William Maley

Whether Porsche purists want to admit it or not, the Cayenne is an important model. For a time, it was Porsche's best selling model - the Macan holds that title now. The model also generates a fair amount of profit for the company. With new and redesigned competitors arriving, Porsche decided it was time to introduce a new Cayenne. The new Cayenne is somewhat boring to look at, especially when compared to the last-generation model. The front and sides mimic the Macan, while the back is inspired by the upcoming Panamera Sport Turismo. It might become a bit more exciting when other models such as Turbo are launched down the road. Overall size grows by three inches to 194. The wheelbase remains the same 114 inches as the last-generation model. The Panamera's influence can fully be seen inside as the Cayenne features a 12.3-inch display in the center stack and touch controls around the console. A pair of 7-inch displays flank the center tachometer to provide key details such as trip info and navigation. For the timebeing, the Cayenne will only be offered with two turbocharged engines. The base model gets a 3.0L turbo V6 with 340 horsepower and 332 pound-feet of torque. S variants get a 2.9L twin-turbo V6 with 440 hp and 406 lb-ft. Both come paired with a eight-speed automatic. Performance figures are as followed, Cayenne: 5.6 seconds (0-60 mph), 14.2 seconds (quarter-mile), 152 mph (top speed)* Cayenne S: 4.6 seconds (0-60 mph), 13.2 seconds (quarter-mile), 164 mph (top speed)* *Figures are with the optional sport chrono package Porsche says this is most agile Cayenne yet, thanks to Porsche Dynamic Chassis Control electronic roll stabilization system (with a 48-volt electrical system), three-chamber air suspension, and rear-wheel steering. Surprisingly, Porsche was able to drop 143 pounds from the new Cayenne. This is due to extensive use of aluminum and a lithium-ion polymer starter battery (which saves about 22 pounds). The 2019 Cayenne arrives at Porsche dealers next summer with prices of $66,750 (Cayenne) and $83,950 (Cayenne S). Both prices include destination. Source: Porsche Press Release is on Page 2 Third Generation Porsche Cayenne Models Make Global Debut in Stuttgart-Zuffenhausen New engines, new chassis, innovative control concept, and increased connectivity Atlanta, Georgia. Today Porsche unveiled the new 2019 Cayenne. The all-new Cayenne builds on the formula that started in 2003 while pushing performance boundaries even further through new technologies that significantly improve on-road performance and comfort. The new Cayenne is more athletic both in appearance and driving performance due to new styling cues and engineering developments. In line with the its modern exterior, the interior carries many of the same design cues and new technologies that made their debut on the 2017 Porsche Panamera. Among the many changes, optional rear-axle steering creates a virtual reduction of the wheelbase at low speeds and a virtual lengthening at high speeds for improved agility and stability. Available Porsche Surface Coated Brakes (PSCB) offer even greater stopping power and reduced brake wear. Every new generation Cayenne model will come with a turbocharged powertrain and all-wheel drive that complement the new lighter weight platform. Performance: New Powertrains and Standard Equipment Porsche will offer two models at launch: the Cayenne and Cayenne S. Both are powered by turbocharged six-cylinder engines. The Cayenne uses a 3.0-liter single-turbo V6 making 340 horsepower and 332 lb-ft of torque, enabling it to accelerate from zero to 60 mph in 5.9 seconds (or 5.6 seconds with the optional Sport Chrono package). The new Cayenne is also capable of running the quarter-mile in 14.4 seconds or 14.2 seconds with the Sport Chrono package, and it is able to reach a top track speed of 152 mph. The Cayenne S uses a 2.9-liter twin-turbo V6 that makes 440 horsepower and 406 lb-ft of torque. It is able to accelerate to 60 mph from a standstill in 4.9 seconds (or 4.6 seconds with the optional Sport Chrono package) and continue on toward a top track speed of 164 mph. The Cayenne S quarter mile times drop to 13.3 seconds (or 13.2 seconds with the Sport Chrono package) . A newly-developed eight-speed Tiptronic S transmission is standard across the Cayenne line. It offers improved comfort and quicker response times in its lower gear range for improved performance both on- and off-road. Meanwhile, an intentionally long eighth gear allows for relaxed cruising. The long gear is designed to complement the performance-minded lower ratios with the option for comfortable highway cruising. Driver-selectable transmission programming further enhances how the Cayenne handles on varied terrain. The default setting is the on-road program. Four other modes activate the conditioning for mild off-road terrain: Mud, Gravel, Sand, or Rocks. The drive mode, chassis settings, and differential locks can be selected to adapt to the relevant scenario. Fully variable Porsche Traction Management (PTM) all-wheel drive is standard on all Cayenne models. The system offers excellent performance characteristics while also providing extensive traction on rough ground. Chassis: Fundamental Improvements Start With Structure The third-generation Cayenne has a newly-developed lighter weight chassis that contributes to an overall weight savings of up to 143 lbs versus the previous generation, even with extensively increased standard equipment. Following the Porsche 911 and Panamera models, the new body of the Cayenne also uses an intelligent combination of alloy and steel. The exterior is made almost entirely of aluminum as are the floorpan assembly, front section, and virtually all the chassis components. One particular technical highlight is the innovative lithium-ion polymer starter battery, which alone accounts for a weight saving of 22 lbs. Compared to its predecessor, the new Cayenne incorporates major technological and mechanical developments which greatly enhance performance. This starts with the chassis and progresses to a separated link design for the front axle, a multilink rear axle, and – for the first time with the Cayenne – staggered front and rear tire sizes ranging in diameter from 19 to 21 inches that help to improve on-road driving dynamics. The choice to use a staggered tire setup in this generation underscores the fact that the Porsche Cayenne is designed to be the sports car within its segment. Enhancing both agility at lower speeds and handling at high speeds, rear-axle steering is available as an option. This technology reduces the turning radius at low speeds for easier maneuverability by turning the rear wheels out of phase with the front axle. At higher speeds, the rear wheels turn in phase with the front axle to provide a virtual lengthening of the wheelbase to improve roadholding and directional control. Porsche Active Suspension Management (PASM) offers familiar variable damping settings found in other Porsche cars. It will be standard equipment on the Cayenne S and an option on the Cayenne. In addition to PASM, a new three-chamber air suspension is also optionally available which furthers the range of comfort- and performance-oriented settings. The new system increases air volume versus the previous system and offers a finer degree of specific calibration through the addition of a third air chamber. Finally, available Porsche Dynamic Chassis Control (PDCC) adds stabilizer bars that are now controlled via a 48-volt electrical system for greatly improved responsiveness versus hydraulic management. When equipped, all of those systems generate data that are analyzed centrally, in real time, by Porsche 4D Chassis Control. This technology debuted with the second-generation Panamera. The system works to make virtually instantaneous adjustments, optimizing handling even further. With the exception of the active PASM damper system, all other chassis systems are new developments. Dynamic design language: wider appearance and larger wheels The new Cayenne retains a strong visual connection to its predecessors. At the same time, it adopts new design elements that hint at how this generation builds upon its predecessors. New horizontal light edges create a wider, more athletic appearance as do enlarged air intakes in the front fascia. The wheelbase remains unchanged at 114 inches, while overall length increases slightly to 194 inches and width (with side mirrors folded) is 78 inches. Cargo area volume with the rear seats raised increases by almost 15 percent over the previous generation to 27.19 cubic feet. When closed, the rear fascia features a new three-dimensional LED light design that features the Porsche logo spanning the width of the vehicle through a narrow strip of lights. Broadly speaking, LEDs are a main feature of the new Cayenne and are standard on all models. Customers may also choose to upgrade from the standard headlights to either the Porsche Dynamic Light System (PLDS) or LED Matrix Beam headlights, which also include PDLS. World premiere: Porsche Surface Coated Brake with tungsten-carbide layer Porsche Surface Coated Brake (PSCB) technology is the latest example of Porsche assuming a pioneering role in developing high performance brakes. This world-first is available as an option for all Cayenne models and consists of a cast-iron disc with a tungsten-carbide coating. The finish increases friction values while reducing wear and brake dust. The brakes – which are exclusive to Porsche – will take on a visually impressive glossy appearance complimented by white painted calipers. The PSCB system is only available in combination with 20-inch and 21-inch wheels. The Porsche Carbon Ceramic Brakes (PCCB) remain the top system available. New Sport Chrono Package with PSM Sport The new Cayenne utilizes the redeveloped Sport Chrono Package which reflects the design first employed in the 918 Spyder. The Mode button on the steering wheel is one clear indicator of this approach. As well as the Normal, Sport, and Sport Plus driving modes, the driver can select an individually configurable mode. Pressing the Sport Response button in the center activates the most performance-oriented engine and transmission mapping for 20 seconds. The Sport Chrono Package also includes a separate PSM Sport mode, in which the driver can utilize a wider range of the new Cayenne’s driving dynamics. Digital evolution: Porsche Advanced Cockpit and new PCM The newest version of Porsche Communication Management (PCM) makes its way into the new Cayenne, ushering into the model line a new level of connectivity. At the heart of the new display and control concept from Porsche is the 12.3-inch full-HD touchscreen, launched last year with the new Panamera. A range of digital functions can be operated intuitively through touch and also voice controls. The standard Porsche Connect Plus allows subscribers to have access to services including online navigation with real-time traffic information. The analog controls on the new center console are focused on the main functions of the vehicle. Other buttons are integrated into the smartphone-like, glass-look touch surface, which gives acoustic and haptic feedback when operated. In typical Porsche style, the driver has a central analog tachometer to view. This is flanked by two 7-inch full-HD displays showing relevant driving data that can be selected and changed using the multi-function steering wheel. Cayenne customers may specify a variety of available assistance systems as well that include Night Vision Assist, which uses a thermal imaging camera to detect pedestrians and animals before they are visible to the naked eye. Lane Change Assist, Lane Keep Assist including traffic sign recognition, traffic jam assist, ParkAssist including Surround View, and Porsche InnoDrive including adaptive cruise control are also available. PCM also offers the ability for a great degree of customization by saving preferred settings and menu layouts including up to six individual profiles. In addition to a large number of interior settings, a profile is used to store specifications for lights, driving programs, and assistance systems. Depending on the equipment, each driver can also apply his or her own settings to the new sound systems from Bose® and Burmester®. A new Off-road Precision App, specially developed for the Porsche Cayenne, is now also available as part of Connect Plus. It allows rough-terrain drives to be documented in detail, helping the driver to improve her or his own skills using video recordings. Pricing and U.S. market availability The 2019 Cayenne and Cayenne S models are available to order with a base MSRP of $65,700 and $82,900 respectively, excluding the $1,050 delivery, processing and handling fees. They will reach U.S. dealers midway through 2018. View full article

Audi Sport's CEO Stephan Winkelmann dreams about giving the sub-brand their own low-volume hypercar. "I'm very keen on working on this in the future. I think not only the brand deserves it, but there is a demand outside, and the [customers] are looking into it," Winkelmann told Automotive News. Winkelmann has knowledge of building low-volume exotic models as he was at the helm of Lamborghini for more than a decade. But this is something that will happen down the road. Right now, Winkelmann is working on building out "a balanced lineup that brings prestige to the Audi name while adding some sales volume." That means you will be seeing more Audi crossovers with the RS badge like the RS Q3. "This is important because this is one of the things which is allowing you to have a worldwide presence," Winkelmann said. "The segment is growing, and we have good synergies there, and we also have fantastic cars in terms of design and performance." Winkelmann declined to name possible models, but rumor has it that there is an RS Q5 possibly launching this year. Audi Sport also has plans to do its own version of an all-electric vehicle. Possibly launching in 2020 or 2021, Winkelmann said the model could be either a coupe-like sedan or SUV, or even both. The focus of the model(s) would be balancing performance and range. "You need the range, but you also need the excitement factor," he said. Source: Automotive News (Subscription Required) View full article

BMW's i3 has been primarily focused on efficiency. But 2018 sees the German automaker introduce a performance-oriented version. Making its debut next month at the Frankfurt Motor Show, the 2018 BMW i3s comes with a slightly boosted electric motor (184 horsepower and 199 pound-feet of torque, up from 170 and 184 respectively). BMW's engineers have also modified the motor controls and tapered roller bearings to improve performance at the top end. The end result is an improved 0-60 mph time of 6.8 seconds (7.2 seconds for the standard i3) and a top speed of 100 mph. Other performance tweaks include a lowered suspension, widened track, revised tuning for the springs and anti-roll bars, and a tweaked stability control system. Aside from new model, the i3 has some other changes in store for 2018. Design tweaks include the A-pillar being finished in a gloss black, restyled bumpers, and LED headlights. The optional 33.2 kWh battery pack introduced last year will now become standard on all 2018 models. No word on pricing, but expect the 2018 i3 to launch late this year. Source: BMW Press Release is on Page 2 The New BMW i3 and First Ever BMW i3s Enhanced exterior design giving the BMW i3 a wider and sportier look. First-ever BMW i3s featuring a sportier chassis, wider track and higher performance output. Featuring state-of the-art connectivity with the latest iDrive 6 interface. Now featuring standard Full LED headlights. New color offerings now include Melbourne Red Metallic and Imperial Blue Metallic. Exclusive new cloth-leather trim combination ‘Giga Brown Natural Leather & Carum Spice Grey Cloth’ now available. Woodcliff Lake, NJ –August 28, 2017… BMW is pleased to announce the latest BMW i3 including the first ever BMW i3s, as part of the BMW i portfolio which entails the most awarded models in the automotive history. The BMW i3 is the bestselling compact battery-electric vehicle in the premium compact segment worldwide since it was launched in 2014. The design of the new BMW i3 and the exclusive first-ever BMW i3s has been altered to enhance the sporty, urban built yet elegant design of the model. Featuring a wider track, wheel arch molding and design lines that are vastly horizontal, the 2018 BMW i3 models have morphed into a versatile, urban, innovative efficiency mobility vehicle. For the first time, BMW also offers a more powerful and sportier version of the BMW i3 - the BMW i3s, which can also be equipped with a Range Extender. The 2018 BMW i3 and BMW i3s will celebrate their world premiere at the International Motor Show (IAA) in Frankfurt in September 2017 with pricing being announced closer to market launch. Electric Driving: A new era of mobility. The BMW i3 leads the way to a new era of mobility. It is recognized worldwide as a symbol of technology, sustainability and intelligent connectivity in the urban traffic environment, which is why it has become the best-selling electric car worldwide in the premium compact segment. The recipe for success of the BMW i3 has been enhanced thanks to refreshing styling accents, cutting-edge equipment features and new digital services, but also to the addition of a new model variant – the first ever BMW i3s. Keeping with tradition, the 2018 BMW i3 models will also be available with a Range Extender. By offering premium-quality, all-electric driving experience, meaning zero emissions and performance, in combination with the latest available connected technology, both model variants represent the future of urban mobility. The BMW i3 has been the top-selling premium electric car in its class since 2014 worldwide. It is not just the visionary electric vehicles and inspirational design that help to make BMW i so popular, but also its innovative mobility solutions and the revolutionary new form of premium character, with sustainability as a key defining element. The BMW i brand has established itself as a pioneer for forward-thinking mobility by offering such products while also adopting an all-embracing approach that takes into account the complete lifecycle, from raw material production, through the manufacture and operation of the vehicles to their later recycling. Emission free mobility and performance. The BMW eDrive technology enables drivers to enjoy emission-free mobility with instantaneous power delivery, efficient use of energy and an optimized range for everyday practicality that even extends beyond the demands of purely urban travel. The BMW i3 and the more powerful BMW i3s draw their energy from the lithium-ion high-voltage battery developed by the BMW Group with a cell capacity of 94-ampere hours (Ah). BMW driving dynamics with instantaneous torque. The agile handling characteristics of the BMW i3 have been optimized with the improved Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) system. This comprehensively revised, faster responding Traction Control system guarantees confident handling under all driving conditions. Traction in less than ideal driving conditions has also been noticeably improved. Dynamic Traction Control (DTC) mode now boosts agility at higher speeds and during sporty cornering, even allowing mild and safely controllable drifts when grip levels are reduced. The synchronous electric motor powering the new BMW i3 generates a maximum output of 170 hp. Its peak torque of 184 lb-ft is available instantly from standstill, in typical electric motor fashion. This means that stepping on the accelerator pedal immediately unleashes a thrilling burst of speed. The motor smoothly delivers the kind of performance that drivers expect from a BMW via a single-speed automatic transmission, with continuous power delivery that builds up the car’s speed. The new BMW i3 accelerates from 0 – 60 mph in 7.2 seconds1 with an electronic top speed of 93 mph. The first ever BMW i3s: a thoroughly dynamic performer. The first of its kind and more powerful BMW i3s incorporates a number of design elements all of its own that highlight its particularly dynamic character. Both the front and rear aprons are notable for their model-specific, powerfully shaped contours. At the front, the bumper inlay and its U-shaped surroundings are in black finish. The front fascia’s side sections are bordered on their lower edge by accent strips in BMW i Blue or Frozen Grey that emphasize the width of the car, complementing the front fascia. The accent in the closed BMW kidney grille is also painted in high-gloss black to give the grille a more prominent appearance. The rear apron of the first-ever BMW i3s is likewise composed of individually styled contours, while the black surround frames an extra-wide, body-colored inlay. On the first-ever BMW i3s, the roofline accent also sports the same high-gloss black finish as the A-pillars. Underneath all of the design elements, the first-ever BMW i3s features a sports suspension that includes a 10-millimeter drop in height. Visually broader high-gloss black wheel arch moldings’ emphasize an increase of 40 millimeters track width compared to the BMW i3 providing a stable stance and sportier looks. The BMW i3s comes standard with exclusive 20-inch light-alloy wheels in bicolor double-spoke design, which are ½-inch wider than the previously available. Customers can also specify these wheels in Jet Back finish as a no-cost option. Overall, the first ever BMW i3s is the most powerful BMW i3 to date with clearly reflected key design elements that highlight its sporty character. New high-performance motor and SPORT mode for BMW i3s. (1 Preliminary figures.) The first ever BMW i3s provides an even sportier interpretation of silent mobility with zero emissions and features a high output 184 hp1 electric motor that generates peak torque of 199 lb-ft1. Its updated drive system includes modified motor control and specific taper roller bearings, which have been utilized to optimize power delivery and the performance curve at higher rpm. At the limits of the motor speed range, the power and torque of the enhanced drive system represent an improvement of up to 40 percent over the BMW i3. The driving dynamics and enhanced e-Driving abilities are significant especially at higher engine speeds when higher performance and higher torque is more noticeable. The first-ever BMW i3s features a sports suspension with specially developed springs, dampers and anti-roll bars. Drivers can now also select SPORT mode using the Driving Dynamics Control switch. This initiates more direct accelerator response and tighter steering characteristics to accentuate the car’s sporting edge. Just 6.8 seconds1 is enough to see the BMW i3s burst past 60 mph on its way to a top speed of 100 mph1. A two-cylinder range extender gasoline engine is available as an option for all BMW i3 models. The engine drives a generator that produces power as required to feed electricity to the high-voltage battery, which becomes available whenever necessary. This extends the car’s overall range in everyday use by 87 miles1, increasing it from around 97 miles1 to a maximum of 180 miles (Preliminary figures.). Design accents: A sporty yet elegant look. The unmistakable, avant-garde exterior styling of BMW i3 has already picked up the iF Gold award for product design and the World Car Design of the Year award along with other accolades, and it has now been enhanced by a number of design touches that clearly convey the sporty and stirring driving experience on offer. The trademark BMW i Black Belt, running from the trunk over the roof to the car’s rear end is now complemented by A-pillars and rooflines that also sport a black finish. In contrast to the BMW i Black belt, two new exterior paint colors Melbourne Red metallic and Imperial Blue metallic compliment the vehicle design. Besides these two new additions, customers can also choose from the non-metallic shades Capparis White and Fluid Black as well as Protonic Blue metallic and Mineral Grey metallic. A matte-chrome roofline accent on the BMW i3, as part of the black A-pillar and roof layer, add a touch of elegance. This design element also improves height perception, adding to the models stance as it widens towards the rear. The restyling of the front and rear aprons places particular emphasis on the car’s width. The redesigned front contour highlights a wider stance with athletic characteristic. A chrome-design trim strip running across the full width of the rear and the positioning of the model and eDrive badges on the outer edges of the tailgate serves to reinforce this impression. The new BMW i3 and the first-ever BMW i3s come equipped with Full-LED headlights as standard, which employ LED bulb units for low and high beams, as well as the daytime running lights. The new turn signal indicators also feature LED technology and are integrated into the front apron in the form of horizontal strips. This means that LEDs are now used for all lighting functions at the front of the vehicle too, as was already the case with the glass-covered rear light assemblies. The new design elements highlight the enhanced character to emphasize a strong presence and sportiness. The BMW i3’s strong character is enhanced by the U-shaped feature line in matte black in the bumper. The horizontal LED indicators emphasize width even more. The rear shows off, the powerfully molded contours and the contrast in color between the black surround and the body-colored inlay. Interior: great sense of roominess, sustainable materials. Like the exterior design, the interior styling of the new BMW i3 and first ever BMW i3s is rooted in the LifeDrive vehicle architecture. The carbon fiber-reinforced plastic (CFRP) passenger cell has a wonderfully spacious feel about it and is dominated by a sense of lightness. The design principle of the two four-seater models means there is no need for either fixed B-pillars or a transmission tunnel. Doors that open in opposite directions allow the occupants to get in and out with the greatest of ease. The Mega, Giga and Tera World equipment lines are available for the new BMW i3 and first ever BMW i3s as alternatives to the standard Deka version. The optional Giga World includes a new trim for the seat surfaces in Giga Brown Natural Leather & Carum Spice Grey Wool Cloth which combines natural leather tanned using an olive leaf extract with a wool-based textile material. The BMW i3 and BMW i3s apply the concept of sustainability throughout, as other materials used are recycled plastics, renewable raw materials, natural fibers and open-pored, unbleached eucalyptus wood. Over 80 percent of the surfaces visible to the passengers are made from recycled materials or renewable resources. The available seat belts in BMW i Blue for the first ever BMW i3s only, provide a splash of color in the interior. Typical BMW i Brand lettering are also visible on the front floor mats. Technology and Driver Assistance Systems. The driver assistance systems available for the new BMW i3 and first-ever BMW i3s ease the driver’s workload and provide support in various traffic situations, as well as helping with longitudinal and lateral vehicle control. The Technology and Driving Assistance Package offers Active Driving Assistant and Active Cruise Control with Stop & Go while Advanced Real-Time Traffic Information and ConnectedDrive Services are also contained within the upgraded Navigation System included in this package. When equipped with the Technology and Driving Assistance Package, Apple CarPlay can be enabled. Park Distance Control is a standalone option as well as the Parking Assistance. Once the system has been activated and a suitable parking space has been found, at the press of a button Parking Assistant takes control of acceleration, braking, gear selection and steering. Driving Assistance systems also contained within the Technology and Driving Assistance package include Daytime Pedestrian Protection, Frontal Collision Warning with City Collision Mitigation and Speed Limit Info. The latest BMW iDrive 6 interface, ConnectedDrive with navigation features and On-Street Parking Information specially developed for electric mobility. Both the new BMW i3 and first-ever BMW i3s come with the latest version of iDrive, which provides an intuitive interface for controlling numerous vehicle, infotainment, communications and navigation functions, specifically designed for BMW i. In vehicles equipped with the Navigation system Professional, the Control Display features a 10.25-inch screen with an increased resolution of 1,440 × 540 pixels. The main menu is presented in the form of live tiles containing dynamic content. The voice recognition system has also been optimized with cloud-based off-board processing of speech. With Natural Language Understanding available with the Navigation system Professional, spoken instructions can now be executed more quickly and naturally, i.e. when searching for an address or Point of Interest, or for searching music and phone numbers or dictating e-mails and SMS messages. Natural phrases such as “find coffee shops nearby” or “take me home” make for an effortless experience. When equipped with Apple CarPlay, additional smartphone apps can be seamlessly integrated within the vehicle’s operating system. The enhanced BMW i ConnectedDrive offering ensures intelligent connectivity through services specially tailored to electric mobility. The On-Street Parking Information search service, now available for the first time in the BMW i3, can also be used alongside the Advanced Real Time Traffic Information (ARTTI) system with the optional Navigation system Professional. On-Street Parking Information helps drivers locate available parking spaces in many major US cities. It uses historical and real-time data to determine the likelihood of finding vacant parking spots in a given area and displays the information on Navigation Map. Specifically designed for BMW i, public charging stations and information about their availability can also be displayed on the navigation system’s map. When route guidance is activated, data about the route is also used to calculate the range shown in the instrument cluster as accurately as possible. Standard on the i3, the range map provides a visual representation of the current operating radius. With Navigation Professional, the dynamic range map draws a boundary representing the maximum range the vehicle could travel on its current charge status. It is also possible to display the different ranges achievable in each of the Driving Dynamic Control modes. BMW i-specific navigation features also include intermodal route guidance. This helps users to quickly and efficiently reach their destination by factoring in local public transport timetables and connections. Regular, automatic updates of the navigation data are now also provided “over the air” in the BMW i3, using a mobile network connection. A package of new services were introduced in early fall under the BMW Connected+ umbrella which enable a highly personalized digital experience. All of the digital services related to BMW Connected and BMW Connected+ will be available in the BMW i3 and BMW i3s. These span intelligent route planning, including stops at charging stations or gasoline stations in the case of the range extender (Send my Routes to Car), sharing of the car’s current location via SMS and live link (Share Live Trip Status). Also part of the Connected portfolio features personalized display of relevant in-car information (BMW Onboard), seamless transfer of route instructions to the customer’s smartphone or smartwatch once the car is parked (Navigate Door-to-Door) and direct syncing of contacts and addresses to the navigation system (My Destinations). BMW Digital Charging Service enables convenient and intelligent charging. Planned for release in the first-half of 2018 is the BMW Digital Charging Service. BMW ConnectedDrive and the BMW ConnectedDrive Portal will turn charging into an easy to use digital experience. As a result, the BMW i3 and BMW i3s are integrated perfectly into the customer’s smart ecosystem. The service’s ease of use – from a smartphone via BMW Connected or from PCs and tablets via the BMW ConnectedDrive Portal – also facilitates fully transparent, sustainable use of renewable energy. With the introduction of its unique BMW Digital Charging Service, BMW becomes the world’s first carmaker to integrate electric mobility with its customers’ digital worlds. 360° ELECTRIC: new charging cable, BMW i Charging Station. 360° ELECTRIC is a range of products and services that help make electric mobility a convenient, everyday experience. The functionality of the standard charging cable supplied with the first ever BMW i3s has been optimized and includes a temperature sensor. Charging at home is extremely user-friendly thanks to the BMW i Charging Station which can supply 7.2 kW of power to charge the high-voltage battery. This allows enough energy for an electric range of around 90 miles to be transferred in three hours – about five times quicker than with the standard Level 1 120 V charging cable. Drivers with a registered ChargeNow card have unrestricted access to the world’s largest network of public charging stations. BMW Original Accessory: BMW TurboCord™ EV Charger. Now available as a BMW Original Accessory the BMW TurboCord™ Electric Vehicle Charger can be purchased at certified BMW Centers for $499 MSRP. This premium charging solution provides BMW i and BMW iPerformance drivers with the ultimate charging experience – flexible dual-voltage (120 V / 240 V) capability and nearly three-times faster charging – all in the smallest, lightest UL-listed portable charger available. The BMW TurboCord™ EV Charger components have been specifically engineered by BMW to meet BMW Group standards and requirements, featuring a convenient 20 ft charging cord, and provides two chargers in one. Level 1 charging is readily available when plugged into any 120 V outlet and it also allows customers to charge up-to at 3.6 kW, nearly three-times faster than the standard occasional use cable (OUC) when used with a 240 V outlet (NEMA 6-20). Also integrated are such state-of-the-art safety features as unit and plug temperature monitoring, automatic shut-off and a rugged, waterproof, submersible enclosure (NEMA 6P) that enables users to safely and reliably charge indoor and outdoor. Sustainability meets personal mobility. BMW i is shaping the future of sustainable personal mobility. Its integrated concept focuses on responsible use of resources and incorporates material selection and innovative mobility services alongside emission-free driving. The BMW i3 is just as serious about the fun of driving, turning even a trip around town into an electrifying experience. The inspirational design of the BMW i3 expresses a new style, while the instantaneous power from the drive system provides an inspiring showcase for the dawn of a new era in mobility. This car’s architecture was designed from the ground up with electric mobility in mind. Combining the latest technological innovations with an evolutionary development of the car’s design and the expansion of the model range has provided additional impetus for BMW’s now familiar take on premium electric mobility. The character profiles of the new BMW i3 and first-ever BMW i3s are focused more than ever on driving experience, which gives them all the ingredients required to strengthen their leading position in e-mobility and the BMW i success story. View full article