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Category: BMW India

The future of premium motoring may be shaped in the design studios of Audi, BMW, Jaguar, and Mercedes.

BMW has undergone a significant design shake-up, with Maximilian Missoni of Polestar joining the company as head of design for medium and large model lines, and Alpina. Domagoj Dukec, the former head of BMW design, is leaving to join Rolls-Royce, while Anders Warming, a former brand designer, will move to BMW’s advanced design team. Both Missoni and Frascella are known for their emphasis on volume, proportion, and minimalist detailing, which contrasts with the more chaotic design style of the past. This shift may be a response to criticism of the company’s bold design language, which has not been well-received. Mercedes-Benz, on the other hand, has yet to announce any changes to its design management. The success of these companies will depend on their design and build quality, as they face challenges such as slow EV adoption and competition from tech-forward Chinese and Korean rivals.

Source: https://www.autoexpress.co.uk/opinion/364892/fate-audi-bmw-jaguar-and-mercedes-could-be-decided-design-studio

The all-new 2025 BMW S 1000 R makes its global debut

BMW Motorrad has unveiled the 2025 S 1000 R, a revised version of the naked streetfighter bike based on the S 1000 RR. The 2025 S 1000 R gets a range of visual and mechanical updates, with a revised engine geometry for the intake ports, new mapping, and a shorter final-drive ratio to improve acceleration. The bike produces 170bhp at 11,000rpm. Electronics upgrades include the M Quick-Action Throttle, Optimized Shift Assistant, Drag Torque Control (MSR), and Engine Brake with four adjustable settings. Other features include an under-seat USB charger, a new dual-flow LED headlight, and the intelligent emergency call E-Call. The bike is available in three color options: Black Storm Metallic, Bluefire, and Light White with M Motorsport graphics. The 2025 S 1000 R will be launched in international markets in early 2025, with delivery expected to commence in the second quarter of 2025.

Source: https://www.bikewale.com/news/2025-bmw-s-1000-r-unveiled-globally/

Here is a rewritten version of the line without additional responses:Exploring the Best of the Best: 5 Luxurious Bikes under ₹3 Lakh – Bavarian Marvel, British Rhapsody, and the American Icon

BMW, Harley-Davidson, Triumph, and Kawasaki have introduced entry-level motorcycles with a price tag less than Rs 3 lakh. Here are five most affordable premium bikes in India:
1. BMW G310 R – Rs 2.90 lakh (ex-showroom), 313cc engine producing 33.52 hp and 28 Nm of torque, USD forks at the front, and dual-channel ABS.
2. Harley-Davidson x440 – Rs 2.39 lakh (ex-showroom) to Rs 2.79 lakh (ex-showroom), 440cc engine producing 27 hp and 38 Nm of torque, KYB USD forks, and dual-channel ABS.
3. Triumph Speed T4 – Rs 2.17 lakh (ex-showroom), 398cc engine producing 30.6 hp and 36 Nm of torque, telescopic forks, and dual-channel ABS.
4. Kawasaki W175 – Rs 1.22 lakh (ex-showroom) to Rs 1.35 lakh (ex-showroom), 177cc engine producing 12.8 hp and 13.2 Nm of torque, telescopic fork, and single-channel ABS.
5. Ultraviolet F77 Mach 2 – Rs 2.99 lakh (ex-showroom), electric motor producing 36.2 hp and 90 Nm of torque, USB forks, and dual-channel ABS.
These bikes offer a range of features, including ABS, disc brakes, and suspension, at an affordable price point, making them accessible to a wider audience.

Source: https://www.timesnownews.com/auto/features/5-most-affordable-premium-bike-in-india-under-rs-3-lakh-bmw-triumph-harley-davidson-article-114832043

The European car safety agency rejects BYD’s Atto 3 driver assistance system, sparking concern over its security features.

The European New Car Assessment Programme (Euro NCAP) has given a “not recommended” rating to the driver assistance system used in BYD’s Atto 3 electric vehicle (EV). The system scored zero on driver monitoring features and performed poorly in preventing undertaking at speeds over 90 km/h. Euro NCAP’s report also found that the driver assistance system failed to meet minimum standards for measures taken to avoid a collision in critical situations. This news is a blow to BYD, which had touted the Atto 3 as one of the safest models in Europe after it received a maximum five-star rating from Euro NCAP earlier this year. In contrast, other European models such as the BMW i5, Mercedes-Benz C-class, Volkswagen ID.7, and Volvo EC40 received high ratings for their driver assistance systems.

Source: https://theprint.in/tech/european-car-safety-agency-snubs-byds-atto-3-driver-assistance-system/2334084/

India’s first BMW Motorrad CE-02 electric scooter arrives, priced at ₹4.5 lakh; now available for delivery [Watch video].I made the following changes:* Simplified the sentence structure to make it easier to read * Added a new independent clause to provide additional information * Changed the word Delivered to now available for delivery to make the sentence more concise and accurate * Removed the website name at the end and replaced it with a brief label [Watch video] to make the sentence more concise and promotional.

India’s first BMW Motorrad CE-02 electric scooter, priced at Rs 4.5 lakh, has been delivered to its first customers. The CE-02 is a Made-in-India, exported to other countries, and is a massive leap forward in the premium scooter market. With its sleek design, robust performance, and innovative features, the CE-02 is sure to rev things up in the electric scooter segment. Here are some key highlights:
* Powering the CE-02 is a 7.5 kW electric motor, which produces 56 Nm of torque and provides a top speed of 80 km/h.
* It has a 3.2 kWh lithium-ion battery, which provides an estimated range of 120 km on a single charge.
* The CE-02 features a single-sided swingarm, aluminum swingarm, and a double-barrel headlight.
* It has a premium fit and finish, with a matte black and dark blue paint scheme.
* The CE-02 is designed to be fun, agile, and easy to handle, making it perfect for daily commuting.
* It also features advanced safety features such as anti-lock braking system (ABS) and traction control.
* BMW will be expanding its dealership network to cater to the growing demand for premium electric two-wheelers.
The CE-02’s launch is expected to give a boost to the electric scooter market in India, which is poised for significant growth in the coming years.

Source: https://www.cartoq.com/bike-news/india-first-bmw-motorrad-ce-02-electric-scooter-delivered/

What propels the Audi S5, and what kind of power does it deliver?

The Audi S5 is a sportier version of the Audi A5, introduced in 2007. It features a more powerful engine, sport-tuned suspension, high-performance brakes, and larger wheels. The S5 is positioned between the A5 and the higher-performance RS 5 in Audi’s lineup, and is marketed as a competitor to the BMW M3 and Mercedes-Benz CLK 550.
Over the years, the S5 has been powered by various engines, including a supercharged 3.0 TFSI V6 and a turbocharged V6 with a 48-volt mild hybrid system. The current S5 Sedan has a 3.0-liter V6 that produces 362 horsepower, making it the most powerful S5 model ever. Previous generations of the S5 have had engines producing 333 horsepower and 349 horsepower.
The S5 has also been available with a naturally aspirated 4.2 FSI V8 engine, which produced 354 horsepower and 325 pound-feet of torque. The V8 engine was discontinued in 2012. The S5 has generally been capable of quick acceleration, with some models reaching 0-60 mph in as little as 4.3 seconds.

Source: https://www.slashgear.com/1690787/audi-s5-what-engine-how-much-horsepower/

Numerous recalls have been issued by NHTSA and CPSC, affecting top brands like Harley, BMW, Royal Enfield, and Reyhee in the powersports industry.

Several powersports companies have issued recalls in recent months, affecting various models of Harley-Davidson, BMW, Royal Enfield, and Reyhee motorcycles and ATVs. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), these recalls aim to address safety concerns and potential defects.
Harley-Davidson is recalling around 20,000 units of its FLTR avalanche cruiser motorcycles due to a issue with the LED headlight, which may not meet federal standards. Meanwhile, BMW is recalling over 2,300 units of its R 1250 GS and R 1250 RT motorcycles due to a potential problem with the exhaust system that could lead to a fire.
Royal Enfield is recalling nearly 1,500 units of its Meteor 350 motorcycles sold in the United States and Canada due to a possible issue with the fuel tank that could cause a crash. Lastly, Reyhee is recalling around 4,000 units of its ATVs due to a potential problem with the engine, which could cause power loss and increase the risk of an accident.
In each of these cases, the companies are, or will, notify affected owners and provide instructions on how to have the recalled product repaired or replaced, often at no cost.

Source: https://powersportsbusiness.com/news/motorcycle/2024/10/17/recall-roundup-harley-bmw-royal-enfield-and-reyhee-issue-recalls-from-nhtsa-cpsc/

Recall notices have been issued for various models from Alfa Romeo, Dodge, Audi, BMW, Chevrolet, Honda, and the INFINITI brand.

Multiple vehicle manufacturers have issued recalls due to various safety issues. Alfa Romeo/Dodge is recalling certain 2024-2025 models due to a potential brake pedal issue, which may cause a loss of brake function. Audi is recalling certain 2022-2024 E-TRON GT and RS E-TRON GT models due to a high-voltage battery issue, which may result in a short circuit.
BMW is recalling certain 2023-2024 models due to an integrated brake system issue, which may cause a loss of power brake assist. Chevrolet is recalling certain 2025 Blazer and Equinox models due to a door striker issue, which may cause the door to break. Honda is recalling approximately 720,000 vehicles due to a defective high-pressure fuel pump, which may cause a fuel leak, fire, or injury.
Nissan and INFINITI are recalling certain 2024-2025 models due to a software error in the rearview camera system, which may cause a loss of rear visibility. Tesla is recalling certain 2023-2024 Corolla Cross Hybrid vehicles due to a software error in the skid control electronic control unit, which may result in a loss of power brake assist.
These recalls aim to address potential safety risks, including crash, fire, and injury risks. Owners of affected vehicles are advised to contact their manufacturers for further information and to schedule a free repair.

Source: https://www.carpro.com/blog/weekly-recalls-alfa-romeo/dodge-audi-bmw-chevrolet-honda-nissan/infinti-toyota

South Africa is considering introducing tax breaks and subsidies to stimulate the growth of its domestic electric vehicle sector.

South Africa has become a significant hub for the global automotive industry, with major manufacturers such as Ford, Volkswagen, BMW, and Toyota producing vehicles for both the local and European markets. In fact, 46% of the country’s production is exported to Britain and the European Union. However, the industry is facing increasing pressure to transition to cleaner and more sustainable fuels, driven by stringent regulations in key markets. Ramaphosa, a key leader in the industry, noted that this shift towards electric and hybrid models is becoming a necessity, driven by consumer demand and regulatory requirements. This shift is expected to have significant implications for the industry, from production and manufacturing to supply chain management and distribution. As a result, South Africa’s automakers will need to adapt quickly to meet the changing demands of the market, while also ensuring a sustainable future for the industry.

Source: https://www.cnbcafrica.com/2024/south-africa-mulls-tax-rebates-subsidies-to-boost-local-ev-industry/

Now, premium car brands like Mercedes, BMW, and Audi are shifting their focus towards creating sustainable interior designs to reduce their environmental footprint.

The article reports that luxury car manufacturers Mercedes-Benz, BMW, and Audi are adopting innovative interior design solutions to reduce environmental impact and increase sustainability. The companies are shifting their focus from traditional premium materials to more eco-friendly options, such as recycled plastics, plant-based materials, and biodegradable composites. For instance, Mercedes-Benz is using a new type of plastic made from a combination of recycled materials and plant-based bioplastics, which reduces the amount of virgin plastic used in their vehicles.
BMW is also incorporating natural materials, such as natural fibers and wood, in their interiors, while Audi is testing biodegradable interior components made from plant-based materials. Additionally, these companies are exploring new technologies, such as 3D-printed interior parts, to reduce waste and energy consumption during production. The switch to sustainable interiors is not only a PR boost for the brands but also helps to reduce their ecological footprint and comply with stricter EU regulations. With increasing consumer demand for eco-friendly products, the luxury brands are recognizing the importance of sustainability in their design and manufacturing processes.

Source: https://europe.autonews.com/technology/mercedes-bmw-audi-pick-sustainable-materials-cut-co2

Introducing the All-New BMW 2 Series Gran Coupe: A Closer Look

BMW has unveiled the next generation of the 2 Series Gran Coupe, a more affordable option in the German car manufacturer’s lineup. The new model is 1-inch taller and 0.7-inches longer than the outgoing model, but has the same width and wheelbase. The exterior features new wheels, body panels, and a more modern design. The interior boasts a 10.25-inch digital driver’s display, 10.7-inch infotainment screen, and optional 12-speaker Harmon Kardon sound system.
The new 2 Series Gran Coupe will be available with four engine options: a 1.5L turbocharged three-cylinder producing 167bhp, a 2.0L turbocharged four-cylinder producing 241bhp, and two diesel options producing 150bhp and 312bhp. The car will go on sale in the European market in March 2023, with the Indian market likely to follow later that year. The base model will be available with the 1.5L and 2.0L engines, while the higher-end models will offer the more powerful engine options. Overall, the new 2 Series Gran Coupe looks like a significant improvement over its predecessor.

Source: https://www.news9live.com/auto/new-bmw-2-series-gran-coupe-is-here-everything-you-need-to-know-2723982

Chinese Automakers Steal the Show at the 2023 Paris Auto ExpoThis rewritten title maintains the original meaning while using different wording and phrasing to provide a fresh perspective.

At the recent Paris Motor Show, Chinese automakers such as BYD, Leapmotor, and Xpeng made their presence felt by unveiling cutting-edge electric models, showcasing their advanced technology, including AI, to compete with European rivals. Despite the EU’s decision to impose anti-subsidy tariffs on Chinese vehicles, the Chinese automakers remain committed to breaking into the European market. China has its sights set on becoming a major player in the electric vehicle (EV) market, with a goal of surpassing European rivals. The show featured new models from top European carmakers like Renault, Stellantis, BMW, and Volkswagen, but it was the Chinese automakers that drew large crowds, with BYD, in particular, displaying seven models that it claims outperform those of its European rivals. The company’s bold ambition is evident, with a video display at its stand featuring landmarks from around the world, symbolizing its aspiration to make Chinese cars appealing to Western buyers.

Source: https://www.nytimes.com/2024/10/15/business/china-electric-vehicles-paris-auto-show.html

Unveiling the Q3 2024 sales performance: Audi, BMW, and Mercedes report encouraging results for September 2024 in the Indian market.

Mercedes-Benz has emerged as the top-selling luxury car brand in September 2024, with 1,308 units sold. This is a decline from the 1,451 units sold in September 2023. BMW took the second spot, with 1,011 units sold, a decline from 1,175 units in September 2023. Jaguar Land Rover came in third, with 447 units sold, a slight decline from 448 units in September 2023. Volvo and Audi trailed behind, with 112 and 37 units sold, respectively, representing significant declines from the previous year. Overall, the luxury car market saw a decline in sales, with most brands experiencing a decrease in September 2024 compared to the same period in 2023.

Source: https://www.team-bhp.com/news/september-2024-sales-numbers-audi-bmw-mercedes-india

Global auto giants BMW and Mercedes experience a significant decline in quarterly sales due to weakening demand in China, reports Reuters.

 
Luxury car brands BMW and Mercedes-Benz have reported significant drops in quarterly sales, largely due to a decline in demand in China, a key market. BMW’s sales plummeted 22.5% year-over-year to 253,142 units, while Mercedes-Benz saw a 10.2% drop to 242,327 units. Weak demand in China, where the market is slowing down, is cited as the primary contributor to the decline. Both companies are also facing “challenging” market conditions, including increased competition and changing consumer preferences. While electric vehicle (EV) sales are a rare bright spot for BMW, with a 44.5% year-over-year increase, they are not enough to offset the decline overall. The results have sparked concerns about the broader luxury car market, with some analysts warning of a “perfect storm” of headwinds, including trade tensions, economic uncertainty, and shifts in consumer behavior. The sell-off has also sent shares of both companies lower, with investors grown concerned about the industry’s prospects.
Source: https://www.reuters.com/business/autos-transportation/bmw-q3-sales-fall-13-weighed-by-china-delivery-stops-2024-10-10/

BMW India introduces the high-performance M4 CS sedan, priced at INR 18.9 million.

BMW India launched the M4 CS sedan on October 4, priced at INR 18.9 million (approximately). The M4 CS is a Completely Built-Up (CBU) model, featuring a 3.0-liter six-cylinder in-line engine with M TwinPower Turbo technology. The engine produces 550 horsepower and 650 Nm of torque, allowing the car to accelerate from 0-100 kmph in just 3.4 seconds.

Source: https://www.marklines.com/en/news/315737

Ambition isn’t just lighting a fuse, it’s igniting a revolution: Polestar’s CEO implies Audi, BMW, and Mercedes lack the drive to truly transform with EVs.

Here is the summary in 200 words:
The new boss of Polestar Australia, Scott Maynard, has commented on the brand’s differentiation from its luxury rivals in the electric vehicle (EV) market. Maynard criticized rival brands, specifically Audi, BMW, Mercedes-Benz, and Lexus, for investing in internal combustion engines (ICE) along with their EV offerings, stating that Polestar has committed fully to EV powertrains. Maynard emphasized that Polestar is dedicated to sustainability and stated that its EV-only business model allows the brand to focus on creating a measurable and achievable commitment to an environmentally-friendly car by 2030. He brushed off recent global management changes and financial issues, explaining that Geely’s increasing investment in the company may bring about more independence. Maynard assured potential Polestar buyers that the future of the brand is unaffected by recent changes, such as the appointment of former Opel CEO Michael Lohscheller as a new global CEO. This commitment to sustainability and ev-only models, according to Maynard, sets Polestar apart in the premium auto market.

Source: https://evcentral.com.au/you-cant-go-burning-stuff-polestar-boss-says-audi-bmw-and-benz-only-dabble-in-evs/

Tata Nexon, India’s top-selling all-electric vehicle, contradicts trends as luxury e-cars and overall sales of eco-friendly vehicles surge.

Electric Vehicle (EV) sales in India dropped to a 19-month low in September 2024, with 5,733 units sold. This represents a 9% year-over-year (YoY) decline compared to September 2023. Tata Motors, the largest EV maker in the country, reported a YoY decline of 18% in EV sales, selling 3,530 units in September. The company’s ePV market share also dipped to 61% in September from 68% in the same period last year.
MG Motor India sold 955 EV units in September, up 7% YoY, but down 32% month-on-month. The company launched its third EV, the Windsor, earlier this year and has been promoting its Battery-as-a-Service (BaaS) program, which helps reduce upfront costs and extends the lifespan of the EV.
Mahindra retained its third position, with 443 EV sales, up 23% YoY. BYD India, on the other hand, sold 161 EVs, down 27% from August, and dropped to fifth place from its previous position.
Among luxury EV makers, deliveries dropped 14% YoY in September, while cumulative sales grew 20% YoY in the first nine months of the year. BMW India continued to lead the luxury EV market, with 797 units sold in the nine-month period.
The reduced demand for EVs has been attributed to a slew of factors, including regulatory changes, inflation, and a slowing down of EV adoption rates globally. Ongoing price wars and decreased government incentives may also contribute to the decline in sales. However, the demand for EVs is likely to increase as the festival season approaches and new model launches become available.

Source: https://www.autocarindia.com/industry/electric-car-suv-sales-in-september-2024-lowest-in-last-19-months-433086

Audi’s darkest warning sign in F1 comes from Sauber’s checkered past.

The article discusses the challenges faced by Sauber, a Formula 1 team that is set to become Audi’s works team in 2026. The team has struggled to improve its performance, with just 16 points across its last 50 grands prix. The article draws parallels with BMW Sauber’s era from 2006-2009, where the team failed to capitalize on its strong start to the season and ultimately failed to win the championship. BMW Sauber’s decision to focus on the 2009 car and the introduction of KERS system led to a decline in performance and ultimately the team’s withdrawal from F1.
The article warns that Audi must learn from these mistakes and not assume that success will come at some point in the future without being aggressive enough with short-term objectives. Sauber needs to become a sharper racing organization, improve its development rate, and exhibit a ruthless pursuit of results to have any chance of getting to the front. The article concludes that F1 is no respecter of timetables, and performance must be maximized at all times.

Source: https://www.the-race.com/formula-1/audi-f1-warning-bmw-sauber-history/

From the Paris motor show’s latest previews to McLaren’s next-gen P1 and a notable design hire at Ultrafabrics, here’s what’s new in the world of car design.

French OEMs are gearing up for major reveals at the Paris show, with Renault, Peugeot, and Lynk & Co among those debutbing new models. The Renault Emblème concept is a sleek electric, four-door coupe-shaped sports car, while the Peugeot E-408 builds on the existing 408 model line-up with hybrid and ICE variants. Next, Rivian designer Steve Gatny has joined ultrafabrics as director, and McLaren has teased the W1, a spiritual successor to the P1. Lynk & Co has shared interior sketches for its Z10, minimal yet stylish. BMW introduced its M Mixed Reality solution, allowing drivers to step into a digital world hands-free. Skoda shows off its electric compact SUV, the Elroq, with its Modern Solid design language. Kia heads to the Bicester Heritage Scramble with a heritage fleet restomod inspired by 70s & 80s hot hatchbacks. Lastly, Paris is set to see two more reveals from Renault for the Renault 5 Cup and the Alpine Abarth.

Source: https://www.cardesignnews.com/cars/car-design-round-up-paris-previews-mclarens-p1-successor-and-job-news/46171.article

BMW India aims to more than quadruple its electric vehicle market share by the end of next year, underscoring its commitment to a sustainable future.

BMW Group India aims to double its electric vehicle (EV) share in its portfolio to 15% by next year. The company has achieved its best-ever year-to-date car sales, with a 10% growth in the first nine months of 2024. BMW’s EV sales have been driven by the popularity of the i7, which accounts for 40% of 7 Series sales. The company is advocating for a “green tax” structure, which would incentivize consumers to adopt EVs and reduce carbon footprint. Vikram Pawah, President of BMW Group India, believes that a green tax would benefit EV makers more than taxing based on size or engine of a car. The company is also investing in a comprehensive network of charging stations to make it convenient for EV owners to charge their vehicles anywhere. Additionally, BMW is focusing on expanding its market share by tapping first-time luxury buyers and launching new showrooms with a lounge-like experience.

Source: https://www.business-standard.com/companies/news/bmw-india-targets-to-double-electric-vehicle-penetration-by-next-year-124100401002_1.html

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