News

Kuala Lumpur, 19 August 2010

BMW Group Malaysia today launched the BMW Shorties 2010, the fourth installation of the group’s annual short film competition in Malaysia. A film making competition with a difference, the BMW Shorties is a cultural initiative by BMW Group Malaysia to identify, cultivate and support budding talent within the Malaysian film making industry and to promote a cultural appreciation for creative arts within Malaysian society.

Mr. Harun Rahman, BMW Shorties 2010 judge, Mr. Geoffrey Briscoe, Managing Director of BMW Group Malaysia, Mr. Sashi Ambi, Corporate Communications Manager of BMW Group Malaysia, Manesh Nesaratnam, BMW Shorties 2010 judge.

“After three years of the BMW Shorties, I am very pleased to say that the contest has become both an event that is eagerly anticipated by the local film making community and as a platform for young Malaysian’s to share with us their creative talent. The amount of interest, ideas and excitement that we have seen with the BMW Shorties over the years has been truly inspiring, and I look forward to seeing even more of the same with the BMW Shorties 2010.” said Geoffrey Briscoe, Managing Director of BMW Group Malaysia.

Briscoe added that this year’s ‘0% Wastage’ theme to the BMW Shorties pays tribute to the BMW Group’s ongoing BMW EfficientDynamics strategy with an effort towards encouraging greater appreciation and understanding around the importance of sustainability.

“0% Wastage is the target to optimize the use of what we have without causing negative side effects to the environment and the communities around us, while still creating opportunities for beneficial growth and development. It is also the core objective to strive for behind the principles of Sustainable Development. We at BMW are firm believers of the need to introduce Sustainability principles at every level of our business, a vision that has led us to become the Most Sustainable Automotive Company in the world today. With the BMW Shorties cultural initiative, we are now able to create even greater interest and awareness on the importance of Sustainability for the future.” said Briscoe.

With a professional short film production grant of RM75,000 once again up for grabs for the winning director, this year’s BMW Shorties also seeks to identify and highlight a wider range of film making talent with awards for Best Cinematography, Best Screenplay, Best Production Design, Best Actor and Best Actress also in contention. The ever popular People’s Choice Award also returns and will allow members of the public to vote for their favourite film online at www.bmwshorties.com.my. Further to this, the short film competition also retains its maximum length of up to 12 minutes for its entries, to continue to challenge participants to greater heights of short film creativity.

In order to complement the various sub genres of the short film medium, the BMW Shorties judging panel this year has also expanded to include a broader mixture of film making experts that encompass the wide range of skills necessary to make a film. From directing and producing to writing, editing and acting – all these skill sets will be represented by an expert judge.

Leading the panel of judges line-up are Tan Chui Mui, an international award-winning independent film maker and three time veteran judge to the BMW Shorties; Harun Rahman, an award winning documentary maker whose production credits include titles for National Geographic Asia as well as ‘Malayan Emergency’ for the History Channel; renowned award winning Malaysian actress Sharifah Amani; film maker and producer of the “Your Grandfather’s Road” crowd-sourcing film project, Manesh Nesaratnam as well as commercial producer and executive producer of the BMW Shorties 2007 award winning entry of “K-Hole” and the BMW Shorties production of “Teddy & I”, Nisha Omar.

“While we expect the judging of the BMW Shorties to continue to be as lively and vigorous as in the previous years, our aim is to ensure that the participants benefit from the full range of film making expertise as well as enjoy proper recognition for their efforts in a holistic manner.” said Sashi Ambi, Corporate Communications Manager of BMW Group Malaysia.

Ambi added that the short film competition also incorporates a Judges Clinic session which will enable film making enthusiasts to receive firsthand knowledge and expertise from the BMW Shorties 2010 judges. The BMW Shorties 2010 Judges Clinic will be held on Saturday, 4th September 2010 at MAP KL and participants can register for the session at the BMW Shorties website.

Also showcased on the evening of the BMW Shorties 2010 launch was the premiere screening of the BMW Shorties productions of 'A Sweet Memory‘ by Brandon Loh and ‘Jagat’ by Shanjhey Kumar, winners of the BMW Shorties 2009.

A film maker with a strong passion for the portrayal of sociology in local communities, Shanjhey’s ‘Jagat’ draws parallels between the ethical dilemmas faced by two individuals from different eras as the film recaps certain chapters of their lives whilst Brandon’s 'A Sweet Memory‘ is a touching short film that recalls the more innocent times of our youth.

Showing an appreciation for the BMW Shorties initiative, filmmaker Shanjhey Kumar said, “The BMW Shorties has been a great opportunity for me to direct a film project, which has always been a dream of mine. This competition has opened many doors for me in the film making industry and has certainly led me to further pursue my ambition as a film maker.”

Reiterating Shanjhey’s sentiments, Brandon said, “Personally, the BMW Shorties has been a great opportunity for me to explore new film making techniques. Being in the commercial film industry, it is not often that I get to explore the art of film making outside of what my clients want. I am really glad that through this competition, I’ve been able to address some of the ideas that I have been able to express. The knowledge and know how I gained from the panel of judges have been very useful in improving my film making skills.”

The BMW Shorties 2010 is open to all Malaysian citizens aged 18 and above, as long as they have never won in any local or international film festival or awards competition. Submissions to the BMW Shorties are judged based on their originality, content and creativity and entries may be in any Malaysian vernacular language so long as English subtitles are included. Aspiring filmmakers who would like to advance their cinematic skills are also encouraged to join in the BMW Shorties 2010 Judges Clinic where they will receive professional advice on film making from the BMW Shorties judges themselves.

“The start of the fourth edition of the BMW Shorties is an exciting occasion for us as it has led to significant improvements and opportunities in the Malaysian film making community, which has been our ambition from the very start of this initiative. For the BMW Shorties to have taken on the character that it has today is tremendously gratifying and we at BMW Group Malaysia are pleased to have had a role in developing a vibrant film making art scene here in Malaysia” said Ambi.

All information regarding the BMW Shorties 2010 including application forms, the Judges’ Clinic, terms and conditions, the voting process and viewers’ participation, can be found at http://www.bmwshorties.com.my and as well as the BMW Shorties Facebook page at  http://www.facebook.com/BMWShorties Members of the public are also invited to attend a free public screening of the ‘Best of the BMW Shorties 2007-2009’ films at MAP KL at 8.00pm on the 26th,28thand 29th of August 2010.

About BMW Shorties

The BMW Shorties was launched in Malaysia in late 2006 as a platform for Malaysian short film makers to explore their talent. Since that time it has become one of the most anticipated annual filmmaking events in Malaysia with BMW Shorties productions travelling to prestigious international film festivals in Cannes, Rome, New York, Rotterdam, Dubai and others. Today it serves both to provide Malaysian filmmakers access to international film making networks and as an unwitting platform for young Malaysians to cultivate their social conscience.

About BMW Malaysia Sdn. Bhd.

BMW Malaysia Sdn Bhd is a joint venture between Bayerische Motoren Werke (BMW) AG and Sime Darby Berhad. BMW Malaysia activities cover the wholesale of BMW cars, spare parts and accessories, as well as the overall planning of sales, marketing, after-sales, and other related activities in Malaysia.  Its dealership network covers 14 outlets in various cities in Malaysia.

Issued by:

Sashi Ambi
BMW Group
Malaysia
Corporate Communications
E-mail: sashi.ambihaipahan@bmw.com.my
Media Website: www.press.bmw.com

For media queries, please contact:
Text 100 Ltd
Nahri Salim / Izrin Kamil
Telephone: (+603) 2282 2152, Fax: (+603) 2283 2041
E-mail: nahri.salim@text100.com.my / izrin.kamil@text100.com.my

Kulim, 29th July 2010

BMW Group Malaysia today introduced the first locally assembled production model of the new BMW 523i at the BMW assembly plant in Kulim, Kedah.

“The BMW 5 Series plays an iconic role in the history and success of the BMW Group. Time and time again, the car has proven itself to be the superior choice in its segment and with the introduction of the all-new BMW 5 Series, we at BMW Group Malaysia are confident that the legacy of the BMW 5 Series will be one that continues to grow from strength to strength in Malaysia.” said Mr. Geoffrey Briscoe, Managing Director of BMW Group Malaysia.

Already attracting impressive international accolades, including a 2010 Auto Bild Award, the Red Dot Design Award as well as being the first BMW to not only receive the maximum five star rating but also a 100 per cent score in the reputed Euro NCAP crash test, the Sixth Generation BMW 5 Series is expected to build upon the iconic legacy of its predecessor and be a key contributor to BMW Group Malaysia’s profitability moving forward.

Equipped with a new smooth-revving 2.5 litre engine with VALVETRONIC that is capable of generating 150kW/204hp and 250 Nm of Torque, an increase of 10kW/14hp from its predecessor and allowing it to reach 0-100km in 8.5 seconds, the BMW 523i has proven to be a successful model in Malaysia, with the first shipment of units generating tremendous interest in the Malaysian automotive industry and being sold out within the first month of its launch to the market in May.

The new locally assembled BMW 523i.

Briscoe further added that the introduction of local assembly for the new BMW 5 Series would lead to significant benefits to Malaysian customers by reducing total cost of ownership, waiting time for complete units and spare parts while maintaining the same premium standards and offering that are expected of a BMW car.

“With an iconic legacy to live up to, the sixth generation BMW 5 Series features all the latest innovations that have set BMW apart as the worlds most valued brand in the automotive segment the world over.” said Briscoe.

Operational since 2008, the BMW Assembly plant in Kulim has been an integral part of BMW’s success in Malaysia with a production run of more than 4900 units to date. With a workforce of over 400 employees and equipped with the latest in manufacturing technologies, the plant generates variants of the BMW 5 Series and BMW 3 Series in Malaysia.

“The BMW assembly line facilities in Kulim are as advanced as any BMW production facility anywhere in the world and has led to the introduction of superior premium quality assembly line technology, practices and standards to Malaysia.” said Mr. Manfred Zink, Production Manager and Plant Representative of BMW Group Malaysia.

Mr. Manfred Zink, Production Manager and Plant Representative of BMW Group Malaysia.

The BMW Assembly Plant is operated in partnership with Inokom Corporation, a subsidiary of Sime Darby Berhad at the Inokom factory in Kulim, Kedah. Both BMW and Inokom share factory space but operate separate and independent assembly lines in the facility.

“The BMW 5 Series has a special place in our plant as it was the first BMW production line to begin operations when BMW moved its local assembly line to Kedah, and has been pivotal in seeing key technologies being introduced to the Malaysian automotive industry as well as the creation of over 400 skilled and professional jobs for Malaysians.” said Encik Zainal Osman, Chief Operating Officer of Inokom Corporation Sdn Bhd.

BMW Group Malaysia also confirmed that the organisation will be introducing the much anticipated locally assembled BMW 528i later in the year.

The retail price (on the road, without insurance, with BMW Service Inclusive + Repair) for the locally assembled BMW 523i is:

About BMW EfficientDynamics

BMW EfficientDynamics was coined by BMW more than a decade ago to define the company’s long term sustainable strategy to produce fuel-saving and alternative vehicle concepts through clean production processes. It is an array of technologies that are already fitted as standard across practically the whole model range. As the manufacturer with the most comprehensive programme for reducing fuel consumption and emissions, BMW EfficientDynamics are designed to enhance the performance and driving pleasure of the vehicles at the same time. In 2007, BMW was awarded a “Green Steering Wheel” for outstanding environmental innovation for its BMW EfficientDynamics technology.

About BMW Malaysia Sdn. Bhd.

BMW Malaysia Sdn Bhd is a joint venture between Bayerische Motoren Werke (BMW) AG and Sime Darby Berhad. BMW Malaysia activities cover the wholesale of BMW cars, spare parts and accessories, as well as the overall planning of sales, marketing, after-sales, and other related activities in Malaysia. Its dealership network covers 14 outlets in various cities in Malaysia.

Issued by:

BMW Malaysia Sdn Bhd
Sashi Ambi,
Corporate Communications Manager, Malaysia
Telephone: (+603) 8887 3822, Fax: (+603) 8887 3801
E-mail: sashi.ambihaipahan@bmw.com.my
Media Website: www.press.bmwgroup.com

For media queries, please contact:
Text 100 Malaysia
Nahri Salim / Izrin Kamil
Telephone: (+603) 2282 2152, Fax: (+603) 2283 2041
E-mail: nahri.salim@text100.com.my / izrin.kamil@text100.com.my
Media Website: www.press.bmwgroup.com

Kuantan, 29th July 2010

BMW Group Malaysia today introduced Pendragon Auto Sdn Bhd - the newest member to its dealership network in Malaysia. Occupying the premises once operated by Auto Bavaria along Jalan Teluk Sisik in Kuantan, Pendragon Auto will provide comprehensive 4S (Sales, Service, Systems and Spare-parts) facilities to customers throughout the East Coast of Malaysia.

The concept and architecture of the new Pendragon Auto centre also reflects the essence of the BMW brand and complies with its stringent international-class standards and specifications. The new dealership houses a sales office, lounge area, lifestyle café, BMW Premium Selection area and a display area that can hold up to 11 cars.

Mr Sashi Ambi, Corporate Communications Manager, BMW Group Malaysia, Mr Geoffrey Briscoe, Managing Director, BMW Group Malaysia, Azri Aziz, Managing Director of Pendragon Auto, Fedric Chin, Executive Director (Dealer Principal) of Pendragon Auto at the launch of Pendragon Auto Sdn Bhd.

Welcoming Pendragon Auto to the BMW Group network, Geoffrey Briscoe, Managing Director of BMW Group Malaysia said, “Pendragon Auto is a fine example of enthusiastic entrepreneurship, an essential quality that BMW looks for in its dealerships. We believe Pendragon Auto’s professional management, combined with its discerning business sense and a commitment to customer service will serve as a valued addition to BMW’s dealership network and strengthen our presence in the Malaysian East Coast.”

Briscoe added that the new dealership’s foray into the business of representing the BMW car brand could not have arrived at a better time with BMW Group Malaysia’s recent introduction of the new BMW 5 Series, BMW X5 and BMW X1. With BMW Group Malaysia sales to date already surpassing performance of the previous year, the breadth of the new BMW vehicles available are set to drive BMW Group Malaysia’s business even further in the third and fourth quarter of 2010.

Mr Geoffrey Briscoe, Managing Director, BMW Group Malaysia at the launch of Pendragon Auto Sdn Bhd.

Reiterating Pendragon Auto’s commitment to BMW customers in the East Coast of Peninsular Malaysia, Azri Aziz, Managing Director of Pendragon Auto said, “Through this partnership with BMW Group Malaysia, we at Pendragon Auto seek to combine our commitment to providing premium quality BMW products and services with the wealth of knowledge and experience which we have inherited from Auto Bavaria, who have successfully managed the 4S Centre in Kuantan for the past four years and to further develop and improve the BMW business through the delivery of outstanding services to our customers in these parts of Malaysia.”

Azri further added that the team behind Pendragon Auto are very passionate about cars with particular expertise in the premium automotive business. The organisation was established in May 2010 for the sole purpose of becoming an authorised BMW representative that also serves as a BMW Premium Selection dealership, ensuring customers a holistic premium brand experience.

“As a market, Kuantan and the Malaysian East Coast have shown significant potential for growth as more and more customers seek cars in the premium segment. Moving forward we anticipate up to a 20% market growth over the next year” said Azri.

Mr Azri Aziz, Managing Director of Pendragon Auto at the launch of Pendragon Auto Sdn Bhd.

The introduction of Pendragon Auto is another achievement in BMW Group Malaysia’s ongoing strategy of expanding its dealership network and to provide BMW customers with more choice and convenience while catering to BMW’s growing customer base. In the past three years, BMW Group Malaysia has undertaken several dealership initiatives which include establishing new BMW and MINI dealerships, refurbishment of existing dealerships and the launch of BMW Premium Selection, BMW’s used-car dealership program.

“Dealerships form a critical touch-point for the brand to our customers. With Kuantan and the rest of the East Coast continuing to grow as a vibrant market for BMW, it is our wish to ensure that our BMW customers in Malaysia continue to get nothing but the very best, be it in Munich, Kuala Lumpur or here in Kuantan” said Briscoe.

Present at the launch ceremony were Geoffrey Briscoe, Managing Director of BMW Group Malaysia, Azri Aziz, Managing Director of Pendragon Auto and Fedric Chin, Executive Director (Dealer Principal) of Pendragon Auto.

Mr Azri Aziz, Managing Director of Pendragon Auto, Mr Geoffrey Briscoe, Managing Director, BMW Group Malaysia, Mr Fedric Chin, Executive Director (Dealer Principal) of Pendragon Auto at the launch of Pendragon Auto Sdn Bhd.

The new Pendragon Auto 4S BMW centre is located at Lot 32, Jalan Teluk Sisek, 25000 Kuantan,Pahang. For further information customers can call 09-516 1666 or visit www.bmw.com.my

About BMW EfficientDynamics

BMW EfficientDynamics was coined by BMW more than a decade ago to define the company’s long term sustainable strategy to produce fuel-saving and alternative vehicle concepts through clean production processes. It is an array of technologies that are already fitted as standard across practically the whole model range. As the manufacturer with the most comprehensive programme for reducing fuel consumption and emissions, BMW EfficientDynamics are designed to enhance the performance and driving pleasure of the vehicles at the same time. In 2007, BMW was awarded a “Green Steering Wheel” for outstanding environmental innovation for its BMW EfficientDynamics technology.

About BMW Malaysia Sdn. Bhd.

BMW Malaysia Sdn Bhd is a joint venture between Bayerische Motoren Werke (BMW) AG and Sime Darby Berhad. BMW Malaysia activities cover the wholesale of BMW cars, spare parts and accessories, as well as the overall planning of sales, marketing, after-sales, and other related activities in Malaysia. Its dealership network covers 14 outlets in various cities in Malaysia.

Issued by:

BMW Malaysia Sdn Bhd
Sashi Ambi,
Corporate Communications Manager, Malaysia
Telephone: (+603) 8887 3822, Fax: (+603) 8887 3801
E-mail: sashi.ambihaipahan@bmw.com.my
Media Website: www.press.bmwgroup.com

For media queries, please contact:
Text 100 Malaysia
Nahri Salim / Izrin Kamil
Telephone: (+603) 2282 2152, Fax: (+603) 2283 2041
E-mail: nahri.salim@text100.com.my / izrin.kamil@text100.com.my
Media Website: www.press.bmwgroup.com

Kuala Lumpur, 13th May 2010

Hot on the heels of its introduction of the new BMW 5 Series, BMW Group Malaysia today unveiled the new BMW 535i Gran Turismo, a new and first of its kind, unique premium sedan which gives a modern take on the classic Gran Turismo.

BMW 5 Series Gran Turismo

"The introduction of the BMW 535i Gran Turismo complements our line-up of the new BMW 5 Series range in Malaysia, a car that has already been tremendously well received by the market, as well as our successful BMW 7 Series luxurious limousine offering. It is a BMW that combines the supreme driving dynamics of the BMW 5 Series with the interior space, characteristics and luxury of the BMW 7 Series. The perfect automobile for every occasion. The BMW 5 Series Gran Turismo is so exclusive that we at BMW Group Malaysia are only introducing the car in limited numbers." said Mr. Geoffrey Briscoe, Managing Director of BMW Group Malaysia.

With its combination of elegant looks, supreme handling and outstanding efficiency, the new BMW 535i Gran Turismo is further distinguished by its frameless door windows, fully variable rear seats and twin trunk lid. Like its sedan counterparts, the new BMW 535i Gran Turismo sets the benchmark in the automotive industry by combining superior aesthetic design with ultimate driving pleasure, hallmarks which have led to recognition of the BMW marquee as the Worlds Most Valuable automotive brand.

"The BMW 5 Series Gran Turismo is yet another fruition from the vision that the BMW Design Team in Munich has had in turning concepts for the future, into desirable automobiles for today. A benchmark of success which few if any of our rivals have been able to replicate" added Briscoe.

BMW 5 Series Gran Turismo

In its engine offering, the BMW 535i Gran Turismo was the first BMW vehicle to feature the new BMW TwinPower Turbo six-cylinder in-line engine. The BMW TwinPower Turbo features a turbocharger driven by two separate exhaust gas streams which result in extremely fast responses to driver inputs, and with a three-litre engine capacity, the BMW 535i Gran Turismo generates a powerful 225kW/ 306hp. Through the combination of BMW TwinPower Turbo, VALVETRONIC and High Precision Injection technology the BMW 535i Gran Turismo also registers 400Nm of Torque which allows it to complete the 0-100km sprint in 6.3 seconds.

With the latest innovations in BMW EfficientDynamics technology, the BMW 535i Gran Turismo features a fuel consumption level of 8.9 litres/100 km and a CO2 emission level of 209 grams per kilometre, once again proving the BMW Group’s ability to produce vehicles which generate more power than their predecessors while boasting lower fuel consumption and CO2 emission levels.

In addition to this, the new BMW is also available standard with the BMW EfficientDynamics technologies of Brake Energy Regeneration and Electromechanical steering. Brake Energy Regeneration allows BMW cars to make use of every watt possible by charging the battery when the vehicle is braking, coasting or decelerating. The technology improves fuel efficiency by up to three percent and ensures that the full power of the engine is available for acceleration.

In the steering system, while conventional hydraulic systems consistently require engine power which consumes fuel, BMW has developed a new electromechanical steering system that only operates during the actual steering process. As such, so long as the car is moving straight, or is at a constant cornering angle, the electric motor which powers the system is inactive, which in turn reduces energy consumption to optimise efficiency.

BMW 5 Series Gran Turismo

Ensuring an exceptionally smooth driving experience, the new BMW 535i Gran Turismo is also fitted with an 8-speed automatic transmission. With gear ratio changes occuring to the point of unnoticability, the BMW 535i Gran Turismo is able to provide a seemingly endless infusion of power while minimising gear shift lag time which reduces fuel consumption and emission levels even further.

Optimising the use and control of the car’s exceptional drive performance capabilities, the new BMW 535i Gran Turismo is fitted with Driving Dynamic Control as standard. With Driving Dynamic Control, drivers are able to interchange between NORMAL, COMFORT, SPORT and SPORT+ modes at the touch of a button.

Exceptional drive performance capabilities are further achieved with a wide array of intelligent driver assistance technologies such as Integral Active Steering, Dynamic Stability Control and Cruise Control. A unique feature, Integral Active Steering combines the Active Steering existing on the front wheels with rear axle steering, making the steering angle and assistance controlled both at the front and rear by electric motors which are masterminded by a control unit that receives data on wheel rotation speed, movement of the steering wheel, the yaw rate and lateral acceleration to ensure optimum steering behaviour under all conditions.

Active Steering on the front wheels enables the driver to manoeuvre the car smoothly and easily at low speeds with just small movements of the steering wheel and without crossing over his hands. At higher speeds, in turn, the same movement of the steering wheel turns the wheel by a smaller angle for optimum precision when steering into bends. Turning the rear wheels by up to 2.5 degrees, Integral Active Steering further enhances the agility and manoeuvrability of the car in city traffic and on winding mountain roads, with the rear wheels turning opposite to the steering angle of the front wheels at speeds of up to 60 km/h. This not only reduces the turning circle by approximately 0.5 metres, but also increases the driver’s motoring comfort by reducing the steering effort required.

BMW 5 Series Gran Turismo

Exterior wise, the new BMW 535i Gran Turismo shares many of the design aesthetics which clearly mark it as a part of the sixth generation BMW 5 Series family, while also retaining a distinct look which is emphasised by its coupe-like roofline, long bonnet with forward slanting grille and generous wheelbase. The BMW 535i Gran Turismo is also the first four-door BMW to feature frameless doors, a design aesthetic that not only highlights the vehicles sporty coupe-like feel, but also emphasises the elongated roofline in the finest tradition of a Gran Turismo.

Further stamping the strong looks and character of the BMW 5 Series GT is the new headlight design which incorporates the daytime driving lights typical of the BMW brand, but with the first ever application of LED corona rings, features which makes the car instantly recognisable as a BMW 5 Series while at the same time, still providing it with an entirely new character altogether. The BMW trademark lights are also present at the rear with the L shaped brake lights, making the car further noticeable as a BMW, even at night.

Another special for the new BMW 5 Series GT is that the car features a twin trunk lid that ensures extraordinary versatility and flexibility. With this feature, the entire trunk lid can be opened to enable the loading and unloading of large items, or alternatively a smaller trunk lid, built below the rear window, can be opened separately for the quick and convenient storage of smaller luggage items. Additionally, the size of the luggage compartment can also be adapted to suit requirements, from a basic luggage capacity of 440 litres to 590 litres with both rear seats moved forward by the maximum 100mm. The luggage capacity is further increased to 1,700 litres with the rear seat folded down, giving the BMW 535i Gran Turismo ample luggage space.

With the interior, the BMW 535i Gran Turismo boasts an elevated seating position which provides the driver with an enhanced sense of control and space to ensure a more comfortable journey. Apart from making vehicle egress supremely comfortable the wide spaces and premium finishings of the car further adds to the vehicles sense of lounge-like comfort and versatility.

BMW 5 Series Gran Turismo

Dakota leather upholsetery, Fine-wood trim Fineline natural and chrome door sill finishers showcase the premium expression of the BMW 5 Series Gran Turismo. Further accentuating this expression is a panoramic glass roof with an opening width of 440 mm, filling the vehicles interior with natural light as well as multi-adjustable seats that ensure maximum travel comfort. With rear seat backrests that can recline by up to 33 degrees, the BMW 535i Gran Turismo also boasts spacious rear leg room space.

Further defining the interior of The BMW 535i Gran Turismo is a host of entertainment, communication and information functions such as BMW Navigation system Professional, Hi-Fi System Professional and Radio BMW professional. However, what is truly remarkable in the car is the presence of a 10.2-inch Control Display, expanded info display, hard disc-supported system including 80GB storage facility for audio files. The entertainment features are also strectched to the rear, with the seat entertainment system that includes two 8 inch inclinable monitors.

Like its sedan counterpart, the new BMW 535i Gran Turismo is fitted with a host of features and equipment to exude the complete premium innovation experience, whether behind the wheel or in the passenger seat. With BMW ConnectedDrive, owners of the new BMW 535i Gran Turismo enjoy complete USB connectivity and bluetooth hands free functions and are able to access a host of safety and infotainment functions such as BMW TeleServices and the optional BMW Telematics Platform Accessory (TPA), which includes an emergency Vehicle Recovery System as well as other BMW Assist remote services.

The new BMW 5 Series Gran Turismo and the recently introduced all new BMW 5 Series will be available in all 14 BMW dealerships across Malaysia from Sat, 15th May 2010.

The retail prices (on the road, without insurance, with BMW Service Inclusive + Repair) for the new BMW 535i Gran Turismo is;

About BMW EfficientDynamics

BMW EfficientDynamics was coined by BMW more than a decade ago to define the company’s long term sustainable strategy to produce fuel-saving and alternative vehicle concepts through clean production processes. It is an array of technologies that are already fitted as standard across practically the whole model range. As the manufacturer with the most comprehensive programme for reducing fuel consumption and emissions, BMW EfficientDynamics are designed to enhance the performance and driving pleasure of the vehicles at the same time. In 2007, BMW was awarded a "Green Steering Wheel" for outstanding environmental innovation for its BMW EfficientDynamics technology.

About BMW Malaysia Sdn. Bhd.

BMW Malaysia Sdn Bhd is a joint venture between Bayerische Motoren Werke (BMW) AG and Sime Darby Berhad. BMW Malaysia activities cover the wholesale of BMW cars, spare parts and accessories, as well as the overall planning of sales, marketing, after-sales, and other related activities in Malaysia.  Its dealership network covers 14 outlets in various cities in Malaysia.

Issued by:

BMW Malaysia Sdn Bhd
Sashi Ambi,
Corporate Communications Manager, Malaysia
Telephone: (+603) 8887 3822, Fax: (+603) 8887 3801
E-mail: Sashi.Ambihaipahan@bmw.com.my
Media Website: www.press.bmwgroup.com

For media queries, please contact:
Text 100 Malaysia
Nahri Salim / Izrin Kamil
Telephone: (+603) 2282 2152, Fax: (+603) 2283 2041
E-mail: nahri.salim@text100.com.my / izrin.kamil@text100.com.my
Media Website: www.press.bmwgroup.com

Kuala Lumpur, 7th May 2010

BMW Group Malaysia today introduced the new sixth generation BMW 5 Series, the most anticipated car in the premium segment of the Malaysian automotive industry. The new BMW 5 Series is expected to once again set the highest benchmark in its class.

The all-new BMW 5 Series

Like its predecessor, the sixth generation of the BMW 5 Series sedan sets an all new epitome in the motoring industry, combining aesthetic design with supreme driving pleasure. With its combination of elegant looks, supreme handling and outstanding efficiency, the new BMW 5 Series is a culmination of all the latest innovations that have made BMW the world’s most successful manufacturer of premium cars.

"The BMW 5 Series plays an iconic role in the history and success of the BMW Group. Time and time again, the car has proven itself to be the superior choice in its segment and with the introduction of the all-new BMW 5 Series, we at BMW Group Malaysia are confident that the legacy of the 5 Series will be one that continues to grow from strength to strength in Malaysia." said Mr. Geoffrey Briscoe, Managing Director of BMW Group Malaysia.

Mr Geoffrey Briscoe, Managing Director, BMW Malaysia at the launch of the new BMW 5 Series

Introduced to the Malaysian market from May 15 onwards, the new BMW 5 Series will be made available in two six cylinder in-line engine variants, the BMW 523i and the BMW 535i.

The new BMW 523i now comes with a new, smooth-revving 2.5 litre engine with VALVETRONIC which is capable of generating 150kW/204hp and 250 Nm of Torque, an increase of 10kW/14hp from its predecessor and allowing it to reach 0-100km in 8.5 seconds. At the other end of the spectrum, the top end of the premium sedan, the BMW 535i is the most powerful six-cylinder model in its class with a total output of 225kW/306hp, an increase of 25kW/34hp from its predecessor. Combining BMW TwinPower Turbo, High Precision Injection and VALVETRONIC technology, the car also registers 400Nm of Torque, allowing it to complete the 0-100km dash in a mere 6.1 seconds.

"With an iconic legacy to live up to, the sixth generation BMW 5 Series is packed to the brim with the latest technological innovations from BMW to provide a car that is innovatively stylish, features superior dynamic performance and is fully equipped to satisfy the wide roaming connected lifestyles of the contemporary professional" said Briscoe.

Mr Geoffrey Briscoe, Managing Director, BMW Malaysia at the launch of the new BMW 5 Series

Aesthetically, the new BMW 5 Series is a vehicle that immediately captures the imagination with its elegant lines, dynamic proportions and handsomely aggressive sportslike appearance. Featuring a long bonnet, short overhangs and the longest wheelbase in its segment, the shape of the BMW 5 Series is further accentuated by an imaginative coupe-like roofline that gives the car a profile that is youthful while maintaining a distinct sense of maturity.

Additionally, the new BMW 5 Series also features a new headlight design which incorporates the daytime driving lights typical of the BMW brand, but with the first ever application of LED corona rings, features which makes the car instantly recognisable as a BMW 5 Series while at the same time, still providing it with an entirely new character altogether.

Combined with the reinterpretation of the trademark BMW kidney grille, which is now lower and wider, the strongly contoured bonnet and muscular flared wheel arches of the new BMW 5 Series hints of the ferocious power in the engine within. The precise reimagination of the new BMW 5 Series is taken to such detail that even the distinctive Hofmeister kink, a key styling element on all BMW models, has been designed with a sharper radius to emphasize the coupe-like roofline, a manufacturing highlight which gives the new BMW 5 Series a distinct side profile identity absolutely unique from its competitors.

The all-new BMW 5 Series

"The new BMW 5 Series combines elegant aesthetics with purposeful engineering to deliver a car that matches the timelessness of its predecessors, while challenging the industry to go even further beyond the norm. A genuine piece of design and engineering art from the brilliance of the BMW design team back in Munich" said Briscoe.

Featuring the latest innovations in BMW EfficientDynamics technology, both variants are also able to generate more power than their predecessors while utilising less fuel with reduced CO₂ emissions. The BMW 523i and BMW 535i boasts an average fuel consumption of 8.0l/100km and 8.4/100km respectively as well as CO₂ emission levels of 187 grams per kilometre and 195 grams per kilometre respectively.

In addition to this, both variants of the new BMW 5 Series features BMW EfficientDynamics technologies of Brake Energy Regeneration and Electromechanical steering as standard. Brake Energy Regeneration allows BMW cars to make use of every watt possible by charging the battery when the vehicle is braking, coasting or decelerating. The technology improves fuel efficiency by up to three percent and ensures that the full power of the engine is available for acceleration.

In the steering system, while conventional hydraulic systems consistently require engine power which consumes fuel, BMW has developed a new electromechanical steering system that only operates during the actual steering process. As such, so long as the car is moving straight, or is at a constant cornering angle, the electric motor which powers the system is inactive, and this in turn reduces energy consumption to optimise efficiency.

The new BMW 5 Series is also the first car in its segment to feature an 8-speed automatic transmission, which is available in the BMW 523i, as well as an 8-speed sports automatic transmission, which is available in the BMW 535i. The 8-speed sports automatic transmission on the BMW 535i also includes steering wheel paddles and an M gearshift logic. The new 8-speed transmission systems allow the driver to enjoy an exceptionally smooth driving experience that provides a seemingly endless infusions of power, while providing the efficiency to match that of a double-clutch transmission system which reduces fuel consumption and emission levels even further.

The all-new BMW 5 Series

To ensure the optimum use and control of its exceptional drive performance capabilities, the new BMW 5 Series is equipped with a wide array of intelligent driver assistance technologies such as Integral Active Steering, Dynamic Stability Control and Cruise Control. Another unique, new feature to the BMW 5 Series, however, is Dynamic Driving Control which in conjunction with Dynamic Damping Control in the BMW 523i or Adaptive Drive in the BMW 535i, enables the driver to personalise their suspension set-up to a level that is unmatched within the segment. From distinctly comfortable to extremely sporty, drivers are able to personalise the driving dynamics of their BMW 5 Series to suit their needs.

Interior wise, the new BMW 5 Series is characterised by an elegant and organised appeal with easy to use function controls within reach of both the driver as well as front passenger, while an intuitive iDrive system along with user-defined functional bookmarks allows the driver to customise settings to his or her individual needs. Elongated horizontal lines further accentuate the sense of space which is available within the car while top quality materials and finishings are rendered with precise detail to underline the new BMW 5 Series ambiance of premium luxury.

The new BMW 5 Series is also fitted with a host of features and equipment to exude the complete premium innovation experience, whether behind the wheel or in the passenger seat. With BMW ConnectedDrive, owners of the new BMW 5 Series enjoy complete USB connectivity and bluetooth hands free functions and are able to access a host of safety and infotainment functions such as BMW TeleServices and the optional BMW Telematics Platform Accessory (TPA), which includes an emergency Vehicle Recovery System as well as other BMW Assist remote services.

The BMW 535i further boasts a 4-zone automatic air conditioning system, electric glass roof and BMW’s Navigation Professional system as standard, and is fitted with an all new futuristic multicolor Head-Up Display system which transmits critical information such as vehicle speed, navigational directions and other control indicators directly into the drivers field of vision, ensuring that the drivers attention is always focused on the road.

"The new BMW 5 Series combines all the elements of driving dynamics, Efficient Dynamics, premium quality and artistic expression which drivers of the premium segment expect from their cars, and though it has a huge legacy to live up to, we at BMW Group Malaysia are confident that the new BMW 5 Series will be able to take us to even greater heights of success" said Briscoe.

The retail prices (on the road, without insurance, with BMW Service Inclusive + Repair) for the new BMW 523i and BMW 535i are as follow:

About BMW EfficientDynamics

BMW EfficientDynamics was coined by BMW more than a decade ago to define the company’s long term sustainable strategy to produce fuel-saving and alternative vehicle concepts through clean production processes. It is an array of technologies that are already fitted as standard across practically the whole model range. As the manufacturer with the most comprehensive programme for reducing fuel consumption and emissions, BMW EfficientDynamics are designed to enhance the performance and driving pleasure of the vehicles at the same time. In 2007, BMW was awarded a "Green Steering Wheel" for outstanding environmental innovation for its BMW EfficientDynamics technology.

About BMW Malaysia Sdn. Bhd.

BMW Malaysia Sdn Bhd is a joint venture between Bayerische Motoren Werke (BMW) AG and Sime Darby Berhad. BMW Malaysia activities cover the wholesale of BMW cars, spare parts and accessories, as well as the overall planning of sales, marketing, after-sales, and other related activities in Malaysia.  Its dealership network covers 14 outlets in various cities in Malaysia.

Issued by:

BMW Malaysia Sdn Bhd
Sashi Ambi,
Corporate Communications Manager, Malaysia
Telephone: (+603) 8887 3822, Fax: (+603) 8887 3801
E-mail: Sashi.Ambihaipahan@bmw.com.my
Media Website: www.press.bmwgroup.com

For media queries, please contact:
Text 100 Malaysia
Nahri Salim / Izrin Kamil
Telephone: (+603) 2282 2152, Fax: (+603) 2283 2041
E-mail: nahri.salim@text100.com.my / izrin.kamil@text100.com.my
Media Website: www.press.bmwgroup.com

Kuala Lumpur, 21st April 2010

BMW Group Malaysia today wished a fond farewell to the fifth generation BMW 5 Series at a small ceremony at its Semi Knocked Down (SKD) assembly plant shared with Inokom Corporation Sdn Bhd in Kulim, Kedah.

BMW Group Malaysia bids farewell to the Fifth Generation BMW 5-Series

“Today we say goodbye to a car that has been at the core of BMWs success here in Malaysia. The fifth generation BMW 5 Series has been an old friend to many of us, especially to those of us at BMW Group Malaysia as the car has been present here for as long as the company itself!” said Mr Sashi Ambi, Corporate Communications Manager, BMW Group Malaysia.

He added that the premium sedan is also a car that has met with tremendous success locally and to date a total of 7,735 units have been sold, out of which 6,732 were assembled locally in Malaysia.

Reiterating the importance of the fifth generation BMW 5 Series, Mr. Manfred Zink, Production Manager and Plant Representative, BMW Group Malaysia said, “The BMW 5 Series is also a special car for us at the plant. It is the first 5 series to be assembled in Malaysia and the car has been with us from the very start of our days at the Associated Motor Industries (AMI) plant in Shah Alam. When we moved our new premises here at the Inokom Corporation plant in August 2008, it was the first batch of cars we put into production.”

(From left) Mohd Rizal Jailan, Head of Operation, Inokom Corporation Sdn Bhd, Manfred Zink, BMW Plant Representative, Zainal Osman, Chief Operating Officer, Inokom Corporation Sdn Bhd, Sashi Ambi, Corporate Communications Manager, BMW Group Malaysia at the BMW 5-Series last car rollout

He also added that the assembly line facilities in Kulim were as advanced as any BMW production facility anywhere in the world which has led to the introduction of superior premium quality assembly line technology, practices and standards to Malaysia.

With over 1 million units sold worldwide, the fifth generation BMW 5 Series is the car that revolutionized modern principles in car design and from 2005 to 2008 the car would rise up as the world’s best-selling-car in its segment for four years running.

The BMW SKD Assembly Plant is operated in partnership with Inokom Corporation, a subsidiary of Sime Darby Berhad at the Inokom factory in Kulim, Kedah. Both BMW and Inokom share factory space but operate on separate and independent assembly lines in the facility.

“The establishment of BMW 5 Series assembly facilities here in Kedah has seen key technologies being introduced to the Malaysian automotive industry and has led to the creation of over 400 skilled and professional jobs for Malaysians” said Encik Zainal Osman, Chief Operating Officer of Inokom Corporation Sdn Bhd.

Encik Zainal further added that whilst the staff are sad to see the departure of such an iconic car from the Inokom facilities, they were proud to have shared in the legacy of the car, and look forward to what its successor has to offer.

The last production schedule of the BMW 5 Series paves the way for the introduction of the highly anticipated Sixth Generation BMW 5 Series to the Malaysian market next month. With wide international acclaim already being earned for its futuristic design elements, exceptional driving dynamics and superior efficiency, the Sixth Generation BMW 5 Series is expected to build upon the iconic legacy of its predecessor and be a key contributor to BMW Group Malaysia’s profitability moving forward.

About BMW EfficientDynamics

BMW EfficientDynamics was coined by BMW more than a decade ago to define the company’s long term sustainable strategy to produce fuel-saving and alternative vehicle concepts through clean production processes. It is an array of technologies that are already fitted as standard across practically the whole model range. As the manufacturer with the most comprehensive programme for reducing fuel consumption and emissions, BMW EfficientDynamics are designed to enhance the performance and driving pleasure of the vehicles at the same time. In 2007, BMW was awarded a “Green Steering Wheel” for outstanding environmental innovation for its BMW EfficientDynamics technology.

About BMW Malaysia Sdn. Bhd.

BMW Malaysia Sdn Bhd is a joint venture between Bayerische Motoren Werke (BMW) AG and Sime Darby Berhad. BMW Malaysia activities cover the wholesale of BMW cars, spare parts and accessories, as well as the overall planning of sales, marketing, after-sales, and other related activities in Malaysia.  Its dealership network covers 14 outlets in various cities in Malaysia.

Issued by:

BMW Malaysia Sdn Bhd
Sashi Ambi,
Corporate Communications Manager, Malaysia
Telephone: (+603) 8887 3822, Fax: (+603) 8887 3801
E-mail: Sashi.Ambihaipahan@bmw.com.my
Media Website: www.press.bmwgroup.com

For media queries, please contact:
Text 100 Malaysia
Nahri Salim / Izrin Kamil
Telephone: (+603) 2282 2152, Fax: (+603) 2283 2041
E-mail: nahri.salim@text100.com.my / izrin.kamil@text100.com.my
Media Website: www.press.bmwgroup.com

Kuala Lumpur, 9th April 2010

BMW Group Malaysia recently unveiled the all new BMW X1, the marquee’s latest premium Sports Activity Vehicle (SAV) during a fanfare filled event at Avenue K, Kuala Lumpur.

The new BMW X1

Avenue K, venue of the Customer Launch

Themed ‘Welcome to New Experiences’, the evening saw guests opening their senses to a variety of modern lifestyle activities and fusion culinary experiences. Amongst the activities invited guests participated in included ‘The Wheel of Experiences’ where guests received the chance to spin a wheel of fortune to win special premiums from BMW.

Additionally, guests were also able to take extreme action photo shots of themselves in various scenarios of biking, surfing, skateboarding, wake boarding and snowboarding courtesy of the Leica X1 Action Picture exhibit which featured a fully equipped green screen studio. Further complementing the indulgence of senses were the installations and experiences of sight, sound and touch by Bang & Olufsen and Origins.

(From left to right: Calvin Wong, Fiona Chuah, Christina Tsan, Farhad Mohajerani and Reza Ramli at the BMW X1 Customer Launch)

(From left to right: Christie Ng, Jennifer Teh, Ray Ong and Simon Templer at the BMW X1 Customer Launch)

(From left to right: Edwin Chua, Kevin Kok, Phoebe Chin, Chu May Kuan and James Teh at the BMW X1 Customer Launch)

The evening was made more memorable with classic Fusion Funk music spun by famed local DJ Donovan Toh who is better known as Da’ Funky Junky.

Donovan Tho. Best known as ‘Da Funky Junky’

Designed to meet the needs of the increasingly dynamic modern lifestyle, the BMW X1 is a youthful SAV with a highly contemporary sport-centric design, featuring great versatility and agility and highlighting a premium interior with superior engine performance and amazing fuel efficiency – characteristics that are typically BMW.

“The BMW X1 incorporates all the traits known to BMW and successfully blends them with current real world requirements and concerns. It is an SAV that sets a new benchmark for driver satisfaction and lifestyle utility, while also being economical both in terms of cost to the consumer and environment – a true testament to the capabilities of BMW EfficientDynamics technology and a true success story in automotive sustainability.” said Mr Geoffrey Briscoe, Managing Director of BMW Group Malaysia.

He added that the introduction of the new BMW X1 also sets the benchmark as an example of low emissions motoring in Malaysia as the vehicles are the first of its kind with CO₂ emissions below 170g per kilometre – fulfilling BMW Group Malaysia’s promise of delivering Efficient Dynamics capabilities in every vehicle introduced.

Efficient Dynamics has been at the core of the BMW Group’s overall strategy for nearly the past two decades and plays an integral role in its long term ambition towards corporate sustenance. This industry leading strategy is a commitment by the carmaker towards producing fuel-saving and alternative vehicle concepts through clean production processes and is a concept that has been built into all of BMW’s product lines as standard. Today, approximately 1.4 million BMW vehicles worldwide are benefiting from BMW EfficientDynamics technology which directly contributes to a cleaner and healthier planet.

The new BMW X1 is currently available at all 14 authorised BMW dealerships across Malaysia in the form of the diesel powered BMW X1 xDrive20d. BMW Group Malaysia will introduce the petrol variant BMW X1 sDrive18i in June 2010.

About BMW EfficientDynamics

BMW EfficientDynamics was coined by BMW more than a decade ago to define the company’s long term sustainable strategy to produce fuel-saving and alternative vehicle concepts through clean production processes. It is an array of technologies that are already fitted as standard across practically the whole model range. As the manufacturer with the most comprehensive programme for reducing fuel consumption and emissions, BMW EfficientDynamics are designed to enhance the performance and driving pleasure of the vehicles at the same time. In 2007, BMW was awarded a “Green Steering Wheel” for outstanding environmental innovation for its BMW EfficientDynamics technology.

About BMW Malaysia Sdn. Bhd.

BMW Malaysia Sdn Bhd is a joint venture between Bayerische Motoren Werke (BMW) AG and Sime Darby Berhad. BMW Malaysia activities cover the wholesale of BMW cars, spare parts and accessories, as well as the overall planning of sales, marketing, after-sales, and other related activities in Malaysia.  Its dealership network covers 14 outlets in various cities in Malaysia.

Issued by:

BMW Malaysia Sdn Bhd
Sashi Ambi,
Corporate Communications Manager, Malaysia
Telephone: (+603) 8887 3822, Fax: (+603) 8887 3801
E-mail: Sashi.Ambihaipahan@bmw.com.my
Media Website: www.press.bmwgroup.com

For media queries, please contact:
Text 100 Malaysia
Nahri Salim / Izrin Kamil
Telephone: (+603) 2282 2152, Fax: (+603) 2283 2041
E-mail: nahri.salim@text100.com.my / Izrin.kamil@text100.com.my
Media Website: www.press.bmwgroup.com

Kuala Lumpur, 14th April 2010

BMW Group Malaysia today introduced the new BMW 730Li and BMW Individual 760Li to its highly successful BMW 7 Series range, setting the benchmark yet again in the luxury segment of the Malaysian automotive industry.

The new BMW 730Li

Featuring the same perfection in design and supreme engineering of drivetrain, chassis, safety systems, driver assistance and comfort typical of the BMW 7 Series family, the BMW 730Li and BMW Individual 760Li, further complements the marquees flagship luxury sedan with options for best-in class efficiency and top end exclusivity.

“The BMW 7 Series has enjoyed tremendous success here in the Malaysian market and sets the standard in luxury and driving dynamics. Now, with the introduction of the new BMW 730Li and BMW Individual 760Li, we are able to further complement our product offering by providing customers with more options in luxury, agility and efficiency. ” said Mr Geoffrey Briscoe, Managing Director of BMW Group Malaysia.

Mr Geoffrey Briscoe, Managing Director, BMW Malaysia at the launch of the new BMW 730Li

Featuring a free-revving three litre in-line six cylinder engine with Valvetronic and Double-VANOS technology, the BMW 730Li is capable of generating 190 kW/258hp and 310 Nm of Torque, allowing it to conquer the 0 to 100km/h mark in 7.8 seconds. Additonally , the new luxurious BMW boasts best in its class efficiency with an average fuel consumption of 9.8 liters per 100 km and a C02 emission level of 229 grams per kilometre, making it the most efficient petrol engine model in its segment.

The BMW 730Li is further equipped with a premium quality rear-seat entertainment system to ensure ultimate luxury with two 8-inch colour monitors mounted into the rear of each front seat, allowing rear seat passengers the option to watch DVD’s or listen to music independently. AUX-In input ports further enable connection to MP3 players, game consoles and other devices making the BMW 730Li the perfect vehicle to accommodate contemporary device lifestyles.

“The BMW 730Li is a premium luxury sedan that fully complements the device-centric lifestyles of the modern executive and his family, while retaining all the driving dynamics, agility, safety and efficiency that are very typically BMW” said Briscoe.

(From left) Mr Daren Ching, Product Manager, Mr Geoffrey Briscoe, Managing Director, Mr Sashi Ambi, Corporate Communications Manager, BMW Malaysia at the launch of the new BMW 730Li

At the other end of the BMW 7 Series spectrum is the range-topping BMW Individual 760Li, featuring a newly developed all-aluminium six litre V12 engine with BMW TwinPower Turbo technology, High Precision Injection and infinitely variable Double-Vanos camshaft control. This enables the luxurious sedan to generate 400 kW/ 544 hp, a mighty 750 Nm of torque and complete the 0 to 100 km/h stride in a mere 4.6 seconds. The BMW Individual 760Li is also the first ever BMW model to be fitted with an 8-speed automatic transmission which, in combination with its V12 powerplant, ensures a maximum sense of driving sophistication and refinement, as well as a seemingly unlimited sense of power reserves. Despite its tremendous power capacity, the BMW Individual 760Li still retains a remarkably low CO₂ emission level of 303 g/km and a fuel consumption rate of 13.0 liters per 100km, making it the most fuel efficient and emission friendly 12-cylinder luxury saloon anywhere in the world – an ongoing performance indicator of BMW’s award winning BMW EfficientDynamics technology.

The pinnacle automotive engineering featured in the BMW Individual 760Li is further bolstered by the highly exclusive premium options for individualised exterior and interior finishes, made available through BMW Individual. With an emphasis on high quality and exclusivity, BMW Individual offers its discerning clientele the opportunity to personalise their vehicles beyond the standard equipment with the combination of brilliant BMW Individual paint finishes, unique BMW Individual leather upholstery, exclusive BMW Individual Interior trimmings and technical functionality as well as select BMW Individual alloy wheels.

“The BMW 760Li is the ultimate expression of engineering and technological perfection, blended in perfect harmony with the absolute best in comfort and luxury. It is the absolute best in a family of cars which sets the standard for premium quality” said Briscoe.

The retail prices (on the road, without insurance, with BMW Service Inclusive + Repair) for the new BMW 730Li and BMW Individual 760Li are as follow:

About BMW EfficientDynamics

BMW EfficientDynamics was coined by BMW more than a decade ago to define the company’s long term sustainable strategy to produce fuel-saving and alternative vehicle concepts through clean production processes. It is an array of technologies that are already fitted as standard across practically the whole model range. As the manufacturer with the most comprehensive programme for reducing fuel consumption and emissions, BMW EfficientDynamics are designed to enhance the performance and driving pleasure of the vehicles at the same time. In 2007, BMW was awarded a “Green Steering Wheel” for outstanding environmental innovation for its BMW EfficientDynamics technology.

About BMW Malaysia Sdn. Bhd.

BMW Malaysia Sdn Bhd is a joint venture between Bayerische Motoren Werke (BMW) AG and Sime Darby Berhad. BMW Malaysia activities cover the wholesale of BMW cars, spare parts and accessories, as well as the overall planning of sales, marketing, after-sales, and other related activities in Malaysia.  Its dealership network covers 14 outlets in various cities in Malaysia.

Issued by:

BMW Malaysia Sdn Bhd
Sashi Ambi,
Corporate Communications Manager, Malaysia
Telephone: (+603) 8887 3822, Fax: (+603) 8887 3801
E-mail: Sashi.Ambihaipahan@bmw.com.my
Media Website: www.press.bmwgroup.com

For media queries, please contact:
Text 100 Malaysia
Nahri Salim / Izrin Kamil
Telephone: (+603) 2282 2152, Fax: (+603) 2283 2041
E-mail: nahri.salim@text100.com.my / Izrin.kamil@text100.com.my
Media Website: www.press.bmwgroup.com

Kuala Lumpur, 7th April 2010

BMW Group Malaysia has once again set the benchmark in automotive innovation with the introduction of the new BMW X1 Sports Activity Vehicle (SAV).

Designed to meet the needs of the increasingly dynamic modern lifestyle, the BMW X1 is a youthful SAV with a highly contemporary sport-centric design, featuring great versatility and agility and highlighting a premium interior with superior engine performance and amazing fuel efficiency – characteristics that are typically BMW.

“The BMW X1 incorporates all the traits known to BMW and successfully blends them with current real world requirements and concerns. It is an SAV that sets a new benchmark for driver satisfaction and utility, while also being economical both in terms of cost to the consumer and environment – a true testament to the capabilities of BMW EfficientDynamics technology and a true success story in automotive sustainability.” said Mr Geoffrey Briscoe, Managing Director of BMW Group Malaysia.

Mr Geoffrey Briscoe, Managing Director, BMW Malaysia at the launch of the new BMW X1 SAV

He added that the introduction of the new BMW X1 also sets the benchmark as an example of low emissions motoring in Malaysia as the vehicles are the first of its kind with CO₂ emissions below 170g per kilometre – fulfilling BMW Group Malaysia’s promise of delivering Efficient Dynamics capabilities in every vehicle introduced.

Efficient Dynamics has been at the core of the BMW Group’s overall strategy for nearly the past two decades and plays an integral role in its long term ambition towards corporate sustenance. This industry leading strategy is a commitment by the carmaker towards producing fuel-saving and alternative vehicle concepts through clean production processes and is a concept that has been built into all of BMW’s product lines as standard. Today, approximately 1.4 million BMW vehicles worldwide are benefiting from BMW EfficientDynamics technology which directly contributes to a cleaner and healthier planet.

Reiterating the importance of Clean and Green Technology within the automotive sector, Dato Seri’ Dr Ong Tee Keat, Minister of Transport who officiated the BMW X1 launch said, “With the conclusion of the Copenhagen Accord last year, Malaysia has committed itself to a 40% carbon emission reduction by the year 2020. To that end, the Malaysian government launched the National Green Technology Policy which among others aims to ensure the sustainable development and conservation of the environment for our future generations.

Dato Seri’ Dr Ong Tee Keat further added, “It is highly encouraging to see companies like BMW take proactive steps to introduce technologically innovative products like the BMW X1 to Malaysia as it helps us to actively combat the growing challenge of climate change and environmental degradation.”

YB Dato' Sri Ong Tee Keat, Minister of Transport at the launch of the new BMW X1 SAV

Mr Geoffrey Briscoe, Managing Director accompanies YB Dato' Sri Ong Tee Keat, Minister of Transport at the launch of the new BMW X1 SAV

Currently available in the form of the diesel powered BMW X1 xDrive20d, BMW Group Malaysia also plans to introduce the petrol driven BMW X1 sDrive18i by June 2010.

The new BMW X1 xDrive20d features the latest BMW Advanced Diesel Technology and possesses a 2-litre four-cylinder turbo diesel engine capable of producing 130kw/ 177 hp, 350Nm of torque and completes the 0-100kmh sprint in a respectable 8.6 seconds. Meanwhile, the rear wheel drive BMW X1 sDrive18i features a 2 litre four-cylinder petrol engine which generates 110kW/150hp and 200Nm of torque. Both variants of the BMW X1 also features best in its class fuel efficiency as its six-speed automatic transmission provides a unique ratio between driving dynamics and fuel consumption.

With a fuel consumption rate of 6.5 litres per 100km and CO₂ emissions levels of a mere 170 grams per kilometre in the xDrive20d diesel variant and 8.4 litres and 195 grams per kilometre m in the sDrive18i petrol version, the BMW X1 the first vehicle of its type in Malaysia to have an emission level below 195 g/km, and owes its outstanding emission standards to the latest BMW EfficientDynamics features such as optimised aerodynamics, intelligent lightweight construction, demand-based control of ancillary components and functions and the latest generation Common Rail Injection technology.

“BMW has been greatly encouraged by the Malaysian government’s commitment towards introducing more efficient green technologies, which is a goal that runs parallel to our own. The imminent introduction of Euro IV standard diesel by 2011 is a particularly encouraging move which BMW is keen to support with the introduction of as many of our advanced diesel variants as is possible” said Briscoe.

YB Dato' Sri Ong Tee Keat, Minister of Transport checks out the premium interior of the new BMW X1 SAV

The BMW X1 also marks the introduction of the superior qualities of the BMW xDrive system to the premium compact segment, making it the most intelligent and responsive all wheel drive system to be made available in a compact car. The xDrive systems allows drive torque to be variably distributed between the front and rear axles which enhances agility and ensures higher levels of grip, a particularly useful quality for SUV’s when cornering.

The sDrive on the other hand provides customers with an SUV option that boasts the agile and sporty driving dynamics that can be typically found in all of BMW’s rear-wheel drive models without sacrificing any of the BMW X1’s fuel efficiency. Contributing to the best in class driving dynamics of the BMW X1 is its 6-speed automatic transmission with Steptronic, making the SAV nimble in its movement.

Both the xDrive and sDrive systems are naturally connected to Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) and the engine management on the BMW X1, with sensors on the wheels to detect and counter the slightest tendency for the vehicle to over-steer or under-steer. DSC comprises of ABS anti-lock brake function, Dynamic Brake Control, CBC Cornering Brake Control and Dynamic Traction Control which provides added stability to the SAV.

Externally, the BMW X1 cleverly combines the handsome, rugged and almost menacing looks of the BMW X- family with the youthful sporty dynamism of the BMW 1 Series. The resulting design exudes a stylish elegance that incorporates the distinctive wheel arches, upright kidney grille and front and rear under body protectors which comes naturally to the X-range, while at the same time appearing as a progressive, innovative interpretation as being the definitive compact segment SAV. With its long bonnet and long wheel base contrasted with short front and rear overhangs, and prominently angled rear window the design of the BMW X1 further shows a confidence in its ability to handle highly dynamic driving conditions. Further accentuating its external looks are Bi-Xenon headlights, with daytime driving light function that feature the signature Corona Rings, a BMW trademark that also aids in providing added safety.

The active sports dynamic of the BMW X1 is further pursued with the high quality of its spacious and versatile interior which features raised seats for both the driver and front passenger that allows for comfortable entry and exit, as well as superior road awareness. The BMW X1’s interior also exhibits exceptional functionality with numerous open storage compartments and trays, centre console cup holders and large open door compartments with integrated drinks bottle holders. The BMW X1 also boasts a luggage compartment with a capacity of 420 litres or 1,350 litres with rear seats folded down. Tensioning straps are also available in the front door pockets and luggage compartment while 12-V power sockets can be found in the rear centre console, under the armrests and in the luggage compartment, making the BMW X1 the perfect vehicle to meet the active, gadget friendly lifestyles of the modern individual.

So successful is the design of the BMW X1 in incorporating driving dynamics, comfort, versatility and safety that the SAV achieved the highest score of 5 stars, the maximum score possible on the most important crash test procedure in Europe – The Euro NCAP crash test.

The extremely stable body structure of the BMW X1 provides an ideal basis for ensuring that the passenger cell is subjected to maximum protection even in the event of a forceful impact with the forces acting on the vehicle diverted along clearly defined load paths of the vehicles’ support structures and absorbed by means of amply sized deformation zones. The BMW X1 also garnered significant results in the testing procedure for active and passive safety features, accident reduction risk functions, occupant protection for children as well as pedestrian protection.

Aside from an engineering and safety perspective, the BMW X1 has also earned significant acknowledgement for its contemporary design and is one of six models developed by the BMW Group to receive the coveted Red Dot award in 2010. The Red Dot award is one of the most important awards in the world of product design and recognises outstanding design work in a wide range of categories from automobiles to architecture, household and home electronics, fashion, life science and even, medicine. Judged along 17 criteria ranging from the degree of innovation to functionality and ecological sustainability, the 2010 awards were decided by a jury of international design experts who rated 4,252 products from 57 nations, of which only 24 awards were presented in the category of Automobile, Transport and Caravans.

The retail prices for the BMW X1 xDrive20d and the BMW X1 sDrive18i (on the road price including personal road tax and registration and inclusive of 3-year BMW Service + Repair Inclusive package) are as follows:

About BMW EfficientDynamics

BMW EfficientDynamics was coined by BMW more than a decade ago to define the company’s long term sustainable strategy to produce fuel-saving and alternative vehicle concepts through clean production processes. It is an array of technologies that are already fitted as standard across practically the whole model range. As the manufacturer with the most comprehensive programme for reducing fuel consumption and emissions, BMW EfficientDynamics are designed to enhance the performance and driving pleasure of the vehicles at the same time. In 2007, BMW was awarded a “Green Steering Wheel” for outstanding environmental innovation for its BMW EfficientDynamics technology.

About BMW Malaysia Sdn. Bhd.

BMW Malaysia Sdn Bhd is a joint venture between Bayerische Motoren Werke (BMW) AG and Sime Darby Berhad. BMW Malaysia activities cover the wholesale of BMW cars, spare parts and accessories, as well as the overall planning of sales, marketing, after-sales, and other related activities in Malaysia.  Its dealership network covers 14 outlets in various cities in Malaysia.

Issued by:

BMW Malaysia Sdn Bhd
Sashi Ambi,
Corporate Communications Manager, Malaysia
Telephone: (+603) 8887 3822, Fax: (+603) 8887 3801
E-mail: Sashi.Ambihaipahan@bmw.com.my
Media Website: www.press.bmwgroup.com

For media queries, please contact:
Text 100 Malaysia
Nahri Salim / Izrin Kamil
Telephone: (+603) 2282 2152, Fax: (+603) 2283 2041
E-mail: nahri.salim@text100.com.my / Izrin.kamil@text100.com.my
Media Website: www.press.bmwgroup.com

Kuala Lumpur, 25th February 2010

Just a month after the introduction of seven new and limited editions of the BMW 5 Series and BMW 3 Series, BMW Group Malaysia today unveiled two additional limited edition BMW cars – The BMW X6 xDrive35i Performance Edition and the BMW M3 Coupe Editions.

BMW Group Malaysia today awarded its dealers from across Malaysia at the BMW Malaysia Dealer Trophy Night. Held at the Hilton Kuala Lumpur, the awards ceremony served to honour its highest performing dealerships for their achievements in 2009.

Presenting the awards for the evening, Geoffrey Briscoe, Managing Director, BMW Group Malaysia said “Due to the state of the global economy, the year 2009 was a challenging year for the automotive industry both here in Malaysia and abroad. However, we at BMW Group Malaysia were still able to report record sales for all of our cars in the Malaysian market with a total of 3,564 BMW vehicles and 214 MINI’s sold. Our success in the year was also marked with the fact that we grew to 40 per cent in the premium segment of the Malaysian automotive industry which is an important step forward in our presence here.”

He added that the successful year was also mainly due to its 14 strong 4S (Sales, Service, Systems and Spare parts) dealership network that have been working continuously in ensuring that the BMW brand went from strength to strength.

“The BMW Group Malaysia Dealer Trophy Night is our way of thanking our network of dealerships for all their hard work, patience and perseverance in helping us continue to be successful here in Malaysia. It is also our way of celebrating our successes for the past year as well as motivating our dealers to be the best! Not just in selling cars but in all areas of the business of representing the BMW brand which also includes business sustainability, market share growth and excellent customer service as well as after-sales service. These are all crucial elements in today’s premium automotive business.” said Briscoe.

In the Platinum Award Category for dealerships that have a sales turnover of more than 200 cars per annum, the evening saw Ingress Auto Sdn Bhd which is located at the prime thoroughfare of Jalan Damansara take home the championship accolade, whilst Auto Bavaria Sungai Besi and Auto Bavaria Bukit Bintang coming in 1st Runner Up and 2nd Runner Up respectively.

Meanwhile, the Gold Award Category for dealerships that have an overall sales turnover of less than 200 cars per annum saw Auto Bavaria Kota Kinabalu walk away champions, whilst Melaka based Seong Hoe Premium Motors coming in second and Kedah based BMW dealership, Lee Motors Auto Care taking third place.

Lee Motors Auto Care also won a worldwide award for Excellence in Sales. The award is an international accolade by BMW Group AG to reward and encourage outstanding on-the-ground Conquest initiatives amongst all its dealerships worldwide. The dealership will go on to compete with 700 of the best BMW dealerships across 21 countries at the BMW Group Sales Excellence awards in Munich on March 22nd, 2010.

(From Left) Cletus Stephenson, General Manager, Dealer Development, BMW Group Malaysia; Travis Ng, Dealer Principal, Auto Bavaria Kota Kinabalu; Chua Beng Poh, Dealer Principal Seong Hoe Premium Motors; David Hector, Dealer Principal, Auto Bavaria Bukit Bintang; Johan Sammy, Dealer Principal Auto Bavaria Sungai Besi; Geoffrey Briscoe, Managing Director, BMW Group Malaysia; Mohammad Amin Ariff, Dealer Principal, Ingress Auto Sdn Bhd; Jimmy Gan, General Manager, Ingress Auto Sdn Bhd; James Tan, Dealer Principal, Lee Motors Auto Care; Chris Lee, Head of Sales, BMW Group Malaysia; Raymond Tan, Head of Marketing, BMW Group Malaysia.

About BMW EfficientDynamics

BMW EfficientDynamics was coined by BMW more than a decade ago to define the company’s long term sustainable strategy to produce fuel-saving and alternative vehicle concepts through clean production processes. It is an array of technologies that are already fitted as standard across practically the whole model range. As the manufacturer with the most comprehensive programme for reducing fuel consumption and emissions, BMW EfficientDynamics are designed to enhance the performance and driving pleasure of the vehicles at the same time. In 2007, BMW was awarded a “Green Steering Wheel” for outstanding environmental innovation for its BMW EfficientDynamics technology.

The BMW Group

The BMW Group is one of the most successful manufacturers of automobiles and motorcycles in the world with its BMW, MINI and Rolls-Royce brands. As a global company, the BMW Group operates 24 production facilities in 13 countries and has a global sales network in more than 140 countries.

The BMW Group achieved a global sales volume of approximately 1.29 million automobiles and over 87,000 motorcycles for the 2009 financial year. Revenues for 2009 totalled euro 50.68 billion. At 31 December 2009, the company employed a global workforce of approximately 96,000 associates.

The success of the BMW Group has always been built on long-term thinking and responsible action. The company has therefore established ecological and social sustainability throughout the value chain, comprehensive product responsibility and a clear commitment to conserving resources as an integral part of its strategy. As a result of its efforts, the BMW Group has been ranked industry leader in the Dow Jones Sustainability Indexes for the last five years.

Issued by:

BMW Malaysia Sdn Bhd
Sashi Ambihaipahan,
Corporate Communications Manager, Malaysia
Telephone: (+603) 8887 3822, Fax: (+603) 8887 3801
E-mail: Sashi.Ambihaipahan@bmw.com.my

For media queries, please contact:
Text 100 Malaysia
Nahri Salim
Telephone: (+603) 2282 2152, Fax: (+603) 2283 2041
E-mail: nahri.salim@text100.com.my
Media Website: www.press.bmwgroup.com

Fancourt, South Africa 20th January 2010

The Malaysian flag flew proudly at the recently concluded BMW Golf Cup International 2009 tournament as the country emerged champions in the overall team competition. After three rounds of competition at the Fancourt Resort in George, South Africa, Team Malaysia collected 280 net points to win the world’s most prestigious amateur golfing tournament ahead of Portugal (275 points) and India (271 points).

“I would like to take this opportunity to congratulate Team Malaysia on their success as it showcases the spirit and the capability of our Malaysian golfers when given the opportunity to compete on a larger platform. This is essentially what the BMW Golf Cup International is all about – giving amateur level golfers from around the world a chance to take their golfing skills to a higher level. As the saying goes, playing with the best, makes you want to be the best! ” said Geoffrey Briscoe, Managing Director, BMW Group Malaysia.

He added that the BMW Golf Cup International is one of the most visible examples of the social sporting commitment expressed by the BMW Group. The marque has been closely involved in the sport for more than 20 years and today, successfully attracts the cream of global golfing talent to all its golfing competitions.

“BMW's commitment to the game of golf is all about building trust through continuity and credibility, not to mention competence, skill and sophistication. Our principle of having total involvement from a ‘grassroots to pinnacle’ level is the nature of the BMW engagement strategy. This applies across all three of the sports initiatives the company is involved in - Golf, Motorsports and Sailing” said Briscoe.

This year, the tournament saw 99 World Finalists from 34 countries put on a dazzling display of golf as they not only battled the challenging fairways and greens of the ‘Montagu’ and ‘Outeniqua’ courses, but also the sweltering South African summer temperatures.

In the end, Malaysian Abdul Rani bin Abdul Malek was the biggest winner in the Men’s A category (up to handicap 12), edging past Portuguese Domingus Roque de Pinho by only eight points whilst third place went to Anil Shivanna from the United Arab Emirates.

The most thrilling end to the tournament, however, came in the Men’s B category (handicap 12 and more) when Austrian Hannes Dietl finished on 111 points after 54 holes, just one point ahead of runner-up Olivier Schlim from Belgium and three points clear of Luis Sandoval from Mexico.

Meanwhile, in the Ladies competition (handicap up to 28), Japan’s Mai Hayashi led from start to finish. The Japanese player won in style with 114 net points, ahead of South African Laetitia Blom (97 points) and Malaysian Kwee Hua Lim (95 points).

The competition was made even more spectacular with the presence of nine-time Major winner Gary Player who is also the designer of the ‘Montagu’ and “Outeniqua’ courses. Players rounded off the sporting part of the event with a golf clinic on his course, demonstrating what a charming host he is and that at 74 years of age, he is still incredibly fit. It took the World Finalists just a few shots to understand why the “Black Knight” is one of the best players ever to grace the game of golf.

Team Malaysia

Ian Roberts (Member of the Board, BMW Group) and renowned golfer Gary Player present the Overall Team Champion award to Lawson Masalamani, Kwee Hua Lim and Abdul rani Bin Abdul Malek at the conclusion of the BMW Golf Cup International 2009.

(From left to right: Ian Robertson, Lawson Masalamani, Gary Player, Kwee Hua Lim and Abdul Rani Bin Abdul Malek)

Gary Player

Veteran professional golfer Gary Player in mid swing during a professional golfing workshop for participants of the BMW Golf Cup International 2009.

Ladies

Ian Roberts (Member of the Board, BMW Group) and renowned golfer Gary Player present the Ladies Champion award to Mai Hayashi at the conclusion of the BMW Golf Cup International 2009.

(From left to right: Ian Roberts, Mai Hayashi and Gary Player)

Mens A

Ian Roberts (Member of the Board, BMW Group) and renowned golfer Gary Player present the Mens A Champion award to Abdul Rani Bin Abdul Malek at the conclusion of the BMW Golf Cup International 2009.

(From left to right: Ian Roberts, Abdul Rani Bin Abdul Malek and Gary Player)

Mens B

Ian Roberts (Member of the Board, BMW Group) and renowned golfer Gary Player present the Mens B Champion award to Hannes Dietl at the conclusion of the BMW Golf Cup International 2009.

(From left to right: Ian Roberts, Hannes Dietl and Gary Player)

About BMW EfficientDynamics

BMW EfficientDynamics was coined by BMW more than a decade ago to define the company’s long term sustainable strategy to produce fuel-saving and alternative vehicle concepts through clean production processes. It is an array of technologies that are already fitted as standard across practically the whole model range. As the manufacturer with the most comprehensive programme for reducing fuel consumption and emissions, BMW EfficientDynamics are designed to enhance the performance and driving pleasure of the vehicles at the same time. In 2007, BMW was awarded a “Green Steering Wheel” for outstanding environmental innovation for its BMW EfficientDynamics technology.

About BMW Malaysia Sdn. Bhd.

BMW Malaysia Sdn Bhd is a joint venture between Bayerische Motoren Werke (BMW) AG and Sime Darby Berhad. BMW Malaysia activities cover the wholesale of BMW cars, spare parts and accessories, as well as the overall planning of sales, marketing, after-sales, and other related activities in Malaysia. Its dealership network covers 14 outlets in various cities in Malaysia.

Issued by:

BMW Malaysia Sdn Bhd
Sashi Ambihaipahan,
Corporate Communications Manager, Malaysia
Telephone: (+603) 8887 3822, Fax: (+603) 8887 3801
E-mail: Sashi.Ambihaipahan@bmw.com.my

For media queries, please contact:
Text 100 Malaysia
Nahri Salim
Telephone: (+603) 2282 2152, Fax: (+603) 2283 2041
E-mail: nahri.salim@text100.com.my
Media Website: www.press.bmwgroup.com

Kuala Lumpur, 23rd February 2010

Just a month after the introduction of seven new and limited editions of the BMW 5 Series and BMW 3 Series, BMW Group Malaysia today unveiled two additional limited edition BMW cars – The BMW X6 xDrive35i Performance Edition and the BMW M3 Coupe Editions.

Introducing the new cars, Geoffrey Briscoe, Managing Director, BMW Group Malaysia said, “As a major premium carmaker, it is important for us at BMW to be able to offer our customers the best in terms of product choice and availability, and these exclusive special edition vehicles introduced today demonstrates our intentions and commitment to this belief. The cars also showcase our commitment in making sure that our customers truly understand what unique and premium really is, as the best part about owning the BMW X6 xDrive35i Performance Edition and the BMW M3 Coupe Editions is the fact that they are very exceptional to the Malaysian market and only available for purchase at authorized BMW dealers nationwide.”

He added that the editions were so exclusive worldwide that BMW Malaysia only managed to secure 25 units of the BMW X6 xDrive35i Performance Edition and two units of the BMW M3 Coupe Editions for the Malaysian market.

“These new BMW cars not only feature cosmetic upgrades to its overall look and feel, but they are also guaranteed to excite, offering more sheer driving pleasure with extra zest in performance. An example of this can be seen in the BMW X6 xDrive35i Performance Edition which not only comes equipped with additional BMW Performance parts for both its exterior and interior but is also tuned to perform even better than the standard BMW X6 xDrive35i model with noticeable increases in its power and acceleration.” said Briscoe.

BMW X6 xDrive35i Performance Edition - More Dynamic, More Performance

In engine offering, the limited edition features the standard in-line six cylinder 3-litre Twin Turbo engines which are tuned to offer more power and better acceleration. Due to the technical tuning, the engine of the vehicle now offers a seven percent higher output of 240kW (326hp) as well as a 13 percent higher torque performance of 450Nm. This in turn enables the BMW X6 xDrive35i Performance Edition to achieve a 0-100km/h acceleration in just 6.5 seconds.

In its exterior, the BMW X6 xDrive35i Performance Edition boasts several exclusive specifications which gives the vehicle a more sporty and aggressive perspective. Most unique of its outside features, however, is the distinctive choice of paintwork in either Alpine White or Titanium Silver metallic, contrasted with exterior components of mirror caps and exhaust tail pipes in black which give the vehicle a forceful stance.

Further enhancing this forward perspective are special Y-Spoke style 20” light alloy wheels in Black with mixed tyres as well as BMW Individual high-gloss Shadow Line Black exterior window surrounds.

Not to be outdone by its exterior offering, the interior of the BMW X6 xDrive35i Performance Edition also gets special treatment which is exclusive to the model. Inside, sports seats in Black Alcantara and leather combinations feature prominently. The seats are perfectly contrasted with interior trim finishes in Aluminium Flywheel Black as well as BMW Individual headliner in Anthracite. However, what truly describes the vehicles sporty characteristics inside the car are special door sill finishers and scuff plates with the M designation and stainless steel pedals.

BMW M3 Coupe Editions - Supreme Performance, Exclusive Style

With the introduction of the BMW M3 Coupe Editions, the highly attractive and outstanding BMW M3 Coupe is further enhanced with the most exclusive and unique highlights so that each car boasts perfectly harmonised modifications in body design, interior features as well as special light-alloy wheels with an even lower chassis. So exclusive is the car that there is only one unit of each colour of Alpine White and Monte Carlo Blue available to the Malaysian market.

Both performance cars are also individually matched in terms of exterior design and feature BMW Individual High-Gloss Satin Chrome which accentuates the more sophisticated character of the BMW M3 Coupe Edition. Adding to the presence of the car, the opening on the engine compartment lid on all models are finished in black and the BMW M3 signature kidney grille, the side gills and the dual tailpipes on the exhaust system all come in dark eloxy-plated chrome. Further emphasising the aggressiveness and sporty characteristics of the car are the caps on the special BMW M exterior mirrors which are also finished in black and are connected to the A-pillars by dual arms extending out of the mirror base finished in the unit’s own body colour.

In its interior, special colour highlights adds an individual touch to the interior of the BMW M3 Coupe Editions. The surfaces on the centre armrest, the centre console and the arm rests on the door panels are finished in White on the Alpine White unit. At the same time, these Edition Models also come with interior trim in Carbon Structure Leather with white contrasting seams.

Further to this, Black Novillo Leather seats inside the car feature bespoke contrasting seams as well as vertical trim stripes on the upper section of the backrest and at the front of the leg rest. In the Alpine White unit, these features come in white whilst in the Monte Carlo Blue unit; it is matched with the car’s exterior colour. An added feature in the Monte Carlo Blue unit are armrests and door closing handles with blue contrasting seams. Both cars also showcase entry trim bars in Checkered Flag Design bearing the “M3” model designation which gives these supremely exclusive units yet another highlight. In wheel options, both units come with specially designed light-alloy rims with unique suspension that lowers the entire body of the car by 10 millimetres, providing more driving pleasure and a sportier BMW M3 Coupe. Additionally, 19-inch forged M light-alloy rims in double-spoke design in black gives the M3 added presence for a more ominous outlook.

The retail prices for the BMW X6 xDrive35i Performance Edition and the BMW M3 Coupe Editions (on the road price including personal road tax and registration) are as follows:

BMW M3 Coupe Editions in Alpine White - RM748, 800

BMW M3 Coupe Editions in Monte Carlo Blue – RM 758, 800

BMW X6 xDrive35i Performance Edition (inclusive of a 3-years BMW Service + Repair Inclusive package) – RM718, 800

About BMW EfficientDynamics

BMW EfficientDynamics was coined by BMW more than a decade ago to define the company’s long term sustainable strategy to produce fuel-saving and alternative vehicle concepts through clean production processes. It is an array of technologies that are already fitted as standard across practically the whole model range. As the manufacturer with the most comprehensive programme for reducing fuel consumption and emissions, BMW EfficientDynamics are designed to enhance the performance and driving pleasure of the vehicles at the same time. In 2007, BMW was awarded a “Green Steering Wheel” for outstanding environmental innovation for its BMW EfficientDynamics technology.

The BMW Group

The BMW Group is one of the most successful manufacturers of automobiles and motorcycles in the world with its BMW, MINI and Rolls-Royce brands. As a global company, the BMW Group operates 24 production facilities in 13 countries and has a global sales network in more than 140 countries.

The BMW Group achieved a global sales volume of approximately 1.29 million automobiles and over 87,000 motorcycles for the 2009 financial year. Revenues for 2009 totalled euro 50.68 billion. At 31 December 2009, the company employed a global workforce of approximately 96,000 associates.

The success of the BMW Group has always been built on long-term thinking and responsible action. The company has therefore established ecological and social sustainability throughout the value chain, comprehensive product responsibility and a clear commitment to conserving resources as an integral part of its strategy. As a result of its efforts, the BMW Group has been ranked industry leader in the Dow Jones Sustainability Indexes for the last five years.

Issued by:

BMW Malaysia Sdn Bhd
Sashi Ambihaipahan,
Corporate Communications Manager, Malaysia
Telephone: (+603) 8887 3822, Fax: (+603) 8887 3801
E-mail: Sashi.Ambihaipahan@bmw.com.my

For media queries, please contact:
Text 100 Malaysia
Nahri Salim
Telephone: (+603) 2282 2152, Fax: (+603) 2283 2041
E-mail: nahri.salim@text100.com.my
Media Website: www.press.bmwgroup.com

Kuala Lumpur, 20th January 2010

To commemorate 2010 as well as the upcoming Chinese New Year celebrations, BMW Group Malaysia will be unveiling seven new exclusive and limited edition BMW cars.

Introduced in conjunction with the weekend CNY@BMW dealership event taking place from Saturday, 23rd January to Sunday 24th January 2010, the new cars unveiled are the BMW 320i Lifestyle Edition, BMW 320i Performance Edition, the BMW 320d Performance Edition and the BMW 325i Performance Edition in the 3 Series platform and the BMW 523i Executive Edition, BMW 523i Exclusive Edition and the BMW 525i Sports Edition in the 5 Series platform.

Launching the new variants, Geoffrey Briscoe, Managing Director, BMW Group Malaysia said, "The BMW 3 Series and 5 Series, our best selling models here in Malaysia continue to be highly successful in their respective segments. In 2009, BMW Group Malaysia sold a total of 4,003 vehicles in Malaysia. Of this figure, the BMW 3 Series accounted for 2,025 units which once again made the car the segment leader here whilst the BMW 5 Series sold a total of 1,064 units. Both these impressive sales figures accounts for more than 75 percent of the total cars BMW Group Malaysia sold last year."

He added that the introduction of the new editions of the BMW 3 Series and BMW 5 Series was BMW’s way of rewarding fans in Malaysia with unique versions of the tremendously popular cars which will allow them to kick start the New Year with their best foot forward.

The BMW 3 Series Performance Editions: BMW Performance Accessories for the BMW 3 Series.

Built with an un-compromising passion for performance, the BMW 3 Series Performance Editions arrive in a limited run of 48 units in each variant of the BMW 320i, BMW 320d and BMW 325i. In its exterior looks, each car features BMW Performance accent strips which emphasises the car’s sporting credentials, while a brilliant black front grille adds to its dynamic character.

Inside, the cars are fitted with BMW Performance selector lever grips which are covered in Alcantara and Walkanappa leather with a chrome strip on top as well as matching BMW Performance handbrake grip in Alcantara leather. New to the cockpit of the BMW 3 Series Performance Editions are the BMW Performance aluminium pedal pads and footrest which complement the rest of the car’s overall sporty look.

Customers are able to further accessorise their cars as there are four BMW Performance Accessories Packages which are available with a special price. The packages available are the BMW Performance Aerodynamics package, the BMW Performance Carbon package, the BMW Performance Interior package and the BMW Performance Wheels package.

The presence of the BMW Performance Aerodynamics package in the form of a specially developed front kit, side skirts, rear diffuser and specifically for the brakes on the BMW 325i – BMW Performance Cold Air package, not only enhances the vehicle’s sports characteristics and striking looks but also helps improve the car’s driving dynamics. The special BMW Performance Aerodynamics package is priced at RM 7,888 on the 320i/320d and RM 8,888 on the 325i and is only available as an upgrade to cars fitted with the M aerodynamic kit.

In addition to the BMW Performance Aerodynamic package, the outer characteristics of the BMW 3 Series can be further complemented with the distinctive BMW Performance Carbon Package which consists of aerodynamic components made from carbon fibre – the perfect combination of substance and style. The package, which consist of BMW Performance Carbon fibre front splitter, rear spoiler, mirror caps and rear diffuser with M aerodynamic kit, are handmade with minute attention to detail to reduce the weight of the car for optimised performance as well as improved stability and road holding. The BMW Performance Carbon package is available at a special price of RM 10, 888 and can be only be available as an upgrade to cars already fitted with the BMW Performance Aerodynamics package.

Not limited to only the exterior components of the car, special accessories in the form of the BMW Performance Interior package are also available for a sportier interior look and feel. The BMW Performance Interior package consists of a distinctively designed dashboard and centre console as well as front and rear door trim strips in carbon fibre which greatly enhances the vehicles interior.

The high tech, hand crafted material not only ensures the elegance and dynamism which is an underlying hallmark of the BMW brand, but also creates unmistakeable looks with deep lustre and a combination of lightness and strength that cannot be achieved with any other material. The BMW Performance Interior package is available at the price of RM 7,888.

Rounding off the unique offering of the BMW 3 Series Performance Accessories is the BMW Performance Wheels Package which emphasizes the minimalist and lightweight design of the BMW Performance double spoke 269 and 313 rims combined with mixed run-flat tyres. Lighter weight on the rims are achieved through the extremely low diameter of the spokes whilst cut-away design between the spokes and rims allows more air to get to the brakes which ensures maximum efficiency even at high temperatures. The BMW Performance Wheels package featuring Double Spoke 269 rims are priced at RM 15,888 whilst the package featuring Double Spoke 313 rims are priced at RM 16,888.

BMW 5 Series Executive, Exclusive and Sports Editions: Three Characters. One Soul.

Having been around for more than six years, the BMW 5 Series continues to turn heads with its combination of driving dynamics, comfort and style. New editions of the BMW 5 Series are introduced in the form of the BMW 523i Executive Edition, the BMW 523i Exclusive Edition and the BMW 525i Sports Edition.

The exterior of the new BMW 523i Executive Edition now features the new and exclusive Neptune Blue metallic colour paintwork with distinctive 17-inch light alloy wheels in special 278 double spoke design whilst in its interior, the car features Poplar Grain Brown fine-wood trims with perfectly matching Natural Brown “Dakota’ leather upholstery. A testament to the car’s ability to convey confidence and business like style at a glance.

Providing additional choice to the BMW 523i range, BMW Group Malaysia also introduced the BMW 523i Exclusive Edition which features unique Platinum Bronze paintwork with Chrome-plated trimming around its side windows and windscreen washer jets. The new added external colour and features, together with the addition of 17-inch light 277 V-spoke alloy wheels contributes to the all-round lustrous appearance of the car.

Inside, the BMW 523i Exclusive Edition features Anthracite Variegated Bamboo trim with special entry strips bearing the ‘Edition’ lettering – a combination that creates an exceptionally exclusive charisma. Rounding off the car’s exclusive interior styling is a glass roof feature with anthracite roofliner and a sports leather steering wheel.

Additionally, the availability of Active Front Steering, Comfort Access System, Adaptive Headlights, High-beam Assistant, BMW Navigation System Professional with Voice Control capability as well as a HiFi loudspeaker system with 6-CD changer make the BMW 523i Exclusive Edition standout as the most innovative car in its class.

At the top end range of the newly unveiled special editions of the BMW 5 Series is the BMW 525i Sports Edition. The car features the exclusive colours of Carbon Black metallic or Alpine White with the M aerodynamics package which accentuate the power and the sporty presence of the car. This sportiness is further illustrated with the addition of a BMW M Sports Suspension with 19-inch light alloy wheels in 172 M double spoke design.

Also added to give the car more prominence is a muscular front, rear aprons and side skirts which also help in enhancing the dynamism of the car. This prominence is further complemented with Satin Chrome, high gloss finishers.

Pure dynamics and sportiness is also the main elements in the interior offering of the BMW 525i Sports Edition as the car is fitted with sports seats upholstered in an exclusive bi-colour Black/ Grey “Dakota” leather combination which also offers excellent side support and comfort during long journeys. Bringing out the colour of the seats for a more harmonious feel is the Aluminium Pentane interior trim and the Anthracite roofliner whilst door sil finishers with the ‘Edition’ lettering hint at the exclusivity of the car.

The retail prices (on the road, without insurance, with BMW Service Inclusive 3 years/60,000km + Repair) for the BMW 3 Series Performance Editions as well as the BMW 5 Series Executive, Exclusive and Sports Editions are as follows:

BMW 320i Performance Edition – RM 250, 800
BMW 320d Performance Edition – RM 257, 800
BMW 325i Performance Edition – RM 311, 800
BMW 523i Executive Edition – RM 343, 800
BMW 523i Exclusive Edition – RM 383, 800
BMW 525i Sports Edition – RM 415, 800

About BMW EfficientDynamics

BMW EfficientDynamics was coined by BMW more than a decade ago to define the company’s long term sustainable strategy to produce fuel-saving and alternative vehicle concepts through clean production processes. It is an array of technologies that are already fitted as standard across practically the whole model range. As the manufacturer with the most comprehensive programme for reducing fuel consumption and emissions, BMW EfficientDynamics are designed to enhance the performance and driving pleasure of the vehicles at the same time. In 2007, BMW was awarded a “Green Steering Wheel” for outstanding environmental innovation for its BMW EfficientDynamics technology.

About BMW Malaysia Sdn. Bhd.

BMW Malaysia Sdn Bhd is a joint venture between Bayerische Motoren Werke (BMW) AG and Sime Darby Berhad. BMW Malaysia activities cover the wholesale of BMW cars, spare parts and accessories, as well as the overall planning of sales, marketing, after-sales, and other related activities in Malaysia. Its dealership network covers 14 outlets in various cities in Malaysia.

Issued by:

BMW Malaysia Sdn Bhd

Sashi Ambi, Corporate Communications Manager, Malaysia
Telephone: (+603) 8887 3822, Fax: (+603) 8887 3801
E-mail: sashi.ambihaipahan@bmw.com.my
Media Website: www.press.bmwgroup.com

For media queries, please contact:
Text 100 Malaysia
Nahri Salim / Cindy Goh
Telephone: (+603) 2282 2152, Fax: (+603) 2283 2041
E-mail: nahri.salim@text100.com.my / cindy.goh@text100.com.my
Media Website: www.press.bmwgroup.com

Kuala Lumpur, 7th January 2010

BMW today set another milestone in the Malaysian automotive industry with the introduction of its first ever all wheel drive BMW M vehicle – the BMW X6 M.

Featuring the all new BMW M TwinPower Turbo V8 engine capable of delivering 408kW/555 hp at 5,650 rpm, the sports activity coupe is able to achieve a top speed that is electronically limited at 250 km/h and complete the 0-100km/h dash in 4.7 seconds, giving the X6 M the most powerful series engine manufactured by BMW. Designed for extreme power delivery, the M TwinPower Turbo engine offers fast boost responses which is usually unachievable amongst turbocharged engines, and also delivers very high torque that continues into the upper reaches of the rev range with a maximum torque delivery of 680 Nm.

The BMW X6 M Sports Activity Coupe is a revolutionary design that combines the agility and athletic design of a BMW Coupe with the versatility and seating capabilities of an SAV, and the pure performance capabilities typical of the creations from the BMW M division. It once again proves BMW's ability to successfully develop totally new vehicle concepts, and then continuing to take them to an even higher level" said Geoffrey Briscoe, Managing Director of BMW Malaysia.

At the core of the X6 M's performance is the Twin Scroll Twin Turbo V8 powerplant which features cross-bank exhaust manifolds for lighting-fast responses to driver inputs. Using innovative new technology patented by BMW, exhaust streams are separately routed to prevent flow interference resulting in the optimal transfer of exhaust gas energy to the turbocharged rotors. This gives the M TwinPower Turbo unit faster turbocharger responses than any other engine currently in use.

The tremendous power from the M TwinPower Turbo engine is then transferred to the wheels with minimal shift lag via a 6-speed M Sport automatic transmission. Featuring exceptional shifting dynamics and extremely fast shift times, the M shift paddles on the steering wheel further enhances driver functionality and in-built launch control allows the X6 M to deliver maximum acceleration from a standing start.

In addition, two unique BMW technologies, BMW Dynamic Performance Control and BMW xDrive allows the vehicle to achieve particularly impressive levels of agility. The dynamic tuning of these two components enables drive forces to be applied flexibly as and when required. For the first time in an all-wheel drive vehicle, controlled drift manoeuvres can also be implemented allowing steering to be done with the throttle in highly dynamic driving situations. Clear graphics in the cars Control Display also allows the driver to monitor momentary power distribution of the xDrive and Dynamic Performance Control systems.

The suspension system of the X6 M further guarantees control mastery even in extremely demanding driving situations. A precisely tuned double-wishbone front control arm setup and integral four-link rear axle allows the car to achieve its M specific elasto-kinematics via having stiffer A-arm bushings and control-arm hydro bushings at the front of the car and stiffer axle support mounts at the rear. M Servotronics further provides steering assistance which is geared directly to the speed of the vehicle. Meanwhile, Adaptive Drive with electronically adjustable dampers (EDC) and Dynamic Drive are also fitted as standard with a self-levelling air suspension installed on the rear axle. Both the EDC and M Drive buttons allow the driver to call up damper tuning and the M Servotronic steering control map in Normal or Sport mode.

Activating Power mode, which influences the engine and transmission behaviour, further allows the driver to choose between Sport and Efficiency settings. Alternatively, the M Dynamic Mode (MDM) raises the control thresholds for braking interventions and reduction of engine power with the DSC function to create self-steering drive behaviour typical of the M and allows maximum speeds when cornering with very late interventions.

Additionally, the M specific design of the suspension lowers the vehicle by 10 millimetres compared with the standard X6 and features stiffer shock absorbers and modified swaybars. This reduces the amount of body roll in the car while optimising the vehicles self-steering and ability to compensate for vehicle load alteration effects.

Front to back, the exterior design of the X6 M showcases the vehicles extraordinary sporty appeal. The massive air intakes at the front of the X6 M combined with the double shaped kidney grill design typical to all BMW's offers an impressive indication of the V8 engines awesome power and on road presence. Sitting 10 mm lower than the standard X6 while boasting 20-inch double-spoke 300 M light-alloy wheels with mixed tyres (front: 275/40 R20; rear: 315/35 R20), the X6 M further evokes a sporty trendiness which combined with the raised seating position of the driver seat, forms an unmatched blend of aesthetic form and driver functionality.

Inside, the X6 M boasts an equally stunning interior design. Most evidently in the vantage point offered via the semi-command seating position designed for the driver. The prominent vantage point gives the driver an exceptional control perspective which offers both an increased sense of control and safety at low or high speeds. The circular M instruments, red needles and white display lighting typical to M cars accentuates the X6 M's sporty and technical feel which is further accentuated by the leather carbon structure, black interior trim strips which is added to the cars dashboard, centre console, rear console and door trim.

M seats and an M leather steering wheel are fitted as standard in the X6 M. With a thicker rim and ergonomic thumb rests, the X6 M's steering wheel sits perfectly in the drivers hands and is available in blue, dark blue and red stitching. Further to this, anodised aluminium M shift paddles further underline the car's sporting character and allows the driver to shift gears without ever having to take his hands of the steering wheel. Multifunctional switches to operate the X6 M's audio system, telephone and Heads-Up Display are also available and enables the driver to optimise his on the move preferences with minimal distraction. Individual drive and chassis settings can also be selected quickly and easily via the car's M Drive menu, which allows the driver to configure engine/ gearbox characteristics and chassis modes (POWER), steering and damper settings (EDC), Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) and the nature and scope of his or her Head-Up Display screen.

Meanwhile, the M seats offer unparalleled lateral support by providing additional shoulder comfort via thicker upper body cushioning that ensures comfortable body support while engaging in dynamic driving. As is the norm with BMW M models, the X6 M's head restraints are further embossed with the M logo.

In-line with the principle of BMW EfficientDynamics, the new BMW X6 M also features direct petrol injection, brake energy regeneration, on-demand control of the electric fuel pump, an on-demand compressor for the air-conditioner and flow-controlled supply of hydraulic fluid for the cars roll stabilisation system, all of which contributes to the X6 M's average fuel consumption of 14.3 l/100km, a significantly more economical consumption level than other vehicles in its segment.

The contrasting colours of the X6 M's rims further enhance the premium quality of the car and combined with the hallmark M gill element with side indicators, sidewall M logo and round, straightcut chrome twin tailpipes typical of all BMW M cars, accentuates its sporty on-road character.

The retail price for the BMW X6 M (on the road including personal road tax and registration) is RM 1,188,800.

About BMW EfficientDynamics

BMW EfficientDynamics was coined by BMW more than a decade ago to define the company's long term sustainable strategy to produce fuel-saving and alternative vehicle concepts through clean production processes. It is an array of technologies that are already fitted as standard across practically the whole model range. As the manufacturer with the most comprehensive programme for reducing fuel consumption and emissions, BMW EfficientDynamics are designed to enhance the performance and driving pleasure of the vehicles at the same time. In 2007, BMW was awarded a "Green Steering Wheel" for outstanding environmental innovation for its BMW EfficientDynamics technology.

About BMW Malaysia Sdn Bhd.

BMW Malaysia Sdn Bhd is a joint venture between Bayerische Motoren Werke (BMW) AG and Sime Darby Berhad. BMW Malaysia activities cover the wholesale of BMW cars, spare parts and accessories, as well as the overall planning of sales, marketing, after-sales, and other related activities in Malaysia. Its dealership network covers 14 outlets in various cities in Malaysia.

Issued by:

BMW Malaysia Sdn Bhd

Sashi Ambi, Corporate Communications Manager, Malaysia
Telephone: (+603) 8887 3822, Fax: (+603) 8887 3801
E-mail: sashi.ambihaipahan@bmw.com.my
Media Website: www.press.bmwgroup.com

For media queries, please contact:
Text 100 Malaysia
Nahri Salim / Cindy Goh
Telephone: (+603) 2282 2152, Fax: (+603) 2283 2041
E-mail: nahri.salim@text100.com.my / cindy.goh@text100.com.my
Media Website: www.press.bmwgroup.com

Kuala Lumpur, 21st December 2009

BMW Group Malaysia recently unveiled three special MINI models - the MINI 50 Mayfair, MINI 50 Camden and MINI Earl Grey in celebration of the brand's 50th birthday. Through their characteristic design and exclusive features alone, these three models bring out both the great tradition and the visionary power of the MINI brand.

Geoffrey Briscoe, Managing Director of BMW Malaysia in unveiling the limited edition variants of the MINI said, “The new MINI represented a subtle evolution that met a new set of requirements and added further weight to its maturity as a modern classic. With this philosophy in mind, the MINI 50 Mayfair, the MINI 50 Camden and MINI Earl Grey further accentuates the individual exclusivity and trendiness of the MINI."

Not unlike the second generation MINI, the modern drivetrain and suspension technology featured in the limited edition MINIs give these special models truly fascinating agility in combination with exemplary fuel economy and emission management. Particularly, the MINI Cooper S 128 kW/175 hp four-cylinder with twin-scroll turbocharger and direct gasoline injection engine powering the MINI 50 Mayfair and the MINI 50 Camden offers truly outstanding performance on the road. And all this comes with combined cycle fuel consumption to the EU standard of just 7.8 litres/100 km and a CO₂ rating of just 149 grams per kilometre.

Featuring fully variable valve control and offering engine output of 88 kW/120 hp in the trait of the second generation MINI Cooper, the power unit of the MINI Earl Grey has everything it takes for truly sporting performance. Average fuel consumption of just 6.7 litres/100 km in the EU test cycle, as well as a CO₂ rating of 129 grams per kilometre, set new standards in terms of efficient motoring pleasure.

“The anniversary of the brand offers an ideal opportunity for us to look back at the fascinating tradition of the car and to look forward at the unique future and outlook of the MINI." Geoff added.

Distinctly expressed in their design and features, the MINI 50 Mayfair, MINI 50 Camden and MINI Earl Grey stand out clearly from the current, “regular" production models. Numerous features helping to make these cars truly unmistakable are indeed reserved to these individual anniversary models, making each version truly unique in its own right. Special body paintwork, light-alloy rims tailored to the car, special materials and surfaces within the interior as well as a range of colours tailored specifically to the MINI 50 Mayfair, MINI 50 Camden and the MINI Earl Grey respectively, underline the exclusivity of the special models.

The MINI 50 Mayfair exudes the style, authenticity and elegance that can only be expected from London's most traditional Mayfair district. On the outside, the car features the special Mayfair doorsill and side scuttle with special Toffee lining mirror caps. Made available in only three exclusive body colours of Hot Chocolate, Midnight Black and Pepper White, the MINI 50 Mayfair also arrives with special 17 inches Infinite Stream Spoke Mayfair wheels.

Inside, the MINI 50 Mayfair radiates comfort and extravagance with Lounge Toffee leather upholestry with Toffee Lining interior surfaces as well as white piping, turquoise green accents and carbon black interior finish which offsets the brown black dashboard.

On hindsight, as its namesake suggests, the MINI 50 Camden is bursting with energy, spirit and in your face attitude. In exterior looks, the car features the specialised Camden door sills and side scuttles with silver lining mirror caps. Further highlighting the exclusivity of the car, a set of special 17 inch White Shield Camden wheels, Black Light Reflectors and a unique Camden bonnet graphic adorn the car

Made available in three body colours of White Silver, Midnight Black and Horizon Blue, the MINI 50 Camden also aims for a more progressive look in its interior selection. Inside, exclusive ‘Ray Tech White' Cloth Leather with green and black stitching with Line Tech White arm rest and knee rolls give more presence and feel to the car. Added for more attitude and a modern feel are Fluid Silver trim panels at the doors and Silver Lining interior surfaces at the dashboard area.

Exclusive to both the Limited Edition MINI 50th Anniversary cars, a special MINI 50th Anniversary jubilee placard surrounded by chrome trim which can be found on the radiator grille provides clear testimony to the tradition of the brand now going back fifty years. The jubilee placard bears the number “50" in typical MINI design and boasts the colours of the Union Jack – red, white, and blue.

Further to this, both cars also feature special Harmon Kardon Hi-Fi system which highlights unique bright chrome rings around the door speakers for a more exclusive and prominent stature

The market introduction of the new MINI 50 Camden also marks the debut of a new generation of in-car entertainment systems. Referred to as “Mission Control", this entertainment system processes and evaluates a wide range of vehicle, driving and ambient signals, providing the driver with relevant information and instructions in that unique style so typical of MINI.

Mission Control underlines the status of the MINI as a genuine personality in the world of motoring and intensifies the driver's feeling and impression of interacting directly with the car, the signals coming from the car itself being used to generate new, situation-based dialogues time and again. These dialogues are based, among other things, on information regarding safety and comfort settings, requesting the driver and passengers, say, to buckle up their seat belts and use the air conditioning, and incorporate current information on driving conditions such as the current status of the vehicle, with the focus on criteria such as outside temperatures or the level of fuel in the tank.

In addition to the entertainment aspect, the system also offers a functional aspect in supporting the driver over and above existing functions in properly interpreting all kinds of information and using data for appropriate action. Mission Control in the MINI 50 Camden is the first step into a brand-new world of interactive in-car entertainment, offering a driving experience never seen before.

Also introduced with the Limited Edition MINI 50th Anniversary cars is the limited edition MINI Earl Grey. Based on the MINI Cooper platform, the MINI Earl Grey features exclusive Dark Silver metallic paintwork, Black Jack design side scuttles as well as dynamic two colour design line that complete the perfect look of the model. Inside, stylish piano black ellitipcal door rings at the front and rear, and door grips in carbon black exude premium exclusitivity that can never be found else where.

The retail prices (on the road, without insurance but inclusive of the MINI tlc Package) for the special editions MINIs are as follow:

MINI 50 Mayfair - RM259, 888
MINI 50 Camden - RM245, 888
MINI Earl Grey - RM199, 888

About MINI

Mini, one of history's most popular icons, began its public life on the 26 August 1959. Designed by Sir Alec Issigonis, Mini was, in its purest form, a car that was simple, clean, agile and appealing to everyone. During its heyday in the 1960s, Mini was widely accepted as UK's most popular car and amazed everyone with its world-class performances at Monte Carlo rallies. In 1994, the BMW Group acquired the brand Mini, setting in motion the revitalisation of this much loved icon. In 2000, a new chapter began when the BMW Group unveiled the brand new MINI (all in caps, reflecting the relaunch) to the world with three models: MINI One, MINI Cooper and MINI Cooper S. MINI's success story continues today, charming fans and enthusiasts in more than 70 countries around the world.

About BMW Malaysia Sdn Bhd.

BMW Malaysia Sdn Bhd is a joint venture between Bayerische Motoren Werke (BMW) AG and Sime Darby Berhad. BMW Malaysia activities cover the wholesale of BMW cars, spare parts and accessories, as well as the overall planning of sales, marketing, after-sales, and other related activities in Malaysia. Its dealership network covers 14 outlets in various cities in Malaysia.

Issued by:

BMW Malaysia Sdn Bhd

Sashi Ambi, Corporate Communications Manager, Malaysia
Telephone: (+603) 8887 3822, Fax: (+603) 8887 3801
E-mail: sashi.ambihaipahan@bmw.com.my
Media Website: www.press.bmwgroup.com

Cyberjaya, 29th October 2009

Having recently introduced BMW EfficientDynamics in Malaysia, BMW Malaysia will be participating in the CETDEM 3rd Annual Malaysian Sustainable Energy Conference 2009. BMW's participation in the conference is to reiterate the company's commitment in upholding its direction towards Clean and Sustainable Technology in the Malaysian Automobile industry.

With the theme Green Technology Helping the Sustainable Energy Journey, the conference will take place from the 5th to the 6th November, 2009 at Parkroyal Hotel Kuala Lumpur and will have its keynote address delivered by Energy, Green Technology and Water Minister YB Datuk Peter Chin.

Among the issues discussed at the conference are the newly implemented Green Technology Policy, Green Transportation Systems: Matching Mobility with Sustainability and Green Technology Contributions towards Sustainable Energy. The conference will also seek to address the issue on whether Green Technology will really help in the Sustainable Energy Journey as well as shed some light on the various Sustainable Energy Initiatives in Malaysia.

Speaking ahead of the conference, Geoffrey Briscoe, Managing Director of BMW Malaysia said, "We at BMW Malaysia are pleased to be participating in CETDEM's 3rd Annual Malaysian Sustainable Energy Conference. Our participation is a testament to our commitment to Clean Technology and Sustainable Development which has been a core strategy for us for over ten years with BMW EfficientDynamics. Just last month, BMW EfficientDynamics was confirmed by the European Federation for Transport and Environment as the most effective programme for reducing CO₂ emissions in road traffic all across Europe."

He added that the confirmation by the European Federation for Transport and Environment is additional accolade to BMW's growing list of awards for Clean Technology and Sustainable Development, having recently been named the most sustainable automobile company worldwide for the fifth consecutive time in the Dow Jones Sustainability Index (DJSI) as well as receiving the honour of being the most fuel efficient premium brand by Germany's Federal Motor Transport Authority much earlier in the year.

"Sustainability is a group-wide corporate target for BMW. It has been the highest priority on our agenda for over a decade now and it will dictate how we will be doing business in the future. The philosophies of Sustainable Development are practiced all across our business processes from the top down and the BMW Group demonstrated this by establishing a Sustainability Board at the highest management level of the organisation as a form of supervision of the execution of the strategies at the operational level." said Briscoe.

Aside from showcasing BMW's capabilities with Efficient Dynamics, the conference will also present, for public viewing, the new BMW EfficientDynamics models of the BMW 520d Sports Edition and BMW 730Ld which features the latest generation BMW Advanced Diesel four-cylinder and six-cylinder turbo diesel engines with an all-aluminium engine block respectively.

The new BMW Advanced Diesel engine featured in the BMW 520d Sports Edition is capable of delivering 130kW/177 horsepower with lowered fuel consumption of 6.1litre/100 km but only emitting 162g of CO₂ per kilometre. The flagship BMW 730Ld, meanwhile, features the new in-line six cylinder BMW Advanced Diesel engine which is capable of churning out 180kw/ 245hp in terms of maximum power with only a mere 6.9l/ 100km in fuel consumption and only 180g/km in terms of CO₂ emissions, making the new BMW 730Ld the most efficient sedan in the luxury car market.

About BMW EfficientDynamics

BMW EfficientDynamics was coined by BMW more than a decade ago to define the company's long term sustainable strategy to produce fuel-saving and alternative vehicle concepts through clean production processes. It is an array of technologies that are already fitted as standard across practically the whole model range. As the manufacturer with the most comprehensive programme for reducing fuel consumption and emissions, BMW EfficientDynamics are designed to enhance the performance and driving pleasure of the vehicles at the same time. In 2007, BMW was awarded a "Green Steering Wheel" for outstanding environmental innovation for its BMW EfficientDynamics technology.

About BMW Malaysia Sdn Bhd.

BMW Malaysia Sdn Bhd is a joint venture between Bayerische Motoren Werke (BMW) AG and Sime Darby Berhad. BMW Malaysia activities cover the wholesale of BMW cars, spare parts and accessories, as well as the overall planning of sales, marketing, after-sales, and other related activities in Malaysia. Its dealership network covers 14 outlets in various cities in Malaysia.

Issued by:

BMW Malaysia Sdn Bhd

Sashi Ambi, Corporate Communications Manager, Malaysia
Telephone: (+603) 8887 3822, Fax: (+603) 8887 3801
E-mail: sashi.ambihaipahan@bmw.com.my
Media Website: www.press.bmwgroup.com

For media queries, please contact:
Fleishman-Hillard Kuala Lumpur
Nico Marco / Teoh Seet Heng / Tze Yau
Telephone: (+603) 2283 2730, Fax: (+603) 2283 2750
E-mail: nico.marco@fleishman.com / seet.teoh@fleishman.com / tze.yau@fleishman.com
Media Website: www.press.bmwgroup.com

Kuala Lumpur, 1st October 2009

Already named the most sustainable car company in the world, BMW today announced an increased focus on Clean Technology with the introduction of its new BMW EfficientDynamics product offering in Malaysia.

The breadth of Efficient Dynamics offering features four new diesel models which include the BMW 320d Sports, the BMW 520d Sports Edition, the BMW X3 xDrive20d Executive Edition and the flagship BMW 730Ld –– anchoring BMW as the leader in the movement towards more fuel efficient and emission reduced vehicles.

BMW EfficientDynamics is a continuous strategy by the carmaker for the reduction of fuel consumption and emission levels, while at the same time enhancing the vehicle's performance and driving pleasure – qualities that are distinct to the BMW brand.

"The Efficient Dynamics concept has been at the core of the BMW Group for more than a decade and plays a significant role in our long-term strategy for corporate sustenance. We strongly believe in the responsibility of producing fuel-saving and alternative vehicle concepts through clean production processes. In doing so, we have dedicated the concept of Efficient Dynamics as a standard for all our product lines instead of having it exclusive to a single model or series," said Geoffrey Briscoe, Managing Director of BMW Malaysia.

He added that the concept of BMW EfficientDynamics engineers BMW cars to get the best performances with lower fuel consumption and lower emission capabilities, an engineering feat that would be deemed contradictory in nature.

Launched as a standard technology fitted into the entire model range, over one million cars with Efficient Dynamics features are already on the roads around the world. The initiative that is deeply entrenched in the company's day-to-day operations has won BMW multiple awards, including the most fuel efficient premium brand by Germany's Federal Motor Transport Authority earlier in the year, The Paul Pietsch Award for special innovative developments in the automobile sector, the British What Car? Awards and the coveted World Green Car of the Year in 2008.

Other accolades garnered over the years for BMW EfficientDynamics include being the first winner of the "Green Steering Wheel 2007" award by Bild am Sonntag (Germany's biggest Sunday Newspaper) for the best environmental innovation of the year, AutoScout24's CAROLINA Internet Auto Award 2007 and the innovation prize at the Great Austrian Automobile Award' ceremony.

The move for BMW EfficientDynamics in Malaysia comes shortly after the announcement of the BMW Group as the most sustainable automobile company worldwide for the fifth consecutive year by the Dow Jones Sustainability Indexes (DJSI). The award is given to companies that adopt strategies that harness the market's potential for sustainability products and services while meeting economic, environmental and social demands.

The range of Efficient Dynamics technologies now available in Malaysia includes High Precision Injection, BMW Advanced Diesel, Electric Power Steering, Brake Energy Regeneration, aerodynamic design, and lightweight construction.

The High Precision Injection (HPI), one of the main Efficient Dynamics technologies, has Piezo injectors well-positioned between the valves to enable a high-efficient lean-burn process. This allows the engine to work with more air and less petrol over a broad engine speed range, which reduces fuel consumption considerably.

Electric Power Steering, conceptualized as a fuel saving mechanism, is where the steering is supported by an electric motor instead of a conventional hydraulic system. As a result, energy is only consumed during the actual steering process and not when the steering wheel is in a fixed position.

Another main feature within the Efficient Dynamics technology is Brake Energy Regeneration, where the vehicle's battery is charged using kinetic energy generated when the driver releases the accelerator or brakes the vehicle. With less energy being drawn from the engine to charge the battery, this results in a noticeable reduction in fuel consumption with an increase boost in performance.

In addition to this, BMW vehicles are also tested for optimum aerodynamics to minimize wind resistance that are then combined with weight savings through the use of innovative light materials, such as aluminium and magnesium, resulting in improved power delivery and greater agility. These characteristics are achieved with the fuel saving properties associated to the design.

Through managing the economics of energy consumption and emissions to get maximum performance, BMW EfficientDynamics has also created a harmony in vehicle efficiency and dynamism, which is supported by the introduction of diesel models in Malaysia.

The new models of the BMW 320d Sports, BMW 520d Sports Edition and BMW X3 xDrive20d Executive Edition features the latest generation BMW Advanced Diesel four-cylinder turbo diesel engines with an all-aluminium engine block that is capable of delivering an output of 130kW/177 hp and brings a weight saving of 20kg – resulting in increased power, and lowered fuel consumption by over 10 percent. Such fuel-saving designs transcend into facts as the BMW 320d, BMW 520d and BMW X3 xDrive20d have EU fuel consumption capabilities which surpasses its competitors, at 6.0, 6.1, and 7.0 litre/100 km respectively.

The powerful BMW Advanced Diesel engine gives the BMW 320d best of class max torque at 350 Nm and just 8 seconds in 0 to 100 km/h acceleration. Running on similar power plant, the BMW 520d also delivers 350 Nm max torque, and 8.4 seconds in 0 to 100 km/h acceleration.

The flagship BMW 730Ld, meanwhile, features the new in-line six cylinder BMW Advanced Diesel engine which is capable of churning out 180kw/ 245hp in terms of maximum output with 540Nm of maximum torque. Having the ability to accelerate from 0 to 100km/h in 7.3 seconds, the BMW 730Ld only utilises a mere 6.9l/ 100km in fuel consumption and only emits 180g/km in terms of CO₂ emissions. This makes the new BMW 730Ld the most efficient sedan in the luxury car market.

In unveiling the new BMW EfficientDynamics cars, Geoffrey Briscoe, Managing Director, BMW Malaysia Sdn. Bhd. said, "Diesel-powered engines provide 75 percent better torque and 15 percent more horsepower. However, what is more impressive is that in comparison to petrol engines, diesel engines are up to 30 percent lower in fuel consumption and 20 percent lower in carbon monoxide emissions. Our new BMW EfficientDynamics cars enable our cars to travel up 1000 km on a single tank of fuel. For the layman, this means that for every six days of travel, two days are considered free of fuel cost and most importantly, it is better for the environment."

He added that in the past, diesel technology has always been misunderstood in being more unfriendly to environment and this is not the case.

"Our new BMW EfficientDynamics cars are capable of being efficient and safer to the environment with whatever quality grade of diesel. However, the better the quality of diesel which is utilised, the more fuel and CO₂ efficient our cars will be. We certainly look forward to bring in more models to help accelerate the awareness of this kind of clean technology to Malaysian consumers" said Briscoe.

The four new diesel models and the concepts behind BMW EfficientDynamics will be prominently featured in all 14 showrooms across the nation starting 3rd October, 2009. This initiative is part of BMW Malaysia's ongoing effort in achieving greater fuel efficient engineering.

The retail prices (on the road, without insurance, with BMW Service Inclusive 3 years/60,000km + Repair) for the new BMW EfficientDynamics cars are as follow:

BMW 320d Sports – RM 255,800.00
BMW 520d Sports Edition – RM 379,800.00
BMW X3 xDrive20d Executive Edition – RM 333,800.00
BMW 730Ld – RM 698,800.00

BMW Efficient Dynamics Press Conference 2009 at Setia Sky Residences, Kuala Lumpur.

The new BMW 320d Sports at the media launch of BMW EfficientDynamics.

The diesel fleets of BMW 320d, BMW 520d, and BMW 730Ld (from front to back) presented at the press conference comes equipped with BMW EfficientDynamics technologies.

Geoffrey Briscoe, Managing Director of BMW Malaysia at the press conference of BMW EfficientDynamics launch.

Geoffrey Briscoe giving his welcome speech during the media launch of BMW EfficientDynamics.

(From left to right) Geoffrey Briscoe, Managing Director of BMW Malaysia, Daren Ching, Product and Planning Manager of BMW Malaysia, and Sashindran Ambihaipahan, Corporate Communications Manager of BMW Malaysia at the media launch of BMW EfficientDynamics.

Managing Director of BMW Malaysia, Geoffrey Briscoe, next to the new diesel model, BMW 730Ld.

About BMW EfficientDynamics

BMW EfficientDynamics was coined by BMW more than a decade ago to define the company's long term sustainable strategy to produce fuel-saving and alternative vehicle concepts through clean production processes. It is an array of technologies that are already fitted as standard across practically the whole model range. As the manufacturer with the most comprehensive programme for reducing fuel consumption and emissions, BMW EfficientDynamics are designed to enhance the performance and driving pleasure of the vehicles at the same time. In 2007, BMW was awarded a "Green Steering Wheel" for outstanding environmental innovation for its BMW EfficientDynamics technology.

About BMW Malaysia Sdn Bhd.

BMW Malaysia Sdn Bhd is a joint venture between Bayerische Motoren Werke (BMW) AG and Sime Darby Berhad. BMW Malaysia activities cover the wholesale of BMW cars, spare parts and accessories, as well as the overall planning of sales, marketing, after-sales, and other related activities in Malaysia. Its dealership network covers 14 outlets in various cities in Malaysia.

Issued by:

BMW Malaysia Sdn Bhd

Sashi Ambi, Corporate Communications Manager, Malaysia
Telephone: (+603) 8887 3822, Fax: (+603) 8887 3801
E-mail: sashi.ambihaipahan@bmw.com.my
Media Website: www.press.bmwgroup.com

For media queries, please contact:
Fleishman-Hillard Kuala Lumpur
Nico Marco / Teoh Seet Heng / Tze Yau
Telephone: (+603) 2283 2730, Fax: (+603) 2283 2750
E-mail: nico.marco@fleishman.com / seet.teoh@fleishman.com / tze.yau@fleishman.com
Media Website: www.press.bmwgroup.com

Kuala Lumpur, 30th September 2009

Biking enthusiasts will have the opportunity to get hands on experiences with BMW motorbikes at the BMW Motorrad Marquee at Genting Adventure World Carnival 2009 which is to be held at Gohtong Jaya, Genting Highlands, from 2nd until 4th of October 2009.

The carnival, organised for overland travel enthusiasts will see the best of BMW Motorrads including the R 1200 GS, R 1200 GS Adventure, F 800 R as well as the newly launched F 650 GS and F 800 GS on display.

In Malaysia, BMW motorbikes receive staunch support from loyalists, boosting the sales of the brand annually. This year, seven new models were launched in March, a strong indication of the ever-increasing market demand for Motorrads.

"Locally, BMW Motorrad has been successful in building a strong brand reputation and following which is indicated in its excellent sales growth record. In 2008, 183 units of BMW motorcycles were delivered to our customers in total. Meanwhile, up to the current period in 2009, we have already sold 145 units of our Motorrad units. In our year to date comparison, this number shows us a 39 per cent growth from the same period last year where we had sold 104 units. This is a tremendous growth for our BMW Motorrad division. " said Geoff Briscoe, Managing Director of BMW Malaysia.

Starting from 2:00pm on 2nd October 2009, carnival visitors will get a chance to experience off-road trainings, riding experiences, mini indoor games as well as learn more about BMW's motorcycle product offering at the BMW Motorrad marquee.

"This carnival will be the perfect occasion for motorbike aficionados, novices or experts alike, who wish to master road biking or just experience the thrill of riding BMW motorbikes. Our training programmes are tailored to the individual's skills and interests, preparing them for every challenge out there," said Fazli Hisham Shukor, Motorrad Manager of BMW Malaysia Sdn. Bhd.

The Genting Adventure World Carnival 2009 is set to be the biggest outdoor adventure event in Malaysia. For ticketing information, please visit www.ticketpro.com.my.

About BMW Malaysia Sdn Bhd.

BMW Malaysia Sdn Bhd is a joint venture between Bayerische Motoren Werke (BMW) AG and Sime Darby Berhad. BMW Malaysia activities cover the wholesale of BMW cars, spare parts and accessories, as well as the overall planning of sales, marketing, after-sales, and other related activities in Malaysia. Its dealership network covers 14 outlets in various cities in Malaysia.

Issued by:

BMW Malaysia Sdn Bhd

Sashi Ambi, Corporate Communications Manager, Malaysia
Telephone: (+603) 8887 3822, Fax: (+603) 8887 3801
E-mail: sashi.ambihaipahan@bmw.com.my
Media Website: www.press.bmwgroup.com

For media queries, please contact:
Fleishman-Hillard Kuala Lumpur
Nico Marco / Teoh Seet Heng / Tze Yau
Telephone: (+603) 2283 2730, Fax: (+603) 2283 2750
E-mail: nico.marco@fleishman.com / seet.teoh@fleishman.com / tze.yau@fleishman.com
Media Website: www.press.bmwgroup.com

Kuala Lumpur, 13th August 2009

The RM75, 000 BMW Shorties production fund will be awarded to two young directors this year.

The winning entries are "Ma Chai," by Shanjhey Kumar Perumal, and "Conversation with a Mad Man," by Brandon Loh Ming Kwang. They emerged as the winners out of a record 80 entries submitted this year.

Both winners will receive RM37, 500 in production assistance as well as mentorship from the panel of judges, to make professional short films that will eventually be fielded in international festivals.

"This year, the BMW Shorties received the highest number of entries since its launch in 2006. It is an important milestone for the BMW Shorties because while only being in its third year, it has managed to become a very important platform for film- making in Malaysia. The rule change in awarding the grand prize enabled us to support not just one, but two talented aspiring directors ," said Geoff Briscoe, Managing Director of BMW Malaysia.

For Shanjhey Perumal who works as a Tamil TV Series director, his determination finally paid off after participating in the first two BMW Shorties. He was in the Top Ten finalists for BMW Shorties 2008. His winning entry for this year, "Ma Chai" is a comedic depiction of a life in a multiracial community. Told in a light-hearted manner, the short film also made references to popular Indian movies and music from the 70s and 80s.

"Conversation with a Mad Man" by Brandon Loh, an assistant director in a local production company was the other winner. In his t film, the message of life is told by a 'mad man,' acted out by Alvin Wong, a well known local TV actor. Through simple and analogical monologue, viewers were led to reflect on the greater meaning of life.

Special Mention recognition was given to "Resonance'" by John Cho, a film about the musings of someone grappling with depression.

XXX received The People's Choice Award for his or her entry "XXX". It received the highest number of online votes, and won a Nokia N86, sponsored by Nokia Malaysia.

Held at the Ritz Carlton, Kuala Lumpur, the gala ceremony was attended by BMW Shorties 2009 participants, celebrities and industry professionals.

"During the previous two years, our finalists had great success in international film festivals. We hope to see the same with this year's winners and finalists," said Briscoe.

The winners and finalists, with their various interpretations of this year's theme "Life," were selected after a day of heated debate by the distinguished panel of judges namely acclaimed actress, Ida Nerina, award winning independent film maker, Tan Chui Mui, BMW Shorties 2007 winner, Abdullah Zahir bin Omar, as well as leading local publications editors June Wong and Surinder Jessy.

Completing the BMW Shorties 2009 finalists are Prakash Murugiah (Flashes), Mohamed Fazry and Asmar Hassan (Lubang), Chua Soon Min (1:19), Mandy Yap Li Kuan (7), Wong Wei Jian (Le Mannequin) and Chow Jann Rong (Codename Hashshashin).

The BMW Shorties 2009 top finalists and "Angel of Utopia," the BMW-funded film by last year's winner Nazim Esa, can all be viewed at www.bmwshorties.com.my.

About BMW Malaysia Sdn Bhd.

BMW Malaysia Sdn Bhd is a joint venture between Bayerische Motoren Werke (BMW) AG and Sime Darby Berhad. BMW Malaysia activities cover the wholesale of BMW cars, spare parts and accessories, as well as the overall planning of sales, marketing, after-sales, and other related activities in Malaysia. Its dealership network covers 14 outlets in various cities in Malaysia.

Issued by:

BMW Malaysia Sdn Bhd

Sashi Ambi, Corporate Communications Manager, Malaysia
Telephone: (+603) 8887 3822, Fax: (+603) 8887 3801
E-mail: sashi.ambihaipahan@bmw.com.my
Media Website: www.press.bmwgroup.com

For media queries, please contact:
Fleishman-Hillard Kuala Lumpur
Nico Marco / Teoh Seet Heng / Tze Yau
Telephone: (+603) 2283 2730, Fax: (+603) 2283 2750
E-mail: nico.marco@fleishman.com / seet.teoh@fleishman.com / tze.yau@fleishman.com
Media Website: www.press.bmwgroup.com

Kuala Lumpur, 13th August 2009

BMW Malaysia Sdn Bhd today held the premiere of "Angel of Utopia," a short film directed by BMW Shorties 2008 Grand Prize winner, Nazim Esa. The premiere was also double-billed with the awards ceremony for this year's BMW Shorties.

At the premiere, Nazim said, "Winning the BMW Shorties 2008 has given me more credibility as a film-maker. Through BMW Shorties, people in the industry have come to know that I can articulate my thoughts and deliver great work."

"Angel of Utopia" features the same actors from Nazim's winning short "For the Love of Drowning." David Lim, James Lim and Juliana Yassin lead a cast of mostly independent cinema regulars and real construction worker extras.

"The story is basically about the alienation of migrant workers and the unfortunate circumstances of being forced to become a sex worker," said Nazim Esa.

For the shoot, Nazim and his crew did a mock-up of construction workers' quarters, as well as a "Pasar Malam" in an alleyway. The cinematography of the film was entirely based on Nazim's memories as a child who grew up in the city. The film was shot in an actual construction site in Sungai Buloh and a hotel in Kuala Kubu Baru.

As the recipient of the BMW Shorties 2008 Grand Prize, Nazim Esa won RM75,000 in production assistance as well as professional support from a distinguished panel of judges which included international award-winning directors Raymond Red and Tan Chui Mui, renowned actress Ida Nerina, and the first BMW Shorties winner Zahir Omar.

"It is truly inspiring to witness Nazim's creativity come to fruition through "Angel of Utopia" and we are glad that BMW Shorties has been instrumental in making this happen," said Geoffrey Briscoe, Managing Director of BMW Malaysia Sdn Bhd.

"Angel of Utopia" can be viewed at www.bmwshorties.com.my.

About BMW Malaysia Sdn Bhd.

BMW Malaysia Sdn Bhd is a joint venture between Bayerische Motoren Werke (BMW) AG and Sime Darby Berhad. BMW Malaysia activities cover the wholesale of BMW cars, spare parts and accessories, as well as the overall planning of sales, marketing, after-sales, and other related activities in Malaysia. Its dealership network covers 14 outlets in various cities in Malaysia.

Issued by:

BMW Malaysia Sdn Bhd

Sashi Ambi, Corporate Communications Manager, Malaysia
Telephone: (+603) 8887 3822, Fax: (+603) 8887 3801
E-mail: sashi.ambihaipahan@bmw.com.my
Media Website: www.press.bmwgroup.com

For media queries, please contact:
Fleishman-Hillard Kuala Lumpur
Nico Marco / Teoh Seet Heng / Tze Yau
Telephone: (+603) 2283 2730, Fax: (+603) 2283 2750
E-mail: nico.marco@fleishman.com / seet.teoh@fleishman.com / tze.yau@fleishman.com
Media Website: www.press.bmwgroup.com

Kuala Lumpur, 29th July 2009

The Sepang International Circuit was abuzz with MINI mania recently as MINI celebrated the "SPEEDMINIA 2009".

Organised by BMW Malaysia Sdn Bhd for Malaysian MINI owners, SPEEDMINIA 2009 started the day at the Sepang International Circuit where owners of more than 50 MINIs in all variants and colours were gathered under one roof.

Upon starting the day's program, MINI owners were shown the correct driver's seating position before being put through a theoretical introduction of professional driving and circuit briefing. Later, the groups were given the opportunity to put their newly learnt theoretical knowledge to practice as they were given practical track sessions on the Sepang International Circuit.

Track sessions were not the only highlights at the MINI SPEEDMINIA 2009 as MINI owners were also able to test out their maneuvering skills at the MINI Maze. Two identical courses were set up to accommodate up to 20 cars per hour, as the participants vie against each other for the best lap time

Farid Sulaiman, MINI Manager of BMW Malaysia Sdn Bhd said, "The MINI SPEEDMINIA 2009 is all about excitement! This is also the core brand value that defines MINI – a brand that rewrote automobile history in terms of innovative design and having a cult following."

He added that the MINI SPEEDMINIA 2009 also demonstrated the MINI brand value of Integrated where Malaysian MINI owners can share the same opportunities and experiences of MINI owners world-wide.

Adding additional excitement to the event, the organizer also brought in talk of the town personal transporter, Segway. Participants were given the chance to test ride the Segway i2 and x2 through a specially designed obstacle course.

All participants were awarded Certificates of Participation at the end of the day at a special Graduation Ceremony. The MINI SPEEDMINIA event is organized every two years for MINI owners in Malaysia.

About BMW Malaysia Sdn Bhd.

BMW Malaysia Sdn Bhd is a joint venture between Bayerische Motoren Werke (BMW) AG and Sime Darby Berhad. BMW Malaysia activities cover the wholesale of BMW cars, spare parts and accessories, as well as the overall planning of sales, marketing, after-sales, and other related activities in Malaysia. Its dealership network covers 14 outlets in various cities in Malaysia.

Issued by:

BMW Malaysia Sdn Bhd

Sashi Ambi, Corporate Communications Manager, Malaysia
Telephone: (+603) 8887 3822, Fax: (+603) 8887 3801
E-mail: sashi.ambihaipahan@bmw.com.my
Media Website: www.press.bmwgroup.com

For media queries, please contact:
Fleishman-Hillard Kuala Lumpur
Nico Marco / Teoh Seet Heng / Tze Yau
Telephone: (+603) 2283 2730, Fax: (+603) 2283 2750
E-mail: nico.marco@fleishman.com / seet.teoh@fleishman.com / tze.yau@fleishman.com
Media Website: www.press.bmwgroup.com

Kuala Lumpur, 21st July 2009

Ten aspiring filmmakers and their short films were revealed by BMW Malaysia today as finalists for this year's BMW Shorties. Running for the third year, the short film competition received a record 80 entries, the highest since its beginning in 2007.

This year's theme, LIFE, has been interpreted with borderless creativity in a variety of genres – from animation, to comedy. A production grant of up to RM75, 000 awaits the winner/s.

"Our judges have shown great dedication and set the perfect example of perseverance and commitment. The judging session was both insightful and intense as each of them came forward to challenge, defend and decide who will make it to the winning list,"said Vijayaratnam Tharumartnam, Press and Corporate Affairs Manager of BMW Malaysia.

The BMW Shorties 2009 finalists in no particular order are:

1. 1. Prakash Murugiah, director of "Flashes"
2. 2. Shanjhey Perumal, director of "Ma Chai"
3. 3. Mohamed Fazry and Asmar Hassan, directors of "Lubang"
4. 4. Chua Soon Min, director of "1:19"
5. 5. Mandy Yap Li Kuan, director of "7"
6. 6. Brandon Loh Ming Kwang, director of "Conversation with a mad man"
7. 7. Wong Wei Jian, director of "Le Mannequin"
8. 8. John Cho, director of "Resonance"
9. 9. Chow Jann Rong, director of "Codename Hashshashin"

The finalists were selected after a day of heated debate by the distinguished panel of judges namely acclaimed actress, Ida Nerina, award winning independent film maker, Tan Chui Mui, BMW Shorties 2007 winner, Abdullah Zahir bin Omar, as well as leading local publications editors June Wong and Surinder Jessy.

Each of the five judges, including Ida Nerina who insisted on continuing to judge despite being bedridden, was given a week to review and score the 80 entries. The judging process culminated in a one day retreat that saw all the judges coming together to discuss the different films and how to award the RM75, 000 production grant. Ida Nerina participated in the retreat via video conferencing.

"The judging process was especially challenging this year. I was rather taken aback at the fact that while we had given a theme with such a wide scope- "Life", I had never seen more films about death and suicide," said Ida Nerina. "Perhaps I was hoping to see more films about the celebration of life.".

Tan Chui Mui commented that the overall standard of this year's entries had improved. "It is encouraging to witness such growth for local talents and we are definitely eager to see more of their work," she said.

Abdullah Zahir bin Omar who was also the winner for BMW Shorties 2007 shares the same sentiment. "The improvement in the quality and the increase in the number of entries impressed me greatly, especially that this year, we can see a wider variety on genre among the finalists," he said.

The public can now watch and vote for their favourite short films at the BMW Shorties website (www.bmwshorties.com.my). The finalist with the most number of votes will receive the People's Choice Award and a brand new Nokia N86 hand phone. Lucky voters also stand the chance to win a Nokia N86 hand phone, as well as six exclusive passes to attend the Gala Premiere on 13th August 2009.

About BMW Malaysia Sdn Bhd.

BMW Malaysia Sdn Bhd is a joint venture between Bayerische Motoren Werke (BMW) AG and Sime Darby Berhad. BMW Malaysia activities cover the wholesale of BMW cars, spare parts and accessories, as well as the overall planning of sales, marketing, after-sales, and other related activities in Malaysia. Its dealership network covers 14 outlets in various cities in Malaysia.

Issued by:

BMW Malaysia Sdn Bhd

Sashi Ambi, Corporate Communications Manager, Malaysia
Telephone: (+603) 8887 3822, Fax: (+603) 8887 3801
E-mail: sashi.ambihaipahan@bmw.com.my
Media Website: www.press.bmwgroup.com

For media queries, please contact:
Fleishman-Hillard Kuala Lumpur
Nico Marco / Teoh Seet Heng / Tze Yau
Telephone: (+603) 2283 2730, Fax: (+603) 2283 2750
E-mail: nico.marco@fleishman.com / seet.teoh@fleishman.com / tze.yau@fleishman.com
Media Website: www.press.bmwgroup.com

Kuala Lumpur, 18th June 2009

BMW Malaysia Sdn Bhd today introduced the new BMW Z4, a contemporary reinterpretation of the classic roadster combined with an automatically retractable hardtop, a first for the BMW Roadster.

Following the successful 200,000 worldwide sales of the previous model, the new BMW Z4 is off to a promising start with a delivery of 2,365 units since its international launch in May.

"In Malaysia, the BMW Z4 leads its segment, accounting for 51% of cars sold over the last 3 years. Based on both the critical and market reception the new BMW Z4 has received so far, we are optimistic that it will outperform its predecessor," said Vijayaratnam Tharumartnam, BMW Malaysia Press & Corporate Affairs Manager.

The new BMW Z4 embodies the same classic roadster proportions as its predecessors with the unmistakable design features of a long bonnet (longest in its class), a low belt line, a set-back seating position and a flattened, gently sloping rear.

"The new BMW Z4 features a practical hardtop and a design character significantly enhanced from its predecessor. These are improvements based on what the customers desired" said Tharumartnam.

There are two types of engines available in Malaysia for the new BMW Z4: the BMW Z4 sDrive35i and the BMW Z4 sDrive23i, both producing less than 219 grams of CO₂ per kilometre, unmatched by any other six-cylinder engine.

The car garnered rave reviews during its world premiere at the 2009 North American International Auto Show in Detroit where critics and enthusiasts lauded its harmonious combination of genuine roadster proportions and updated modern design. The new BMW Z4 was recognised with prestigious awards in the field of design such as the American Eyes on Design in January and Red Dot Awards in June.

Several new enhancements for this new two-seater model include better head and elbow room for the passengers as well as an improved degree of comfort when entering the car. The two-section roof system features a lightweight aluminium shell design which opens and closes at the touch of a button, in under 20 seconds.

When the top is up, the new BMW Z4 boasts two striking lines and the large windows ensure excellent all-round visibility which has been increased by 40 per cent. This two-seater convertible has luggage capacity ranging from 180 litres up to 310 litres.

The driver-oriented design of the dashboard accentuates the feeling of driving pleasure for anyone in the driver's seat. The interior cockpit is adorned with generous trim surfaces, new materials and galvanised control elements in pearl gloss chrome to emphasise the exclusivity and luxury of the car.

The BMW Z4 sDrive23i comes with a six-cylinder in-line engine with a magnesium/aluminium composite crankcase, VALVETRONIC and double VANOS. The engine capacity is 2,497cc with a max output of 150 kW/204 hp at 6,200 rpm. The maximum torque is 250Nm/184 lb-ft at 2,950 rpm and the BMW Z4 can go from 0 – 100 km/h in 7.3 seconds. The top speed is 239 km/h. This model is fitted with a six-speed automatic transmission with optimized shift points.

The BMW Z4 sDrive35i comes with the same six-cylinder in-line engine but with additional Twin Turbo and direct fuel injection (High Precision Injection). The engine capacity is 2,979 cc with a max output of 225 kW/306 hp at 5,800 rpm. The maximum torque is 400 Nm/295 lb-ft from 1,300 – 5,000 rpm. This powerful petrol engine can reach 100km/h in just 5.1 seconds with a top speed of 250 km/h. The innovative seven-speed double-clutch gear box makes it possible to shift gears without the slightest interruption of traction. Both models feature a unique combination of the extra comfort of a BMW automatic transmission and maximum dynamism and performance, superior to any other direct competitors.

The BMW Group's Dynamic Driving Control technology is fitted as a standard in the new BMW Z4. With just the single touch of a button, drivers can switch between three different driving modes – NORMAL, SPORT and SPORT+ - depending on whether they are in the mood for a smoother or sportier ride. Switching between modes alters the throttle response, level of power assist and the shift points for the automatic transmission which in turn, gives the driver greater freedom to adjust the car for greater comfort or sports-car precision.

The latest generation iDrive control system debuts in the new BMW Z4 and for the first time it is integrated into the instrument panel using a folding Control Display. The high-resolution Control Display offers excellent clarity in presenting graphics and an optimised menu structure. The iDrive comes with eight favourite buttons on the centre console and enables the user to directly retrieve saved radio stations, telephone numbers, navigation destinations and all menu items.

The innovative iDrive system will also give access to BMW TeleServices which allows the vehicle to send all relevant data to the assigned BMW Service centre. Recently launched in Malaysia, this technology ensures a smoother and faster process when a vehicle is due for service.

"Joy is an emotion which forms the very core of the BMW brand. The new BMW Z4 epitomizes that value and it will appeal to those who aspire for an uncompromising level of driving purity, matched with the solid pedigree of a true roadster" said Tharumartnam.

The retail prices (on the road, without insurance, with BMW Service Inclusive 3 years/60,000km + Repair) for the new BMW Z4 Series are as follow:

BMW Z4 sDrive23i - RM411,800.00
BMW Z4 sDrive35i - RM558,800.00

About BMW Malaysia Sdn Bhd.

BMW Malaysia Sdn Bhd is a joint venture between Bayerische Motoren Werke (BMW) AG and Sime Darby Berhad. BMW Malaysia activities cover the wholesale of BMW cars, spare parts and accessories, as well as the overall planning of sales, marketing, after-sales, and other related activities in Malaysia. Its dealership network covers 14 outlets in various cities in Malaysia.

Issued by:

BMW Malaysia Sdn Bhd

Sashi Ambi, Corporate Communications Manager, Malaysia
Telephone: (+603) 8887 3822, Fax: (+603) 8887 3801
E-mail: sashi.ambihaipahan@bmw.com.my
Media Website: www.press.bmwgroup.com

For media queries, please contact:
Fleishman-Hillard Kuala Lumpur
Nico Marco / Teoh Seet Heng / Tze Yau
Telephone: (+603) 2283 2730, Fax: (+603) 2283 2750
E-mail: nico.marco@fleishman.com / seet.teoh@fleishman.com / tze.yau@fleishman.com
Media Website: www.press.bmwgroup.com

Kuala Lumpur, 16th June 2009

Only 14 days remain for budding Malaysian film directors to submit their short film to the BMW Shorties 2009 Short Film Competition and make a name for themselves in the indie film circuit.

The BMW Shorties 2009 is the third season of BMW Malaysia's annual short film competition launched in 2006 to champion talented individuals within the Malaysian cinematic community.

Following a second successful year that saw several BMW Shorties films receiving greater international attention, this year's grand prize of a production grant remains at RM 75,000, enabling the winner to make a professional short film. Introduced as a new ruling this year, the number of winner/s may or may not be limited to only one participant and the distribution of the award sum will be at the judges' discretion. Also new to the rules in BMW Shorties 2009 is the time limit which has been shortened to 12 minutes which makes it more challenging for the filmmakers.

"BMW Shorties has achieved one of its stated goals much earlier than expected – providing international access for young Malaysian filmmakers – we intend to do the same this year and would like to urge aspiring directors to grab this opportunity." said BMW Malaysia's Press and Corporate Affairs Manager, Vijayaratnam Tharumartnam.

As part of its ongoing commitment to support the cinematic arts, BMW Malaysia will be organizing the BMW Shorties 2008 Judges Clinic in HELP University College with indie film champion Tan Chui Mui, and actress Ida Nerina sharing their experience in film making with aspiring young directors.

The theme for this year's short film competition is "LIFE," a subject that is expected to showcase diverse thoughts and interpretations from the contestants. The competition is open to aspiring Malaysian filmmakers of 18 years and above, as long as they have never won in any local or international film festival, competition or awards.

Entries will be judged based on their originality of idea, creativity in interpreting the theme, story telling ability, direction and emotional pull. Film school students and first-time film makers are encouraged to send in their short film entries for consideration. Deadline for entries is at 5pm on Tuesday, 30th June 2008.

The winning entry for this year's BMW Shorties will be announced at a premiere which will be held on 13th August 2008.

All information regarding BMW Shorties 2009 including application forms, the Judges' Clinics, the voting processes and viewers' participation, can be found at http://www.bmwshorties.com.my and BMW Shorties on both Facebook and Twitter http://twitter.com/BMWShorties.

About BMW Malaysia Sdn Bhd.

BMW Malaysia Sdn Bhd is a joint venture between Bayerische Motoren Werke (BMW) AG and Sime Darby Berhad. BMW Malaysia activities cover the wholesale of BMW cars, spare parts and accessories, as well as the overall planning of sales, marketing, after-sales, and other related activities in Malaysia. Its dealership network covers 14 outlets in various cities in Malaysia.

Issued by:

BMW Malaysia Sdn Bhd

Sashi Ambi, Corporate Communications Manager, Malaysia
Telephone: (+603) 8887 3822, Fax: (+603) 8887 3801
E-mail: sashi.ambihaipahan@bmw.com.my
Media Website: www.press.bmwgroup.com

For media queries, please contact:
Fleishman-Hillard Kuala Lumpur
Nico Marco / Teoh Seet Heng / Tze Yau
Telephone: (+603) 2283 2730, Fax: (+603) 2283 2750
E-mail: nico.marco@fleishman.com / seet.teoh@fleishman.com / tze.yau@fleishman.com
Media Website: www.press.bmwgroup.com

Kuala Lumpur, 8th June 2009

BMW Malaysia Sdn. Bhd. is kicking off this year's BMW Driver Training, starting on 27th June 2009 at the Sepang International Circuit.

First introduced to Malaysians in 2007, the BMW Driver Training was the first of its kind to be initiated by an automotive manufacturer. The full-day driving course aims to enhance the participants' driving pleasure and skills under any given situation and to apply it in daily traffic situations. At the same time, partcipants of the BMW Driver Training will acquire self-confidence and driver safety tips through various practical exercises in typical traffic and hazard conditions.

"For BMW, sheer driving pleasure comes from empowering owners to be able to understand the way their cars behave and how to make the most out of a situation that might otherwise rob you of that driving pleasure. Getting from point A to point B should never be a boring affair, and we'd like to make sure that you're able to get there safely as well" said BMW Press & Corporate Affairs Manager, Vijayaratnam Tharumartnam.

With its emphasis on driver safety, the programme commences with a classroom session which will discuss the theoretical principles on driving and followed by a series of driving exercises from seat position demonstration, handling double-handed slalom , emergency braking, emergency lane changes, under and over steering as well as other manoeuvring exercises that will have participants embrace the pleasure of driving with confidence.

In line with BMW's aim to promote driver safety to as wide an audience as possible, there will be six sessions of BMW Driver Training, conducted from June until December 2009. Limited seats of 20 are available for each session and participants will undergo training with the BMW 3 Series. Certificates from BMW Malaysia will be given to participants upon completing the session.

Individual booking fee for each BMW Driver Training participant is RM1,700, while BMW White Card Elite members will get to enjoy the privilege price of RM1,500. For booking or further enquiries about the programme, please log on to BMW Malaysia Website or call BMW Voice, BMW Malaysia's 24 hour call centre at 1 800 88 3000.

About BMW Malaysia Sdn Bhd.

BMW Malaysia Sdn Bhd is a joint venture between Bayerische Motoren Werke (BMW) AG and Sime Darby Berhad. BMW Malaysia activities cover the wholesale of BMW cars, spare parts and accessories, as well as the overall planning of sales, marketing, after-sales, and other related activities in Malaysia. Its dealership network covers 14 outlets in various cities in Malaysia.

Issued by:

BMW Malaysia Sdn Bhd

Sashi Ambi, Corporate Communications Manager, Malaysia
Telephone: (+603) 8887 3822, Fax: (+603) 8887 3801
E-mail: sashi.ambihaipahan@bmw.com.my
Media Website: www.press.bmwgroup.com

For media queries, please contact:
Fleishman-Hillard Kuala Lumpur
Nico Marco / Teoh Seet Heng / Tze Yau
Telephone: (+603) 2283 2730, Fax: (+603) 2283 2750
E-mail: nico.marco@fleishman.com / seet.teoh@fleishman.com / tze.yau@fleishman.com
Media Website: www.press.bmwgroup.com

Kuala Lumpur, 5th June 2009

BMW Malaysia is hosting the Malaysian leg of the BMW Golf Cup International Tournament for the third year in a row. The first leg of the golf tournament will tee off at the Kelab Golf Sultan Abdul Aziz Shah in Selangor on July 11.

The third season follows a successful competition last year with the National Final held at the exclusive MINES Resort and Golf Club. In December 2008, the three champions of the different categories went on to represent Malaysia at the World Final in Buenos Aires, Argentina.

"We are proud to host the BMW Golf Cup International again this year. The strong support we have received over the past two years has been encouraging and we look forward to another series of exciting golf tournaments," said Geoffrey Briscoe, Managing Director of BMW Malaysia Sdn Bhd.

The BMW Golf Cup International 2009 is the world's biggest amateur golfing tournament series and is open only to BMW owners who have purchased their vehicles from authorized BMW dealers.

The main aim of the tournament is to provide BMW owners a chance to compete in a professionally run premium golf event on a global scale.

Participants of the BMW Golf Cup International 2009 Malaysia will be pleased to know that this golf tournament is fully sanctioned by the national golf governing body, Malaysian Golf Association, making it an official part of Malaysia's Golfing Calendar.

There will be three main prizes and four novelty prizes given out to winners this year. The highlight is the BMW 120i Convertible which will be awarded for a Hole-In-One winner. There will also be goodie bags distributed to participants upon on-site registration, lucky draws at each qualifying leg with attractive prizes to be won, and premium hospitality on and off the golf course to ensure all participants have a memorable outing.

This year's golf event is supported by BMW Credit, Corum, Fairways and The Edge.

The BMW Golf Cup International was established in 1987 as a series of amateur golf tournaments in Germany. It has since developed into the largest, most prestigious and most successful amateur golf tournament series in the world.

This year in Malaysia, the playing field will be limited to 108 players (per qualifying leg), with four Qualifying Legs and one National Final. The top three winners of each official tournament category (Men A, Men B and Women) will qualify to compete at the National Final and subsequently, at the World Final next year.

The World Final will be held in Fancourt Golf Resort in South Africa from March 1-6, 2010, with the best three players from each participating country competing for the title "Best Amateur Golfer in the BMW Golf Cup International."

Fancourt is a world renowned business and leisure destination in South Africa. It is situated across 620 hectares of lush countryside in George, on South Africa's renowned Garden Route (southern Cape).

"The BMW Golf Cup International is an experience that offers BMW customers an opportunity to share their passion for golf with other fellow BMW owners. It also provides an avenue for our aspiring golfers to compete both at national and international levels of competition," said Briscoe.

To register, please contact BMW Voice via toll-free at 1-800-88-3000 or visit the website for more details.

About BMW Malaysia Sdn Bhd.

BMW Malaysia Sdn Bhd is a joint venture between Bayerische Motoren Werke (BMW) AG and Sime Darby Berhad. BMW Malaysia activities cover the wholesale of BMW cars, spare parts and accessories, as well as the overall planning of sales, marketing, after-sales, and other related activities in Malaysia. Its dealership network covers 14 outlets in various cities in Malaysia.

Issued by:

BMW Malaysia Sdn Bhd

Sashi Ambi, Corporate Communications Manager, Malaysia
Telephone: (+603) 8887 3822, Fax: (+603) 8887 3801
E-mail: sashi.ambihaipahan@bmw.com.my
Media Website: www.press.bmwgroup.com

For media queries, please contact:
Fleishman-Hillard Kuala Lumpur
Nico Marco / Teoh Seet Heng / Tze Yau
Telephone: (+603) 2283 2730, Fax: (+603) 2283 2750
E-mail: nico.marco@fleishman.com / seet.teoh@fleishman.com / tze.yau@fleishman.com
Media Website: www.press.bmwgroup.com

Kuala Lumpur, 14 May 2009

BMW Malaysia today launched BMW Shorties 2009, the third edition of the company's annual short film competition, aimed at championing amateur talent within the Malaysian independent film community. BMW Shorties, which is a Malaysian original, has achieved great success since it was started and is being used as a model by other BMW subsidiaries around the world.

"When we started BMW Shorties two years ago, we were very clear about what our objectives were but we were not sure about whether there would be sufficient interest and how long it would take. Today, we are very pleased that the BMW Shorties movement has taken on a life of its own and is seen as an important driver of the independent film world in Malaysia", said Geoffrey Briscoe, Managing Director of BMW Group Malaysia.

Following a second successful year that saw several BMW Shorties films receiving greater international attention, this year's grand prize of a production grant remains at RM 75,000, enabling the winner to make a professional short film. Introduced as a new ruling this year, the number of winner/s may or may not be limited to only one participant and the distribution of the award sum will be at the judges' discretion. Also new to the rules in BMW Shorties 2009 is the time limit which has been shortened to 12 minutes. There will still be a People's Choice Award, which will allow members of the public to vote for their favourite film online.

This year's theme is LIFE, a broad subject that is expected to allow greater freedom for interpretation amongst participants. The competition is open to aspiring Malaysian filmmakers of 18 years and above, as long as they have never won in any local or international film festival, competition or awards.

The short film entries will be judged based on their originality, content and creativity. Film school students and first-time filmmakers are encouraged to participate. Deadline for submission of entries is on 30 June 2009.

The efforts of the inaugural BMW Shorties came into fruition with 2007 grand prize winner, Abdullah Zahir, premiering his BMW Malaysia funded short entitled "Teddy and I" in February 2008. Zahir's inaugural Shorties winning entry "K-Hole" was an official selection at the 2008 New York Film Festival.

"Teddy & I" along with the winning entry of BMW Shorties 2008, "For the Love of Drowning" by Nazim bin Esa, also received screening invitations from the Rotterdam International Film Festival. Several 2008 finalists had their films screened in various film festivals such as Clermont-Ferrand Short Film Festival, Dubai International Film Festival and Naoussa International Film Festival.

"In the first two years alone, BMW Shorties has travelled to Cannes, Rome, New York, Rotterdam, Dubai and many other cities. In this sense, BMW Shorties has achieved one of its stated goals much earlier than expected – providing international access for young Malaysian filmmakers – but perhaps the even greater achievement is how BMW Shorties has unwittingly become a platform for young Malaysians to cultivate their social conscience," said Vijayaratnam Tharumartnam, Press and Corporate Affairs Manager, BMW Group Malaysia.

Many of the BMW Shorties entries have tackled very serious topics that show a growing maturity among young Malaysian filmmakers as they use the medium to voice their concerns and fears about current events and the future of the country. Some of the topics have included corruption, greed, racial disparity and gender equality.

This year also sees a significant development for BMW Shorties, which is the addition of a broadcast partner, ASTRO. ASTRO's support in the BMW Shorties will certainly help to increase the awareness of the short film competition to a bigger audience. ASTRO will broadcast the top ten finalists after they have been announced which will also help in voting for the People's Choice Award.

The BMW Shorties judging panel this year sees a mix of old and new. Returning judges from the previous year are award-winning actress Ida Nerina, international award-winning filmmaker, Tan Chui Mui, and BMW Shorties 2007's winner, Abdullah Zahir. Two new members from leading local publications make up this year's panel of judges. June Wong and Surinder Jessy were brought in to share their vast experience in journalism and social commentary during the judging process.

This year also sees a significant change to the BMW Shorties website, which has remained the most powerful tool for the competition. The site now sports a more edgy and 'bloglike' feel to allow for more interaction and direct participation. Over the last two years, the BMW Shorties website has been an astounding success serving as the 'hub'. With nearly 800,000 page views, the site has been rated as the number one site to watch for independent film development in Malaysia.

For aspiring filmmakers who would like to advance their cinematic skills, BMW Malaysia will also organise a series of BMW Shorties Judges' Clinics at various universities and colleges, where they will receive professional advice from industry experts. Details about participation and dates will be announced online.

"We are very excited to start the third edition of BMW Shorties, not least of all because it has helped Malaysia's film community, which was our goal when we set out. With this programme, BMW is able in its own way to give back to the country and play a small part in moulding the minds of future generations," added Tharumartnam.

All information regarding BMW Shorties 2009 including application forms, the Judges' Clinics, the voting processes and viewers' participation, can be found at http://www.bmwshorties.com.my and BMW Shorties on both Facebook and Twitter.

About BMW Malaysia Sdn Bhd.

BMW Malaysia Sdn Bhd is a joint venture between Bayerische Motoren Werke (BMW) AG and Sime Darby Berhad. BMW Malaysia activities cover the wholesale of BMW cars, spare parts and accessories, as well as the overall planning of sales, marketing, after-sales, and other related activities in Malaysia. Its dealership network covers 14 outlets in various cities in Malaysia.

Issued by:

BMW Malaysia Sdn Bhd

Sashi Ambi, Corporate Communications Manager, Malaysia
Telephone: (+603) 8887 3822, Fax: (+603) 8887 3801
E-mail: sashi.ambihaipahan@bmw.com.my
Media Website: www.press.bmwgroup.com

For media queries, please contact:
Fleishman-Hillard Kuala Lumpur
Nico Marco / Teoh Seet Heng / Tze Yau
Telephone: (+603) 2283 2730, Fax: (+603) 2283 2750
E-mail: nico.marco@fleishman.com / seet.teoh@fleishman.com / tze.yau@fleishman.com
Media Website: www.press.bmwgroup.com

Kuala Lumpur, 16 April 2009

BMW Malaysia today announced that its best-selling BMW 5 Series is now equipped with the new generation iDrive, empowering drivers with an even easier activation and control of entertainment, communication and navigation functions.

BMW first presented the iDrive control concept back in 2001, setting the benchmark as the world's first car maker to offer a system allowing the user to mastermind essential vehicle, entertainment, navigation and telecommunication functions via a central Controller on the centre console and a multi-functional Control Display in the instrument panel.

In the second generation BMW iDrive, BMW now offers a Control Display measuring 8.8 inches and exceeding all existing graphic surfaces seen in an automobile so far. Display resolution of 1,280 x 480 pixels allows for clear presentation of true-to-detail graphics with brilliance and focus comparable to a High Definition TV (HDTV).

"The BMW 5 series is one of the bestsellers for the BMW Group here in Malaysia. Despite the initial economic ripples of last year, our 2008 sales have grown to 7 per cent from the previous year (2008: 1,347; 2007: 1,261). We are confident that the new iDrive will continue to give the BMW 5 Series the greater competitive edge," Geoffrey Briscoe, BMW Malaysia Managing Director said.

The new generation iDrive also comes with eight favourite buttons on the centre console, enabling the user to save radio stations, telephone numbers and navigation destinations, including all menu items subsequently available for direct retrieval via the iDrive.

In cars equipped with the Navigation System Professional (523i SE, 525i Sports, 530i, Individual 540i and M5) an 80GB hard disc drive is used for improved operation speed and navigation data storage. Of this, 8GB of space is dedicated to allow users to store their personal music files (approximately 2,000 songs).

Another innovation to the control concept includes four direct selection keys on the Controller for the menu options used most frequently. The driver is able to spontaneously change between the CD, radio, telephone and navigation functions quickly and efficiently, making the entire system easy to learn and memorise.

"The BMW iDrive has revolutionised the control and operation of the car significantly and with a lasting impact. And now this pioneering work is paying off once again, with BMW iDrive remaining the benchmark for all systems of this kind," Briscoe said.

In addition, the new range of BMW 525i Sports, like the 530i, now come with a glass sliding roof with electric fingertip control for sliding back or raising the roof. It also has a trap release and comfort opening/closing function.

The retail prices (inclusive of BMW Service + Repair for three years/60,000 km package) the BMW 5 Series are:

About BMW Malaysia Sdn Bhd.

BMW Malaysia Sdn Bhd is a joint venture between Bayerische Motoren Werke (BMW) AG and Sime Darby Berhad. BMW Malaysia activities cover the wholesale of BMW cars, spare parts and accessories, as well as the overall planning of sales, marketing, after-sales, and other related activities in Malaysia. Its dealership network covers 14 outlets in various cities in Malaysia.

Issued by:

BMW Malaysia Sdn Bhd

Sashi Ambi, Corporate Communications Manager, Malaysia
Telephone: (+603) 8887 3822, Fax: (+603) 8887 3801
E-mail: sashi.ambihaipahan@bmw.com.my
Media Website: www.press.bmwgroup.com

For media queries, please contact:
Fleishman-Hillard Kuala Lumpur
Nico Marco / Teoh Seet Heng / Tze Yau
Telephone: (+603) 2283 2730, Fax: (+603) 2283 2750
E-mail: nico.marco@fleishman.com / seet.teoh@fleishman.com / tze.yau@fleishman.com
Media Website: www.press.bmwgroup.com

Kuala Lumpur, 10 April 2009

BMW Malaysia today announced the winners of its 1000loveMINI, a contest that enabled the 998th, 999th and 1000th MINI customer a visit to the MINI plant in Oxford, UK and a limited edition MINI roof art of their own.

The lucky winners were 998th customer Lina Tan Suan Jeu, 999th customer Mohmad Idris bin Seramal Baris and 1000th customer Chandrsekaran A/L Ramasamy. The winners purchased their MINIs from various official dealerships in Malaysia.

"The record 1,000 MINIs sold affirms the growing popularity of the pop-culture icon here in Malaysia. We are grateful that the 1000loveMINI promo received an overwhelming response," said Farid Sulaiman, MINI Manager.

The competition for existing MINI customers – whose captioned photos were uploaded in the promo website – was won by Khor Pee Lynn from Penang. Her simple but passionate photo aptly captioned "I love my MINI because…it's my love at first" also earned her a MINI plant visit and an invitation to the MINI's 50th birthday bash with MINI United in Silverstone UK.

True to the MINI's funky attitude, the limited edition roof art prize for the three winners was designed by Penang-born Munkao, a 26-year old artist whose work has become widely celebrated in the art centres of Los Angeles, New York, San Francisco and Singapore.

Also an active art player in the blogosphere, Munkao was educated in Singapore until returning to Kuala Lumpur to attend a local art college. Apart from pop-culture in general, he also counts his brother Billy Tan, now a US-based comic artist who has illustrated titles like Uncanny X-Men and Tomb Raider, as one of his key influences.

The specially designed roof decal was inspired from an "Iban" shield and its colour will be customised to suit the design of the winners' respective MINIs.

The creative shots from the other promo participants can be viewed at www.1000loveMINI.com.

About MINI

Mini, one of history's most popular icons, began its public life on the 26 August 1959. Designed by Sir Alec Issigonis, Mini was, in its purest form, a car that was simple, clean, agile and appealing to everyone. During its heyday in the 1960s, Mini was widely accepted as UK's most popular car and amazed everyone with its world-class performances at Monte Carlo rallies. In 1994, the BMW Group acquired the brand Mini, setting in motion the revitalisation of this much loved icon. In 2000, a new chapter began when the BMW Group unveiled the brand new MINI (all in caps, reflecting the relaunch) to the world with three models: MINI One, MINI Cooper and MINI Cooper S. MINI's success story continues today, charming fans and enthusiasts in more than 70 countries around the world.

About BMW Malaysia Sdn Bhd.

BMW Malaysia Sdn Bhd is a joint venture between Bayerische Motoren Werke (BMW) AG and Sime Darby Berhad. BMW Malaysia activities cover the wholesale of BMW cars, spare parts and accessories, as well as the overall planning of sales, marketing, after-sales, and other related activities in Malaysia. Its dealership network covers 14 outlets in various cities in Malaysia.

Issued by:

BMW Malaysia Sdn Bhd

Sashi Ambi, Corporate Communications Manager, Malaysia
Telephone: (+603) 8887 3822, Fax: (+603) 8887 3801
E-mail: sashi.ambihaipahan@bmw.com.my
Media Website: www.press.bmwgroup.com

For media queries, please contact:
Fleishman-Hillard Kuala Lumpur
Nico Marco / Teoh Seet Heng / Tze Yau
Telephone: (+603) 2283 2730, Fax: (+603) 2283 2750
E-mail: nico.marco@fleishman.com / seet.teoh@fleishman.com / tze.yau@fleishman.com
Media Website: www.press.bmwgroup.com

Kuala Lumpur, March 6th, 2009

BMW Malaysia today announced the launch of seven brand new motorcycles – the HP2 Sport, K 1300 S, K 1300 R, K 1300 GT, R 1200 R, F 650 GS and F 800 GS. The company expects that these new models will further enhance the brand's performance in 2009 as well as cater to the needs of biking enthusiasts.

The demand for BMW motorbikes has grown significantly over the last three years. The brand saw retail sales of 183 units last year which represents a 36% increase in sales compared to 2007.

The release of these new models is expected to inject excitement into the motoring world and further boost sales in 2009. According to BMW Malaysia's Motorrad Manager, Fazli Shukor, the demand for these new BMW motorbikes has been very strong with customers' waiting-in-line for new models.

"We already have pre-bookings as there is strong demand from our customers, which is not surprising as BMW Motorrad customers are quite faithful to the brand. What we see as an interesting trend though is that the brand has attracted many new customers from a younger profile which shows in our sales performance", he said. Shukor attributed the growth in part to BMW Financial Services which is one of the few avenues for financing in this segment.

This new stable of bikes cuts across various segments - the internationally acclaimed GS dual-purpose series, the K-series range of sports bikes and tourers, the R-series of 'streetbikes' and in the super sports category, the HP 2 Sport. The 7 models launched represent the latest in terms of technology and sophistication.

The introduction of the K 1300 series is highly anticipated by riding enthusiasts since it is an enhanced version of its predecessor, the K 1200 series, which is renowned for high performance, advanced technology and powerful engines. The K 1300 S is the fastest motorcycle ever produced by BMW Motorrad (0 to 100KM/h in under 2.8 seconds).

The HP2 Sport is making its debut in Malaysia and is categorized as a High Performance motorcycle suited very much for the race track. This is the motorbike that marked the return of BMW Motorrad to racing when it featured in the 2008 Endurance Champioships. The HP2 Sport is produced in limited numbers worldwide with only 11 units made available in Malaysia. The engine is the pinnacle of the traditional BMW boxer design.

The R 1200 R is a worthy successor to the R 1150 R, continuing a long tradition in the production of roadster motorcycles. Record sales worldwide of its predecessors reflect a great demand for a motorcycle which combines classic design with unique character and invigorating performance.

The F 800 GS and F 650 GS are completely new enduro models which not only expand the existing range of products, but are also entry level bikes to the famous GS world.

The retail prices (on the road including personal road tax registration excluding insurance) are as follows;

HP2 Sport - RM158, 888
K 1300 S - RM119, 000
K 1300 R - RM120, 000
K 1300 GT - RM135, 000
R 1200 R - RM108, 000
F 650 GS - RM71, 000
F 800 GS - RM83, 800

All these models include a 2 year warranty with unlimited mileage and will be made available exclusively at Auto Bavaria Bukit Bintang and Auto Bavaria Penang from March 9, 2009.

About BMW Malaysia Sdn Bhd.

BMW Malaysia Sdn Bhd is a joint venture between Bayerische Motoren Werke (BMW) AG and Sime Darby Berhad. BMW Malaysia activities cover the wholesale of BMW cars, spare parts and accessories, as well as the overall planning of sales, marketing, after-sales, and other related activities in Malaysia. Its dealership network covers 14 outlets in various cities in Malaysia.

Issued by:

BMW Malaysia Sdn Bhd

Sashi Ambi, Corporate Communications Manager, Malaysia
Telephone: (+603) 8887 3822, Fax: (+603) 8887 3801
E-mail: sashi.ambihaipahan@bmw.com.my
Media Website: www.press.bmwgroup.com

For media queries, please contact:
Fleishman-Hillard Kuala Lumpur
Nico Marco / Teoh Seet Heng / Tze Yau
Telephone: (+603) 2283 2730, Fax: (+603) 2283 2750
E-mail: nico.marco@fleishman.com / seet.teoh@fleishman.com / tze.yau@fleishman.com
Media Website: www.press.bmwgroup.com

Munich/Kuala Lumpur, 13 March 2009

By far the most efficient premium-segment vehicles on the German automobile market are built by BMW and MINI. The official calculation of fleet consumption initiated by the BMW Group and carried out by the Federal Motor Transport Authority is certified confirmation of this exceptional position held by BMW Group brands.

Current statistics calculated by the Flensburg-based authority show that BMW and MINI brand vehicles newly registered in Germany during 2008 have an average fuel consumption of 5.9 litres/100 km and average emission levels of 158 grams per km. Both levels lie well below the average of all newly registered vehicles manufactured in Germany, which is at 165 grams.

"For more than a decade, BMW has been aggressively working on its EfficientDynamics strategy which highlights less fuel consumption without affecting driving pleasures. The Federal Motor Transport Authority calculation shows that not only are we on the right track, we are also making great progress." said Geoffrey Briscoe, Managing Director of BMW Malaysia.

At brand level, too, BMW does better than its main competitors in the premium segment by significantly more than half a litre of fuel consumption with an average level of 160 g CO₂/km. The vehicles of the next best competitor have a CO₂ emissions level of 16 grams more than the models of the brand BMW, with the next competitor after this at a level which is as much as 28 g higher than the brand BMW - equal to a whole litre of diesel.

Between 2006 and 2008, the brand BMW achieved a reduction in fuel consumption of 16%, more than doubling the reduction attained by the next best premium segment competitor. The positive situation of the BMW Group is complemented by the brand MINI, which attained a reduction of CO₂ emission levels of 206% between the same periods of time, with an average level of 139 g/km.

On statistic average a BMW or a MINI brand vehicle burns significantly less fuel than the average new car produced in Germany. Moreover, with regard to fleet consumption determined by the FMTA, the BMW Group also beats Europe's largest high-volume manufacturer, taking it to level peg with a number of car builders whose product portfolio includes a considerably higher percentage of small cars.

Briscoe further added "Surely the result shows that we are better prepared than other competitors in meeting the demand of more efficient cars. BMW and MINI fuel consumption and CO₂ emissions are considerably better than those achieved by the average German automobile."

At an EU level, BMW and MINI achieve fuel consumption and emission levels below the overall average of all European car manufacturers. Between 1995 and the end of 2008 the BMW Group cut fuel consumption of its vehicles sold in Europe by more than 25 percent, even exceeding the respective requirements for their brands stipulated by the ACEA commitment (ACEA = Association of European Automobile Manufacturers).

Following the footsteps of its global counterparts, BMW Malaysia recently launched the new BMW 7 Series that features the world's most efficient V8 petrol engine and the most powerful straight-six within BMW's line-up. In their respective power and performance segments they offer an incomparably good balance of power and economy all in one, thus complying in full with the BMW EfficientDynamics development strategy.

"EfficientDynamics in Malaysia is going full blast this year with the introduction of diesel models. We can see that the government is taking progressive steps in promoting diesel, clearly now is the best time ever." added Briscoe.

About BMW Malaysia Sdn Bhd.

BMW Malaysia Sdn Bhd is a joint venture between Bayerische Motoren Werke (BMW) AG and Sime Darby Berhad. BMW Malaysia activities cover the wholesale of BMW cars, spare parts and accessories, as well as the overall planning of sales, marketing, after-sales, and other related activities in Malaysia. Its dealership network covers 14 outlets in various cities in Malaysia.

Issued by:

BMW Malaysia Sdn Bhd

Sashi Ambi, Corporate Communications Manager, Malaysia
Telephone: (+603) 8887 3822, Fax: (+603) 8887 3801
E-mail: sashi.ambihaipahan@bmw.com.my
Media Website: www.press.bmwgroup.com

For media queries, please contact:
Fleishman-Hillard Kuala Lumpur
Nico Marco / Teoh Seet Heng / Tze Yau
Telephone: (+603) 2283 2730, Fax: (+603) 2283 2750
E-mail: nico.marco@fleishman.com / seet.teoh@fleishman.com / tze.yau@fleishman.com
Media Website: www.press.bmwgroup.com

Kuala Lumpur, 5th March 2009

BMW Malaysia is once again pioneering a new technology for the automotive market: Cars that communicate with dealerships by themselves. Dubbed BMW TeleServices, the service is the first in Malaysia that automatically connects the vehicle to the car dealership through a mobile network device.

BMW TeleServices allows the car to communicate its service needs to a BMW server when a particular service is due. This information is then relayed to the customer's dealership of choice which in turn will contact the owner to set a convenient time for the required service within 24-48 hours from the time the service is triggered.

"Using experience gained from Formula 1, BMW pioneered intelligent diagnosis-based servicing. The functionality of BMW TeleServices ensures more road time for the driver, and allows customers to enjoy access to high-calibre technology and services," said Vijayaratnam Tharumartnam, Corporate Affairs Manager, BMW Group Malaysia.

The on-board Condition Based Service (CBS) maintenance system allows the car to determine the due service date and the type of service required. Since BMW Teleservices provides a specific service profile for each vehicle, this allows for the dealership to have all the necessary spare parts ready prior to the service date. On the appointed date and time, the customer simply has to bring in the vehicle and work can begin immediately with minimal diagnostics.

Planning a service appoinment in advance gives the customer greater freedom to meet individual needs. It also allows for greater standards of service from BMW. With Teleservices a dealership can offer a much better service experience while increasing its' operating efficiency to a much higher level.

"This is part of our effort to ensure that a BMW Malaysia customer gets the best possible ownership experience. In combination with our other products and services like BMW Service & Repair Inclusive and BMW Insurance, BMW owners here have a comprehensive ownership package which is unmatched in the premium segment", added Vijayaratnam.

All BMW owners in Malaysia whose vehicles come with bluetooth preparation and navigation profesional system will get to enjoy this benefit from March. The service is now being fully implemented in all BMW dealerships. BMW TeleServices is part of BMW ConnectedDrive services. More features under these services will be rolled-out in Malaysia this year.

About BMW Malaysia Sdn Bhd.

BMW Malaysia Sdn Bhd is a joint venture between Bayerische Motoren Werke (BMW) AG and Sime Darby Berhad. BMW Malaysia activities cover the wholesale of BMW cars, spare parts and accessories, as well as the overall planning of sales, marketing, after-sales, and other related activities in Malaysia. Its dealership network covers 14 outlets in various cities in Malaysia.

Issued by:

BMW Malaysia Sdn Bhd

Sashi Ambi, Corporate Communications Manager, Malaysia
Telephone: (+603) 8887 3822, Fax: (+603) 8887 3801
E-mail: sashi.ambihaipahan@bmw.com.my
Media Website: www.press.bmwgroup.com

For media queries, please contact:
Fleishman-Hillard Kuala Lumpur
Nico Marco / Teoh Seet Heng / Tze Yau
Telephone: (+603) 2283 2730, Fax: (+603) 2283 2750
E-mail: nico.marco@fleishman.com / seet.teoh@fleishman.com / tze.yau@fleishman.com
Media Website: www.press.bmwgroup.com

Kuala Lumpur, 7th January 2009

BMW Group Malaysia reported an overall growth of 12 per cent compared to 2007. A total of 3,514 units of BMWs (previous year: 3,151) and 201 units of MINIs (previous year: 185) were sold, bringing the total number of vehicles sold by BMW Malaysia up to 3,715 units.

"As projected, we have done very well in achieving double digit growth despite what was perceived to be a challenging climate," said Geoffrey Briscoe, BMW Malaysia's Managing Director. "This is a good result by any means but even more astounding as it is the first time the BMW brand crossed the 3,500 mark while the MINI crossed the 200 mark."

The BMW X5 had the highest growth rate, recording a 203 per cent growth with 176 units delivered compared to 58 units in 2007. In addition to the high demand for the X5, the new BMW X6 – which is the world's first Sports Activity Coupé (SAC) saw delivery of 21 units since its launch in Malaysia in August, while the X3 sold 103 units (previous year: 101)

The two key volume models the BMW 3 Series and BMW 5 Series performed extremely well. The 3 Series saw a growth of over 10 percent with 1677 units (previous year: 1521). The 5 Series in the meantime showed a growth of 7 per cent with 1347 units sold (previous year: 1261)

Briscoe said that while volume was important, it was even more critical that this was not achieved at the expense of profit. "It's not just about total volume for us as the BMW Group puts a very high emphasis on profitability. In that sense this years results were even more encouraging because we were able to sell our cars whilst providing additional value and services to our customers", he said.

The BMW 1 Series sales increased by 28 per cent with 65 units sold in 2008 (previous year: 51). In the MINI family, the highest-selling model was the MINI Cooper S, with 100 units while the MINI Cooper sold 55 units. The new MINI Clubman also did well accounting for 19 units.

"Our good performance this year can be attributed to several factors starting with an excellent product line-up. The customers in the premium segment are very discerning and expect a lot from their purchases and I think that in that sense, the BMW Group has been able to deliver. We have also been successful because of value-add services unique to our brand like BMW Service Inclusive + Repair, BMW Finance Schemes and BMW Insurance", Briscoe concluded. "While 2009 will not be an easy year, we are optimistic that we will be able to meet our targets and continue to further our position in the Malaysian market".

About BMW Malaysia Sdn Bhd.

BMW Malaysia Sdn Bhd is a joint venture between Bayerische Motoren Werke (BMW) AG and Sime Darby Berhad. BMW Malaysia activities cover the wholesale of BMW cars, spare parts and accessories, as well as the overall planning of sales, marketing, after-sales, and other related activities in Malaysia. Its dealership network covers 14 outlets in various cities in Malaysia.

Issued by:

BMW Malaysia Sdn Bhd

Sashi Ambi, Corporate Communications Manager, Malaysia
Telephone: (+603) 8887 3822, Fax: (+603) 8887 3801
E-mail: sashi.ambihaipahan@bmw.com.my
Media Website: www.press.bmwgroup.com

For media queries, please contact:
Fleishman-Hillard Kuala Lumpur
Nico Marco / Teoh Seet Heng / Tze Yau
Telephone: (+603) 2283 2730, Fax: (+603) 2283 2750
E-mail: nico.marco@fleishman.com / seet.teoh@fleishman.com / tze.yau@fleishman.com
Media Website: www.press.bmwgroup.com

Kuala Lumpur, 14th January 2009

BMW Malaysia Sdn Bhd today introduced the new BMW 7 Series, setting the benchmark yet again in the topmost segment of the premium market. The fifth generation of the BMW 7 Series represents the pinnacle of style, luxury and driving experience.

Geoffrey Briscoe, Managing Director of BMW Malaysia, said the new BMW 7 Series will be pivotal in leading the company forward, as was its predecessor. The previous BMW 7 Series was the most successful 7 Series ever.

"In Malaysia, the outgoing BMW 7 Series was a major triumph and marked a turning point for us in this segment. With this car, we managed to increase our sales by 153% compared to its predecessor", he said.

The new BMW 7 Series is the result of perfection in design and supreme engineering on the drivetrain, chassis, safety systems, driver assistance, and comfort. At the same time the sophisticated but very modern interior makes both driving and riding in the new BMW 7 Series a truly impressive experience the driver and all passengers will enjoy at all times.

The new BMW 7 Series is entering the local market with two variants, the BMW 750Li and the BMW 740Li. Both have extended wheelbases making them the longest in the luxury saloon segment and with a particular focus on supreme comfort at the rear.

"The new 7 Series represents the last word in luxury, style and sophistication. It is technologically unsurpassed featuring innovations and technology previously unseen in this segment", said Briscoe. "It will be one of the most important cars of the year for us as it represents the ultimate in terms of luxury, style and technology, interpreted in the unique fashion that is synonymous with the BMW brand".

Featuring the world's most efficient V8 petrol engine and the most powerful straight-six within BMW's line-up, the power units available stand out through dynamic power and performance, supreme motoring culture, and unique efficiency. In their respective power and performance segments they offer an incomparably good balance of power and economy all in one. The engines thus comply in full with the BMW EfficientDynamics development strategy.

The most important technical asset shared by both petrol engines is Twin Turbo technology exclusive to BMW in conjunction with High Precision Injection. Featuring these sophisticated systems, both drive units achieve a level of power and torque natural-aspiration engines would only be able to offer on much larger engine displacement and with an inevitable increase in weight.

The 750Li comes with a 4.4 litre eight-cylinder power unit that develops 300 kW/407 hp while the 740Li comes with the award winning 3.0 litre power unit developing 240 kW/326 hp.

According to Briscoe the two engines were an important part of BMWs Efficientdynamics strategy. "The new BMW 7 Series proves that efficiency and luxury are not a contradiction in terms. Our new model features the most efficient engines in its segment and this is something we will continue to do across all our model lines", he said.

Ensuring harmonised driving dynamics and comfort, the 7 Series is the first BMW sedan to feature a double-joint front axle and integral-V rear axle that are made largely of aluminium. The aluminium construction provides a lighter feel, guaranteeing a particular comfort made only possible by strict separation of wheel guidance and damping functions.

Integral Active Steering – the most intelligent car steering system ever designed – is now making its world debut in the new BMW 7 Series. This option varies the steering angle via an additional transmission on the front-wheel Active Steering, and the steering angle on the rear wheels.

At low speeds the rear wheels are turned against the steering angle of the front wheels to give the BMW 7 Series significantly greater agility on the road. At higher speeds, when changing lanes and in bends, the Integral Active Steering with the rear wheels turning in the same direction as the front wheels gives the car a sophisticated level of motoring comfort and supremacy.

The BMW 7 Series' trendsetting character is heightened with several automotive firsts.

The flagship car carries the distinction of having the world's first Side View camera system. In addition to Park Distance Control that aids slow speed manoeuvring, the front side view camera system provides a higher level of driver awareness. With the touch of a button, two forward facing cameras mounted in the front bumper can show an overview of traffic conditions on the iDrive display. This allows the driver to negotiate a partially obscured junction, leave a car park or drive through a narrow gate with confidence.

The world's most advanced Night Vision system can also be found in the new 7. BMW, being the first manufacturer to fit Night Vision to a premium car, has upgraded this package to include a pedestrian recognition system. A control unit analyzes video data of human behaviour as part of the Night Vision camera's reach and can subsequently alert the driver if it detects someone moving into the path of the vehicle.

Building on these technological innovations, the new 7 Series also features Lane Departure Warning. This is a system that first appeared in the BMW 5 and 6 Series models and uses a camera to monitor road markings. Should the driver start to stray out of lane, a gentle vibration of the steering wheel will provide a warning alert.

Completing these technological innovations, the latest generation BMW 7 Series is the first to have the Dynamic Damper Control through the Dynamic Driving Control button. With Dynamic Driving Control, the set-up of the car may be varied for COMFORT, NORMAL, SPORT and SPORT+ at the simple touch of a button, acting not only on the Dynamic Damper Control and the DSC Dynamic Stability Control threshold points, but also on the gearshift dynamics of the automatic transmission as well as the gas pedal and steering assistance control maps

The harmonious symbiosis of elegance and high performance driving is the greatest forte in the body design of the new BMW 7 Series. Over and above the long wheelbase, the sleek and stretched out engine compartment lid and the short transition at the front, coupled with the passenger compartment moved further to the rear and the low roofline gives the new BMW 7 Series added characteristics that further sets it apart from its predecessor and its competitors

The perfectly balanced interplay of these features are best displayed from the sideline of the car where the dynamic proportions clearly accentuate the sporting character of the sedan, with the car's sleek lines adding a distinctive touch of style.

The new BMW 7 Series comes with one of the most luxurious interiors of any premium car, combined with ample knee-room and headroom. In addition to a new iDrive controller, customers will be able to programme frequently selected radio stations or navigation destinations on favourite buttons located on the centre console. For the first time on a BMW, the instrument cluster comprises a high-resolution colour display with Black Panel technology

About BMW Malaysia Sdn Bhd.

BMW Malaysia Sdn Bhd is a joint venture between Bayerische Motoren Werke (BMW) AG and Sime Darby Berhad. BMW Malaysia activities cover the wholesale of BMW cars, spare parts and accessories, as well as the overall planning of sales, marketing, after-sales, and other related activities in Malaysia. Its dealership network covers 14 outlets in various cities in Malaysia.

Issued by:

BMW Malaysia Sdn Bhd

Sashi Ambi, Corporate Communications Manager, Malaysia
Telephone: (+603) 8887 3822, Fax: (+603) 8887 3801
E-mail: sashi.ambihaipahan@bmw.com.my
Media Website: www.press.bmwgroup.com

For media queries, please contact:
Fleishman-Hillard Kuala Lumpur
Nico Marco / Teoh Seet Heng / Tze Yau
Telephone: (+603) 2283 2730, Fax: (+603) 2283 2750
E-mail: nico.marco@fleishman.com / seet.teoh@fleishman.com / tze.yau@fleishman.com
Media Website: www.press.bmwgroup.com

Kuala Lumpur, 20th November 2008

BMW Malaysia today launched the latest model of its best-selling BMW 3 Series, asserting that the new car will strengthen the 3's position as the sportiest and most efficient vehicle in its segment.

For more than three decades, the BMW 3 Series has maintained pole position as the most widely sold premium vehicle in the world. The new BMW 3 Series continues to set the bar even higher with new engines, styling, and the latest BMW technology.

"The BMW 3 Series is the culmination of everything a sedan should be and the latest BMW 3 Series further strengthens its position as the sportiest and most efficient vehicle in its segment" said Geoffrey Briscoe, BMW Malaysia's Managing Director.

"Following the launch of the BMW 3 Series in spring 2005, we have built and sold some 1,000,000 Sedan units worldwide. It is the vehicle with the highest retail volume for the BMW Group," Briscoe said "In Malaysia, we have sold a total of 7,762 units from 2003 until October 2008. It is a consistent leader in its segment for the BMW Group both locally and internationally."

Briscoe added that the first generation of the new BMW 3 Series (Spring 2005 till present) was so successful that it exceeded the first three year sales of its predecessor by 15 per cent. A total of 873,318 were sold from 2005 until 2007 globally, compared to 756,144 sold from 1998 until 2000. He said the company was equally confident of growth for the new car.

Malaysia, a key growth market in the region for the BMW 3 Series Sedan, recorded 22.56 per cent compounded sales from 2005 until 2007, and increased market share in its segment from 40 per cent in 2005 to 50 per cent last year.

Offering unparalleled driving dynamics, premium substance and efficiency, the new BMW 3 Series Sedan sets unsurpassed standards with rear-wheel drive, harmonious axle load distribution, steering precision and highly sophisticated chassis technology.

With four petrol engines, the new BMW 3 Series offers the most extensive range of engines in its segment, with one all new 6-cylinder engine. The five variants of the new BMW 3 Series are the 320i, 320i Sports, 323i, 325i Sports and the 335i.

An important addition to the fleet is the BMW 323i. This is an all new variant, previously not available in Malaysia. Accelerating from zero to 100 km/h in 8.7 seconds with an average fuel consumption of 8.8 litres per kilometres, the 323i is a classic demonstration of BMW's EfficientDynamics philosophy. This new car offers unsurpassed performance yet still manages to lead in terms of consumption and emissions.

"The local introduction of the BMW 323i is another testament of our commitment to make available more models within each segment in the Malaysian market. This is part of our overall strategy of offering greater options to our customers," Briscoe said.

The new BMW 3 Series has the most sophisticated chassis technology in its segment. At the rear axle, there is a five-link construction which is adapted to the needs of the especially high-power and high-torque engines. The front axle of the BMW 3 Series also reflects a unique standard of engineering, with a dual-arm tension strut axle with stabiliser, largely made of aluminium.

With striking design accentuations to the front section, the new 3 Series sports arrow-shaped character lines on the hood and broadened kidney with closed chrome frame. The characteristic brand look of the double circular headlights is underscored by means of chrome tubes, and its corona rings can now also be used in the BMW 3 Series Sedan with bi-xenon headlamps as daytime running lights. The dynamic character of the new BMW 3 Series Sedan has also been given additional emphasis with newly designed front bumpers with enlarged air intake.

Powerfully taut surfaces and striking character lines dominate the side view of the new BMW 3 Series, while the rear section has a broader effect due to more detailed lines. The dual section rear lights are now structured according to the characteristic BMW L-shape. The two LED rear light clusters and the direction indicators in LED technology are designed to create a striking, high-quality appearance.

The modern, high-quality interior of the BMW 3 Series has been further enhanced by means of specific modifications in the selection of materials and surface design. Modern design concepts are also applied, with its convex-concave surfaces, sporty elegance and technology-oriented aesthetic style.

A new generation of the BMW iDrive operating system in conjunction with navigation systems is now available in the new BMW 3 Series. The new iDrive in the BMW 3 Series is presented with an 8.8-inch Control Display, surpassing the dimensions of all graphic displays available to date in the automobile field. Storage medium with a capacity of 80 GB provides outstandingly vast access to digital maps for navigation purposes and can also be used as an extensive collection of music files.

The safety concept of the new BMW 3 Series is based on a solid body structure, the selective application of high-strength steel types and special deformation elements which divert and absorb impact energy. The front seats of the new BMW 3 Series are fitted with crash-active headrests as standard, which significantly reduce the risk of injury to the cervical spine in the event of an impact. A contribution to active safety is made by the new generation of adaptive headlights, available in the BMW 335i in conjunction with bi-xenon headlamps. It guarantees illumination of the road surface when taking a corner.

"The new BMW 3 Series represents the next step in the evolution of the 3Series and we intend to grow the segment by building on our EfficientDynamics advantage. While today we are launching 4 engine variants, we hope to add more to the line in the coming months to give Malaysian customers the distinct advantage of BMW's advanced technology", said Briscoe.

The retail prices (on the road, without insurance, with BMW Service Inclusive + Repair) for the new BMW 3 Series are as follow:

Individual 335i - RM539, 800
325i Sports - RM309, 800
323i - RM275, 800
320i Sports - RM248, 800
320i - RM236, 800

About BMW Malaysia Sdn Bhd

BMW Malaysia Sdn Bhd is a joint venture between Bayerische Motoren Werke (BMW) AG and Sime Darby Berhad. BMW Malaysia activities cover the wholesale of BMW cars, spare parts and accessories, as well as the overall planning of sales, marketing, after-sales, and other related activities in Malaysia. Its dealership network covers 14 outlets in various cities in Malaysia.

Issued by:

BMW Malaysia Sdn Bhd

Sashi Ambi, Corporate Communications Manager, Malaysia
Telephone: (+603) 8887 3822, Fax: (+603) 8887 3801
E-mail: sashi.ambihaipahan@bmw.com.my
Media Website: www.press.bmwgroup.com

For media queries, please contact:
Fleishman-Hillard Kuala Lumpur
Nico Marco / Teoh Seet Heng / Tze Yau
Telephone: (+603) 2283 2730, Fax: (+603) 2283 2750
E-mail: nico.marco@fleishman.com / seet.teoh@fleishman.com / tze.yau@fleishman.com
Media Website: www.press.bmwgroup.com

Cyberjaya, 23 October 2008

BMW Malaysia Sdn Bhd bagged two awards at the prestigious AUTOCAR Asean Car of the Year Awards 2008 yesterday, once again reinforcing commercial success with critical acclaim.

BMW Malaysia emerged as the clear winner in the hotly contested Mid-size Luxury Sedan and Large Luxury SUV categories, which reinforce the stature of both the BMW 5 Series and the newly-launched BMW X6.

"It is a great honour to be the recipient of these awards from an organisation as highly reputable as AUTOCAR Asean," said Geoffrey Briscoe, Managing Director, of BMW Malaysia Sdn Bhd. "The 5 Series has no doubt become one of BMW's best-selling models here in Malaysia and the X6, with its innovation as a Sports Activity Coupé, is definitely in a class of its own."

"It is our commitment to provide our customers with the ultimate driving machine - combining style, driving performance, advanced technology, comfort and luxury. So far, our track record, such as these awards from AUTOCAR Asean, has clearly shown that we have been keeping to our promises," Briscoe added.

The AUTOCAR Asean Car of the Year Awards 2008 is an awards ceremony organised by MTM Publications to judge new models introduced between June 2007 and August this year . The awards honour vehicles in 14 categories to cover a wide spectrum of vehicles sold in Malaysia. Only vehicles assembled locally or officially imported by franchise holders are eligible.

From a list of more than 70 new models, 50 models were selected as finalists for the 14 categories. The categories include Small Sedan/ Hatchback, Compact Sedan/ Hatchback, Mid-size Sedan/ Hatchback, Large Sedan, Small/ Mid-size SUV, Large SUV, Mid-size Luxury Sedan, Small Luxury Hatchback/ Coupe, Compact Luxury Sedan, Large Luxury SUV, Small/ Medium MPV, Large MPV, Pick-up Truck and Performance Car.

A panel of four judges selected the finalists based on a variety of criteria, such as styling, utility, safety, features, build quality, brand image, ride, handling, economy, performance and value for money. Each model was assessed in local conditions and points were allocated for each criterion, with the model scoring the highest number of points winning the award in its category.

Denis Wong, MTM Publishing's Head of Operation and one of AUTOCAR Asean's COTY Awards 2008 judges said, "The overall package was a big factor. Recently face-lifted and loaded with features like sat-nav, heads-up display, along with its typically excellent drivetrains, the BMW 5-Series proved too much for the competition."

On the choice of the BMW X6, Wong said, "Its radical concept and styling makes the BMW X6 stand out. More impressive is how this SUV drives like a hot hatch. While the judges agreed that the X6 comes at a premium, in this case, you get what you pay for," said Mr. Wong.

Jonathan Towned, BMW's Financial Director, accepted the two awards on behalf of BMW Malaysia.

About BMW Malaysia Sdn Bhd

BMW Malaysia Sdn Bhd is a joint venture between Bayerische Motoren Werke (BMW) AG and Sime Darby Berhad. BMW Malaysia activities cover the wholesale of BMW cars, spare parts and accessories, as well as the overall planning of sales, marketing, after-sales, and other related activities in Malaysia. Its dealership network covers 14 outlets in various cities in Malaysia.

Issued by:

BMW Malaysia Sdn Bhd

Sashi Ambi, Corporate Communications Manager, Malaysia
Telephone: (+603) 8887 3822, Fax: (+603) 8887 3801
E-mail: sashi.ambihaipahan@bmw.com.my
Media Website: www.press.bmwgroup.com

For media queries, please contact:
Fleishman-Hillard Kuala Lumpur
Nico Marco / Teoh Seet Heng / Tze Yau
Telephone: (+603) 2283 2730, Fax: (+603) 2283 2750
E-mail: nico.marco@fleishman.com / seet.teoh@fleishman.com / tze.yau@fleishman.com
Media Website: www.press.bmwgroup.com

Kuala Lumpur, 9th October 2008

BMW Malaysia reported a 32 per cent increase in its sales volume for the first 3 quarters of 2008, compared to the same period in 2007.

A total of 2,736 units of BMWs (previous year: 2,095) and148 units of MINIs (previous year: 95) were sold, bringing the total number of vehicles sold by BMW Malaysia up to 2,884 units.

"Despite less than rosy sentiments and industry predictions that the automotive industry will see a significant reduction in sales, BMW Malaysia's sales volume has held up very well," said Geoffrey Briscoe, BMW Malaysia's Managing Director. "Though we recognise that the recent escalation of the global financial crisis is affecting consumer confidence, we remain optimistic about the Malaysian market. Our sales figures point to a better total year performance."

The BMW X5 has the highest growth rate, recording a 250 per cent growth with 147 units delivered compared to 42 units in 2007. In September alone, 30 units were sold, making it the highest number of X5s sold in a month for this year. Whilst the most popular X5 model is the BMW X5 3.0si, the 3.0 diesel now accounts for 14% of the total volume.

"The advancements in engine technology have made diesel vehicles a far more viable alternative," said Briscoe. "With the recent road tax reduction, we are hopeful that more car buyers will opt for energy-efficient diesel models such as the BMW X5 3.0d."

Demand for the overall premium SUV segment is also clearly on the rise. In addition to the high demand for the X5, the new BMW X6 – which is the world's first Sports Activity Coupé (SAC) – has seen delivery of 18 units since its launch in Malaysia in August, while the X3 sales surged by 96 per cent, with 99 units sold compared to the corresponding period last year.

The BMW 1 Series had 56 units sold by the end of the third quarter, marking a 211 per cent growth compared to 2007's sales. This significant growth in numbers also marks a shift in interest and demand for compact vehicles in light of the increase in petrol prices and concern over environmental issues.

Not to be outdone, the BMW 3 Series and BMW 5 Series continue to be the best-selling models with 1,259 units (previous year: 1,018) and 1,039 units (previous year: 866) sold respectively.

"With the introduction of the latest model last year, the BMW 5 Series' complete package of technology, innovation and luxury has made it the benchmark in its segment, attracting an even stronger following as evidenced from its robust sales this year," said Briscoe.

In the MINI family, the highest-selling model is the MINI Cooper S, with 76 units sold up to the end of September, followed by the MINI Cooper with 39 units sold.

"The difficult condition for the automotive industry in Malaysia remains a challenge, even for premium brands such as BMW. However, our efforts in further enhancing the brand by bringing in more high performance and fuel-efficient vehicles coupled with quality service and innovative financing and insurance by BMW Credit, will assure our position as the fastest growing brand in the premium vehicle segment in Malaysia," Briscoe concluded.

About BMW Malaysia Sdn Bhd

BMW Malaysia Sdn Bhd is a joint venture between Bayerische Motoren Werke (BMW) AG and Sime Darby Berhad. BMW Malaysia activities cover the wholesale of BMW cars, spare parts and accessories, as well as the overall planning of sales, marketing, after-sales, and other related activities in Malaysia. Its dealership network covers 14 outlets in various cities in Malaysia.

Issued by:

BMW Malaysia Sdn Bhd

Sashi Ambi, Corporate Communications Manager, Malaysia
Telephone: (+603) 8887 3822, Fax: (+603) 8887 3801
E-mail: sashi.ambihaipahan@bmw.com.my
Media Website: www.press.bmwgroup.com

For media queries, please contact:
Fleishman-Hillard Kuala Lumpur
Nico Marco / Teoh Seet Heng / Tze Yau
Telephone: (+603) 2283 2730, Fax: (+603) 2283 2750
E-mail: nico.marco@fleishman.com / seet.teoh@fleishman.com / tze.yau@fleishman.com
Media Website: www.press.bmwgroup.com

Kuala Lumpur, 21 August 2008

BMW Malaysia today introduced the BMW X6, the world's first Sports Activity Coupé which offers a brand new, innovative interpretation of the features and design qualities typical of a large BMW Coupé while incorporating the versatility and dynamic personality of a BMW X model.

Combining the best of two exclusive automotive worlds, the BMW X6 exemplifies superior driving dynamics, all wrapped in the svelte lines of a Coupé. BMW Malaysia is offering the BMW X6 xDrive35i with other variants to follow 2009.

Presenting the BMW X6, Mr. Geoffrey Briscoe, Managing Director of BMW Malaysia Sdn Bhd said, "The BMW X6 makes history as the world's first Sports Activity Coupé. It is an innovative interpretation of the features and design qualities, uniting Coupé agility and BMW X's supremacy on all terrains."

Briscoe added that BMW has already sold 6,082 units of their new X6 worldwide despite having launched the car only a 3 months ago in Spartanburg, United States. "Accounting for global sales of more than 1.1 million vehicles sold since the market launch of the first BMW X5 in 1999, the BMW X models have given BMW a strong and successful position in the SAV/SUV segment." said Briscoe. "BMW X6 is expected to up the ante by meeting the demand of a different niche."

The BMW X6 comes 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 via xDrive, but also by means of Dynamic Performance Control between the two rear wheels. This maintains a superior stabilising function even under sudden load change.

The term "Dynamic Performance Control" defines a mechatronic system serving to distribute drive forces infinitely to the rear wheels regardless of engine output. To provide this effect the final drive is combined with two superimposed gearsets and two electronically controlled multiple-plate brakes serving to infinitely vary the otherwise symmetrical distribution of drive forces when driving in a straight line.

Entering its 5th year of operations, the company has been very successful, having become the fastest growing premium brand and recording a compounded growth of nearly 54% in the corresponding period. It has also continued to invest in Malaysia, most recently adding a finance arm , BMW Credit & BMW Lease Sdn Bhd., which further complements the National and Regional operations, all run out of Malaysia.

The special highlight of this unique development by BMW is that for the first time this system is able to actively distribute drive forces even in the overrun mode and with the clutch disengaged.

The X6 xDrive35i offers a six-cylinder petrol engine with Twin Turbo technology and High Precision Injection with 225 kW/306 bhp, combining high power output and exemplary fuel efficiency (only 10.9 l/100km). All engines are mated to a six-speed automatic transmission with gearshifts via the electronic gear selector lever or via the paddle shifters on the steering wheel.

Presenting individual and extravagant looks, the BMW X6 boasts the proportions of a genuine Coupé. It accommodates the driver and front passenger as well as two passengers at the rear. It has a sporting, striking front end with large air intakes, stretched side-line, low greenhouse, strikingly designed wheel arches as well as the high waistline which bears a clear resemblance in style to BMW's other X models.

The interior of the BMX X6 offers a unique combination of exclusive luxury, sporting dynamics and powerful design to the very last detail. Sophisticated, high-quality surfaces make the interior an outstanding experience in touch and looks. As with all BMW X models, the new Sports Activity Coupé offers an elevated, commanding seating position giving the driver an even better feeling of security and superiority in his BMW X6. The four-door coupé also comes with highly adjustable luggage compartment (570–1,450 litres/20.0–50.8 cu ft).

Defined by a considerable enhancement of agility and unique stability, the BMW X6 comes with standard performance offerings such as BMW's intelligent xDrive all-wheel drive technology, Dynamic Stability Control, Active Steering and Dynamic Performance Control.

The body structure of the BMW X6 was 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 known crash-tests. Occupant safety is ensured by 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. Other safety measures include bi-xenon dual headlights including a daytime light function, fog lamps, two-stage brake lights, and runflat tyres.

Standard equipment include BMW's iDrive with personalised favourite buttons, CD-player compatible with an MP3, AUX-in socket featured as standard, multichannel Hi-Fi audio system, 4-zone automatic air conditioning, back-up camera, navigation systems, Head-up Display (HUD), Adaptive Headlights, Bluetooth, Comfort access, Electric glass roof, Automatic tailgate operation, and sports seats and sports steering wheel with gearshift paddles.

The retail price (on the road, without insurance, with BMW Service Inclusive + Repair) for the new BMW X6 xDrive35i is RM698,800.

The BMW X6 is manufactured exclusively for the world market at the BMW Spartanburg plant in South Carolina/USA. Currently, the BMW X6, BMW X5 and BMW Z4 are built on a shared assembly line at the Spartanburg plant. The BMW X6 goes on sale in select BMW dealerships from 22 August 2008.

About BMW Malaysia Sdn Bhd

BMW Malaysia Sdn Bhd is a joint venture between Bayerische Motoren Werke (BMW) AG and Sime Darby Berhad. BMW Malaysia activities cover the wholesale of BMW cars, spare parts and accessories, as well as the overall planning of sales, marketing, after-sales, and other related activities in Malaysia. Its dealership network covers 14 outlets in various cities in Malaysia.

Issued by:

BMW Malaysia Sdn Bhd

Sashi Ambi, Corporate Communications Manager, Malaysia
Telephone: (+603) 8887 3822, Fax: (+603) 8887 3801
E-mail: sashi.ambihaipahan@bmw.com.my
Media Website: www.press.bmwgroup.com

For media queries, please contact:
Fleishman-Hillard Kuala Lumpur
Nico Marco / Teoh Seet Heng / Tze Yau
Telephone: (+603) 2283 2730, Fax: (+603) 2283 2750
E-mail: nico.marco@fleishman.com / seet.teoh@fleishman.com / tze.yau@fleishman.com
Media Website: www.press.bmwgroup.com

Cyberjaya, 25 June 2008

BMW Malaysia Sdn Bhd today announced the appointment of Geoff Briscoe as its new Managing Director. Briscoe will be responsible for overseeing the entire operations for the BMW Group in Malaysia.

Prior to his appointment in BMW Malaysia, Briscoe was General Manager, Sales for BMW Group Australia.

Born in Melbourne, Australia, Briscoe has been extensively involved in both retail and wholesale for over 30 years. He has worked with several premium brands and also owned motor vehicle dealerships.

At BMW Australia, Briscoe was tasked with leading various departments such as sales operations, dealer development, product planning and retail operations. Under his portfolio, he managed all BMW owned outlets across Australia.

His tenure in BMW Group Australia saw the introduction of global best practices for retail operations and the development of profitable retail models which are now leading examples in the BMW network. Briscoe also oversaw the establishment of BMW Used Car Niederlassung, from the design stage to its current operations.

Throughout his career, Briscoe has applied the strategy of strong change management whilst developing a high performance driven culture. He is very confident that BMW Malaysia is in a strong position to move to the next stage of its evolution as a company.

Entering its 5th year of operations, the company has been very successful, having become the fastest growing premium brand and recording a compounded growth of nearly 54% in the corresponding period. It has also continued to invest in Malaysia, most recently adding a finance arm , BMW Credit & BMW Lease Sdn Bhd., which further complements the National and Regional operations, all run out of Malaysia.

Briscoe says that after 5 years, the brand is maturing and he is upbeat about the brands' future. "I think BMW Group Malaysia is in a place and time where new customer groups will open up, while our current base will continue to grow. Based on the performance of the premium segment and our product line, I see many opportunities for growth", he added.

About BMW Malaysia Sdn Bhd

BMW Malaysia Sdn Bhd is a joint venture between Bayerische Motoren Werke (BMW) AG and Sime Darby Berhad. BMW Malaysia activities cover the wholesale of BMW cars, spare parts and accessories, as well as the overall planning of sales, marketing, after-sales, and other related activities in Malaysia. Its dealership network covers 14 outlets in various cities in Malaysia.

Issued by:

BMW Malaysia Sdn Bhd

Sashi Ambi, Corporate Communications Manager, Malaysia
Telephone: (+603) 8887 3822, Fax: (+603) 8887 3801
E-mail: sashi.ambihaipahan@bmw.com.my
Media Website: www.press.bmwgroup.com

For media queries, please contact:
Fleishman-Hillard Kuala Lumpur
Nico Marco / Teoh Seet Heng / Tze Yau
Telephone: (+603) 2283 2730, Fax: (+603) 2283 2750
E-mail: nico.marco@fleishman.com / seet.teoh@fleishman.com / tze.yau@fleishman.com
Media Website: www.press.bmwgroup.com

Kuala Lumpur, 19 June 2008

Sapura Auto Sdn Bhd and BMW Malaysia Sdn Bhd today opened a new MINI 4S (Sales, Service, System and Spare parts) centre, MINI Sapura. The new MINI showroom becomes the first 4S MINI outlet in the Klang Valley.

Since its inception, BMW Malaysia has seen the MINI brand grow from strength to strength. The iconic MINI has been a runaway success for the BMW Group since it's global launch in 2001 surpassing typical industry vehicle cycles, showing continued upward growth six years into production.

Geoff Briscoe, Managing Director of BMW Malaysia Sdn Bhd, said, "The launch of the new MINI 4S Centre in Sapura Auto is a testament of the MINI brand's growth potential in Malaysia and also reflects the confidence we have in Sapura Auto. Over the last 5 years, the MINI has seen a compounded growth of 134.2% while Sapura Auto has established itself as an important part of the BMW network with a strong presence in Klang Valley".

The new MINI facility encompasses an entire one and a half floor's of Sapura Auto's current 60,000 sq ft, four-storey BMW 4S centre in Jalan Tun Razak.

En Shahriman Shamsuddin, Managing Director of Sapura Auto Sdn Bhd said, "Given our successful partnership with BMW Malaysia in the last three years, it is a natural progression to expand into the MINI brand. This move shows our renewed commitment as a significant contributor to the fastest growing premium automobile brand in Malaysia."

The concept and architecture of the facility reflects the essence of the MINI brand and complies with its stringent international-class specifications. Apart from the showroom, the new MINI Sapura has a special events corner, lifestyle and accessories display area, a designated counter to purchase parts and accessories and a capacity to display six cars with furnished communication panels at one time.

The launch of the MINI Sapura is part of BMW Malaysia's strategy of organically expanding its dealership network which will allow the MINI's growing customer base more choice and convenience.

Launched in 2005, Sapura Auto was the first new dealership after BMW Malaysia began operations in 2003. Sapura Auto is part of the Sapura Group, a 100% Malaysian-owned technology-based organization involved in diversified industries such as energy, industrial, knowledge & education and defense & security.

"We trust that this new MINI 4S Centre will be instrumental in the continuous growth of the MINI brand in Malaysia. We look forward to more years of strong partnership with Sapura Auto," said Briscoe.

The new MINI Sapura 4S Centre will carry all MINI models including MINI Cooper, MINI Cooper S and the recently launched MINI Cooper Clubman and MINI Cooper Clubman S.

About MINI

Mini, one of history's most popular icons, began its public life on the 26 August 1959. Designed by Sir Alec Issigonis, Mini was, in its purest form, a car that was simple, clean, agile and appealing to everyone. During its heyday in the 1960s, Mini was widely accepted as UK's most popular car and amazed everyone with its world-class performances at Monte Carlo rallies. In 1994, the BMW Group acquired the brand Mini, setting in motion the revitalisation of this much loved icon. In 2000, a new chapter began when the BMW Group unveiled the brand new MINI (all in caps, reflecting the relaunch) to the world with three models: MINI One, MINI Cooper and MINI Cooper S. MINI's success story continues today, charming fans and enthusiasts in more than 70 countries around the world.

About BMW Malaysia Sdn Bhd

BMW Malaysia Sdn Bhd is a joint venture between Bayerische Motoren Werke (BMW) AG and Sime Darby Berhad. BMW Malaysia activities cover the wholesale of BMW cars, spare parts and accessories, as well as the overall planning of sales, marketing, after-sales, and other related activities in Malaysia. Its dealership network covers 14 outlets in various cities in Malaysia.

Issued by:

BMW Malaysia Sdn Bhd

Sashi Ambi, Corporate Communications Manager, Malaysia
Telephone: (+603) 8887 3822, Fax: (+603) 8887 3801
E-mail: sashi.ambihaipahan@bmw.com.my
Media Website: www.press.bmwgroup.com

For media queries, please contact:
Fleishman-Hillard Kuala Lumpur
Nico Marco / Teoh Seet Heng / Tze Yau
Telephone: (+603) 2283 2730, Fax: (+603) 2283 2750
E-mail: nico.marco@fleishman.com / seet.teoh@fleishman.com / tze.yau@fleishman.com
Media Website: www.press.bmwgroup.com

Cyberjaya, 13 June 2008

High Precision Injection makes BMW's four-cylinder power units the benchmark for efficiency and performance. The new generation of four-cylinder petrol engines features direct fuel injection defined by BMW as High Precision Injection (HPI), allowing lean burn operation of the engine throughout a wide range of engine speed therefore helping to significantly reduce fuel consumption in everyday traffic despite the further increase in engine power. HPI already features in the six- cylinder BM