Friday, February 28, 2025
Lego Built a Full-Size Replica of Ferrari's F1 Car
Carlos Tavares Earned an Absurd Amount of Money as Stellantis CEO
New Ferrari Supercar Spied with Comically Chunky Camouflage
Mercedes Defends EQS Styling, Calls It 'Very Progressive'
Thursday, February 27, 2025
2026 iX Configurator Live!
Good news for everyone who has been waiting, the configuration tool for the 2026 iX has finally been released on the BMWUSA website!
Here is the link: https://www.bmwusa.com/build-your-ow…tivity-vehicle
Unfortunately, there still has been no lease program released to dealers, so we still cannot say what this is going to cost on a lease, but I am hopeful that BMW may release that next month and will keep everyone posted.
As always, if anyone needs help placing a custom order, feel free to reach out to me at scott@insightautoconsulting.com
For fun, here is how Id build mine (disappointed to see Tanzanite isnt an option for some reason): https://www.bmwusa.com/build-your-ow…mohwky/summary
The Kia PV5 Electric Van Has Something for Everyone
The Kia EV2 Concept Previews a Funky Affordable Electric Car
Wednesday, February 26, 2025
BMW Continues as the Largest Automotive Exporter by Value in the U.S.
BMW Manufacturing Continues as the Largest Automotive Exporter by Value in the U.S.
- Export Value in 2024 Totaled $10.1 Billion.
- From 2014-2024, BMW’s Export Value Totaled $104.1 Billion.
- Plant Preparing to Assemble Fully Electric BMWs in 2026.
- By 2030, the BMW Group Will Assemble At Least Six Fully Electric Vehicles in the U.S.
Spartanburg, S.C. – February 26, 2025… BMW Manufacturing has confirmed that it was the leading automotive exporter by value in the United States in 2024, according to data released this month by the U.S. Department of Commerce. Plant Spartanburg exported nearly 225,000 BMW Sports Activity Vehicles and Coupes last year with an export value of more than $10 billion. Moreover, since 2014, the South Carolina plant has exported more than 2.7 million BMWs – about 63 percent of total production – with an export value of more than $104 billion.
The BMWs assembled at the South Carolina plant were exported primarily through the Port of Charleston, SC, as well as through four additional ports: Brunswick, GA; Jacksonville, FL; Everglades, FL; and Baltimore, MD. Nearly 15,000 BMWs were exported via rail. The top export markets from Plant Spartanburg were Germany, South Korea, China, Canada, and Great Britain.
“Plant Spartanburg has been an important location in our production network for over 30 years and is now the largest BMW Group plant globally,” explained Milan Nedeljković, Member of the Board of Management of BMW AG, Production. “The strong export share of our plant underlines the importance of free trade for the USA. Not only does this benefit our plant, but also the strong supplier network in the region.”
“When the first BMW rolled off the assembly line in 1994, it was the beginning of a great legacy for Plant Spartanburg in the United States. Our dedicated associates have assembled nearly seven million BMWs, and because of our export success, millions of customers around the world experience the innovative technology and premium quality of our X vehicles,” said Dr. Robert Engelhorn, president and CEO of BMW Manufacturing. “Our achievement as the country’s leading automotive exporter demonstrates BMW’s trusted partnership with this state and our continued commitment to the United States.”
Plant Highlights from 2024.
The team at BMW Manufacturing assembled 396,117 Sports Activity Vehicles and Coupes last year. As part of that total, more than 57,000 plug-in hybrid electric vehicles were assembled, which made up more than 14 percent of the plant’s total volume. Nearly 50 percent of all BMWs sold in the U.S. were assembled at Plant Spartanburg. Other plant highlights from 2024 include:
- Associates successfully launched the fourth-generation BMW X3, boasting greater sporting appeal, visual impact, and versatility than ever. The X3 is one of the best-selling BMWs in America.
- While celebrating the 30th anniversary of Plant Spartanburg, BMW opened its first press shop in North America. The state-of-the-art press shop stamps parts for the BMW X3, including hang-on parts such as the vehicle’s four doors, fenders, lift gate, and exterior body sides.
- The expansion of the X3/X4 assembly hall continued as Plant Spartanburg prepares to assemble fully electric vehicles. Construction is complete, and most tooling and equipment has been installed. This assembly hall has increased by nearly 50 percent to more than 2.4 million square feet. The first electric vehicle will be shipped in late 2026, and by 2030, the BMW Group will assemble at least six fully electric models in the U.S.
- Construction started at Plant Woodruff, BMW’s new $700 million high-voltage battery assembly plant. Tooling and equipment are being installed with all work substantially completed by the end of March 2025. Associates at the one million square foot facility will assemble the sixth-generation batteries to supply fully electric vehicles at Plant Spartanburg.
- Construction on a 300,000-square-foot expansion to the main body shop was completed, and an additional 300+ robots have been installed.
- Construction on a new eight-story body shop stacker for vehicle storage was completed.
"South Carolinas position as a stronghold for the United States automotive industry can be traced directly to BMWs success in our state. The BMW models assembled at Plant Spartanburg are in global demand — shipping to markets around the world,” said South Carolina Governor Henry McMaster. “We are proud to have a company as committed to the prosperity of its community, the success of its employees, and the innovation of its industry right here in South Carolina. We look forward to celebrating many more milestones with BMW in the years ahead."
"Over the past decade, much of BMWs global success can be traced to the strength of Plant Spartanburg, where world-class advanced automotive manufacturing, employee upskilling, and research and development are happening in real-time,” said Secretary of Commerce Harry M. Lightsey III. “South Carolina is proud of its legacy companies, like BMW, and S.C. Commerce remains a steadfast champion for the success of all businesses, no matter where they fall in their legacy journey. We are proud to be home to one of the most dynamic automotive industries in the nation, thanks to leaders like BMW."
Since 1992, the BMW Group has invested more than $14.8 billion in its South Carolina operations. BMW Manufacturing is the largest BMW Group plant in the world, assembling more than 1,500 vehicles each day. The plant is an important part of BMW’s global production network and plays a critical role in meeting the high demand for BMW Sports Activity Vehicles and Coupes in the U.S. and around the world. Nearly 57 percent of its vehicles are shipped to about 120 global markets, making BMW the largest automotive exporter by value in the United States for more than a decade. In 2024, nearly 50 percent of BMW vehicles sold in the U.S. came from Plant Spartanburg. The model portfolio includes six top-selling BMW X models, four Motorsport X models, and two plug-in hybrid electric vehicle X models. The factory has an annual production capacity of up to 450,000 vehicles and employs more than 11,000 people.
Toyota Will Make Fun Cars for a 'Long, Long Time'
Tuesday, February 25, 2025
BMW Gen6 EV Batteries and Motors Specs Revealed
In case you have not seen this.
TLDW version:
�� Summary
�� New BMW Gen6 Battery: BMW introduced the Gen6 high-voltage battery, replacing prismatic cells with cylindrical ones (46mm diameter, two heights: 95mm and 120mm), offering 30% faster charging, 30% more range, and 20% higher efficiency.
�� Cell-to-Pack Design: Unlike Gen5’s modular design, Gen6 directly integrates cylindrical cells into the battery pack, resulting in a lighter, more efficient, and space-saving design.
⚡ 800V Charging System: Supports both 800V and 400V charging, adaptable for various global charging standards. Charging 300 km takes just 10 minutes.
�� Cost & Weight Reduction: The battery is lighter, reduces manufacturing costs by 40-50%, and enhances driving dynamics through better weight distribution.
�� Sustainability: Gen6’s batteries have increased nickel content, reduced cobalt usage, and advanced silicon integration, improving energy density while adhering to sustainability standards.
�� BMW Energy Master: This intelligent unit, placed under the rear seats, manages energy flow, battery diagnostics, safety, and charging, enhancing battery longevity and performance.
��️ Safety and Repairability: The battery, forming the cars floor, maintains robust safety standards. The easily accessible Energy Master allows quick replacement without disassembling the entire battery.
�� Motor Enhancements: Gen6 motors include ASM (asynchronous motors) on the front axle for cost-effective secondary drive units and ESM (externally excited synchronous motors) on the rear axle, improving power, efficiency, and reducing rare earth materials usage.
�� Performance Upgrades: Improved cooling systems, silicon carbide chips in inverters, and optimized bearings and gears increase efficiency, with power ranging from 120 to 360 kW.
�� BMW Gen6 Battery Performance Numbers
⚡ Charging Speed: 30% faster charging compared to Gen5, enabling 300 km (186 miles) of range in just 10 minutes.
��️ Range: Up to 900 km (559 miles) WLTP range in some models, a 30% increase over Gen5s 710 km (441 miles).
⚡ Voltage: Dual-voltage system supporting both 800V and 400V charging, offering flexibility for different charging stations globally.
�� Efficiency: Overall vehicle efficiency improved by 20%, with electric drive losses reduced by 40%.
�� Cost: Manufacturing costs reduced by 40-50% compared to Gen5, making production more cost-effective.
⚖️ Weight: Gen6 battery is lighter, contributing to improved driving dynamics. Exact weight reduction figures not disclosed.
�� Power Output: Combined system output of 485 kW (650 hp) and 1,100 Nm torque in high-performance models.
�� Energy Density: 20% higher energy density due to increased nickel content, reduced cobalt, and enhanced silicon integration.
�� Cooling System: Advanced oil-water cooling system improves thermal management, ensuring higher efficiency and performance under load.
FULL PRESS RELEASE:
Charge faster, drive further: BMW Group reveals revolutionary electric drive concept with 800V technology for the Neue Klasse
February 21, 2025
Munich/Landshut. The BMW Group is presenting its next leap forward in the field of electric drive technology – and in the process ushering in a new era of all-electric driving. At the Tech Days event in Landshut, the company has provided some initial insights into the development and production of high-voltage batteries and electric drive systems using the sixth generation of BMW eDrive technology. Every fully electric Neue Klasse vehicle will enjoy the benefits. The first Neue Klasse model will go into series production later this year at Plant Debrecen in Hungary. Below is an overview of the technology highlights:
The Energy Master intelligent central control unit on the high-voltage battery – developed by the BMW Group and produced at Plant Landshut.
A new high-voltage battery concept that, together with the BMW cylindrical cell, promises to bring about a technological quantum leap – including significant improvements in energy density, charging speed and range.
The BMW Group also demonstrates its technology-openness with electric drive systems – through the use of different electric motor types: SSM and ASM.
A modular approach to electric motor production gives the BMW Group an exceptional degree of flexibility.
The BMW Group pools together expertise from the entire electric mobility value chain in Bavaria and Austria – from development, via purchasing and production, to recycling.
The BMW Group demonstrates both technology-openness and full expertise across all areas of electric mobility.
Adopting a technology-open approach while setting the pace in electric mobility
“For the BMW Group, electric mobility is the future and a key area of growth. We are leading the way with this drivetrain technology. At the same time, we are deliberately taking a technology-open approach, recognizing that mobility needs vary between different regions of the world,” explains Dr Joachim Post, Member of the Board of Management of BMW AG, Purchasing and Supplier Network. “We want to offer our customers the best drive concept for every need. It is possible to do both: offer the best drive technology for every need and be at the forefront of electric mobility.”
Slimmer, faster, further: the high-voltage batteries for Gen6
With the new sixth-generation BMW eDrive technology (Gen6 for short), the BMW Group is making a technological quantum leap. Improvements on the product side include a 30% faster charging speed and 30% increase in range, with certain models achieving even higher figures. Added to which, the Gen6 high-voltage battery concept benefits from the new 800V technology. Gen6 will make its debut this year in the Neue Klasse and subsequently be used to drive models across the BMW Group’s fully electric product range. The concept for the Gen6 high-voltage batteries is fundamentally new and will find applications in all vehicle segments – right up to the high-performance models from BMW M GmbH. Its new, even slimmer design allows the high-voltage battery to be integrated into a spread of different models, regardless of vehicle height. The high-voltage battery takes on the role of a structural component in the bodies of the Neue Klasse models (“pack-to-open-body”), and the new cylindrical cells will be integrated directly into the high-voltage battery (“cell-to-pack”). The new BMW cylindrical cell has a 20% greater energy density than its predecessor, the Gen5 prismatic battery cell. And charging in both directions will be possible: the BMW Group has confirmed bidirectional charging as standard for Gen6.
Highly intelligent central control unit: the BMW Energy Master
All of the elements that enable this technological leap forward come together in the BMW Energy Master. This central control unit is positioned on the high-voltage battery and provides the interface for high- and low-voltage power supply and for data from the high-voltage battery. It also controls the power supply for the electric motor and vehicle electrical system and ensures the safe and intelligent operation of the high-voltage battery. The BMW Group has filed a whole series of new patent applications for the vehicle electrical system, including its electronic fuses. Both the hardware and software of the Energy Master were developed fully in-house at the BMW Group. This ensures technological developments and updates for vehicles can be implemented independently and in real time via Remote Software Upgrades, providing a particular benefit for customers.
[b]“Local for local” approach for high-voltage battery assembly and supplier network[b]
The high-voltage batteries for the Neue Klasse are assembled in five new production facilities that the BMW Group has located close to its vehicle plants as part of a “local for local” approach. For example, cutting-edge assembly locations for Gen6 high-voltage batteries are taking shape in Irlbach-Straßkirchen (Lower Bavaria), Debrecen (Hungary), Shenyang (China), San Luis Potosí (Mexico) and Woodruff, near Spartanburg (USA). This approach safeguards production even in the event of unforeseen political and economic events. In addition, the existing locations are being strengthened, with jobs both secured and created. The “local for local” principle continues in the supplier network for battery cells: in order to cover the demand for Gen6, the BMW Group has reached contractual agreements for five battery cell factories – spread across Europe, China and the USA – with various partners.
“Cell-to-pack” and “pack-to-open-body”
Production of the Gen6 high-voltage batteries follows the “cell-to-pack” and “pack-to-open-body” principles. “Cell-to-pack” involves positioning the cylindrical cells – manufactured by the suppliers according to BMW Group specifications – directly in the housing of the high-voltage battery, without the intermediate step of a module being produced. “Pack-to-open-body” refers to the high-voltage battery’s new role as a structural component in the vehicle architecture. Numerous innovations patented by the BMW Group can be found here.
Know-how from Bavaria and Austria – in demand around the world
Before series production of the high-voltage batteries gets underway worldwide, the production processes will be developed and pre-series batteries subjected to thorough testing. This will happen at the BMW Group pilot plants for high-voltage batteries in Parsdorf, Hallbergmoos and Munich. The new series production plants around the world will then be ready. The product and process expertise is centred in Bavaria. Production of the Energy Master will take place at Plant Landshut, which will then supply all the high-voltage battery assembly plants around the world. There, the highly intelligent control unit will be installed on the high-voltage battery. The electric motor with sixth-generation BMW eDrive technology is produced at Plant Steyr in Austria, which is also home to a development centre for electric drive systems and thermal management.
Production of the Energy Master at BMW Group Plant Landshut
A state-of-the-art production system for the BMW Energy Master is taking shape at Plant Landshut. The plant is currently producing the highly complex control unit in pre-series. Series production on the first production line will begin in August 2025, with a further expansion stage to follow in mid-2026. This is the first time the development and production of this central control unit has taken place in-house at the BMW Group. “As the company’s largest in-house component manufacturer, Landshut plays an important role for the Neue Klasse,” says Dr Joachim Post. “The plant is an innovation hub and a driver of transformation.” Around 200 people will be employed in the Energy Master production area at Landshut when production begins, rising to as many as 700 people as it ramps up further. The BMW Group has channelled investment in the high hundreds of millions of euros into the expansion of electric mobility at Plant Landshut since 2020, strengthening both the production facility itself and Germany’s status as an industrial powerhouse for the long term. The modular manufacturing system used to produce the Energy Master was also designed fully in-house by the BMW Group. It is supplied with subcomponents by a supply chain set up by the BMW Group. This extends to the n-tier supply chain for supply-critical components such as semiconductors. The benefits of this set-up can be seen in terms of both costs and supply security. The scalable production system enables the company to respond quickly and flexibly to market requirements. The high degree of automation, involving up to 400 robots in the final expansion stage, maximises efficiency. Comprehensive in-process monitoring, which includes the use of AI-based camera systems, and 100-per-cent end-of-line system checks in a clean-room environment ensure optimum quality.
Different recycling processes within the value chain
As electric mobility ramps up, there is an increasing focus on recycling of high-voltage batteries at the end of their lifecycle. Under a long-term partnership with SK tes – a leading provider of innovative technology lifecycle solutions – cobalt, nickel and lithium from end-of-life batteries are recovered from the BMW Group and integrated into the supply chain for the manufacture of new batteries. This closed-loop approach increases the efficiency and resilience of the BMW Group as part of a circular economy. The BMW Group will follow a similar path in the USA, Mexico and Canada up to 2026 with a separate partnership.
Innovative direct recycling at the BMW Group
The BMW Group is also exploring other recycling options in the value creation process. One example of this is the direct recycling method developed in-house. The BMW Group is working with its joint venture Encory to set up a competence centre for battery cell recycling in Lower Bavaria, where the company will put its direct recycling ideas into practice. This innovative process will enable residual materials from battery cell production and whole battery cells to be mechanically broken down into their valuable constituent components. The raw materials obtained in this way will be re-used directly in the pilot production process for battery cells at the company’s competence centres.
Technology-open approach for electric mobility: the new e-drive system of Gen6
The BMW Group has retained the principle of an electrically excited synchronous motor (EESM) for its Gen6 power unit. On this type of synchronous motor, the magnetic field in the rotor is generated by windings fed with direct current rather than permanent magnets. In this way, the strength of the rotor’s magnetic field can be optimally adjusted to the prevailing load conditions. This results in both excellent levels of efficiency at customer-relevant operating points and constant power output at high rotational speeds. As with the Gen5 version, the synchronous motor will be positioned above the rear axle and feature a compact housing incorporating the electric drive unit, power electronics and transmission. Many of the motor’s technical details were created with the help of patented expertise, with the rotor alone accounting for more than ten patent applications.
Neue Klasse additionally incorporates ASM technology
The Gen6 powertrain employs a second, additional electric motor technology in the form of the asynchronous motor (ASM). Here, instead of being generated by permanent magnets (PSM) or electrical excitation (EESM), the rotor’s magnetic field is induced by the stator. On this type of motor, the rotor takes the form of a metal cage. The asynchronous motor offers the advantage of a more compact design and superior cost efficiency. The ASM motor variants will be fitted at the front axle of Neue Klasse cars with BMW xDrive.
Extensive improvements to EESM technology
Besides the addition of ASM technology, the EESM technology has also undergone a major upgrade for Gen6: rotor, stator and inverter have all been fully designed for the new 800V architecture of the Gen6 tech in order to maximise drive system performance and efficiency. This has been further helped by a complete redesign of the oil and water cooling systems. In addition to this, the experts from the BMW Group have also succeeded in improving the electric motor and central housing in terms of their weight and rigidity too. The transmission still uses a two-stage helical design, but has been further optimised by enhancements to its geometry and cooling, lower friction levels and more pleasant acoustics. The electrically excited synchronous motor’s “brain”, the inverter, now features 800V technology along with silicon carbide (SiC) semiconductors to boost efficiency. The inverter is completely integrated into the electric motor’s housing. Its task is to convert the DC power supply from the high-voltage battery to AC for use in the electric motor. The inverter was developed in-house by the BMW Group and is produced at Plant Steyr in Austria.
Lower weight, costs and energy losses – greater efficiency in the vehicle
The results obtained from intelligently incorporating new technologies into the electric powertrain while consistently enhancing existing systems make impressive reading. When compared to a Gen5 xDrive model, a future Neue Klasse model complete with EESM and ASM technology boasts the following improvements: energy losses have been reduced by 40%, costs by 20% and weight by 10%. By combining different types of electric motor, the BMW Group’s technology-open approach is therefore clearly in evidence within the field of electric mobility. In future, customers will be able to choose from models equipped with one, two, three or four electric motors to suit their individual preferences and requirements. The sixth generation BMW eDrive technology is a significant factor in the gain in overall vehicle efficiency of around 20 per cent for the Neue Klasse. This figure is based on a comparison with the current generation of all-electric vehicles from the BMW Group.
Modular concept provides crucial advantage for manufacturing electric motors
The manufacturing concept for the Gen6 electric drive system uses the principle of modular building blocks. This forms the basis for highly flexible manufacturing of various electric drive variants across the entire Neue Klasse model range. The modular "building block” concept leads to positive economies of scale and cost savings in development and production. It also has the effect of improving the scalability of production volumes. The modular approach ensures a high degree of flexibility in production, the supply networks and procurement.
The Gen6 electric drive systems: made in Steyr
Series production of the Gen6 electric drive systems will commence at BMW Group Plant Steyr in summer 2025. Pre-production already got underway at the Austrian facility in September 2024. The pre-production motors are undergoing rigorous testing and some are already being fitted in Neue Klasse test vehicles from Plant Debrecen. By 2030, the BMW Group will have invested over one billion euros at the site since the project’s launch in 2022 to expand its development and production expertise for electric drive systems. Thanks to the increase in capacity, the plant will retain its status as the BMW Group’s leading facility for drive systems. The plant has been developing and building combustion engines for the BMW and MINI brands for over 40 years. Plant Steyr’s many years of experience and high level of expertise in the field of drive systems make it the ideal site for manufacturing the Gen6 electric motors. It has an annual production capacity of 600,000 electric drive units. Diesel and petrol engines continue to be manufactured there alongside the electric motors. By 2030, around half of the on-site employees should be working in electric mobility – a vital step for safeguarding the more than 4,700 jobs at the plant in the long term. In future, all key components of the innovative, highly integrated electric drive unit – i.e. the rotor, stator, transmission, inverter and housing – will be produced at Steyr. This will include manufacturing the inverters in an in-house clean room environment for the first time, thereby taking the engine plant into the realm of electrical engineering. The electric drive components will be built on two new assembly lines at Steyr.
Thermal management: complex interaction, crucial for performance
Thermal management involves highly complex interaction between various systems in an electric vehicle and is of critical importance for a host of performance parameters, including range, real-world consumption, acceleration and charging time. Thermal management is a question of constantly keeping the temperature of the electric motor, power electronics and high-voltage battery in the optimum range, while maintaining standards of passenger comfort at the same time. Efficient thermal management is important for fast charging too. Here, the battery temperature must be kept within a defined window in order to make optimum use of the available charging capacity. Unlike combustion engines, electric motors give off little heat. This means that, depending on the operating state, the battery and the passenger cell have to be not only cooled, but heated too. The Steyr site develops the thermal management systems for all electric vehicles from the BMW Group. The plant’s development centre is also responsible for the brain at the heart of the electric motor – the inverter.
BMW Group Plant Landshut – a multi-talented component manufacturer
BMW Group Plant Landshut is the BMW Group’s largest component plant anywhere in the world, supplying components to all the company’s vehicle and drive system plants. Its workforce of around 3,700 employees produces a broad spectrum of cutting-edge components for vehicles from the BMW Group. Working closely with the BMW Group’s Research and Innovation Centre (FIZ) in Munich, Plant Landshut plays a pivotal role as a hub of innovation for the automotive industry. It develops pioneering technologies and manufacturing processes that serve to maintain the company’s competitive edge. Over the course of the Neue Klasse project, the site is investing some €200 million in its light metal foundry to increase annual production capacity for the electric motor housings. The Injector Casting (ICA) process developed and patented in Landshut is a prime example of the plant’s innovative strength. This globally unique process is used to manufacture the electric motors’ highly complex aluminium housings that set new standards for lightweight design and functional integration.
Bentley Makes the Bentayga Even Fancier With Atelier Edition
Mercedes Will Abandon Its Separate EV Lineup
Monday, February 24, 2025
Mini Planned To Build EVs in Britain Next Year. Not Anymore
The Mercedes-AMG C63 Will Get a V-8 Engine In 2026: Report
Sunday, February 23, 2025
This Ferrari-Powered Lotus Is My New Favorite Hillclimb Car
This Dodge Ramcharger Is the Best Vintage Cop Car
Saturday, February 22, 2025
If You Want to Use One Tire All Year, It Should Be This One
M2 No More :(
After 13 months of ownership, my M2 was totaled last night.
I just dropped off my daughter at the house and left to get some coffee. The tire blew and lost control of the car at 50mph. Luckily, I avoided two utility poles, an oncoming car, a house, and the mailbox, while sliding into the front yard. The wheel hit the curb so hard that it went into the hood, but the airbags did not go off.
Oops: Ford Recalls a Bunch of SUVs Over Seatbelt Problems
Friday, February 21, 2025
Thursday, February 20, 2025
The Kia PV5 Is a Rugged Electric Van to Haul People and Cargo
The Volvo ES90 Electric Sedan Is Almost Here
Wednesday, February 19, 2025
Miami Concours 2025: Magnificent Supercar Art Event Enjoyed By Thousands
Bugatti Signals the Beginning of the End for the W-16 Engine
New Jaguar EV Spied Looking Gigantic
Tuesday, February 18, 2025
Toyota Is Killing Japan's $10,000 Corolla
Volkswagen Launches New Gas Engine In China's Next-Gen Atlas
Honda Wanted Nissan to Scrap Its Hybrid Tech: Report
Monday, February 17, 2025
Volkswagen and Audi Are Sticking with Gas Engines: Report
Sunday, February 16, 2025
BMW Made a "Superbrain" Computer to Power This Prototype
BMW VDX Vision Driving Experience: Neue Klasse Drivetrain & Driving Dynamics Test Rig
Endurance Test for "Heart of Joy": the BMW Vision Driving Experience
- World-class dynamics, precision, efficiency, and driving pleasure.
- New “Heart of Joy” central computer works ten times faster than current systems.
- Extending the recuperation range increases efficiency by 25%.
Woodcliff Lake, NJ – February 16, 2025… Showcasing driving pleasure up to the physical limits is BMW’s mission with its new high-performance test vehicle – the BMW Vision Driving Experience. This Vision Vehicle is not destined for production, but is instead serving as a rolling test rig for drivetrain and driving dynamics management technology developed specially for the Neue Klasse – the next generation of BMW vehicles – and referred to by BMW as the “Heart of Joy”. The prototype vehicle put the capabilities of the Heart of Joy to the ultimate test of endurance at the BMW Performance Center in Spartanburg, SC, and BMW provided exclusive insights into its development program for the electric driving experience on board the Neue Klasse as part of a preview presentation. Every fully electric Neue Klasse model will benefit from the Heart of Joy.
The first Neue Klasse model will go into series production later this year at Plant Debrecen in Hungary. The new Heart of Joy adds a fourth dimension – BMW’s characteristic driving pleasure – to the existing portfolio of Neue Klasse characteristics (electric, digital, and circular). Oliver Zipse, Chairman of the Board of Management of BMW AG, took to the stage at the IAA 2023 show holding the small black box.
“The Heart of Joy enables us to take driving pleasure not just to the next level, but another one beyond that,” says Frank Weber, member of the Board of Management of BMW AG, responsible for Development. “In addition, we are further increasing efficiency, and therefore boosting range, as in future the driver will brake almost exclusively using energy regeneration. This is Efficient Dynamics squared.”
It is important to note that the control unit will go into series production, but the Vision Vehicle will not.
Computer processing now ten times faster.
The Heart of Joy control unit for the drivetrain, brakes, charging, recuperation, and steering functions processes information ten times faster than previous systems. Working in tandem with the BMW Dynamic Performance Control software, the Heart of Joy computes all the driving dynamics functions with a whole new level of speed and precision. The control unit has been developed entirely in-house using knowledge gained in the field of driving dynamics amassed by BMW engineers over more than a century. The Vision Vehicle develops 13,269 lb-ft of torqure. The reasoning behind this is that if the control system can deal with an explosion of power of this magnitude, it will be able to handle the demands of everyday driving with ease.
Energy recovery under braking (recuperation) sees the drivetrain and braking functions of electric vehicles working symbiotically. In the innovative electronics architecture of the Neue Klasse, the Heart of Joy is one of four central units and combines drivetrain and driving dynamics fuctions for the first time. These innovative control functions are protected by several patent applications. The high-performance unit controls acceleration and braking, vehicle stabilization, dynamic steering functions, and charging management. The central processing unit and perfectly coordinated BMW Dynamic Performance Control software developed in-house enable all connected actuators to respond directly and with minimal delay: latencies are in the milliseond range. By contrast, conventional systems have separate control algorithms for the drive system and brakes. This means the full handling potential of vehicles with powerful electric drive systems cannot be fully exploited.
Precise cornering and the smooth braking.
The driver and passengers experience a harmonious and noiseless driving feeling – regardless of the situation and speed they are travelling at. In dynamic driving scenarios, the new Heart of Joy / BMW Dynamic Performance Control combination delivers cornering poise and assurance beyond compare. The vehicle generates impressive traction and can be threaded through corners with exceptional precision. Fewer control inputs are required and the vehicle’s line can be maintained with greater precision and stability. This helps the vehicle to develop consistent cornering behavior and allows it to be steered more intuitively and smoothly. At low speeds – such as in stop-and-go driving or when parking – direct signal trasnmissions and rapid information processing ensure a compelling driving experience. In driving modes D or B, or when using Active Cruise Control, the parking brake, or Auto Hold, stopping and restarting merge seamlessly into one another.
Recuperation fuels a 25% increase in efficiency.
Furthermore, integrated drivetrain, braking, and energy recuperation control allows energy to be used more sustainably. Drivers will not need to apply the conventional brakes in most situations. The braking power generated using energy recuperation is sufficient for normal, everyday driving. Only under heavy braking, e.g. in an emergency situation, is intervention required from the friction brakes. All in all, this system increases efficiency by up to 25%.
The BMW Vision Driving Experience test vehicle visually demonstrates how the Heart of Joy is working through displays of color on the wheels: acceleration is indicated in green, energy recuperation in blue, and braking using the friction brakes in orange.
Four totally new superbrains will power the BMW of the future. These high-performance computers cleverly combine various elements that previously ran separately. BMW developed the Heart of Joy superbrain 100% in-house. It allows four important control units to be brought together within a single high-performance computer.
Another three superbrains are responsible for features such as automated driving, infotainment and basic functions such as climate control and comfort-enhancing systems, vehicle access, and interior and exterior lighting.
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Saturday, February 15, 2025
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Friday, February 14, 2025
BMW iX3 (NA5) Specs, Models, Colors, Dimensions – Info Update
Latest iX3 (NA5) info compiled (from the Future BMW model information thread)
- In production 7/25-10/33 in Debrecen with the European 50 xDrive.
- Production of the same model for North American and Asian markets will start in 03/26.
- Production at SLP starts in the second half of 2026.
- Confirmed colors (will possibly have others): Alpine White, Black Sapphire, Space Silver, Polarized Grey, Brooklyn Grey, Ocean Wave Blue, Smokey Green, Fire/Vegas Red.
- Model range: 40, 40 xDrive, 50 xDrive, M60 xDrive
- 07/26: two new models added, including M60
- Will be the first model to use several new features. The most interesting ones are the Panoramic Stage interface recently previewed in the NK concept (it will be standard) and the Augmented View. The options were already familiar with will include Iconic Glow exterior, the first use of multifunction seats with massage function on a 3-series level model, and various M features (M packages, M trims, M seats, M steering wheel). At least at this time, there is no autonomous driving beyond Level 2.
- The M60 packaging will differ from the regular model with M suspension and brakes, 21" wheels instead of 20" on the lower models, and several optional features like upgraded seats and audio offered as standard.
- May include ZA5 iX3M.
- Size specs for iX3 50 xDrive (in mm):
- Length: 4780
- Width: 1895
- Height: 1635
- Wheelbase: 2895
- Luggage: 520l/1750l
Audi Is Moving Upmarket with Fancier, More Expensive Cars
BMW Didn't Expect the New M5 to Get Body-Shamed
Thursday, February 13, 2025
After One Month Still in Love With My G99 M5
One month and 2500km later those are my observations:
Looks: In my opinion, still such a great looking car! My favourite angle is the three-quarter rear/side of the car for sure as it’s a wagon, but full front is still a shocking view
How it drives: at first the car is very intimidating you really don’t feel the weight but you are definitely aware of the huge size. My last three family Winter cars were an 2021 Audi RS6 then a 2022 Porsche Taycan, GTS sport tourismo and then a 2024 Macan GTS with lowered suspension and definitely the BMW feels sooo big !
Some cars as my 992 GT3 RS have only one personality although they have different layers if you push, but still, the identity, presence and vision of the car is straightforward and clear, but the M5 is a different breed. There is so many settings that you can go from a very mild conservative limousine like ride and reaction to a complete monster, depending on the settings, but the nose doesn’t lift as much as the Audi RS6 on full acceleration from stop which is a good thing…. but now after a month the car starts to shrink around you as very good cars always do…
The moment you get to know more the performance, the reaction in the way it handles the curves, very good cars “shrink” in size as far as how you feel at the wheel and this is one of those cars. I can’t wait for the good season to come back here in Canada with the lower suspension and 22 inch wheels at four corners. It will definitely show an even different personality! stay tuned.
Aston Martin Admits Some Customers Hate Electric Cars
Ferrari Employees Can Buy a Fiat Panda with Their Fat Bonus
Honda and Nissan Merger Officially Canceled
Wednesday, February 12, 2025
Genesis GV90 Stuck in Ditch Rescued by a Volvo Loader
Volkswagen Puts the GTI Engine in Three Regular Cars
Tuesday, February 11, 2025
The New Honda Passport Gets a Big Price Hike
Bugatti Tourbillon Hits the Track To Unleash Its V-16 Fury
Monday, February 10, 2025
BMW Will Keep the V-8 Engine Because Americans Love It
You Can Own the Newest 1989 Chevrolet Blazer in Existence
Sunday, February 9, 2025
No V-8, No Problem: 2JZ-Powered Cobra Makes Insane HP on the Dyno
This Pontiac Trans Sport Is Our New Favorite Lego Set
Saturday, February 8, 2025
This Video From Onboard a Pagani Zonda R Will Change Your Life
Starter Motors Make Your Life Easier. Here's How They Work
Friday, February 7, 2025
BMW M3 EV (ZA0) – Episode 3 – Controlling the Beast (BMW M Video)
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Power is nothing without control. 1000 hp in a car is a lot of fun, especially when going for 0-100 but what about when that first corner comes bearing down on you? You need the precision, agility and controllability that you find in our most advanced race cars. |
Ford Predicts It Will Lose Billions on Electric Cars in 2025
Thursday, February 6, 2025
G90 M5 Just Got More Aggressive – TRE Carbon Body Kit Release
*PRE-ORDER NOW*
Introducing TREs carbon fibre body kit for the BMW G90 M5 meticulously engineered over the last six months to ensure the perfect fit and finish for those who demand the best.
Design
Produced from Pre-Preg carbon fibre for ultimate strength and quality. This kit from TRE is designed to accentuate the aggressive lines and improve aero while seamlessly integrating with the cars factory look.
Rear Spoiler: (available now)
This spoiler seamlessly extends from the boot lid, complementing the proportions of the design elements of the rear end and adding an aggressive edge.
*By purchasing this rear spoiler were offering customers £624.98+VAT off the price of the full bodykit arriving Q2 2025.*
Front Splitter:
A three-piece splitter that gives a dramatic depth increase to the front end thanks to solid outer pieces, while the centre piece allows airflow to the radiators.
Developed from the sharp lines of the front bumper to ensure design elements are cohesive from body to carbon.
Rear Diffuser:
Unlike the OEM diffuser, this multi-piece design is a more conventional, cleaner and streamlined look. TRE have joined up the rear diffuser while retaining the function of the factory rear brake light.
Side Skirts:
These skirts are a very simple and clean design that complement the M5s lines and integrate seamlessly without interfering with the puddle lights.
Front Duct Extensions:
A homage to the F series and following the front splitter, these extensions enhance the fronts visual presence.
Installation
While fitting is straightforward, professional installation is recommended. The kit uses OEM mounting points for the splitter, side skirts, and diffuser. The rear spoiler uses 3M tape for easy reversibility. AUTOID offers professional fitting in the UK for purchased products.
Warranty
All TRE products come with a three-year warranty.
Nissan Wants to Replace Honda With a Different Partner: Report
Base 2025 Jeep Wagoneer S Puts Full Power Behind Paywall
Volkswagen Admits It Has Fallen Behind Competitors
Wednesday, February 5, 2025
This Will Be Volkswagen's Cheapest Electric Car
Want a New Ferrari? You'll Have To Wait Until 2027
The Honda-Nissan Merger Might Not Happen After All
Tuesday, February 4, 2025
Only 1.8 Percent of Cars in Europe Are Electric
Chevy Parts Ways With Long-Time Corvette Product Manager
Monday, February 3, 2025
Jeep Is Finally Building a New Cherokee. Here's Our First Look
Aston Martin: Emissions Regulations Are Killing the V-12
Sunday, February 2, 2025
This Shifter Kart Turned Snowmobile Looks Like Pure, Dumb Fun
2026 iX LCI Facelift Ordering & Pricing Guides
Hey everyone!
The ordering and pricing guides for the 2026 iX have come out, as of now, Feb 1, 2025, dealers do NOT have allocations yet. I suspect theyll get them later this month. At this point in time, there is also no lease program released for this model.
The packages are now more in line with the rest of BMWs models, featuring the Premium & Executive Packages, M Sport, M Sport Pro, etc.
Another piece of big news – You can now order a trailer hitch on an iX!!!
Expect first US deliveries in late April/Early May would be my guess.
As always, if you need help with a custom ordered iX, you can feel free to reach out by emailing me at scott@insightautoconsulting.com
This Cadillac Escalade V-8 Failed After Just 4 Miles
Lada 'EV' Powered by Cordless Drills Actually Works
Saturday, February 1, 2025
You're Probably Using Threadlocker Wrong
March 2025 Update — BMW i5 Getting Improved Range and Added Luxury Features
As was predicted the 2026 i5 will have (modestly) improved range and small luxury features added. Im mostly curious about the improved "switchgear in the doors":