Kuwait - BMW Group Middle East has announced that 2009 sales of BMW and MINI in Kuwait achieved an eight per cent increase over 2008 sales figures. Ali Alghanim & Sons Automotive, the exclusive importer of BMW Group in Kuwait, ranked among the top five performing markets for BMW Group Middle East. The growth also signals the importance and strength of the Kuwaiti market despite a challenging year for the automotive industry.

Contributing to Ali Alghanim & Sons Automotive’ solid performance in 2009, the BMW 7 Series saw a 51% increase in sales in Kuwait and was the top selling BMW vehicle. The BMW 7 Series combines ultimate style, comfort and luxury with supreme driving dynamics and pleasure, and has been designed around BMW’s robust EfficientDynamics strategy to reduce fuel consumption and emissions, making it the most fuel efficient engine in its class.

Building on its successful launch in 2008, the BMW X6 Sports Activity Coupé achieved a 48% increase in sales in 2009 making it Ali Alghanim & Sons Automotive’ second bestselling vehicle of the year and a testament to the ongoing appeal of the world’s first Sports Activity Coupé.

MINI enjoyed a successful 50th anniversary year in Kuwait, with sales achieving growth of 29%. One of the contributing factors to this growth was the launch of the new MINI Cabrio, the open-top version of the small car with a big attitude. The new edition, oozing performance, looks and versatility, was welcomed by Kuwaiti MINI fans. Sales were further bolstered by the launch of the MINI John Cooper Works Cabrio version of the vehicle towards the end of the year.

Yousef Al-Qatami, General Manager, Ali Alghanim & Sons Automotive said, “In a challenging economic climate, where many car manufacturers suffered losses, an eight per cent increase in our sales confirms the loyalty of our customers and the strength of the BMW and MINI brands. The launch of our flagship 7 Series model, which was our best-selling car in 2009, helped us achieve this performance and effectively weather the challenging market conditions. Our BMW X6 and MINI Cabrio models also performed particularly well. We look forward to continuing this success in 2010.”

Another area of business that delivered strong growth was BMW Premium Selection, the company’s approved used-car programme, which achieved an increase of over 500% in Kuwait. Overall BMW Premium Selection sales across the Middle East were up 25% in the eight markets that offer the programme.

Al-Qatami added: “We anticipate some of the challenges faced in 2009 will remain, but are confident that Ali Alghanim & Sons Automotive is in a strong position to achieve further growth during 2010. We have five new models to launch in Kuwait during the first five months of the year: two ActiveHybrids, the new BMW 5 Series, Gran Turismo and BMW X1. We are confident that these new models will have a positive effect on 2010 sales and our brands will maintain their strength in the market.”

Overall, the BMW Group Middle East ended 2009 with a moderate 9% decrease in sales compared to 2008. Despite the premium automotive sector being down 25%, the BMW brand managed to gain a 4% increase in market share against its core competitors, with a total of 14,557 BMW and MINI vehicles sold across 14 Middle East markets.

24.01.2010

Kuwait - Once again defining a brand new segment in the market, BMW has announced the arrival of the all-new Gran Turismo in Kuwait. An embodiment of the leading premium automotive manufacturer’s commitment to innovation, the BMW Gran Turismo combines the characteristic features of a prestigious sedan, the functionality and space of an SAV and elements of a traditional grand touring car.

The exterior of the car combines the proportions so typical of a BMW, an elegantly stretched silhouette and a coupé-like roofline, as well as four doors with frameless windows to create one complete, harmonious unit. The front view of the car animates powerful dynamism through the sheer presence of the upright BMW kidney grille, large air intakes and dual round headlights slanted back at an attractive angle. For the first time the daytime driving light function is provided by corona rings with LED technology, while the rear end is enhanced by L-shaped rear light clusters with homogenously illuminated rows of lights in LED technology and a two-piece tailgate.

The luxurious interior of the BMW Gran Turismo enables the driver and passengers to vary the generous space inside the car as they wish to their individual, personal requirements. This superior feeling of comfort is further enhanced by the large window areas, the optional panorama glass roof, as well as exquisite materials and supreme quality of finish.

Commenting on the arrival of the vehicle in Kuwait, Yousef Al-Qatami, General Manager of Ali Alghanim & Sons Automotive, the exclusive importer of the BMW Group in Kuwait, said: “BMW has a proud history of pioneering automotive innovations, and the success of the BMW X6 proved that there is a healthy demand for a completely new segment of innovative and aesthetic vehicles. The BMW Gran Turismo is the only vehicle of its kind in the market right now.

“We are confident that the new Gran Turismo will strengthen BMW’s position in the luxury performance class, and our customers can be assured of a truly exceptional offering backed by excellent customer service,” Al-Qatami added.

The BMW Gran Turismo enters the market carrying over BMW EfficientDynamics into a new segment in the automobile world, allowing the model to set new standards in terms of economy and emission management.

The Gran Turismo will enter the Kuwaiti market with eight-speed automatic transmission and two engine variants – the in-line six cylinder 535i and the V8 550i – both with twin-turbo technology,.. The BMW 535i Gran Turismo has a maximum output of 306 hp with a top speed of 250 km/hr and acceleration from 0–100 km/h in 6.3 seconds. The top-of-the-range engine, the BMW 550i Gran Turismo has a maximum output of 407 hp with a top speed of 250 km/hr and acceleration from 0–100 km/h in 5.5 seconds.

A host of safety and comfort options are available on the model, including Driving Dynamic Control for variable drive settings depending on road conditions and Adaptive Headlights - a function that varies the angle of the headlight beam when it detects a change in direction. An active and passive warning system such as the Lane Departure Warning ensures that the driver stays within lane limits.

The BMW Gran Turismo also comes with a wide range of comfort touches and innovative entertainment options, including telecommunication and navigation systems, a multi-channel audio system, a DAB double tuner, USB port, 80 GB Hard Disk, DVD entertainment system in the rear, four-zone automatic air conditioning, and a panorama glass roof.

27.01.2010

Adding to its range of driver assistance technologies that bring unmatched driver engagement, handling and safety features to the luxury performance segment, BMW Group Middle East has launched the industry’s first Arabic-language iDrive control system. The system will be available as a standard feature for most BMW models fitted with navigation, and will be available to customers in the Middle East region from early May.

The BMW iDrive control system has an up to 10.2 inch Control Display with standardised menu guidance that grants easy access to the radio/CD, telecommunication functions and satellite navigation and others. The interface for the satellite navigation system comprising maps, menus, directions, data entry and voice guidance. All these functions are provided in Arabic with a male Arabic voice, and with an option to switch to English and other languages.

The BMW onboard navigation system is extremely easy to operate and guides you quickly and directly to your destination. Your current location is established automatically by the navigator with the help of the Global Positioning System (GPS), down to an accuracy of 10 metres. Using this information, the system calculates the best route to your destination, and guides you step by step to your goal. Instructions are given visually as easy-to-follow arrows, and/or as clear verbal instructions over the sound system.

Hamid Haqparwar, Manager Product & Price for BMW Group Middle East, says: “We are very excited to bring this new feature to our Arabic customers in the Middle East. This project has been a few years in the making and we have invested a considerable amount into research and development, which proves our ongoing commitment to servicing our Arabic-language customers with an added driver-assist benefit.“
For more information on model availability and pricing, please contact the local BMW importer.

24.02.2010

Kuwait - The world’s most successful premium automotive manufacturer has announced that The New BMW 5 Series will arrive in Kuwait at the end of March 2010. The launch of the sixth generation model marks the epitome of aesthetic design and supreme driving pleasure in the midrange premium segment.

With its sporting and elegant design, excellent comfort and the highest standard in efficiency in its class, BMW’s latest executive sedan sets the benchmark in driving dynamics.

Commenting on the imminent launch, Yousef Al-Qatami, General Manager of Ali Alghanim & Sons Automotive, said: “The 5 Series is a core product and one of BMW's best selling models, globally and in Kuwait, so we are looking forward to launching this new model in March. It is a totally different car from its predecessor in terms of design, comfort, technology and engineering. The car comes with new high performance engines and a host of new driver assistant features, including Rear Cameras, Ambient Lights and Automatic Tailgate Operation.

"These are only a few of a host of innovative features available in The New BMW 5 Series. The new model is imaginative, creative and effective. BMW designers and engineers have worked hand-in-hand to ensure the perfect interplay of design and technology. It's the perfect combination of sportiness, elegance and charisma. All this has been combined in complete harmony," added Al-Qatami.

The new BMW 5 Series sedan will be available with one eight-cylinder and three six-cylinder petrol engines offering outstanding performance. The model is a class leader in emissions reduction. It has been designed around BMW's successful Efficient Dynamics strategy that encompasses many technology innovations to offer outstanding performance and a reduction in fuel consumption.

The interior of the new BMW 5 Series has a stylish and modern design with exciting lines that create a generous and harmonious ambience. High quality materials and superior craftsmanship underline the premium interior ambience.

The new BMW 5 Series Sedan will clearly stand out from the crowd, convincingly demonstrating its ability to offer the Sheer Driving Pleasure typical of the BMW brand.

14.03.2010

Kuwait - BMW Group Middle East is celebrating after picking up a host of awards including ‘Best Premium Mid-Size Car’, ‘Best Premium Small-Size Car’, ‘Best Premium Coupe’ and ‘Dream Car of the Year’ at the first-ever 'Car of the Year' Awards held by RPM magazine.

The RPM magazine awards recognized the industry’s best vehicles in the Kuwaiti market during 2009, based on the analysis of thousands of responses received through an independent online public survey. The BMW 3, 5 and 6 Series models beat off stiff competition from other manufacturers to walk away with the titles.

Commenting on the host of award wins Yousef Al-Qatami, General Manager of Ali Alghanim & Sons Automotive, the exclusive importers of the BMW Group cars in Kuwait, said: “We are proud to receive four awards not only for our BMW cars but also for the brand to be selected as a 'Dream Car of the Year'. What is even more important is that the awards were voted for directly by the people of Kuwait, which is testament to BMW's brands strong emotional appeal and the excellence in design, innovation and performance.”

Al-Qatami added, “All of the winning models contributed to BMW's strong year in Kuwait during which we witnessed an 8% growth in sales. We expect the arrival of the new BMW 5 Series and BMW X1 to power this growth even further this year."

The BMW 5 Series was awarded ‘Best Premium Mid-Size Car’ at the ceremony. This well achieved award comes at a time of celebration with the arrival of the new BMW 5 Series in Kuwait. The BMW 5 Series Sedan marks the epitome of aesthetic design and supreme driving pleasure in the upper midrange segment, with sporting and elegant design, excellent comfort and the highest standard in efficiency in its class.

Meanwhile, the BMW 3 Series won the award for ‘Best Premium Small-Size Car’. The BMW 3 Series continues to raise the bar in terms of technology and driving dynamics thanks to 35 years of impressive engineering and design leadership. Celebrated as the world’s best-selling premium car, the 3 Series entered a new era in driving dynamics, premium quality and innovative technology with the launch of its redesigned model in 2008, and looks set to continue that this year with the arrival of the new shape BMW 3 Series Coupe and Convertible models.

The BMW 6 Series convertible was aptly named the ‘Best Premium Coupe’, combining the sleek lines of a sports coupe with the dynamic driving performance that BMW is best-known for.

All three models are available at Ali Alghanim & Sons Automotive in Kuwait.

14.04.2010

Kuwait -The Kuwait debut of the new BMW 5 Series Sedan marks the epitome of aesthetic design and supreme driving pleasure in the upper midrange segment. With its sporting and elegant design, excellent comfort and the highest standard in efficiency in its class, the sixth generation of this immensely successful executive sedan is expected to continue the success story.

The new BMW 5 Series' design is imaginative, creative and effective, with BMW’s designers and engineers working hand-in-hand to ensure the perfect combination of design and technology.

The core product in BMW's portfolio and one of the top selling models in the Middle East, the new 5 Series is set to strengthen BMW’s position in the premium midrange segment.
In terms of design, the new 5 Series has the longest wheelbase in the segment, a long and sleek engine compartment lid, short overhangs front and rear and a coupé-like roofline. The interior has a stylish and modern design with exciting lines that create a generous and harmonious ambience. High quality materials and superior craftsmanship underline the premium feel.

The new BMW 5 Series will enter the Kuwait market with one eight-cylinder and three six-cylinder petrol engines. The top model is the BMW 550i powered by a V8 with BMW TwinPower Turbo featuring High Precision Injection (407 hp).The straight-six with BMW TwinPower Turbo, High Precision Injection and VALVETRONIC in the BMW 535i delivers maximum output of 306 hp; while the two straight-six power units featuring High Precision Injection and lean-burn operation develop 258 hp in the BMW 528i and, respectively, 204 hp in the BMW 523i.

The new BMW 5 Series is a class leader in emissions reduction. It has been designed around BMW's successful Efficient Dynamics strategy encompassing many technology innovations to minimize fuel consumption and CO2 emissions while maximizing power and dynamic performance.

Some of the wide range of sophisticated, optional driving and comfort features offered in the new BMW 5 Series include Dynamic Drive Control with four modes: comfort, normal, sport and sport +; Comfort Start; Head-Up Display; Multi-Channel Audio System, Rear Seat Entertainment; and Four-Zone Automatic Air Conditioning.

BMW ConnectedDrive also offers a unique range of optional driver-assist technology functions for enhanced comfort and safety. For the first time the new BMW 5 Series comes with a Parking Assistant, a feature that facilitates the process of parking; Active Cruise Control , Rear View Camera, and BMW Night Vision with pedestrian recognition.

Commenting on the launch of the new BMW 5 Series Sedan, Mr. Yousef Al-Qatami, General Manager at Ali Alghanim & Sons Automotive, the exclusive BMW importer in Kuwait, said: “The launch of the new BMW 5 Series opens up the latest chapter in a truly impressive BMW success story. The 5 Series has always been one of our best sellers in Kuwait, so we are naturally delighted to introduce this new model into the market.

"This sixth generation model is a totally different car from its predecessor in terms of design, comfort, technology and engineering. We are confident that it will be well received and help us maintain our position at the forefront of industry trends.”

The new BMW 5 Series sedan is available at Ali Alghanim & Sons Automotive from April 2010.

18.04.2010

Kuwait. Ian Robertson, Board Member for Sales and Marketing for BMW AG, the world’s leading premium automotive manufacturer, visited Kuwait this week to hold meetings with Ali Aghanim & Sons Automotive, the country's exclusive BMW Group importer. The visit, his first to Kuwait, marks strong recognition by BMW AG for the positive sales results achieved by BMW Group Middle East during 2009, a particularly challenging economic year.

Ali Alghanim & Sons Automotive, ranked among the top five performing markets for BMW Group Middle East in 2009, increasing sales by eight per cent over 2008. The top selling model, the flagship BMW 7 Series, enjoyed a 51 per cent increase in sales, followed closely by the BMW X6 Sports Activity Coupe that saw an increase of 48 per cent. The MINI brand also enjoyed a successful year during its 50th anniversary year, with sales achieving growth of 29 per cent.

Mr. Robertson said: "The excellent results achieved by Ali Alghanim & Sons Automotive during 2009 have contributed significantly to BMW's financial results for the Middle East. The region is an important one for BMW Group because of its highly discerning customers who recognize and appreciate the luxury, style and performance of our premium models. Not only was our flagship 7 Series our best selling model in 2009, but it was also the best selling premium car in the Middle East. This is a remarkable achievement and the result of the efforts made by all our importers.”

BMW Group Middle East has had a strong start to the year with the launch of two all-new models, the Gran Turismo and the 5 Series. The second quarter of 2010 will see the arrival of the groundbreaking BMW ActiveHybrid X6 and 7 Series models, as well as the new BMW X1.

Fahad Alghanim, Managing Director, Ali Alghanim & Sons Automotive said: "We are delighted to welcome Mr. Robertson here in Kuwait. We have a strong relationship with the BMW Group based on thirty years of cooperation, commitment and mutual trust. We are also very proud to be among the best-performing markets in the BMW Group Middle East for the year 2009, which is a result of Ali Alghanim & Sons' dedication to providing the best in customer care and aftersales servicing to our customers. God-willing, we look forward to continuing this growth in the future."

He continued, " Our customer base here in Kuwait continues to grow at a double digit rate, so we are confident these new BMW models, particularly the new 5 Series and X5, will have a positive effect on our 2010 sales and the BMW brand will maintain its strength here in Kuwait."

Alghanim also thanked Mr. Robertson for specifically visiting Kuwait during his trip to the region.

05.04.2010

Kuwait: Adding to its range of driver assistance technologies that bring unmatched driver engagement, handling and safety features to the luxury performance segment, BMW Group Middle East has launched the industry’s first Arabic-language iDrive control system. The system will be available as a standard feature for most BMW models fitted with navigation, and will be available to Ali Alghanim & Sons Automotive customers in Kuwait from early May.

The BMW iDrive control system has an up to 10.2 inch Control Display with standardised menu guidance that grants easy access to the radio/CD, telecommunication functions and satellite navigation and others. The interface for the satellite navigation system comprising maps, menus, directions, data entry and voice guidance. All these functions are provided in Arabic with a male Arabic voice, and with an option to switch to English and other languages.

The BMW onboard navigation system is extremely easy to operate and guides you quickly and directly to your destination. Your current location is established automatically by the navigator with the help of the Global Positioning System (GPS), down to an accuracy of 10 metres. Using this information, the system calculates the best route to your destination, and guides you step by step to your goal. Instructions are given visually as easy-to-follow arrows, and/or as clear verbal instructions over the sound system.

Yousef Al Qatami, General Manager at Ali Alghanim & Son Automotive, BMW’s exclusive importer in Kuwait, says: “We are very proud to bring this new feature to our Arabic-speaking customers in Kuwait. Not only is it an industry-first, but It is further proof of our ongoing commitment to providing our customers with the latest in technology features that take the joy of driving to another level. We are confident that our customers will be delighted with this new driver-assist benefit for BMW cars.“

The Arabic iDrive Navigation System is available in all new exclusive BMW models at Ali Alghanim & Sons Automotive upon request.

10.05.2010

Kuwait - The epitome of aesthetic appeal and dynamic performance in the upper medium category now performs the function of a role model in the field of safety, too. The new BMW 5 Series passed the latest Euro NCAP (New Car Assesment Programme) crash test with the top rating of 5 stars. The sixth generation of the model series performed impressively on the test - which was extended to include additional criteria in 2009 - with its comprehensive safety fittings as standard as well as a highly effective vehicle occupant protection system for various different collision types.

With its outstanding results on vehicle occupant protection for adults and children, pedestrian protection and standard safety features, the new BMW 5 Series moves into the leading position within its segment. It is also the first BMW model series to receive a 100 per cent on the Euro NCAP crash test rating for outstanding safety features.

The NCAP test is regarded as one of the most demanding tests in the world to be applied to new motor vehicles. The Euro NCAP test is recognised as a benchmark for crash safety by governments, automobile clubs and consumer protection organisations throughout Europe. The test scenario includes a head-on collision, a side crash and a side impact against a steel post. In 2009 additional criteria were added, with testing of electronic safety features as well as additional injury risks in diverse types of collision.

After analysing the test results, Euro NCAP testers certified that the new BMW 5 Series provides an extremely stable passenger cell which ensures extensive protection from injury both for driver and passengers, regardless of their size and seating position. Maximum points were especially scored on the side impact test, with particularly effective protection for adult passengers being achieved on all other test scenarios.

The analysis of vehicle occupant protection for children showed an outstanding performance by the new BMW 5 Series. The maximum point score was awarded on the test for seating systems designed for children aged three, for both head-on and side impact. Both test scenarios also registered a stable position and minimum head movement at the moment of collision in the use of seating systems designed for children aged one and a half and three.

Mr. Yousef Al-Qatami, General Manager of Ali Alghanim & Sons Automotive, the exclusive importer of BMW in Kuwait, said: “BMW has always been a pioneer in vehicle safety, coming up with more sophisticated and innovative vehicle designs and technology to help make them safer for drivers, passengers and pedestrians. The new BMW 5 Series is the first BMW car to get a perfect 100% rating in the Euro NCAP test, and we are delighted to be able to offer it to our customers here in Kuwait.”

09.06.2010

Kuwait - BMW is setting a new benchmark in the compact Sports Activity Vehicle segment with the launch of the newest member of its X model range, the all-new BMW X1. The youngest model to join the hugely successful X Sports Activity Vehicle portfolio comes with all of the features typical of the BMW X range, but at the same time offers a new interpretation of BMW's Sheer Driving Pleasure.

The driving characteristics of the BMW X1 offer the perfect combination of supreme agility and versatile sportiness with an appearance of a Sports Activity Vehicle and the agility of a BMW 1 Series. Available in Kuwait with two engine variants and measuring 4.45 metres in length, this five-door stands out from every angle as a BMW X model.

The X1 xDrive28i top-of-the-range, six-cylinder petrol engine has a maximum output of 258hp, accelerating from 0-100 km/h in just 6.8 seconds and reaching a top speed of 230 km/h. Also available is the sporting and economic sDrive18i, a 2.0 litre four cylinder engine with 150hp. Accelerating this agile performer from 0-100 km/h takes just 10.4 seconds and provides a top speed of 200 km/h.

The interior of the BMW X1 is characterised by clear functionality and modern style. The elevated seating position, a generous feeling of space, the wide range of storage options and the variable interior offer ideal conditions for enjoying the BMW X1 both in an urban environment and beyond.

The BMW X1 features an extremely stable body structure designed for maximum occupant safety. It achieved the highest score of five stars in the Euro NCAP crash test. NCAP (New Car Assement Programme) is regarded as one of the most important and demanding tests required for new vehicles worldwide.
The test scenario covers accident types such as the head-on collision, side crash and side impact against a steel post.

Modern drive-train technology gives the BMW X1 superior performance and efficiency all in one. The driver benefits from a powerful, economical and low-emission engine, BMW’s intelligent xDrive all-wheel-drive technology, as well as a range of BMW EfficientDynamics technologies to reduce emissions and fuel consumption. The suspension technology featured in the BMW X1 offers high-precision power steering, high performance brakes and Dynamic Stability Control including Dynamic Traction Control.

The BMW X1 comes with the latest generation of BMW iDrive functions (available only on X1 xDrive28i), including the 6.5inch Business or 8.8inch Professional navigation systems. The iDrive system has been updated to provide easy access to all telecommunication, audio and entertainment functions.

“The BMW X1 represents an attractive entry level variant below the BMW X3 that will no doubt attract a younger audience. The X range of models and in particular the X5 and X6 are very popular models in Kuwait and we have no doubt that the X1 will further extend this success," said Mr. Yousuf Al Qatami, General Manager at Ali Alghanim & Sons Automotive.

The new BMW X1 is now available in Kuwait at Ali Alghanim & Sons Automotive.

16.06.2010

Following the 2010 red dot design award, the BMW 5 Series Sedan also takes the 2011 prize from the German Design Council.

Munich. The new BMW 5 Series Sedan has won Silver in the 2011 Design Award of the Federal Republic of Germany, presented annually by the German Design Council. The country’s most prestigious prize for product design is one of several honors already bestowed by the Design Council in recognition of the excellence of BMW Group Design. The Design Award of the Federal Republic of Germany is sponsored by the Federal Ministry of Economics and Technology and will be presented at a public ceremony in Frankfurt on 11 February 2011.

The presentation forms part of the opening event of Ambient, the world’s biggest trade fair for consumer goods.

Since its launch in 1969, the Design Award of the Federal Republic of Germany has been conferred each year on outstanding international achievements in the categories of product and communication design, as well as on a personality from the world of design and on up-and-coming young talent. The winners are chosen by an independent jury consisting of ten representatives from industry, academia, design and the media, who are appointed by the Federal Ministry of Economics and Technology. The selection criteria for the design award are rigorous: all entries must already have received a national or international award and must embody trends and developments with a defining impact on future design. A further entry criterion is the nomination by the Trade and Industry Ministries and Senators of the federal states or by the Federal Ministry of Economics and Technology.

The design of the new BMW 5 Series Sedan deftly translates the vehicle’s attributes into an authentic formal language. Sheer presence and stylish elegance lend expression to the Sedan’s premium quality and outstanding ride comfort. Its sporty driving characteristics are reflected in the dynamic lines of its bodywork and the overall impression is that of a thoroughly athletic automobile.

The Superior aesthetics of the new BMW 5 Series Sedan are also conveyed by its perfectly balanced proportions and meticulously executed details.

The unique quality of BMW Group Design has already been recognised several times over by the Design Award of the Federal Republic of Germany. In 2010 this “prize of prizes” went to the Kinetic Sculpture of the BMW Museum (Gold), in 2009 it was awarded to the BMW HP2 Sport motorcycle (Silver), in 2008 to the BMW G650 Xcountry motorcycle (Gold), and in 2007 to the BMW Cruise Bike (Silver).

For the new BMW 5 Series Sedan this is not the first award of the year: in 2010 its exceptional design already resoundingly persuaded the jury of the internationally renowned red dot awards.

03.11.2010

Munich. By launching the new BMW 5 Series Sedan, the German premium automobile manufacturer is setting new standards not only in aesthetics and driving pleasure, but also in safety. This exceptional position has now found renewed and impressive testimony in the US NCAP crash test. The BMW 5 Series Sedan is the first vehicle that was awarded straight away the highest number of points, 5 stars, in the new and considerably more stringent test procedure of the US National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). The same number of points had already been awarded previously to this four door model in the Euro NCAP crash test. Moreover, the BMW 5 Series Sedan ranks among the first winners in Europe that Euro NCAP experts have honoured in addition with a special award, in recognition of its Assist Advanced eCall, an advanced emergency call system with automatic localisation and accident severity detection. In the USA too, the new BMW 5 Series received yet another honour for outstanding passenger protection: the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) voted it the Top Safety Pick on the strength of its top grades in all test categories.

This double award of 5 stars and the additional honours all reflect the outstandingly high safety level of the new BMW 5 Series Sedan that will be meeting the complex requirements on the international autombile markets. As a global provider of premium cars, BMW develops for all of its models fully integrated safety concepts that are not optimised solely for specific test procedures, but whose safety scope and quality provide the basis for excellent results in all relevant crash tests throughout the world. This ensures the maximum of protection not only for the dummy in the laboratory, but also for thevehicle’s occupants in actual traffic conditions when a critical situation arises or a collision is unavoidable.

Following extensive revisions this year, the US NCAP crash test was performed on a total of 33 current models from American, German, and Asian manufacturers. The tests included e.g. a head-on collision with a solid obstacle, two side collisions, and a rollover scenario. The crash test properties are assessed in particular with respect to occupant cell stability, safety equipment scope and effectiveness, and risk of injury to occupants as determined by the sensors fitted on the dummies.

New to the program is a so-called pole side impact, and in addition there was a significant increase in the stringency of thresholds relevant to top score achievability. As one of the consequences, vehicles that had been awarded top marks earlier under the previous test conditions were being downgraded by the NHTSA in some cases to as low as three stars. Whereas in earlier years, up to 90% of all tested vehicles were being awarded five stars, this year saw only two of thirty three models. Solely the new BMW 5 Series Sedan passed the demanding test program straight away with an overall grade of five stars. Another vehicle was likewise honoured with top grades following a second test run with subsequently optimised safety measures, but all other models achieved only two to four stars in the overall assessment.

For the new BMW 5 Series Sedan, the series is continuing the line of outstanding ratings from renowned safety testing institutes. Previously too, in extensive crash tests analogous to the traffic safety administration NHTSA, the US institute IIHS funded by the insurance sector had already awarded top marks to the Sedan for its occupant safety. One special feature of this test program is the lateral impact of a 1.5 t deformable barrier at a particularly high point on the vehicle’s side, simulating thereby a side collision with an SUV. In addition, the IIHS also utilises a roof strength test to investigate the stability of this structure in rollover scenarios. Having achieved the best grade in all test categories, the BMW 5 Series was voted Top Safety Pick.

The IIHS panel classified both the crash test properties and the safety equipment of the Sedan as exemplary. For instance, the crash active headrests fitted as standard prove to be a particularly effective measure for reducing the risk of whiplash injuries in the event of a rear collision. On this point the IIHS confirmed the positive judgment that the seats of the new BMW 5 Series Sedan had already received previously in the Euro NCAP crash test.

In Europe too, the positive ratings reach beyond the overall assessment of 5 stars. The new BMW 5 Series Sedan was the very first vehicle to achieve 100% in the safety equipment category of the Euro NCAP crash test. In the Euro NCAP pedestrian protection category, with a far higher priority than in the US program, the BMW 5 Series could likewise achieve the best score to date. The Sedan’s active engine compartment lid rises automatically during a collision with a pedestrian or cyclist, presenting an enlarged crumple zone for reduced risk of injury.

Moreover, this institution funded by European governments, automobile associations, and insurance companies is expanding its assessment program this year to include for the first time safety relevant technologies that are not being considered yet in the scope of previous crash tests. These innovative safety systems to a stringent test procedure that is intended to verify a perceptible gain in safety for actual accident situations. In the case of the new BMW 5 Series Sedan, this Euro NCAP Advanced Award went to the Assist Advanced eCall, an advanced emergency call system with automatic localisation and accident severity detection by BMW ConnectedDrive. In the event of a collision, this function automatically alerts emergency services and transmits additional data serving to locate the vehicle and assess the potential risk of injury to the occupants.

07.11.2010