For the first time worldwide, BMW is introducing the exclusive BMW 7 Series Aerodynamic Edition along with a dazzling new colour – BMW Brilliant White – available as of this year on all 7 Series models. The BMW 7 Series is fitted with an aerodynamic body kit, featuring a sport front spoiler and rear and side skirting.

The BMW 7 Series is the flagship model of BMW Group and remains one of the top three selling models in the region. What makes the unique success story of the 7 Series even more positive and exhilarating for the BMW Group is that the 7 Series set significant new trends from the start when launched in 2001. Numerous product features of the 7 Series, in particular the car's control philosophy and various elements of its design language, are now to be found in many luxury performance automobiles.

Seven years ago these features were regarded as very progressive and were the subject, at least in part, of controversial public discussions. Today, on the other hand, they are accepted in full as natural strengths and assets. This alone underlines the pioneering achievement of the BMW 7 Series, with the strategic product decisions taken by BMW at the time having proved to be highly successful.

With the new Aerodynamic Edition, the 7 Series stands out both as a sporting four-door and as an elegant saloon full of presence in meeting the highest demands in terms of comfort and design.

29.01.2008

AGMC, the exclusive importer of BMW in Dubai, Sharjah and the Northern Emirates, together with BMW Group Middle East, were the official car and gala dinner sponsors of the recently concluded fifth edition of the Maktoum Sailing Trophy, which saw participation from Europe, Australia, Asia and the Arab world for the coveted Gulf cup.

Participating in the Maktoum Sailing Trophy were the Dubai-Muscat race winners, the AGMC-BMW Duboats Yacht Racing Team, led by Yousef bin Lahej, the first UAE national to qualify for the Olympic games. The Duboats team also grabbed third place in the Jumeirah Regatta and the Maktoum Sailing Trophy’s Division 2.

“BMW Group has been a long time supporter of yachting, as demonstrated by the BMW Yachtsport philosophy and strategy,” said Stathis I. Stathis, General Manager, AGMC. “AGMC has now come on board to support this emerging sport with the sponsorship of the Duboats Yacht Racing Team announced last year.

“This strategy isn’t only limited at an international level, with local support already being provided to several entities, such as the Duboats Yacht Racing Team on the yachting front. BMW Golfsport and BMW Motorsport are additional pillars of this philosophy having enjoyed successful implementation in our market, such as support for the Dubai Desert Classic, the Dubai Ladies Masters golf tournaments, and the BMW Golf Cup International.”

BMW’s involvement in yachting dates back to September 2002, with what has become the BMW Oracle America’s Cup racing team. BMW Yachsport’s long history in the sport of yacht racing focuses on the development of the sport and the contribution of new technology that has allowed racing yachts to become faster, lighter and easier to manoeuvre.

BMW’s unwavering support for yachting has resulted in a number of international tournaments, including the BMW Sailing Cup World Finals, which will be held in Dubai this year, and is a testament to the synergy between BMW and Yachtsport as major contributors to the sport’s growing popularity.

The BMW Sailing Cup World Finals will be held in Dubai from April 15 to 20, 2008, at the Dubai International Marine Club (DIMC), and will see the participation of ten international teams, including the first-ever participation of the UAE team.

BMW is also involved in the following sailing events: Giraglia Rolex Cup (St Tropez, Genoa), Copa del Rey (Palma de Mallorca), BMW Match Race Academy (Italy), BMW City Challenge (London), Royal Langkawi International Regatta (Malaysia) and the BMW Club Cup (Essen).

05.03.2008

Stretched dynamics, powerful elegance and fascinating technical perfection: these are the qualities that also convinced the jury to present the internationally acclaimed iF Product Design Awards to the BMW 3 Series Convertible. During the 2008 CeBit technology fair, the first BMW Convertible with a fully retractable hardtop was announced as the winner of the iF Gold Award. This special prize is the highest award the “Industrie Forum Design” presents. The BMW 3 Series Convertible is one of fifty winners of a Gold Award, which were selected from a total of 821 winners of the iF Labels 2008.

This most recent award for BMW 3 Series Convertible is another milestone in the BMW success story with iF Product Design Awards. Last year, the BMW 3 Series Coupe won a Gold Award. In 2001, the previous-generation BMW 3 Series Convertible received the exclusive trophy. The most recent commendation shows that the BMW Design Team scored a winner yet again.

With retracted or closed roof, the long wheel base, horizontal shoulder line and flat rear end make the BMW 3 Series Convertible a real eye-catcher. With its overall arrangement and flow of lines, the four-seater is an unmistakable representative of the characteristic synthesis between technology and aesthetics that is so typical of BMW. Its proportions express sporting elegance, while the flat shoulder, the retracted seating position and the short windscreen guarantee the intensely pleasant driving experience that has always been the hallmark of BMW 3 Series Convertibles. Thanks to the intelligent, space-saving solution for storing the three roof components, the low shoulder line at the rear runs along in one uninterrupted, harmonious flow. Equipped with a retractable hard top for the first time, the BMW 3 Series Convertible retains the character, the line flow and driving experience that have been this model’s hallmark for over four generations.

“For our designers, the tradition of the BMW brand is one of the most important sources of inspiration,” explains Adrian van Hooydonk, Head of BMW Design. “Nonetheless, every new design will question the traditions that characterized the brand. All known formal details are scrutinized to help determine whether they ought to be retained, changed or given up and replaced by something new. At the same time, state-of-the-art technologies are always a source of inspiration.”

Not only is the electro-hydraulically retractable sheet steel lightweight hard top perfectly integrated into the overall design of the new BMW 3 Series Convertible, it is also distinguished by its maximum comfort of control and minimum noise emission. The interior design creates a link with the theme of stretched dynamism. The side trim panels start at the instrument panel and continue past the front seats to the rear seat armrests with an uninterrupted sweeping movement. The center console with its lively, undulating form also reaches into the rear. The flexible storage concept, which frees up an impressive loading volume of up to 350 liters, underlines the BMW Design Team’s expertise in developing attractive and functional design solutions.

Spearheaded by Christopher E. Bangle, BMW Group Design has consolidated its position among the elite of international design for years. Bangle is firmly and solidly committed to innovation. It is part of his strategy to open up more creative freedom for the design of individual members of the BMW model range with the objective of bringing alive the unique product personality of each model of the BMW brand and allowing a closer identification with the customer. This way, the creative scope has been broadened significantly. The vehicles thus created, have assumed their rightful place among the masterpieces of car design, as prestigious awards for a wide variety of current models of the BMW range prove.

One of the special achievements of the BMW Design Team is the fact that every new model evokes passion for technology and aesthetics. During the design process, progress and sustainability are always in a dynamic equilibrium. “As designers, we wish to make ownership of a BMW an experience. Our objective is to establish a relationship between the people and the product which becomes closer and closer over time,“ van Hooydonk explains.



The BMW 3 Series has recorded impressive sales results since its introduction in the Middle East, selling a total of 3,054 units in 2007 alone. Available in several trim packages, the 3 Series has established itself as the quintessential luxury sports sedan, being voted ‘World Car of the Year’ in 2006.

Available with a 272 hp straight-six, a 3.0-litre straight-six with Twin Turbo technology producing 306 hp, and a 420 hp V8 engine in the BMW 330i, 335i and M3 respectively, the BMW 3 Series will cater to all individuals seeking unique design, driving dynamics, safety, and environmental responsibility in an exceptional package.

06.04.2008

Dubai, UAE. An entirely new model, the BMW X6, the world’s first Sport Activity Coupé, revealed as a Concept Car during the 9th International Middle East Motor Show in November 2007, will soon be available to customers in the region.

Offering a brand new design approach and interpretation, the highly-anticipated BMW X6 is the most sporting and dynamic rendition in the BMW X Series range, visualising superior driving dynamics and outstanding supremacy.

The exterior design of the BMW X6 sports a striking front end, stretched side lines and expresses powerful presence through its wheels, classic coupé proportions and sweeping flow from roofline to rear end.

Equipped as standard with BMW’s intelligent xDrive all-wheel drive technology and Dynamic Performance Control, and mated to a six-speed automatic transmission with optimised gearshift dynamics, the BMW X6 enjoys unique agility, tracking stability, precision and traction in every situation, as well as optimised fuel economy for lower emissions and maximum power and performance.

The BMW X6 xDrive50i is powered by a newly developed top-of-the-range 4.4-litre V8 power unit with Twin Turbo technology and direct high precision gasoline injection. The new engine is the world’s first eight-cylinder gasoline engine with the turbo-charger and catalytic converters housed in the V-section between the two rows of cylinders, resulting in a maximum output of 407 hp and 442 lb-ft of torque. The BMW X6 xDrive35i uses a 3.0-litre R6 engine with Twin Turbo technology, resulting in a maximum output of 306 hp and 295 lb-foot of torque.

03.04.2008

The all-new BMW X6, the world’s first Sports Activity Coupé, has arrived in the Dubai market through AGMC, exclusive importer of BMW in Dubai, Sharjah and the Northern Emirates.

The latest addition to the BMW family will be available in two variants – the BMW X6 xDrive50i and the BMW X6 xDrive35i – representing the most sporting and dynamic rendition in the BMW X Series range yet.

Offering a brand new design approach and interpretation, the highly-anticipated BMW X6 visualises superior driving dynamics and outstanding supremacy. The exterior design of the BMW X6 sports a striking front end, stretched side lines and expresses powerful presence through its wheels, classic coupé proportions and sweeping flow from roofline to rear end.

“BMW has been a worldwide leader in innovation, first introducing the Sports Activity Vehicle segment with the trendsetting BMW X5, and now redefining the sports activity segment with the BMW X6,” said James Crichton, Director Sales and Marketing, BMW Group Middle East.

The BMW X6 adds an innovative and highly attractive facet to the very special nature of a BMW Coupé, at the same time opening up a brand-new perspective in the BMW X family.

Featuring low side window areas and a roofline dropping smoothly to the rear, the BMW X6 clearly offers all the proportions of a genuine, fully-fledged coupé. Enhanced ground clearance, flared wheel arches in striking design, four doors, a large rear lid as well as the high waistline, all bear out a clear styling resem¬blance to other BMW X range models.

The new model’s interiors – again in typical coupé style – provides ample space for the driver and front passengers and two further occupants at the rear, travelling on generously dimensioned rear seats in sporting design, with individual seat contours and integrated headrests.

The interior of the BMW X6 offers a unique synthesis of exclusive luxury, sporting dynamics and powerful style to the last detail. Tense surfaces swivelling into one another symbolise the active character of BMW’s Sports Activity Coupé, sporting features such as kneepads on both sides of the centre console, paddles on the sports steering wheel featured as standard, an elevated seating position and the fine scale on the circular instruments creating an excitingly different driving experience in the new BMW X6.

“The demand we have received for the BMW X6 in Dubai has been phenomenal, and we have extremely high expectations for this new offering,” explained Stathis I. Stathis, General Manager, AGMC. “Our sales for 2007 surpassed expectations, keeping in line with our growth over the past several years. We expect with the introduction of the BMW X6 to have an equally promising year.”

“Two engines will be available on the new BMW X6, six-cylinder and eight-cylinder engines for the BMW X6 xDrive35i and BMW X6 xDrive50i respectively, both engines featuring Twin Turbo technology,” continued Stathis. “The design of the BMW X6, alongside its impressive performance, make the new offering the most sporty and dynamic member of the BMW X family to date.”

A powerful 4.4-litre V8 power unit with Twin Turbo technology and direct high precision gasoline injection powers the BMW X6 xDrive50i. The new engine is the world’s first eight-cylinder gasoline engine with the turbo-charger and catalytic converters housed in the V-section between the two rows of cylinders, resulting in a maximum output of 407 hp and 442 lb-ft of torque. Acceleration from 0-100 km/h takes just 5.4 seconds, up to an electronically limited top speed of 250 km/h.

Alternatively, a 3.0-litre R6 engine with Twin Turbo technology powers the equally impressive BMW X6 xDrive35i, resulting in a maximum output of 306 hp and 295 lb-foot of torque, that propels the car from 0-100 km/h in 6.7 seconds, up to an electronically limited top speed of 240 km/h.

The BMW X6 comes as standard with BMW’s intelligent xDrive all-wheel drive technology and is the first vehicle in the world to offer Dynamic Performance Control for unique agility, tracking stability, precision and traction in every situation. Variable distribution of drive power is ensured not just between the front and rear axle – by xDrive – but also, through Dynamic Performance Control, between the two left and right rear wheels. This maintains a superior stabilising function even under sudden load change and in overrun.

Also standard is an advanced six-speed automatic transmission with optimised gearshift dynamics, extremely fast gearshift, supreme shift comfort, optimisation of fuel economy by converter lock-up clutch operating largely free of slip, electronic gear selector lever and gearshift paddles on the steering wheel featured as standard.

A key part of any BMW design is safety, the BMW X6 being no different. The new model boasts a body structure conceived and designed for maximum occupant safety. In combination with the car’s passive safety systems, this fulfils all prerequisites for excellent results in all crash-tests relevant the world over.

“Agility is a key characteristic of the new BMW X6. The world’s first car to feature Dynamic Performance Control, the X6 provides drivers unmatched confidence on the road,” said Stathis.

A myriad of safety features ensure the driver and all three occupants are always protected in case of an accident. A revolutionary body design and structure, alongside interior safety features are employed to guarantee the highest levels of safety.

Occupant safety is ensured through a three-point inertia-reel seat belts on all seats, frontal and side airbags as well as head airbags at the side, and crash-activated headrests at the front. Bi-xenon dual headlights including a daytime light function, foglamps, two-stage brake lights, and runflat tyres all come as standard.

A wide range of comfort functions and innovative entertainment options are offered across the range of the BMW X6, including BMW iDrive with personalised favourite buttons, CD-player compatible with an MP3, AUX-in bush featured as standard, USB socket, multi-channel audio system, DVD system at the rear, four-zone automatic air conditioning, active seat ventilation, back-up camera, navigation systems and BMW Assist.

27.04.2008

The new BMW M3 Sedan and Convertible will mark its debut in the region in May, BMW Group Middle East confirmed today.

The powerful Sedan and Convertible features a highly tuned 4.0-litre V8, the first for an M3, and produces an astonishing 420 hp and 295 lb-ft of torque at 8,400rpm. The M3 propels from 0-100 km/h in just 4.9 seconds, up to an electronically limited top speed of 250 km/h.

“BMW has raised its performance benchmark with the introduction of the 2008 M3 Sedan and Convertible setting new standards while remaining first and foremost a BMW M3 in its character,” said Phil Horton, Managing Director, BMW Group Middle East.

“The M3 Sedan is a car developed and built with the mission to convey the most demanding motorsport technology to everyday traffic, offering unique sheer driving pleasure in the process.

“We expect a very high level of interest for the M3 Sedan and Convertible similar to the excellent response we received for the Coupé version last year. The new M3 is nothing short of spectacular, which is a reflection of the previous generation’s popularity in the region. We are confident that the M3 will enjoy the same success story of its predecessors,” continued Horton.

The M3 Sedan is also a grand tourer, with space for up to five occupants, and owes its supreme driving dynamics to the new eight-cylinder power unit which, through its high engine speed concept alone, offers all the DNA of the current BMW Sauber F1 power unit.

The new Variable M Differential Lock generates up to 100 per cent locking action with fully variable action whenever required thus ensuring optimum traction on all road surfaces. The Variable M Differential Lock responds to differences in speed between the right and left rear wheel, a solution ideally supplementing the positive qualities of rear-wheel drive.

Safety is also a major element of the M3 Sedan, with a variety of systems integrated in the vehicle, ranging from Dynamic Stability Control (DSC), ABS anti-lock brakes, ASC Automatic Stability Control, CBC Cornering Brake Control, as well as six airbags, belt latch tensioners and belt force limiters.

30.04.2008

Dubai Industrial City, a member of Tatweer, today signed an agreement with the Arabian Gulf Mechanical Centre (AGMC), for the construction of an AED 60 million state-of-the-art service centre within the transportation zone of the region’s leading industrial hub. Construction of the facilities will commence in 3rd quarter of 2008 and will be ready by end of 2009.

The deal was signed by Rashed Al Ansari, Chief Executive Officer of Dubai Industrial City, and Stathis I. Stathis, General Manager of AGMC, the exclusive importer for BMW in Dubai, Sharjah and the Northern Emirates.

Under the agreement, the 400,000 sq. ft. modern AGMC centre will include a specialized showroom, sales offices, service and repair centre, training centre, as well as logistics, distribution and warehouse complex.

Al Ansari said: "The presence of international marquees like BMW at the Dubai Industrial City is yet another testimony of our success in attracting major players to the transportation zone. Our end-to-end world class suite of services and facilities are attracting major brands to our city and allow companies like AGMC to focus on long term growth, while delivering improved results and creating additional value for stakeholders and customers."

“This service centre investment is in line with our growth strategy, being one of the largest for BMW in the Middle East, and will also ensure that employees are trained and educated on the latest BMW technologies regularly, keeping with our service excellence initiatives,” explained Stathis.

“As part of our business development plans, which saw AGMC sales increase by 14% in 2007 over 2006, AGMC’s Sheikh Zayed showroom expansion will also be completed this year to provide BMW customers with unparalleled aftersales services in the luxury automotive market.”

Located adjacent to the Dubai World Cental’s Al Maktoum International Airport and in close proximity to Jebel Ali Port and Free Zone, with easy accessibility to major highways such as Sheikh Zayed Road, Emirates Road and the Dubai Ring Road, the 560 million square feet Dubai Industrial City is a dedicated industrial destination comprising six industrial clusters featuring food and beverage, base metal, mineral products, chemicals, transport equipment and parts, and machinery and mechanical equipment.

Complementary facilities for logistics, warehousing, labour cities, industrial training, in addition to commercial, residential and entertainment zones, position Dubai Industrial City as a comprehensive one stop-shop industrial and commercial destination. DI provides tenants with a critical competitive advantage in human resources, logistics and business operations.

14.05.2008

Capitalizing on the global success that BMW’s 1 Series range has enjoyed since its launch in 2004, BMW Group has announced the introduction of two new models, set to take the compact class segment by storm: the 1 Series Coupe and the 1 Series Convertible.

Having made its worldwide debut with a hatchback, the BMW 1 Series range offering rises to new levels with the new 2008 BMW 1 Series Coupe and Convertible versions, both offering an unrivalled combination of BMW renowned driving dynamics, maximum efficiency and supreme sportiness.

Phil Horton, Managing Director of BMW Group Middle East, commented: “The new 1 Series Coupe and Convertible models add an exciting and contemporary dimension to the 1 Series range. Unmistakably BMW in both design and performance, the 1 Series has been enjoying steady sales in the Middle East; and the addition of these two models is expected to make a marked contribution to our sales figures for 2008.”

The top-of-the range BMW 135i Coupe and Convertible models are powered by BMW’s 3.0-litre straight six engine and feature Twin Turbo technology and High Precision Injection, to offer a maximum output of 306bhp with acceleration to 100km/h in just 5.3 seconds.

The BMW 1 Series range features a lightweight aluminum front suspension that offers the ideal combination of superior stiffness and low weight, and a five-link rear axle that guarantees optimum traction, excellent directional stability, and safe handling.

Attractive modifications made to the exterior of the BMW 1 Series reveal the unique, dynamic and unmistakable BMW design. The interior design of the BMW 1 Series Coupe and Convertible models feature high-quality, sophisticated trim and upholstery with a wide choice of colours and materials, and a plethora of standard and optional features that include: 6-speed automatic transmission, light alloy wheels, USB and Bluetooth interface and navigation operated through the iDrive.

Thanks to its efficient electro-hydraulically operated soft-top, the BMW 1 Series Convertible can go from encapsulated comfort to top-down exhilaration in just 22 seconds, even on the move at speeds up to 40km per hour. The model is also fitted with a rollover sensor that, when detecting an imminent rollover, pretensions the seatbelts and deploys two rollbars behind the rear headrests. The A-pillar and windshield frame are also reinforced in the convertible for added protection, and all BMW 1 Series models are fitted with six airbags.

The BMW 1 Series offers an unparalleled balance in its class of performance, design, efficiency and exclusivity. Available from BMW Group importers throughout the Middle East in 120i, 125i and 135i models, the new BMW 1 Series Coupe and Convertible will be turning heads and winning hearts wherever they go.

12.06.2008

BMW Group, the world’s most successful premium automotive manufacturer, has announced that its pre-owned vehicle sales across the Middle East for January-May 2008 have increased by 75 per cent over the same period last year.

BMW Premium Selection, the company’s industry leading global pre-used programme, was set up in the Middle East in 2006 as a sub-brand of BMW Group. The roll-out plan has extended to eight BMW importerships across the region, including Abu Dhabi, Bahrain, Dubai, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Oman, Jordan and Kuwait.

“We are on track with our plan for our BMW Premium Selection programme and our positive sales results achieved year-to-date are proving that there is huge potential to increase our pre-used vehicle business even further,” said Phil Horton, Managing Director, BMW Group Middle East.

“We are investing a lot of resources behind this programme and have aggressive plans to include Lebanon, Syria and Iran by 2010. BMW Premium Selection is operated to high international standards with dedicated managers, sales executives and service teams who undergo a comprehensive and intensive training programme,” added Horton.

The BMW Premium Selection programme is reserved exclusively for pre-used BMW vehicles that meet strict criteria. Vehicles need to be less than five years old, have a mileage of under 100,000 km and have been serviced by authorized BMW importers to qualify for the programme.

Vehicles pass a comprehensive 75 point technical check by trained BMW technicians before they are accepted and sold, ensuring high levels of quality, reliability and value to customers. A 12 month warranty and road side assistance is given when purchasing a BMW Premium Selection vehicle ensuring buyers that they not only have the best offer available in the used car market but they also have peace of mind.

16.06.2008

AGMC, exclusive importer of BMW, MINI and Rolls-Royce in Dubai, Sharjah and the Northern Emirates, recently held the first BMW M Power Driver Training session at the Dubai Autodrome. More than 30 AGMC customers attended the road safety awareness driver training course using the full range of M powered vehicles dating back to the late 1980s.

“We were pleased with the outcome of the event. Our customers were able to get a better understand of the full capabilities of the M Series vehicles, learn how to handle cars in challenging situations as well as feel the true passion of driving a BMW,” said Mohammed El-Arishy, Business Development Manager, AGMC.

Attendees at the event were guided on how to handle their M vehicles in a variety of different conditions, such as breaking, slalom and cornering, in addition to a unique track driving experience that allowed the drivers to test the limits of their vehicles in a safe and controlled environment.

“M customers were able to learn more about the technologies available to them in their respective M vehicles, which in turn provides them the know-how to properly control these powerful cars, whether on the road or on the track,” continued El-Arishy.

The event also provided an opportunity for BMW M enthusiasts in Dubai to witness the reveal of the BMW M3 Coupe and Convertible, featuring BMW’s new and unique Dual Clutch Transmission (DCT), as well as a highly tuned 4.0-litre V8 – a first for this range. The BMW M3 produces an astonishing 420bhp and 295 lb-ft of torque at 8,400rpm, and propels from 0-100 km/h in just 4.9 seconds, up to an electronically limited top speed of 250 km/h.

Special circuit laps in the all-new BMW M3 were also conducted for the participants, with professional BMW driving instructors at the helm.

AGMC and BMW are committed to promoting safety through regular BMW Driver Training sessions, in addition to introducing traffic intelligence systems such as BMW ConnectedDrive, BMW’s comprehensive and individual information service programme that includes BMW Assist, BMW Online and BMW TeleServices available on all BMW vehicles.

29.06.2008

Seven years after the launch of BMW’s bestselling 7 Series model, the world’s most successful premium automotive manufacturer has announced plans to launch its newest generation 7 Series model in November this year.

Offering stylish design, outstanding performance, luxury, power and sheer driving pleasure, the flagship BMW 7 Series, will continue to set the trends in the luxury performance class.

The current generation of the BMW 7 Series model was launched in 2001, and has consistently been a trendsetter becoming the company’s best ever selling 7 Series model.

The new BMW 7 Series is a class leader in emissions reduction, and has been designed around BMW’s robust EfficientDynamics strategy that encompasses many technology innovations to offer outstanding performance and a reduction in fuel consumption and CO2 emission.

The new BMW 7 Series will enter the Middle East market with two brand new engine variants – the V6 740iL and V8 750iL – both with twin-turbo technology and direct fuel injection. The BMW 750i, the flagship in the 7 Series range, is the most efficient engine in its performance class that produces 407bhp and accelerates to 100 km/h in 5.2 seconds.

Inside, the new BMW 7 Series is a modern rendition of pure luxury. The ambience is exclusive, sophisticated and inviting, with a clearly structured arrangement of driving and comfort. High-quality materials as well as enhanced space and luxury give the interior a beautifully harmonious feel.

The cockpit has been designed to promote the sheer pleasure of driving, and the latest generation of BMW’s trendsetting iDrive control system features a 10.2 inch display with a high-resolution graphic presentation enabling easy control of the car’s entertainment, information, navigation and telecommunication functions.

Particular attention has been given to comfort in the rear with an increase in wheelbase of 140 mm for additional room inside the cabin. The design of the new BMW 7 Series gives greater natural presence, sportiness and precise elegance.

BMW has always stood for luxury and sporting refinement, with performance at the heart of its DNA. Through features such as the car’s dynamic proportions, with a low and stretched side view and sculpted surfaces, this luxury saloon offers a unique, unparalleled character.

Safety is at the heart of the new BMW 7 Series, with an optimised body structure and interacting and electronically controlled passive safety systems. Both models come standard with side and head airbags, crash-activated headrests at the front, runflat tyres and a tyre defect indicator.

The BMW 7 Series also comes with a wide range of comfort touches and innovative entertainment options, including an audio system with hard-disc memory and AUX-in sleeve featured as standard. A USB port, multi-channel audio system, DVD system in the rear, four-zone automatic air conditioning, active seat ventilation and massage seats all combine to show how this new range is the leader in luxury.

“We are looking forward to launching our new flagship 7 Series model later this year. With the Middle East being the fourth biggest market for 7 Series sales worldwide, we are confident that this new generation model will ensure we maintain both our competitive edge and our position at the forefront of innovation,” said Phil Horton, Managing Director, BMW Group Middle East.

08.07.2008

BMW ConnectedDrive – a single network that offers customers greater comfort, safety and advanced infotainment – has crossed the 8,000 car mark in terms of technology usage by BMW owners in the UAE, the first market in a region-wide implementation programme for the unique BMW service, with a total of 8,456 vehicles actively employing this BMW technology.

Launched in the UAE in 2003, these vehicles have been equipped with unique technology which brings together the powerful functionalities of three exclusive BMW services – BMW Assist, BMW Online and BMW TeleService – providing safety services, email accessibility and diagnostic technology respectively.

Both AGMC and Abu Dhabi Motors, exclusive importers of BMW Group products in the UAE, offer the full range of BMW ConnectedDrive services on certain BMW vehicles.

BMW Assist is primarily a safety feature, giving customers access to a dedicated 24-hour Response Centre. In the case of an unforeseen event, a direct voice link to the Response Centre is established by using the SOS button or Emergency Service feature.

The ‘Emergency Call’ facility is also automatically activated in crash situations via the airbag sensor, alerting the Response Centre immediately to ensure quick action – even if the driver is unable to make a voice connection. The vehicles data and position are forwarded to the Response Centre and then on to the ambulance, police or fire brigade so they can locate the vehicle easily.

BMW Online, allows customers to access emails and their address book while seated in the car, where messages are displayed on the vehicle’s monitor and accessed through the iDrive controller. Customers can also log onto their personal, unique password-protected BMW Online email account.

The third feature of BMW ConnectedDrive, is BMW TeleServices, which facilitate the cordless transmission of maintenance data from the car directly to the local BMW importer, providing a specific service profile for each vehicle, and allowing for spare parts to be reserved or ordered prior to the service date, thereby eliminating delays.

Using experience gained from Formula 1, BMW pioneered the way with intelligent diagnosis based servicing. The functionality of BMW’s ConnectedDrive ensures more road time for the driver, and allows customers to enjoy access to high-calibre technology and services.

16.07.2008

The BMW X6, the world’s first Sport Activity Coupé, has extended its product range to include a more powerful X6 xDrive50i variant that features a new 4.4-litre V8 engine with Twin Turbo technology. The latest model joins the highly successful BMW X6 xDrive35i that was launched in the Middle East earlier this year.

The new X6 xDrive50i model is the world’s first eight-cylinder gasoline engine with the turbo-charger and catalytic converters housed in the V-section between the two rows of cylinders, giving a maximum output of 407 hp and 442 lb-ft of torque.

As with the already popular BMW X6 xDrive35i, the BMW X6 xDrive50i comes equipped as standard with BMW’s intelligent xDrive all-wheel drive technology and Dynamic Performance Control for agility, stability, precision and traction in any driving situation.

“We have enjoyed tremendous success throughout the region with the new BMW X6 model that combines the sporting elegance of a large coupé with the powerful presence of a BMW X model. Since the launch in March, we have sold 596 models and our full year’s production is almost sold out,” said Phil Horton, Managing Director, BMW Group Middle East.

“We’ve had many customers on the waiting list for the X6 xDrive50i version, which offers even more power than the current X6 xDrive35i. With the new addition to the X6 range, we expect the X6 to contribute significantly to our full year sales growth,” added Horton.
The BMW X6 also makes use of BMW’s EfficientDynamics technology innovations that reduce fuel consumption and CO² emissions. Both models include two new High Precision Injection (HPI) engines and tyres with reduced rolling-resistance, delivering excellent performance and making the X6 the most fuel efficient car in its competitive class.

Both BMW X6 xDrive35i and xDrive50i models are available with a wide range of comfort functions and innovative entertainment options, including BMW iDrive with personalised favourite buttons, multi-channel audio system, DVD system at the rear, active seat ventilation, back-up camera and advanced navigation systems.

10.08.2008

AGMC, exclusive importer of BMW, MINI and Rolls- Royce in Dubai, Sharjah and the Northern Emirates, recorded its highest sales for the first half of the year, selling 1,953 units between January and June 2008 – an impressive 19% increase over the same period in 2007. The number of units sold for the given period also represents the highest sales figure across the Middle East for BMW Group.

The top three selling models for the first six months of 2008 were the BMW X5, followed by the BMW 3 Series, and the BMW 5 Series. The newly launched BMW X6, the world’s first Sports Activity Coupe, also enjoyed remarkable demand in just over two months since its launch in April this year.

“AGMC continues to be the highest volume seller for BMW Group in the region, and this growth is largely attributed to the company’s offerings in the luxury market segment across Dubai, Sharjah and the Northern Emirates, which in turn has allowed us to experience phenomenal expansion,” said Stathis I. Stathis, General Manager, AGMC.

“AGMC has experienced tremendous sales growth over the first six months of this year, building on last year’s leading performance for the BMW Group, where AGMC delivered a total of 3,594 vehicles to customers, accounting for 23.7% of total sales in the Middle East.”

“Our sales performance for this year is well on track and we expect to conclude 2008 by surpassing last year’s outstanding figures. In addition, the implementation of several expansion initiatives and the introduction of segment-leading products will support AGMC’s growth in Dubai, Sharjah and the Northern Emirates,” added Stathis.

Another area of AGMC’s business that witnessed growth during the first six months of the year was the company’s certified pre-owned car programme – BMW Premium Selection. The BMW Premium Selection programme is reserved exclusively for pre-owned BMW vehicles that meet strict criteria. Vehicles need to be less than five years old, have a mileage of under 100,000 km and have been serviced by authorized BMW importers to qualify for the programme.

This year will see the completion of AGMC’s multi-million dirham expansion project which reflects the growth of the company, where the BMW showroom and service facility on Sheikh Zayed road will be doubled in size and will be equipped with state-of-the art equipment and machinery.

“The Sheikh Zayed road showroom is just one of the company’s initiatives in our promise to develop our sales and after-sales facilities. Alongside staff training initiatives, we are building on our guarantee to provide customers with the latest technologies and vehicles utilizing the most professional service,” continued Stathis.

AGMC has also announced the development of a multi-million, state-of-the-art facility for BMW Group products within the transportation zone of Dubai Investment Park. Additionally, AGMC will be opening a new BMW Premium Selection, certified pre-owned vehicles showroom next to the main BMW showroom in Sharjah in Industrial area 12.

28.08.2008