enhanced standing stability and ABS to prevent the tyres from blocking.
The model joins Abu Dhabi Motors’ extensive range of BMW Motorrad Motorcycles, including the BMW S1000 RR, R 1200 GS, and the GS Adventure.
25.01.2011
Following on from its successful debut at the Paris Motor Show in October 2010, the all new BMW X3 has made its debut in the Middle East. Entering a new era in driving dynamics and innovative technology, the second generation model arrives seven years after the world’s most successful premium automotive manufacturer introduced its original X3 Sports Activity Vehicle.
With a totally redesigned exterior and interior, the new X3 model is instantly recognisable as a member of the BMW X family that includes the popular BMW X6, X5 and X1 models.
Recently named ‘Off Roader of the Year 2011’ just weeks after its German launch by Off Road magazine, one of the most important and traditional reader polls in Germany, the new BMW X3 is expected to strengthen BMW’s strong position in the SAV segment with the latest in automotive innovation and technological development.
Commenting on the latest BMW model to arrive in the Middle East, Reiner Braun, Director of Sales and Marketing, BMW Group Middle East said: “The new BMW X3 is a versatile vehicle that now shares many of the design characteristics found in our hugely popular X5 model. With the new sportier design, additional spaciousness and innovative technology that includes the most fuel efficient engines in its class, we expect this new model to build on our successful X model story and contribute to a fruitful year for us in 2011.”
Design
The new striking design accentuations convey urban elegance and versatility. The combination of a flat front and a high rear end indicate the vehicle’s sporting characteristics, whilst the forward-slanting BMW kidney grille, large headlights, powerful looking front apron and the distinctive contoured bonnet signalize self-assured presence. The side view of the new BMW X3 is characterised by a unique interpretation of typical BMW X design features, including powerfully flared wheel arches and the short distance between the front axle and instrument panel.
The modern, high-quality interior has been ergonomically designed to ensure optimum comfort with an outstanding level of spaciousness and comfortable seating for five people. Sporty elegance is highlighted by technology-oriented styling, including an 8.8 inch high-resolution navigation system, the largest on-board monitor in its segment.
BMW ConnectedDrive
Offering an unparalleled choice of driver assist technology functions and mobility services, BMW ConnectedDrive further enhances the comfort, safety and sheer driving pleasure of the new BMW X3. Features include Head-Up Display with new BMW Night Vision, the automotive world’s first system with individual person detection, making driving at night even safer for both driver and pedestrians.
Active and passive warning systems such as the Lane Change and Lane Departure Warnings ensure that the driver stays within lane limits. In addition, the new BMW X3 also comes with a Parking Assistant, an optional feature that facilitates the process of parking; Active Cruise Control; Surround View and Rear View Camera.
Inside the new BMW X3, it is also an option for owners of select BlackBerry smart phones to gain access to their mobile phone’s e-mails, contact lists, messages and calendar entries which can be shown on the control display and read out via the optional voice output. In addition, Bluetooth Audio Streaming enables the driver to listen to music from an audio player or mobile phone without the need for a cable. The title information for the song appears in the vehicle display and can be selected and accessed via the iDrive Controller.
Performance
The second generation model will be available in the Middle East with two new six-cylinder engine variants boasting twin-turbo technology and an eight-speed automatic transmission: the xDrive35i and xDrive 28i. The top-of-the-range xDrive 35i engine with 306bhp enables the X3 to sprint from 0 to 100 km/h in just 5.7 seconds; the average fuel consumption is just 8.8 litres per 100 km and CO₂ emissions of 204g p/km making the X3 class-leading in terms of performance and fuel efficiency.
BMW EfficientDynamics
The new BMW X3 has been designed around BMW’s robust EfficientDynamics strategy that encompasses many technology innovations to offer outstanding performance and a reduction in fuel consumption and CO2 emission. In addition, the BMW X3 comes with brake energy regeneration, EPS Electric Power Steering, demand-controlled ancillary components, intelligent lightweight construction and tyres with reduced rolling resistance that all contribute towards lowering fuel consumption and exhaust emission levels.
The new BMW X3 is now available at all BMW importer showrooms across the Middle East, and offers an unrivalled array of design and performance options that raise the bar for all vehicles within its segment even higher.
14.02.2011
The new third generation BMW 6 Series has made its debut in the Middle East, over thirty years after the world’s most successful premium automotive manufacturer launched the first BMW 6 Series model.
Arriving in the region this month, the new BMW 6 Series Convertible has a new interior and exterior design and comes with a wealth of new technology highlights that distinguish the new car from the predecessor model. Offering stylish design, outstanding performance, luxury and sheer driving pleasure, the latest generation model is expected to set trends in the premium car segment.
Design
Although the new BMW 6 Series retains its strong characteristic lines, it has been restyled with a refined modern design. Some new characteristics include a “shark nose” in its front end design giving the car a sense of surging forward, while a broad air intake, strikingly contoured bonnet and muscular wheel arches hint at its powerful engine technology and impressive road holding promise. Meanwhile the luxurious atmosphere of the interior is highlighted by the driver-oriented set up and offers individually tailored seats for the driver, front and rear passengers.
The roof of the new BMW 6 Series Convertible takes just 19 seconds to open and closes within 24 seconds. Both operations can be activated while on the move at speeds of up to 40 km/h.
High-class functionality is underlined prominently in the updated and redesigned Control Display with the iDrive control system. High-quality materials, carefully coordinated colours and, once again, meticulously formed surfaces combine to produce an ambience defined by luxury in the new BMW 6 Series Convertible.
BMW ConnectedDrive
The progressive character of the new BMW 6 Series Convertible is emphasised with numerous BMW ConnectedDrive optional driver assistance technology features for enhanced comfort and safety, some of these include: rear-view camera; Surround View; BMW Night Vision with pedestrian recognition; and BMW Park Assistant. In addition, the new BMW 6 Series Convertible is the only car in its segment available with a full colour Head-Up Display which projects driving-related information onto the windscreen within the driver’s direct field of view.
Owners of select BlackBerry smart phones can also access the phone's office function via the operating system iDrive. A new Bluetooth interface that integrates the BlackBerry device into the vehicle enables e-mails, contact lists, messages and calendar entries to be received and displayed on the Control Display and even read out by means of an optional voice output function. In addition, Bluetooth Audio Streaming enables the driver to listen to music from an audio player or mobile phone without the need for a cable. The title information for the song appears in the vehicle display and can be selected and accessed via the iDrive Controller.
Performance
The new BMW 6 Series Convertible is available in the Middle East with two engine variants: 650i and 640i, which offer more power and more fuel efficiency than their predecessors. The eight-cylinder power unit in the BMW 650i Convertible produces 407 hp and the BMW 640i Convertible generates 320 hp. Both engines come with BMW TwinPower Turbo power, direct fuel injection and VALVETRONIC technologies team up as standard with an eight-speed Sports automatic gearbox.
Drive Dynamic Control which allows the driver to choose from a range of pre-programmed suspension settings comes as standard, while the Adaptive Drive which helps stabilize the vehicle around corners ensures the premium comfort, safety and driving pleasure for the driver.
Commenting on the launch, Reiner Braun, Director of Sales and Marketing, BMW Group Middle East said: “Our Convertible models are important for the company as they reiterate the athletic appeal and sportiness of the brand. The new generation 6 Series will add a new chapter to a tradition of impressive open-top cars that stretches back decades - and we have no doubt that it will be a popular addition to our Middle East portfolio.”
The new BMW 6 Series Convertible is available at BMW importers across the Middle East and will be joined by the new BMW 6 Series Coupé in the second half of 2011.
01.03.2011
Abu Dhabi –Following the success of the 27th GCC Traffic Week in Abu Dhabi, last week, more than 2,000 families were encouraged to buckle up thanks to BMW’s ongoing ‘Stay Alert. Stay Alive.’ campaign initiative. Abu Dhabi Motors, the importer for BMW Group, teamed up with Abu Dhabi Police to help continue its award winning road safety campaign during GCC Traffic Week, to encourage families to use seat-belts and child car seats.
Aimed at educating families about the importance of wearing seat-belts and using child safety restraints in cars, BMW together with Abu Dhabi Motors gave away over 2,000 booster cushions to the public visiting the Marina Mall, Abu Dhabi. Children between the ages of 6 and 11 years and weighing between 22kg and 36kg (the internationally recognised safest weights), were eligible for the seats. Other activities included a 3D theatre playing road safety films, a video wall featuring key road safety messages and a simulator test designed specifically to find the UAE’s Safest Driver.
Various other activities also took place throughout the week at Marina Mall and Abu Dhabi Corniche, including a Kids Mini City. Located in the Beach Visitor’s Car Park on the Corniche, the mini city offered children the chance to drive miniature BMW and MINI cars. These ‘Baby Racers’ were aimed to help educate the younger visitors about road safety while adding some fun to their day.
Arno Husselmann, General Manager at Abu Dhabi Motors commented: “We all have a role to play – the government, automotive companies and the general public when it comes to road safety, so our participation is to help create awareness to make the roads safer. The easiest way for drivers and passengers to protect themselves is to buckle-up every time – and we feel we need to work harder on encouraging more people to do so.”
The event which took place in the Capital between 13th-19th March is an annual road safety event that seeks to enhance the safety of all individuals, including motorists and other road users by raising awareness in the community about traffic regulations and measures. Held under the patronage of HH Lieutenant General Sheikh Saif bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Interior, the 27th GCC Traffic Week championed the slogan “Working together to reduce traffic accidents.”
23.03.2011
Official BMW Group importer for Abu Dhabi and Al Ain honoured at Award Ceremony of international dealer competition Excellence in Sales
Highest sales volume in BMW Group Middle East during first quarter of 2011
Abu Dhabi – Following its 25th anniversary celebrations this year, Abu Dhabi Motors has achieved the highest recognition as it was named among the world’s top three BMW dealers and importers at the BMW Group’s Excellence in Sales Award Ceremony, held recently in Munich relating to the selling of new and used cars.
The official BMW Group importer in Abu Dhabi and Al Ain has enjoyed a memorable start to its anniversary year, achieving a growth of 42% during the first quarter of 2011 over the same period in 2010. This follows the achievement that Abu Dhabi is now the biggest market for BMW Group vehicles in the Middle East, following its record-breaking results in 2010, when it achieved sales growth of 39%. Abu Dhabi Motors dominates market share with in excess of 45% segment share in Abu Dhabi and Al Ain.
Founded in 1985 by Sheikh Mohammed Bin Butti Al Hamid in Umm Al-Nar in a small showroom and workshop employing a few people, Abu Dhabi Motors has achieved dramatic growth and now employs over 420 people in eleven facilities in Abu Dhabi and Al Ain, including five showrooms, three workshops, three body shops, one pre-delivery Inspection centre and two car storage warehouses.
Arno Husselmann, General Manager at Abu Dhabi Motors said: “This is a proud achievement for Abu Dhabi Motors – to be named among the top three dealers from 30 BMW markets and over 1200 dealers around the world is testament to the importance and potential of Abu Dhabi as a market.”
“This achievement would not have been possible without the dedication and professional work of our staff in the sales, aftersales, marketing and customer service departments. We would like to dedicate these awards to them and to our customers whose loyalty and appreciation for the BMW Group brands has enabled us to get where we are today. Without our owners’ investments we could not offer our customers the standards and services they deserve,” he added.
Abu Dhabi Motors also recently launched the world’s biggest Rolls-Royce showroom in the Capital and received the 2010 award as the Top After Sales Rolls-Royce Dealer in the world alongside its performance as the best-selling Rolls-Royce Bespoke dealer in the world.
05.05.2011
Abu Dhabi – The new BMW K 1600 GT and GTL, the lightest and most compact 6-cylinder in-line engines in serial motorcycle production, have arrived at Abu Dhabi Motors, the exclusive importer of BMW Motorrad motorcycles in Abu Dhabi and Al Ain.
As the first BMW motorcycles available with a 6-cylinder in-line power unit developed in-house, the new BMW K 1600 GT and GTL have been eagerly-anticipated models since their debut at the Intermot Show in Cologne end of 2010. The two touring motorcycles feature impressive and equally distinctive appearances, creating a desire to ride at first sight.
The extraordinarily powerful GT and GTL boast engines that deliver an impressive 118 kW (160 bhp) at approx. 7500 rpm and a maximum torque of approx 175 Nm at approx. 5000 rpm. This power unit will not only thrill touring enthusiasts but the transversely installed 6-cylinder engine offers outstanding running smoothness, ride comfort and supremacy.
Arno Husselmann, General Manager of Abu Dhabi Motors, said: "For decades, 6-cylinder in-line engines have attracted a special fascination amongst motorcycle fans. In addition to their perfect running smoothness they also offer exceptional output and torque, giving the rider powerful forward thrust.“
“We place huge importance on providing our customers with the latest and most advanced in driving machines, and the BMW K 1600 GT and GTL fulfil this objective . These machines possess the superior design, comfort and ridability qualities which are long admired in touring BMW motorcycles. We look forward to welcoming our customers for test rides so they can see what these new models can do,” he added.
The new K1600 GT and GTL models also excel through features and qualities typical of BMW such as a long running life, superior quality of production and optimum environmental compatibility.
In addition to features such as the three mode engine including "Rain", "Road" and "Dynamic" options, innovative Electronic Suspension Adjustment II (ESA II) and Integrated operating concept with Multi-Controller, TFT colour screen and menu guidance; the new BMW K models introduce the world’s first adaptive xenon headlight for motorcycles allowing for significantly improved illumination of the road when cornering, resulting in greatly increased active riding safety.
In addition to safety, the qualities of comfort, prestige and dynamic performance are the key criteria for a supreme touring bike. With the most compact in-line 6-cylinder engine in serial motorcycle production to date, the K 1600 GT and the K 1600 GTL penetrate a whole new dimension in terms of riding properties, long-distance suitability and comfort. They combine maximum agility and riding dynamics with a luxurious overall package.
The models join Abu Dhabi Motors’ extensive range of BMW Motorrad Motorcycles, including the BMW S1000 RR, R 1200 GS, and the GS Adventure and the recently introduced BMW Enduro G 650 GS.
10.05.2011
Abu Dhabi – Following its 25th anniversary celebrations this year, Abu Dhabi Motors, the exclusive importer of BMW Group vehicles in Abu Dhabi and Al Ain, has announced the launch of a special iPhone Application for its customers in the UAE. The application offers a convenient and personalised method of viewing Abu Dhabi Motors products, services and contacts at the click of a button.
Furthering the BMW Group’s focus on finding new and innovative ways to connect driver, vehicle and showroom, the application eases the customers access to Abu Dhabi Motors’ staff through location maps for BMW showrooms, and contact information of all staff members. In addition, the application features an iCatalogue function, which allows the user to browse through Abu Dhabi Motors’ complete product range, including new cars as well as cars for sale from BMW Premium Selection, BMW’s pre-owned car programme, and BMW Accessories.
Furthermore, the application enables the user to receive updates on events and promotions, BMW Performance-enhancing packages, which enhance the cars as well as a detailed description of the BMW Service Inclusive Ultimate package.
“We are committed to providing our customers with the most convenient and efficient service that reflects the premium nature of the BMW brand. We continue to invest in innovation and added value services for our customers, and the iPhone application is an extension of this,” said Arno Husselmann, General Manager at Abu Dhabi Motors.
“Customer feedback is also an extremely valuable tool for Abu Dhabi Motors, and the application offers the opportunity to fill out a brief survey on either a sales or service consultant within the company, with a simple click of a button. This ensures that we have the insight to keep our customer service at the highest level,” said Sarah Jane Stilgoe, Marketing Manager at Abu Dhabi Motors.
The BMW ADM iPhone application was developed by Apple SDK 4 to take full advantage of the new features introduced by the iOS 4, and is compatible with iPhone 4, iPhone 3GS, and iPhone 3G. The application is now available on apple app store, through the link below:
http://itunes.apple.com/ae/app/bmw-abu-dhabi-motors-l-l-c/id432876578?mt=8
20.06.2011
Abu Dhabi, UAE: Abu Dhabi Motors, the exclusive importer for BMW Group in Abu Dhabi and Al Ain has affirmed its leading position in the Middle East selling the highest number of BMW, MINI and Rolls-Royce cars during the first six months of the year. BMW and MINI sales in the Capital witnessed, a 30 % increase while Rolls-Royce Motors sales increased by 23% in H1 2011 compared to the first six months of last year, ranking Abu Dhabi Motors as the best selling importer across the Middle East.
BMW
Sales for the BMW brand grew 30% with 2,143 cars delivered to customers. The top-of-the-range models continued to be amongst the best selling with the BMW X6 being the top selling model. 629 X6 cars were sold, an 81% increase followed by the BMW 5 Series with 588 cars sold, 93% increase; BMW X5 389 cars sold, an 7% increase in sales.
Another area of the BMW brand that saw substantial growth for the importer was BMW Premium Selection, the company's approved used-car programme which had an 22% increase in sales.
MINI
The excitement of the MINI brand continues in terms of new product launches and high sales. 104 MINI cars were sold to customers which was a 76% increase in sales. Contributing to the outstanding results was the launch of an all-new MINI Countryman, the first MINI model to feature four doors, four individual seats (a three-seat bench is available at no additional cost), and an optional all-wheel drive.
According to Arno Husselmann, General Manager of Abu Dhabi Motors, MINI sales are expected to increase even further when the new MINI Coupe is e launched in the coming few months.
Rolls-Royce
Rolls-Royce Motor Cars continue to exceed expectations in the market of the Capital Abu Dhabi with 23% sales increase in the first half of 2011. Abu Dhabi Motors achieved outstanding results with its two top selling models Phantom and Ghost, The importer sustained its position as the best performing Rolls-Royce dealer in the Middle East. The sole dealer of Rolls-Royce Motor Cars in Abu Dhabi and Al Ain continues to sell rich Bespoke specifications on all cars in 2011, after ranking number one Bespoke dealer around the world in 2010.
Commenting on the robust performance, Arno Husselmann, General Manager of Abu Dhabi Motors said: "We are extremely proud to have strong growth for all three BMW Group brands and to retain our number one place as the top performing importer amongst 14 other Middle East markets. This further enforces our market leading position after being ranked among the top 3 out of 1200 BMW dealers and importers worldwide in 2010.”
"Our achievement is a result of the vision of the Ruling family which has led to progressive growth in the Capital, the strong BMW Group model portfolio and brand image, our unmatched service and repair package, and the dedication and commitment of the people who work for Abu Dhabi Motors. Collectively, we continue to strive to not only be number one in sales but also across all areas of our business so that we offer our customers a premium and enjoyable experience in sales as well as after sales.
The positive sales results add more reason for Abu Dhabi Motors to continue celebrating its 25th anniversary. Founded in 1985 by Sheikh Mohammed Bin Butti Al Hamid in Umm Al-Nar in a small showroom and workshop employing a few people, Abu Dhabi Motors has achieved dramatic growth and now employs over 420 people in eleven facilities in Abu Dhabi and Al Ain, including five showrooms, three workshops, three body shops, one pre-delivery Inspection centre and two car storage warehouses.
The company is undergoing an ambitious growth plan which features the multimillion dollar expansion of its Umm-Al-Nar Showroom, which will include dedicated BMW, MINI and BPS showrooms, enabling the company to serve an even larger segment of the population.
Overall, BMW Group Middle East has reported a 13% growth in sales for the first half of 2011 compared to the same period last year, the world's most successful premium automotive manufacturer delivered a total of 9,134 BMW and MINI vehicles to customers across 14 Middle East markets. The UAE remains the company's biggest market accounting for 47% of BMW and MINI sales.
12.07.2011
Munich. Thanks to its segment-leading dynamic handling and versatility, the new BMW X3 has emerged as a highly successful model in the international car markets within a matter of months. The fact that it also assumes an exemplary role on the safety front has now been confirmed by Europe’s leading crash test programme. In the latest Euro NCAP crash test, the BMW X3 achieved the highest rating of 5 stars. The second-generation Sports Activity Vehicle earned its top marks in this challenging test for new vehicles thanks to its comprehensive range of standard safety equipment and effective occupant protection in various types of collision.
Achieving the best rating in the Euro NCAP crash test is proof of the very high level of the safety concept developed for the BMW X models. The new BMW X3 boasts an extremely stable body structure, and the forces exerted on the vehicle in a collision are deflected along precisely defined load paths and absorbed by generous deformation zones. Consequently, the passenger cell fulfils its function as a survival space even in serious collisions. Standard safety equipment inside the new BMW X3 includes front, side and curtain head airbags that protect both the driver and the passengers from injury. Also standard are belt latch tensioners and belt force limiters for the front seats and ISOFIX systems in the rear for attaching child seats, as well as the option of deactivating the front passenger airbag. The restraint systems are controlled by the central safety electronics, which take into account the type and severity of an accident to trigger the most effective protective features in each case.
In their evaluation of the crash test results, the assessors concluded that the new BMW X3 provides a high degree of occupant safety in all seats. Its stable passenger cell provides comprehensive injury protection in a front-end collision for both the driver and the passengers, regardless of a person’s size and the position of their seat. Here the Sports Activity Vehicle was awarded outstanding ratings for the protection of children aged around three years or 18 months in the relevant-sized child seats. For its side impact protection, the BMW X3 likewise achieved the maximum available points.
The new BMW X3 earned an outstanding rating for its active safety features as well. The Sports Activity Vehicle comes as standard with the Dynamic Stability Control system (DSC), which is linked to BMW xDrive intelligent all-wheel drive. Thanks to its wide-ranging functions, including Braking Assistant, Cornering Brake Control and the traction mode DTC (Dynamic Traction Control), Dynamic Stability Control ensures easily controllable and secure handling even in challenging driving situations. Further standard features on the BMW X3 include a Tyre Defect Indicator that warns the driver in good time of a loss of pressure in any individual wheel.
The test procedure of the NCAP (New Car Assessment Programme) ranks as one of the most rigorous tests worldwide to which new vehicles are subjected. The Euro NCAP test is a benchmark for crash safety recognised throughout Europe by governments, automobile clubs and consumer associations. The test profile includes, among other aspects, a frontal collision, a side-on crash and a side impact against a steel post. Since 2009, electronic safety features have also been taken into account, along with additional injury risks in a wide range of collisions.
Last year the Munich premium automobile manufacturer was distinguished by the safety testing institute Euro NCAP (European New Car Assessment Programme) with a special award for the BMW Assist Advanced eCall, the advanced emergency call system with automatic localisation and accident severity detection which is also available for the BMW X3.
12.09.2011
Abu Dhabi – Abu Dhabi Motors, the exclusive importer of BMW Group vehicles in Abu Dhabi and Al Ain, has added Akrapovic Exhaust Systems to its product line-up.
In line with Abu Dhabi Motors’ commitment to providing the best in performance-enhancing vehicle options, the addition of the Akrapovic Exhaust Systems brand to the company gives customers the opportunity to avail of the finest exhaust systems available. These systems are popular not only for their performance in cars and motorbikes on track as well as on the roads, but also because of the special edgy sporty look they add to vehicles.
Akrapovic Exhaust Systems were first developed in the early 1990s by motoring champion Igor Akrapovic., and can be used for a wide range of cars that are available in the market. In addition, Akrapovic also offers exhausts that are specifically manufactured for motorbikes.
Commenting on this exciting addition to the Abu Dhabi Motors product range, Arno Husselmann, General Manager at Abu Dhabi Motors, said:: “As the market leader of BMW Group vehicles in the Middle East, we have always maintained a strong focus on further improving and enhancing our customers’ car performance to allow them to express themselves through their vehicles. An exhaust has a significant effect on a car’‘s performance, and is therefore one of the first parts to be changed in a car when modified. Becoming an Akrapovic exhaust systems retailer is part of our commitment to always provide our customers with the best in the market. In addition, the manufacturer’s warranty remains intact which is testament to the quality of engineering and production.”
Akrapovic exhaust systems consist of flow optimized link pipes with 2 x 100 cpsi sports catalysts and integrated resonators as well as newly developed split-end mufflers. Using this exhaust system reduces the overall weight of the car making it quicker and smoother on the roads; it also improves the agility in the lower rpm-range noticeably, and makes the engine stronger in the higher rpm-range. Most importantly, Akrapovic exhaust systems amplify and rectify the beautiful sound of the engine, without appearing invasive or having disadvantages in the daily use.
Abu Dhabi Motors is the official dealer of a host of different performance enhancing vehicle add-ons, including AC Scnitzer, Hamann, G Power and BMW ALPINA in Abu Dhabi and Al Ain.
Akrapovic Exhaust Systems are available at Abu Dhabi Motors on a wide range of vehicles.
19.09.2011
BMW Group Middle East has confirmed that the sixth generation of the new BMW 3 Series sedan – the world's best-selling premium car – will go on sale in the Middle East at the end of February 2012.
Having sold 12.5 million cars since its launch in 1975, the BMW 3 Series continues to be BMW Group's best-selling model series consistently accounting for more than a quarter of the company's global sales. In 2010, every third BMW sold was a 3 Series. The success story of the 3 Series over the past 37 years has made it the world's best-selling premium car.
The new powerful design elements include a new BMW face, with flat headlights reaching along as far as the BMW kidney grille. This emphasises the elegantly dynamic design of the new BMW 3 Series, which has increased in length (+93mm), width (front +37mm, rear +47mm) and wheelbase (+50mm) compared to the predecessor model, giving the car an elegant and athletic silhouette.
Inside the new BMW 3 Series, the noticeable increase in space means significant benefit for the rear passengers. The classic BMW interior surfaces and lines flow over the instrument panel towards the front passenger side of the cabin, where they form a smooth and protective border. The cockpit wraps around the driver and ensures that all important functions are within easy reach.
Drive and chassis technology have always been key areas of expertise for the brand, and agility and driving dynamics remain outstanding attributes of the new BMW 3 Series. A choice of two powerful four-cylinder engines: 335i and 328i with an eight-speed automatic gearbox and TwinPower Turbo technology will be available for the new 3 Series offering more EfficientDynamics technology that make the new 3 Series more economical and lower in pollutant emissions compared to the predecessor model.
BMW EfficientDynamics technology includes the new Driving Experience Control switch which comes with four driving programmes allowing the driver to choose between sporty, ultra sporty, comfortable and extremely economical driving. ECO PRO mode, a new feature on the 3 Series, helps drivers maximise fuel economy through their driving style, thereby enabling them to increase the distance they can travel on each tank of fuel.
Under the umbrella of BMW ConnectedDrive, features that give the driver and passengers information and services to help make their driving experience safer and more comfortable, the new BMW 3 Series offers the latest-generation full-colour Head-Up Display, which projects key information in 3D onto the windscreen so it appears directly in the driver’s field of view. Also available is Surround View with Side View and Top View, which gives a bird’s-eye perspective of the vehicle and the area around it.
Commenting on the soon to be launched new BMW 3 Series, Joerg Breuer, Managing Director, BMW Group Middle East said: "With the global success story of the BMW 3 Series, it's a model that is not only important, but one which makes us feel very proud so launching the latest generation is always a milestone for the company. The new car is bigger, sportier and more dynamic so we are very much looking forward to launching it across the Middle East together with our importers in February 2012."
13.12.2011
BMW Gears Up to...