We visited the BMW Pavillion at the ADA Motorshow,
and while the cars were certainly impressive (the M3 lived up to
expectations) but the display, conceived by designer SIIM, was minimalist
almost Zen-like(aided bythe fact that all except one model was in white; the M3 was white with dark racing trim and ther wasa 330 cabrio done in dark brown with
custom wine red leather seats).
Check back for photo highlights
Saturday, November 24, 2007
Thursday, November 22, 2007
Bimmer gets to 'SIIMer'
Expect bold style at the BMW space at the upcoming Auto Dealers Association (ADA)
Motorshow Sep 23-25
Stewart motros, local dealers ahs retained House of SIIM to handle design of the display area, at which the company is set to formally roll out its 2008 model line, which , as press ads have already indicated, should include the all-new M3. The new M has been a screamer in the overseas auto press and should resonate with local speed and style addicts (provided they're well-heeled)
Sunday, November 18, 2007
BMW Jamaica & ADA Motorshow: Best Kept secrets?
A quick visit to the BMW Jamaica website shows that the folks at Stewart Motors
have no links or news in relation tothe Auto Dealers Associaiton (ADA) motorshow that begins this coming weekend (Nov 23-25).
COme tothink of it, the ADA hasno retreivable website or link to members' websites. The only web mention is via (main?) sponsor NCB's site
What accounts for this?
either:
the dealers don't have the resources
(in which case, there are free web pages and/or blogs ad infinitum that they could tkae advantage of)
or
they don't have the manpower
(that's part of what this blog is about)
or
don't regard their public as web-savvy; they don't believe anyone visits/would visit them on the web.
If the latter is the case, the Stewarts should either let BMW HQ edit their local site (as ifthey're not busy enough) or take it down (not such an advisable option when you represent the company).
either way, its disingenuous to tell people you're so busy in preparation for a Motorshow when all you're focussing on is a presence inside the National Arena (yawn)
have no links or news in relation tothe Auto Dealers Associaiton (ADA) motorshow that begins this coming weekend (Nov 23-25).
COme tothink of it, the ADA hasno retreivable website or link to members' websites. The only web mention is via (main?) sponsor NCB's site
What accounts for this?
either:
the dealers don't have the resources
(in which case, there are free web pages and/or blogs ad infinitum that they could tkae advantage of)
or
they don't have the manpower
(that's part of what this blog is about)
or
don't regard their public as web-savvy; they don't believe anyone visits/would visit them on the web.
If the latter is the case, the Stewarts should either let BMW HQ edit their local site (as ifthey're not busy enough) or take it down (not such an advisable option when you represent the company).
either way, its disingenuous to tell people you're so busy in preparation for a Motorshow when all you're focussing on is a presence inside the National Arena (yawn)
Tuesday, October 30, 2007
Drop Top 1
A shot, from our reliable friendsat autobahn report, of the 1-series convertible, coming soon.
X6 active hybrid
A promo photo fo the X6 Active hybrid (petrol/hydro) from BMW. Introduced formally atthe Frankfurt Auto show, this is listed as an '08 model. No word yet on if/when Jamaican market will get regular X6. Maybe at the Auto Dealers Expo at the end of November, we'll hjave some news. Local reps Stewart Motors are promising exciting things.
New X6
Prototype shot of the new X6 (solved photo problems at last). Compare with the Active hybrid model recently released.
Monday, October 29, 2007
1-Drop Top
http://www.autobahnreport.com/bmwmininews/2007news/bmw-1-series-convertible.asp
BMW drops the top on the 1
BMW's new 1 Series convertible (see url to photo above) will arrive just in time for summer '08 — offering pure open-air fun and rear- wheel-drive performance in a sporty compact package.
Smaller and simpler, the 1 convertible will be a more affordable alternative to the 3 Series convertible.
The drop-top 1 shares much with the recently announced 1 coupe — including styling, model designations and engines. So the 128i cabrio gets a 230-horse inline-six and the 135i the potent 300-horse twin-turbo inline-six.
To save weight, complexity and thus money, the 1's roof is fabric, not metal like many of today's convertibles (including the 3). The roof can be lowered or raised in just 22 seconds, even moving at speeds up to 25 MPH.
When lowered, the roof disappears cleanly into the car's design for a streamlined appearance. A small spoiler is integrated into the trunk's edge, with an additional spoiler strip on the 135i (just like the coupe).
BMW drops the top on the 1
BMW's new 1 Series convertible (see url to photo above) will arrive just in time for summer '08 — offering pure open-air fun and rear- wheel-drive performance in a sporty compact package.
Smaller and simpler, the 1 convertible will be a more affordable alternative to the 3 Series convertible.
The drop-top 1 shares much with the recently announced 1 coupe — including styling, model designations and engines. So the 128i cabrio gets a 230-horse inline-six and the 135i the potent 300-horse twin-turbo inline-six.
To save weight, complexity and thus money, the 1's roof is fabric, not metal like many of today's convertibles (including the 3). The roof can be lowered or raised in just 22 seconds, even moving at speeds up to 25 MPH.
When lowered, the roof disappears cleanly into the car's design for a streamlined appearance. A small spoiler is integrated into the trunk's edge, with an additional spoiler strip on the 135i (just like the coupe).
3 x 4 (doors) M
Ahead of its Tokyo auto-show debut later this month, BMW has released photos of its ultra-sporty M3 sedan.
The M3 sedan takes the four-door body of the 3 Series and injects a healthy shot of performance-enhancing M.
Aside from the two extra doors, the sedan shares almost everything with the M3 coupe — including its high-revving 414-horsepower V8, performance-built body work and multi-spoke 18-inch wheels (19s optional).
The design cues include large front air ducts, a double-vented power-dome hood, flared fenders with signature M chrome gills, quad exhaust pipes, venturi tunnel, aerodynamic rearview mirrors, sculpted side skirts and a subtle trunk-lip spoiler.
Likely a cost-saving measure, the coupe's light-weight carbon-fiber roof does not carry over to the sedan.
Likely another cost-saving
measure, the coupe's headlights do carry over to the sedan, allowing BMW to produce just one front fascia for all M3 variants.
And what's the next M3 variant? Stay tuned to Autobahn Report for photos and info on the M3 convertible — complete with an industry-first carbon-fiber folding hard-top.
The M3 sedan takes the four-door body of the 3 Series and injects a healthy shot of performance-enhancing M.
Aside from the two extra doors, the sedan shares almost everything with the M3 coupe — including its high-revving 414-horsepower V8, performance-built body work and multi-spoke 18-inch wheels (19s optional).
The design cues include large front air ducts, a double-vented power-dome hood, flared fenders with signature M chrome gills, quad exhaust pipes, venturi tunnel, aerodynamic rearview mirrors, sculpted side skirts and a subtle trunk-lip spoiler.
Likely a cost-saving measure, the coupe's light-weight carbon-fiber roof does not carry over to the sedan.
Likely another cost-saving
measure, the coupe's headlights do carry over to the sedan, allowing BMW to produce just one front fascia for all M3 variants.
And what's the next M3 variant? Stay tuned to Autobahn Report for photos and info on the M3 convertible — complete with an industry-first carbon-fiber folding hard-top.
Wednesday, October 10, 2007
BMW's New 'World' opens
Call it the Bimmerphile's version of Disney World.
The brand spanking new BMW brand experience Hq, BMW Welt,
opened recently in Munich, with the brand experience and
museum housed in buildings that are typically BMW in terms
of their striking design
Going to bmw-welt.com begins a journey that one may never wish to end.
The virtual tour takes the visitor through the main hall as well as chambers
for design and technology enthusiasts, restaurants and shops and the BMW
Lifestyle area where all manner of accesories and mementos can be had.
And, as of October 23 BMW customers 'in the area' can have their new purchases
delivered atthe site of BMW-Welt, via a special arrangement with their dealer (we'll have to confirm if Jamaican customers can take advantage of this - it's a long way to go (and back) to pick up a car).
The brand spanking new BMW brand experience Hq, BMW Welt,
opened recently in Munich, with the brand experience and
museum housed in buildings that are typically BMW in terms
of their striking design
Going to bmw-welt.com begins a journey that one may never wish to end.
The virtual tour takes the visitor through the main hall as well as chambers
for design and technology enthusiasts, restaurants and shops and the BMW
Lifestyle area where all manner of accesories and mementos can be had.
And, as of October 23 BMW customers 'in the area' can have their new purchases
delivered atthe site of BMW-Welt, via a special arrangement with their dealer (we'll have to confirm if Jamaican customers can take advantage of this - it's a long way to go (and back) to pick up a car).
Monday, October 01, 2007
From motor to mountain
Having already long establsihed itself asa world leader in premium motor bikes,
BMW has recently turned its attention to building what may be called "the
ultimate cycling machine"
The BMW Cross Country Mountain bike was developed by the Director of BMW Motorsport
who has a passion for fitness.
The bike weighs 11.6 kilograms (roughly 26 pounds)and features a four-pivot chassis,
full suspension hydroformed aluminium frame. front suspension is a
telescopic air suspension fork, while the rear suspensio nis air shock.
Happy trails
BMW has recently turned its attention to building what may be called "the
ultimate cycling machine"
The BMW Cross Country Mountain bike was developed by the Director of BMW Motorsport
who has a passion for fitness.
The bike weighs 11.6 kilograms (roughly 26 pounds)and features a four-pivot chassis,
full suspension hydroformed aluminium frame. front suspension is a
telescopic air suspension fork, while the rear suspensio nis air shock.
Happy trails
Bluetooth & Blackberry
In addition to iPod capability, new BMW models are now hooked up to
two other high-tech super-brands.
Bluetooth is now being offered as part of an options package (- double-check
with local dealer) which will als oenable the user to connect the Blackberry
device. Using buttons on the multi-function steering wheel, the driver can accept and make calls and utilize the address book.
two other high-tech super-brands.
Bluetooth is now being offered as part of an options package (- double-check
with local dealer) which will als oenable the user to connect the Blackberry
device. Using buttons on the multi-function steering wheel, the driver can accept and make calls and utilize the address book.
The Bimmer Book
The book, BMW Since 1916 (the listing in the BMW Magazine did not specify availability and our Amazon.com search, while yielding other intersting volumes, did not pick up - we can conclude that the book is only available, if at all, directly from BMW HQ).
Nonetheless, this should be an interesting read for the more hardcore aficionado, detailing - over the course of 600 pages - every BMW model ever made, and there's a 100-pg index that includes the company's cars, motobikes and aircraft engines (yes, BMW started as an aircraft engine builder. you would have known this if you had watched the movie Finding Forrester)
Hardtop 3
In other updates, the new 3-series convertible is the first in the company's history to feature a retractable ahrdtop. A mere 22 seconds is all that stands between you and the wind rushing through your hair and the envy of bystanders and other drivers.
Nonetheless, this should be an interesting read for the more hardcore aficionado, detailing - over the course of 600 pages - every BMW model ever made, and there's a 100-pg index that includes the company's cars, motobikes and aircraft engines (yes, BMW started as an aircraft engine builder. you would have known this if you had watched the movie Finding Forrester)
Hardtop 3
In other updates, the new 3-series convertible is the first in the company's history to feature a retractable ahrdtop. A mere 22 seconds is all that stands between you and the wind rushing through your hair and the envy of bystanders and other drivers.
The 1, 3, 5
It may not -yet - be as well receivd in Jamaica, but the 1-series is
going gangbusters in Europe, with new additions to the line, including
the hotly anticipated 135 coupe joining 3-door and 5-door models in the current model year.
Meanwhile, word from Jamaican dealer Stewart Motors is that the company will be
presenting a super line-up for the upcoming Auto Dealers Association (ADA)
Motor Show in November.
Watch this space for more details.
going gangbusters in Europe, with new additions to the line, including
the hotly anticipated 135 coupe joining 3-door and 5-door models in the current model year.
Meanwhile, word from Jamaican dealer Stewart Motors is that the company will be
presenting a super line-up for the upcoming Auto Dealers Association (ADA)
Motor Show in November.
Watch this space for more details.
Thursday, September 20, 2007
2-Way X6
Yet another X6 report, this time on the X6 hybrid, the first hybrid to be
commercailly introduced by BMW (the Bavarians have been doing extensive work on a hydrogen-powered vehicle
Frankfurt Auto Show: X6 Hybrid
Sept. 11, 2007
BMW's X6 crossover is getting double the attention at the Frankfurt auto show — with the simultaneous debuts of a regular model plus a hybrid model.
With the ActiveHybrid X6, BMW's first-ever hybrid, the automaker set out to prove fuel efficiency and sporty driving dynamics do not have to be mutually exclusive.
The technology is the result of a joint project with General Motors and DaimlerChrysler. The ActiveHybrid X6 can be driven on electric power only, on combustion power only, or on a combination of the two. BMW claims fuel efficiency that is 20% greater than that of a comparable gas-only vehicle.
A major highlight is BMW's two-mode active transmission, which has a mode for setting off and driving at low speeds, and a mode for higher speeds. It is based on the concept of a continuously variable transmission.
The ActiveHybrid's styling differs from the regular X6, in particular, by foregoing big air scoops on the front for engine cooling, and by a lower aluminum plate on the back that moves to cover the exhaust pipes when in electric mode
The rear protector plate moves to cover the exhaust pipes when the ActiveHybrid X6 is in electric mode.
The ActiveHybrid X6 is the latest — and probably the biggest — step in BMW's EfficientDynamics program, which seeks to find energy-saving efficiencies wherever possible.
commercailly introduced by BMW (the Bavarians have been doing extensive work on a hydrogen-powered vehicle
Frankfurt Auto Show: X6 Hybrid
Sept. 11, 2007
BMW's X6 crossover is getting double the attention at the Frankfurt auto show — with the simultaneous debuts of a regular model plus a hybrid model.
With the ActiveHybrid X6, BMW's first-ever hybrid, the automaker set out to prove fuel efficiency and sporty driving dynamics do not have to be mutually exclusive.
The technology is the result of a joint project with General Motors and DaimlerChrysler. The ActiveHybrid X6 can be driven on electric power only, on combustion power only, or on a combination of the two. BMW claims fuel efficiency that is 20% greater than that of a comparable gas-only vehicle.
A major highlight is BMW's two-mode active transmission, which has a mode for setting off and driving at low speeds, and a mode for higher speeds. It is based on the concept of a continuously variable transmission.
The ActiveHybrid's styling differs from the regular X6, in particular, by foregoing big air scoops on the front for engine cooling, and by a lower aluminum plate on the back that moves to cover the exhaust pipes when in electric mode
The rear protector plate moves to cover the exhaust pipes when the ActiveHybrid X6 is in electric mode.
The ActiveHybrid X6 is the latest — and probably the biggest — step in BMW's EfficientDynamics program, which seeks to find energy-saving efficiencies wherever possible.
M goes V (as in V8)
following report is form Autobahn report, detailing
the new V8 engine (a first) for the BMW M3. There's also an update
on the M5 tourer (Europe only - so far)
Preview: The First V8-Powered M3
May 1, 2007
With BMW's first V8-powered M3 due out in less than a year, Autobahn Report figured it's time to put together our preview of this most potent road rocket.
Also, as BMW released information and photos over the course of several weeks, we figured they need to be compiled. Much of what you read here is verbatim from our other news items, albeit now in one spot.
The new M3 sports a high-revving V8, a stiffer and more balanced chassis, performance-built body work and 18-inch wheels in the M division's trademark multi-spoke design.
The M3's first-ever V8 engine
For the first time, the M3's beating heart is a V8. From 4.0 liters of displacement, the F1-inspired eight-cylinder generates 420 horsepower — breaking through the magic 100-horsepower-per-liter mark with 105, truly exceptional for a normally aspirated motor.
Horsepower for the North American model is expected to be a tad lower at 414.
Torque is 295 pound-feet at 3,900 RPM, with 85 percent on tap by 6,500 RPM.
True to its M lineage, this V8 is a high revver with a shrilling red line of 8,400 RPM.
As with other M cars, the tachometer has a variable warning band that informs the driver of the engine speed currently available. Yellow and red lights move up the gauge as oil temperature rises.
At 440 pounds, the aluminum engine is one of the lightest eight-cylinders in the world — and is even 33 pounds lighter than the six-cylinder in the previous M3.
Other features include low-pressure double VANOS variable valve timing, eight individual throttle butterflies, ion-flow technology and brake-energy regeneration.
Europe Gets M5 Wagon
Jan. 9, 2007
Its headlamps look like evil eyes, its twin kidney grille like fire-breathing nostrils, and its lower air dam like a sinister grin ready to devour anything that gets in the way — imagine this monster quickly filling your rearview mirror.
It's BMW's M5 'Bahn burner. What you won't know until it blasts past is — don't blink — not only can it haul ass, it can also haul five humans and 58.2 cubic feet of their stuff.
Yes, on the back of this Bimmer is a large cargo hold. BMW has issued a wagon version of the M5 for the European market.
Like its sedan brethren, the M5 Touring corrals 507 horses of award-winning V10 underhood, stampeding on the asphalt via a seven-speed Sequential Manual Gearbox with launch control.
A variable M differential makes the best use of power, transferring up to 100 percent to the rear wheel with the most grip.
The Touring catapults from standstill to 62 MPH in a scant 4.8 seconds, 0.1-second off the sedan, on the way to its electronically limited top speed of 155 MPH. BMW says 200 MPH would be possible without the limiter.
Drivers can customize their M5 experience through iDrive, saving preferences for power, gear shifting, suspension, traction control, head-up display and the active seat bolsters. Then at the touch of the M steering-wheel button, a combination can be called up — mild, mean or somewhere in between.
Trademark M styling includes a big front air dam, pronounced side sills, M badging, quad tailpipes and slim-spoke alloy wheels
the new V8 engine (a first) for the BMW M3. There's also an update
on the M5 tourer (Europe only - so far)
Preview: The First V8-Powered M3
May 1, 2007
With BMW's first V8-powered M3 due out in less than a year, Autobahn Report figured it's time to put together our preview of this most potent road rocket.
Also, as BMW released information and photos over the course of several weeks, we figured they need to be compiled. Much of what you read here is verbatim from our other news items, albeit now in one spot.
The new M3 sports a high-revving V8, a stiffer and more balanced chassis, performance-built body work and 18-inch wheels in the M division's trademark multi-spoke design.
The M3's first-ever V8 engine
For the first time, the M3's beating heart is a V8. From 4.0 liters of displacement, the F1-inspired eight-cylinder generates 420 horsepower — breaking through the magic 100-horsepower-per-liter mark with 105, truly exceptional for a normally aspirated motor.
Horsepower for the North American model is expected to be a tad lower at 414.
Torque is 295 pound-feet at 3,900 RPM, with 85 percent on tap by 6,500 RPM.
True to its M lineage, this V8 is a high revver with a shrilling red line of 8,400 RPM.
As with other M cars, the tachometer has a variable warning band that informs the driver of the engine speed currently available. Yellow and red lights move up the gauge as oil temperature rises.
At 440 pounds, the aluminum engine is one of the lightest eight-cylinders in the world — and is even 33 pounds lighter than the six-cylinder in the previous M3.
Other features include low-pressure double VANOS variable valve timing, eight individual throttle butterflies, ion-flow technology and brake-energy regeneration.
Europe Gets M5 Wagon
Jan. 9, 2007
Its headlamps look like evil eyes, its twin kidney grille like fire-breathing nostrils, and its lower air dam like a sinister grin ready to devour anything that gets in the way — imagine this monster quickly filling your rearview mirror.
It's BMW's M5 'Bahn burner. What you won't know until it blasts past is — don't blink — not only can it haul ass, it can also haul five humans and 58.2 cubic feet of their stuff.
Yes, on the back of this Bimmer is a large cargo hold. BMW has issued a wagon version of the M5 for the European market.
Like its sedan brethren, the M5 Touring corrals 507 horses of award-winning V10 underhood, stampeding on the asphalt via a seven-speed Sequential Manual Gearbox with launch control.
A variable M differential makes the best use of power, transferring up to 100 percent to the rear wheel with the most grip.
The Touring catapults from standstill to 62 MPH in a scant 4.8 seconds, 0.1-second off the sedan, on the way to its electronically limited top speed of 155 MPH. BMW says 200 MPH would be possible without the limiter.
Drivers can customize their M5 experience through iDrive, saving preferences for power, gear shifting, suspension, traction control, head-up display and the active seat bolsters. Then at the touch of the M steering-wheel button, a combination can be called up — mild, mean or somewhere in between.
Trademark M styling includes a big front air dam, pronounced side sills, M badging, quad tailpipes and slim-spoke alloy wheels
Wednesday, September 19, 2007
3 series in Automobile mag
The latest issue of US aficionado amgazine, Automobile, has ranked the
original M3 as one of the 25 Greatest cars of all Time.
Bimmer rivals making the cut include the 1955 Benz 300SL, aka the Gull-Wing,
the Jaguar E-Type and the Porsche 911 Carerra RS.
Elsewhere in the issue, available on newstands, the new 335i successfully takes on
both the new Mercedes C-Class and the newly overhauled Cadillac CTS.
original M3 as one of the 25 Greatest cars of all Time.
Bimmer rivals making the cut include the 1955 Benz 300SL, aka the Gull-Wing,
the Jaguar E-Type and the Porsche 911 Carerra RS.
Elsewhere in the issue, available on newstands, the new 335i successfully takes on
both the new Mercedes C-Class and the newly overhauled Cadillac CTS.
another X6 pic
here's alink to yet another picture of what is rapidly
becoming my latest obsession: the forthcoming BMW X6,
this one courtesy of Automobile magazine (US)
http://www.automobilemag.com/auto_shows/2007_frankfurt/2007_bmw_x6_concept/photo_01.html
becoming my latest obsession: the forthcoming BMW X6,
this one courtesy of Automobile magazine (US)
http://www.automobilemag.com/auto_shows/2007_frankfurt/2007_bmw_x6_concept/photo_01.html
Wednesday, September 12, 2007
Flickr flubs
having some difficulties moving the new 6-series models
from my flickr.com page to this blog, but as soon as those
resolved will be posting for your viewing pleasure and comment.
Also, I'm renewing some work in relation to Revz TV
from my flickr.com page to this blog, but as soon as those
resolved will be posting for your viewing pleasure and comment.
Also, I'm renewing some work in relation to Revz TV
Bimma Jam
The call is still going out to BMW owners and enthusiasts
to hit me up regarding the Bimma Jam owners& enthusiasts
Club.
We're looking to do some media on Pwoer 106FM's Auto World
programme soon. Listen out for that.
to hit me up regarding the Bimma Jam owners& enthusiasts
Club.
We're looking to do some media on Pwoer 106FM's Auto World
programme soon. Listen out for that.
Friday, September 07, 2007
New look 6
Yes, this may be ths cart before th horse, but following is a text report
from car enthusiast blog, thecarconnection.com on extra touches to the new 6 series. Photo to follow soon.
from car enthusiast blog, thecarconnection.com on extra touches to the new 6 series. Photo to follow soon.
1-series launch
Below is a nexcerpt from my review of the high-profile launch of the BMW 1-series line in Jamaica (The model only hit the US last year
BMW's big bash - 1-Series debuts in Jamaica
SUNDAY - SOCIAL
Michael A Edwards Observer writer
Sunday, November 07, 2004
Substitute an alloy composite suit for Armani or Lacroix, 17-inch alloy wheels for (Manolo) Blahnik pumps, add a strut and purr supplied by a four cylinder power plant and place said model on the expertly simulated catwalk (complete with klieg lights) on the lawns of the Terra Nova and Sterling Motors BMW hottest new model was ready for its close-up on Friday last.
Once again, Jamaican aficionados of the BMW marque saw a model launched on our shores before our counterparts in North America. The I-series comes to Jamaica, ushering in a new era for the compact class, its manufacturers understandably claim.
The curious, the serious and all others in between gathered to get visual conformation of those claims and to kick the run-flat tyres (standard, along a tyre defect indicator).
They also were treated to a typically engaging testimonial from first-class raconteur and bon vivant, Sterling General Manager Dennis Wheatley. Wheatley recounted his part in a 28-car testing line that wended its way from Denmark across a Scandinavian causeway and into Sweden and the BMW Proving Grounds. There, he continued, the I-Series proved its mettle against a number of major European competitors such as Vauxhall and Alfa Romeo.
He was preceded by Anthony Bell, of corporate parent Lascelles/Wray & Nephew, who gave his own sight-only testimonial of the car, and Marketing Manager Wayne Miller, who further primed the audience with descriptions before the grand unveiling.
Among the standard and [optional] available features he outlined were two-stage brake lights, park distance control, constant monitoring indication of when worn parts should be replaced, the company's now famous iDrive control concept*, sports seats with pneumatic backrest width, a starter button as opposed to the traditional turnkey ignition, keyless easy access*, Bluetooth mobile phone interface* with hands-free kit and operation via multi-function steering wheel.*
Appetites suitably whetted, the supermodel, sporting a quartz gray metallic finish, made her entrance. The audience lost no time in stepping inside to absorb that heady new-car aroma, grip the multi-function steering wheel and run their hands over the other controls as well as the -optional- leather upholstery.
BMW's big bash - 1-Series debuts in Jamaica
SUNDAY - SOCIAL
Michael A Edwards Observer writer
Sunday, November 07, 2004
Substitute an alloy composite suit for Armani or Lacroix, 17-inch alloy wheels for (Manolo) Blahnik pumps, add a strut and purr supplied by a four cylinder power plant and place said model on the expertly simulated catwalk (complete with klieg lights) on the lawns of the Terra Nova and Sterling Motors BMW hottest new model was ready for its close-up on Friday last.
Once again, Jamaican aficionados of the BMW marque saw a model launched on our shores before our counterparts in North America. The I-series comes to Jamaica, ushering in a new era for the compact class, its manufacturers understandably claim.
The curious, the serious and all others in between gathered to get visual conformation of those claims and to kick the run-flat tyres (standard, along a tyre defect indicator).
They also were treated to a typically engaging testimonial from first-class raconteur and bon vivant, Sterling General Manager Dennis Wheatley. Wheatley recounted his part in a 28-car testing line that wended its way from Denmark across a Scandinavian causeway and into Sweden and the BMW Proving Grounds. There, he continued, the I-Series proved its mettle against a number of major European competitors such as Vauxhall and Alfa Romeo.
He was preceded by Anthony Bell, of corporate parent Lascelles/Wray & Nephew, who gave his own sight-only testimonial of the car, and Marketing Manager Wayne Miller, who further primed the audience with descriptions before the grand unveiling.
Among the standard and [optional] available features he outlined were two-stage brake lights, park distance control, constant monitoring indication of when worn parts should be replaced, the company's now famous iDrive control concept*, sports seats with pneumatic backrest width, a starter button as opposed to the traditional turnkey ignition, keyless easy access*, Bluetooth mobile phone interface* with hands-free kit and operation via multi-function steering wheel.*
Appetites suitably whetted, the supermodel, sporting a quartz gray metallic finish, made her entrance. The audience lost no time in stepping inside to absorb that heady new-car aroma, grip the multi-function steering wheel and run their hands over the other controls as well as the -optional- leather upholstery.
Observer article on new 7
Inlcudd is a link to my Observer article following
the launch, in 2006, of the new 7-series.
http://jamaicaobserver.com/lifestyle/html/20050917t150000-0500_88533_obs_a_dignitary_on_wheels_.asp
the launch, in 2006, of the new 7-series.
http://jamaicaobserver.com/lifestyle/html/20050917t150000-0500_88533_obs_a_dignitary_on_wheels_.asp
Thursday, September 06, 2007
Bimmer owners unite!
Send in your photos and testimonials about your BMW car/s.
I'd like to geta BMW owners club going by year-end
I'd like to geta BMW owners club going by year-end
Friday, February 23, 2007
Bimmas for Cricket
Today's (feb 23) Observer carries a report about 37 5-Series
models being secured for transportation of
VIPS and officials duringthe impending Cricket World Cup
tournament, in Jamaica and other Caribbean nations
The37 cars were secured by the Jamaican Local Organising Committee(LOC)
aby virtue of BMW being an official sponsor of the tournament.
The agrreement specifies they must be sold by the end of the tournament.
The Governmento f Jamaica has so far bought 20, and the lOC
is hunting buyers for the balance of 17.
models being secured for transportation of
VIPS and officials duringthe impending Cricket World Cup
tournament, in Jamaica and other Caribbean nations
The37 cars were secured by the Jamaican Local Organising Committee(LOC)
aby virtue of BMW being an official sponsor of the tournament.
The agrreement specifies they must be sold by the end of the tournament.
The Governmento f Jamaica has so far bought 20, and the lOC
is hunting buyers for the balance of 17.
Wednesday, February 21, 2007
Wheeling dealing
Had to change all four wheels (with tyres) the other day,
thanks to our 'marvelous ' Jamaican roads, all were
bent
Got nice deal on some 18" but they may be a bit too big
This BMW adventure is proving taxing, but I'm already thinking
of acquiring a 2nd Bimma - wife and I need
more mobility, what with kids in school and full-time jobns
and the like.
thanks to our 'marvelous ' Jamaican roads, all were
bent
Got nice deal on some 18" but they may be a bit too big
This BMW adventure is proving taxing, but I'm already thinking
of acquiring a 2nd Bimma - wife and I need
more mobility, what with kids in school and full-time jobns
and the like.
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