BMW at the 2011 Auto Shanghai

BMW 6 Series Coupé

As one of the world's leading manufacturers of premium vehicles, the German carmaker BMW is presenting in addition to the latest products in its model range a number of groundbreaking concepts for individual mobility of the future. The most significant car show of the year on the Asian continent is the scene of the world premiere of the BMW Concept M5. The production-oriented concept car embodies a new interpretation of the business sedan vehicle concept that systematically aspires to reach the level of driving dynamics typical of a high-performance sports car featuring racing-inspired drivetrain and suspension technology. Furthermore, at the Auto Shanghai 2011, the new BMW 6 Series Coupe will be presented to the general public for the first time, a luxury-class model that combines fascinating design aesthetics with exceptionally sporty handling and a myriad of technological innovations for comfort, Infotainment and safety. With an unparalleled wealth of innovations for enhanced driving pleasure through intelligent networking, the impressive concept vehicle BMW Vision ConnectedDrive will be celebrating its Asian debut at the Auto Shanghai 2011.

In addition to captivating design, outstanding driving pleasure and innovative technology, exemplary efficiency is an essential part of the premium character of current and future BMW models. A broad spectrum of innovations implemented within the framework of the BMW Efficient Dynamics development strategy contributes towards a reduction in fuel consumption and exhaust emissions. Activities encompass a continuous increase in the level of efficiency of vehicles powered by a combustion engine as well as the further development of BMW ActiveHybrid technology and new advancements on the way to emission-free driving with purely electrically powered automobiles.

The Asian premiere of the BMW ActiveE will give a starting signal for emission-free driving pleasure. The four-seater car, which is powered by a 125 kW/170 bhp electric motor, will amongst other markets also be deployed in China. The extensive world wide field tests will begin in 2011 in Europe and the United States and will be extended to China in 2012. Crucial knowledge for the further development of this technology will be gained from the use of the first purely electrically powered BMW in everyday road traffic.

Targeted measures for an increase in efficiency also characterise the new BMW 1 Series Coupe and the new BMW 1 Series Convertible being shown in Asia for the first time at the Auto Shanghai 2011. Here, the main focus is on the Air Curtains aerodynamics measure, which optimises air guidance within the area of the wheel arches. Furthermore, both models have become even more attractive thanks to precise design modifications, newly conceived headlamps and taillights as well as a further refined interior. At the Auto Shanghai 2011, the BMW M GmbH will be presenting its extended product range, including the first high-performance sports car in the premium compact segment. The BMW 1 Series M Coupe, which is making its debut in Asia, enthrals with motor-racing oriented driving dynamics resulting from a 250 kW/340 bhp straight six-cylinder engine with M TwinPower Turbo and direct injection as well as a model-specific suspension set-up all combined with typical M bodywork and interior design aesthetics.

With two world and four Asian premieres at the Auto Shanghai 2011, which is being held from 23 to 28 April 2011, BMW will present to the public an exceptionally large number of current highlights with which the company is underscoring the show's high level of importance as well as the growing significance of the Chinese automotive market. In 2010, the BMW Group's sales development in China was yet again characterised by remarkably dynamic growth. The number of vehicles sold rose by 86.7 percent to 168,998. In addition, China is becoming more and more important to the BMW Group as a development and production location. With the extension of production capacities at the Shenyang plant prior to the market launch of the long version of the new BMW 5 Series Sedan produced exclusively for the Chinese automobile market, and the start of construction of an additional production facility at this location, milestones for the BMW Group's intensified involvement in China were set in 2010. At the same time, the integration of local production partners and suppliers was further promoted. Closeness to the market, incorporation of local expertise and strengthening of the value creation process on the spot provide a vital basis for a continuation of the positive development on the Chinese market.

Sedan with a high-performance character: the BMW Concept M5.
26 years ago, BMW presented the first business sedan with the motor racing qualities of a high-performance sports car, laying the foundation stone for a new vehicle category. At the Auto Shanghai 2011, the BMW M GmbH will now offer an outlook on a new interpretation of this concept. The BMW Concept M5 embodies an incomparably fascinating combination - motor-racing inspired drivetrain and suspension technology meets typical M design aesthetics coupled with the functionality and spatial comfort of a premium sedan of the upper midrange segment.

The near-series concept car boasts a design characteristic of BMW M models. Its unmistakable design features authentically express the sedan's outstanding dynamic handling potential - from the large air intakes in the front apron, the powerful appearance when viewed from the side to the aerodynamically optimised rear end. Also, as an integral part of a typically harmonious M overall concept, the design is perfectly adapted to match the drivetrain and suspension technology, these being oriented towards the highest level of vehicle dynamics. The newly conceived, high-revving V8 power unit with M TwinPower Turbo Technology under the bonnet of the BMW Concept M5 develops a power output that is worthy of a high-performance sports car. Power transfer to the rear wheels is effected by a seven-speed M double-clutch transmission with Drivelogic technology. Newly designed and elaborated suspension components, which have been refined down to the last detail, ensure that the driver is able to make full use of the engine's outstanding power development to experience a fascinating journey into a new dimension in driving dynamics.

Aesthetic highlight: world premiere of the new BMW 6 Series Coupe.
Highlights of the Auto Shanghai 2011 include the world premiere of the new BMW 6 Series Coupe. In the prestigious segment of large premium coupes, the entirely newly conceived 2+2-seater sets benchmarks for aesthetics, vehicle dynamics, luxury and innovative technology. The new BMW 6 Series Coupe is the only vehicle in its class to combine supreme sportiness with spatial comfort and an exceptionally spacious luggage compartment. Body length and wheelbase have been increased by 75 millimetres compared with the predecessor model. As a result, seating for the further development of this technology will be gained from the use of the first purely electrically powered BMW in everyday road traffic.

Targeted measures for an increase in efficiency also characterise the new BMW 1 Series Coupe and the new BMW 1 Series Convertible being shown in Asia for the first time at the Auto Shanghai 2011. Here, the main focus is on the Air Curtains aerodynamics measure, which optimises air guidance within the area of the wheel arches. Furthermore, both models have become even more attractive thanks to precise design modifications, newly conceived headlamps and taillights as well as a further refined interior. At the Auto Shanghai 2011, the BMW M GmbH will be presenting its extended product range, including the first high-performance sports car in the premium compact segment. The BMW 1 Series M Coupe, which is making its debut in Asia, enthrals with motor-racing oriented driving dynamics resulting from a 250 kW/340 bhp straight six-cylinder engine with M TwinPower Turbo and direct injection as well as a model-specific suspension set-up all combined with typical M bodywork and interior design aesthetics.

With two world and four Asian premieres at the Auto Shanghai 2011, which is being held from 23 to 28 April 2011, BMW will present to the public an exceptionally large number of current highlights with which the company is underscoring the show's high level of importance as well as the growing significance of the Chinese automotive market. In 2010, the BMW Group's sales development in China was yet again characterised by remarkably dynamic growth. The number of vehicles sold rose by 86.7 percent to 168,998. In addition, China is becoming more and more important to the BMW Group as a development and production location. With the extension of production capacities at the Shenyang plant prior to the market launch of the long version of the new BMW 5 Series Sedan produced exclusively for the Chinese automobile market, and the start of construction of an additional production facility at this location, milestones for the BMW Group's intensified involvement in China were set in 2010. At the same time, the integration of local production partners and suppliers was further promoted. Closeness to the market, incorporation of local expertise and strengthening of the value creation process on the spot provide a vital basis for a continuation of the positive development on the Chinese market.

Sedan with a high-performance character: the BMW Concept M5.
26 years ago, BMW presented the first business sedan with the motor racing qualities of a high-performance sports car, laying the foundation stone for a new vehicle category. At the Auto Shanghai 2011, the BMW M GmbH will now offer an outlook on a new interpretation of this concept. The BMW Concept M5 embodies an incomparably fascinating combination - motor-racing inspired drivetrain and suspension technology meets typical M design aesthetics coupled with the functionality and spatial comfort of a premium sedan of the upper midrange segment.

The near-series concept car boasts a design characteristic of BMW M models. Its unmistakable design features authentically express the sedan's outstanding dynamic handling potential - from the large air intakes in the front apron, the powerful appearance when viewed from the side to the aerodynamically optimised rear end. Also, as an integral part of a typically harmonious M overall concept, the design is perfectly adapted to match the drivetrain and suspension technology, these being oriented towards the highest level of vehicle dynamics. The newly conceived, high-revving V8 power unit with M TwinPower Turbo Technology under the bonnet of the BMW Concept M5 develops a power output that is worthy of a high-performance sports car. Power transfer to the rear wheels is effected by a seven-speed M double-clutch transmission with Drivelogic technology. Newly designed and elaborated suspension components, which have been refined down to the last detail, ensure that the driver is able to make full use of the engine's outstanding power development to experience a fascinating journey into a new dimension in driving dynamics.

Aesthetic highlight: world premiere of the new BMW 6 Series Coupe.
Highlights of the Auto Shanghai 2011 include the world premiere of the new BMW 6 Series Coupe. In the prestigious segment of large premium coupes, the entirely newly conceived 2+2-seater sets benchmarks for aesthetics, vehicle dynamics, luxury and innovative technology. The new BMW 6 Series Coupe is the only vehicle in its class to combine supreme sportiness with spatial comfort and an exceptionally spacious luggage compartment. Body length and wheelbase have been increased by 75 millimetres compared with the predecessor model. As a result, seating comfort has been noticeably improved. The luggage compartment offers stowage space for three 46-inch golf bags. The likewise increased body width and reduced height give the new BMW 6 Series Coupe a particularly sporty appearance.

The design of the sports car is characterised by typical BMW coupe-like proportions and a both powerful and elegant design vocabulary. Contour lines and surface design are inspired by wave movement in flowing waters. Appropriately, the design of the dashboard resembles the styling of a power boot cockpit rising up before the driver and front seat passenger. This is above all due to the innovatively designed control display for the iDrive control system fitted as standard. The 10.2-inch flatscreen-style display in the new BMW 6 Series Coupe is the largest onboard monitor in the segment. Furthermore, consistent driver orientation, a front-seat passenger side surrounded by powerfully shaped surfaces, high-quality materials and a generous spatial concept provide a unique ambience.

The new BMW 650i Coupe's eight-cylinder engine with BMW TwinPower Turbo Technology guarantees superior performance. The 4.4-litre power unit has a power output of 300 kW/407 bhp. The newly developed straight six-cylinder engine with BMW TwinPower Turbo featured in the new BMW 640i Coupe delivers 235 kW/320 bhp. Both engines come as standard with an eight-speed automatic sports transmission. Dynamic Drive Control is also a standard feature with which the suspension setting can be adjusted by pressing a button on the centre console.

In this way, it is possible to strongly amplify both the comfort and sporting characteristics of the new BMW 6 Series Coupe. In addition to Electric Power Steering, optional Integral Active Steering also contributes towards the unequalled driving experience. The AdaptiveDrive system including Dynamic Damper Control and roll stabilisation is also available as an option.

The new BMW 6 Series Coupe features Adaptive LED headlights, an innovation in the field of light technology. Bright white light ensures particularly intensive and even illumination of the road ahead. This light technology, which is unique in the competitive environment, also ensures that the light beam follows the course of a bend. Also unique in the segment are the driver assistance systems and mobility services from

BMW ConnectedDrive. In addition to a rear view camera, Surround View, Parking Assistant, BMW Night Vision with pedestrian recognition, Speed Limit Info, Lane Change Warning and Lane Departure Warning, the latest generation of the BMW Head-Up Display is available, which utilises the entire colour spectrum when projecting information onto the windscreen. The optional Bang & Olufsen High End Surround Sound System guarantees an exceptional in-car sound experience.

Innovative concepts for intelligent networking: BMW Vision ConnectedDrive.
BMW continues to set standards for the optimisation of comfort, Infotainment systems and safety through intelligent networking. Years of experience and exceptionally innovative strength create a basis for the globally unique product range from BMW ConnectedDrive in the field of driver assistance systems and mobility services. The BMW Vision ConnectedDrive concept car, which is being presented in Asia for the first time at the Auto Shanghai 2011, demonstrates current and future possibilities of mobile networking in a particularly concise manner. The design and technology featured by the spectacular looking roadster are designed to render the car an integral part of a networked environment.

The exterior and interior design of the concept car, impressive light effects and a novel display and control concept will demonstrate to visitors to the Auto Shanghai 2011 the wide spectrum of possibilities of creating even more driving pleasure through intelligent networking. The design embodies the link between the driver and the vehicle, the dialogue between the driver and front-seat passenger as well as the interaction between passengers and their environment. The layering principle, with which individual components take on several functions, is also utilised for both the interior and exterior of the car. Sensors integrated into the headlights and taillights help the driver monitor both the prevailing traffic situation and the environment. Instead of having exterior mirrors, the car is fitted with antennas that transmit outbound information and receive navigation data.

Innovations inside the BMW Vision ConnectedDrive in the field of the display and operating concept include an enhanced Head-Up Display, which utilises three-dimensional imaging of information and symbols for a visual fusion of the actual street scene with the virtual contents. For example, this Augmented Reality technology projects routing information to exactly where the possibility to turn off is in relation to the actual field of vision. Depending on each driving situation, different information is displayed either in the foreground or the background according to relevance. The concept car also features a likewise multidimensional and freely programmable instrument cluster, the displays of which supplement the Head-Up Display images.

Thanks to the Passenger Information Display system, the front-seat passenger in the BMW Vision ConnectedDrive is also able to activate intelligent networking functions. As the co-driver, he or she is able, among other things, to evaluate information received online or address data for the navigation system and, if required, transfer it to the driver's instrument cluster. As a result, both the interaction between driver and co-driver as well as the networking with the environment reach a new dimension. The Emotional Browser ensures an even more diverse and individually tailored choice of information. This system gathers and filters en route additional information on the area within the vicinity of the vehicle, specific to people, mood or location.

Ready to start: the first purely electrically powered BMW - the BMW ActiveE.
Zero emissions, four seats and brand-typical sportiness. These are the main characteristics of the BMW ActiveE being shown for the first time in Asia at the Auto Shanghai 2011. The BMW Group is presenting the car as the next milestone on the way to sustainable, CO2-free mobility. Following the MINI E, the BMW ActiveE is the BMW Group's second electric test vehicle. With a power output of 125 kW/170 bhp and a maximum torque of 250 Nm, the vehicle accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in 9 seconds, demonstrating the dynamics and agility of a BMW - and as is typical of electric vehicles - straight from a standstill. Newly conceived lithium-ion energy storage units permit a vehicle range of around 160 kilometres (100 miles) in everyday operational conditions.

Like the MINI E, the BMW ActiveE is also a conversion car based on the shell of a car powered by an internal combustion engine. And yet with the BMW ActiveE, all of the electric drive components such as the energy storage units, the electric motor and the power electronics have been integrated into BMW 1 Series Convertible are equipped as standard with a six-speed automatic transmission.