27 April 2008 - 13:29Bmw Increasing Sales and Shifting Productions

BMW
Evander Klum asked:



BMW the world’s largest maker of luxury cars and producer of high quality BMW 524 parts has recently reported an increase of 7.4 percent for its last month’s sales attributed to customers buying the new versions of the X5 sport-utility vehicle and the Mini.

For the month of September, deliveries increased to 141,952 cars and SUVs that is according to the statement released by BMW. The Mini sales jumped by 31 percent to 23,080 cars while the BMW-brand increased by 3.5 percent to 118,087. The automaker’s Rolls-Royce brand which is the most expensive brand of BMW has posted 120 deliveries which is almost two-thirds more than what the brand sold in September of 2006.

And with the positive sales figures that BMW has been getting Stefan Krause, the management boar member responsible for sales and marketing is certain that they will be able to achieve their sale target for this year.

It was only at the end of last year that BMW has started introducing its new X5 and Mini car. And already the company is expecting for its 2007 sales to reach a record of around 1.4 million vehicles that is according to Chief Executive Officer Norbert Reithofer. The automaker will also be adding more eco-friendly vehicles to its lineup and will be introducing two BMW-brand models in 2008.

Two years ago BMW has surpassed Daimler AG’s Mercedes as the world’s largest producer of luxury cars with the introduction of the 1-Series small car, the X3 SUV, and the new version of the 3-Series sedan. The nine month sales for the BMW group have gained an increase of 7.2 percent to 1.09 million vehicles.

Mercedes a stiff rival of BMW for September has also obtain an increase of 7 percent to 124,000 units due to the demand for the C-Class sedan that was released in the spring. The nine month sales have increase by less than 1 percent to 942,300 vehicles.

Due to the remarkable sales that BMW has been obtaining its shares also rose by 1 percent to 47.41 euros in Frankfurt. The stock has advanced by 9 percent this year.

BMW to Shift Production of 1 Series

BMW is planning to shift the production of its 1-series model to its plant in Leipzig as part of its efforts of increasing profitability that is according to an unnamed company sources. The 1-Series model is currently being produced in the company’s factory in Regensburg, Germany.

Aside from shifting production of the 1-Series model, BMW is also planning the new compact off-road vehicle be built in company’s factory in Leipzig while transferring the production of its 3-door 3-series model to Regensburg and Munich.

Anyway, if things are already finalized the world’s largest producer of luxury vehicles, BMW will surely released an official statement to confirm all circulating reports.



Annette

Share and Enjoy: These icons link to social bookmarking sites where readers can share and discover new web pages.
  • Digg
  • Bumpzee
  • del.icio.us
  • Facebook
  • Furl
  • Mixx
  • NewsVine
  • Reddit
  • StumbleUpon
  • YahooMyWeb
  • Google

No Comments | Tags: BMW

27 April 2008 - 7:45Can I service my BMW which is on pre-owned warranty ouside a BMW dealership like MIDAS?

BMW
BMWquestioneer asked:


I bought a BMW from a private seller and it is under pre-owned waranty until 2009. Can i service it outside a BMW dealership and still keep my pre-owned warranty. Reasons - Cheaper and easy to find service appointments.

Jeremy
Share and Enjoy: These icons link to social bookmarking sites where readers can share and discover new web pages.
  • Digg
  • Bumpzee
  • del.icio.us
  • Facebook
  • Furl
  • Mixx
  • NewsVine
  • Reddit
  • StumbleUpon
  • YahooMyWeb
  • Google

5 Comments | Tags: BMW

25 April 2008 - 15:48Bmw Gets Iphone

BMW
Hailey Kerr asked:



What’s the next best thing to owning a BMW X5 equipped with the latest and greatest BMW X5 parts?

How about getting Apple’s new iPhone to work with it?

Apparently the newest and currently the hippest gadget around is compatible with BMWs that are compatible with other Apple iPods. The iPhone, in addition should work on Bluetooth-equipped BMWs. This isn’t much of a surprise since BMW is known to be among the leaders in automakers in making Bluetooth devices work in cars.

On June 29 BMW became the first automaker to announce a fully integrated system for Apple’s brand-new iPhone.

Initially, the German automaker will only offer integration for U.S. models, but with international sales of the iPhone a given, BMW is likely to extend the technology across to other markets.

In statement made in its website, bmwusa.com, BMW said, “BMW welcomes the Apple iPhone — It’s the kind of innovative approach you would expect from BMW. In 2004, BMW was the first to integrate the iPod into BMW vehicles and have customers take full control of their music on the road. So it seemed only logical that BMW be among the first to ensure iPhone owners have the same ability to enjoy their music, plus the added benefits of Bluetooth® hands-free calling across our model line. We are pleased to announce that BMW owners can use their iPhone in this way from day one. … Access to the iPod (or the iPod application of the iPhone) via the vehicle controls and central information or radio display is only possible on cars equipped with iPod/USB interface. The iPod/USB interface is available on 3 and 5 Series with 03/07 production, the X5 with 04/07 production and the 6 Series with 09/07 production date. Further details will be available shortly. In the meantime please contact BMW of North America’s Customer Relations Department at 1-800-831-1117 for further details.

“… The iPhone functions with BMW vehicles equipped with BMW Assist with Bluetooth® handsfree-calling as of the date of testing and meets or exceeds minimum standards established by BMW of North America (”BMW”). This is not a warranty for phone performance or functionality. BMW makes no guarantees or warranties as to the performance of any phone while connected to your BMW via Bluetooth® Wireless Technology. Furthermore, software releases by BMW, the phone supplier or the wireless carrier dated after testing might alter compatibility results.”

About the iPhone

Hailed as a revolutionary phone, the iPhone is a multimedia and Internet-enabled 2.75G quad-band GSM mobile phone produced by Apple. The iPhone’s functions include those of a camera phone and a multimedia player. It also offers Internet services including e-mail, text messaging, web browsing, Visual Voicemail, and local Wi-Fi connectivity. All these are accomplished via a multi-touch screen with virtual keyboard and buttons. Apple has filed more than 200 patents related to the technology behind the iPhone.



Robin

Share and Enjoy: These icons link to social bookmarking sites where readers can share and discover new web pages.
  • Digg
  • Bumpzee
  • del.icio.us
  • Facebook
  • Furl
  • Mixx
  • NewsVine
  • Reddit
  • StumbleUpon
  • YahooMyWeb
  • Google

No Comments | Tags: BMW

25 April 2008 - 7:00Is A Used BMW A Worthwhile Consideration

BMW
Catherine Harvey asked:


BMW are one of the leading car makers in the world making record sales each year. BMW has many rivals including Audi Mercedes and Lexus. This leads to a competitive market and tough competition from everywhere. There are many dealerships around the UK that sell quality BMW’s ranging from the small 1 series to the M3 and X5 series. These are on offer at reasonable prices and there is a wide variety of colours and ages that means you are spoilt for choice when trying to find your perfect used BMW.

The range of BMW’s on offer has never been so large and with many different engine and colour combinations you will have to be mighty picky not to find the right used BMW for you in this market.

There are many websites on the internet that are selling used BMW’s of all ages and models that allow the user to browse and select the price range that they want. They can also choose the amount of miles they want to travel to collect the car. This is because the database has cars from all over the UK and some people may just want to find a used BMW in the local area whereas some other people are prepared to travel long distances across the country.

There is also an option to search the database for dealerships across the country meaning there is the option of buying from the approved BMW dealers if you can’t find the right used BMW from private owners.

As well as BMW dealerships selling brand new cars from the factory they also allow the sale of vehicles a few years old and these cars generally range from the most common models such as the 3 series and 5 series models. This allows potential customers visiting the dealer to have a look at a great used BMW that will run properly and is fully checked rather than spending a lot more money on a brand new BMW that may also cost the person more on insurance as well depending on age and engine size.

BMW’s are considered very reliable cars that it is a very good decision to buy a used car. This is because most cars come with a full M.O.T. and check from the BMW dealership. They may also offer that if anything does go wrong with the car that you can bring it back to the dealership and they can fix it for you. This is because most BMW dealerships will keep most of the spare parts for old cars too because there are lots of used BMW’s on the road today. This means you may not have to pay more to get the problem fixed from a private garage and instead you can take it to the BMW garage at the dealership, which may cost you nothing depending on the warranty of the vehicle.

Most used BMW cars have had over 100,000 miles and are still going strong. Depreciation is generally not a problem with old BMW’s because if there is no faults and the car runs fine and is good condition you normally can get all your money back if you wish to sell it on after you want to get a new car. This allows you to get your money back and put it forward to your next car.

Megan

Share and Enjoy: These icons link to social bookmarking sites where readers can share and discover new web pages.
  • Digg
  • Bumpzee
  • del.icio.us
  • Facebook
  • Furl
  • Mixx
  • NewsVine
  • Reddit
  • StumbleUpon
  • YahooMyWeb
  • Google

No Comments | Tags: BMW

24 April 2008 - 21:04Is a BMW 5 Series the right car for my 17 year old?

BMW
Mark M asked:


I’m looking to buy my 17 year old (soon to be) a nice car, please none of the “are you crazy” or “you have too much money”. It has to be a nice car, he likes the BMW 5 series, would it be a good car for him? Any other suggestions? Must be BMW, Mercedes, Jaguar, Lexus, Porsche, Audi or any other quality makes.
I think I already said about the “spoiling” and the “money business”. I’m just on to ask about the car, he’s getting a nice car. END OF. I don’t know whether it’s jealous with you people, or what.

Mathew
Share and Enjoy: These icons link to social bookmarking sites where readers can share and discover new web pages.
  • Digg
  • Bumpzee
  • del.icio.us
  • Facebook
  • Furl
  • Mixx
  • NewsVine
  • Reddit
  • StumbleUpon
  • YahooMyWeb
  • Google

17 Comments | Tags: BMW

20 April 2008 - 5:59How expensive is it to own a 2004 BMW M3 as far as maintenance is concerned?

BMW
Sir Superman asked:


I’m looking to buy one, please keep in mind I have owned a 2001 BMW 7 series so I know a little something about them but was just concerned about the M/// Division because of the high performance parts.

Juanita
Share and Enjoy: These icons link to social bookmarking sites where readers can share and discover new web pages.
  • Digg
  • Bumpzee
  • del.icio.us
  • Facebook
  • Furl
  • Mixx
  • NewsVine
  • Reddit
  • StumbleUpon
  • YahooMyWeb
  • Google

4 Comments | Tags: BMW

19 April 2008 - 4:40Where can i find body coloured bumpers for a bmw compact?

BMW
David W asked:


I have just bought a 1995 (E36) BMW 316i compact however it has the black plastic bumpers. I would like to know if anyone knows any websites where i could find the original body coloured bumpers and side skirts.

Caroline
Share and Enjoy: These icons link to social bookmarking sites where readers can share and discover new web pages.
  • Digg
  • Bumpzee
  • del.icio.us
  • Facebook
  • Furl
  • Mixx
  • NewsVine
  • Reddit
  • StumbleUpon
  • YahooMyWeb
  • Google

1 Comment | Tags: BMW

16 April 2008 - 16:53The Benefits of Bmw Bluetooth Integration

BMW
Wayne Hemrick asked:


BMW Bluetooth integration means greater functionality for your BMW vehicle, as well as greater convenience and safety. It is no secret that use of a cell phone while driving can be hazardous to your safety and that of others – and increasingly, this practice is being outlawed throughout the nation. With BMW Bluetooth integration, the main danger of using a cell phone while driving is eliminated. You’ll be able to make outgoing calls and receive them without ever having to touch your actual cell phone!

About Bluetooth

Bluetooth (named for a Viking king who brought the entire Scandinavian Peninsula under his rule for a short time during the Middle Ages) is an industry-wide standard, electronic protocol that allows a range of different digital devices to “talk” to each other without the need for cumbersome, tangled cords. These run the gamut from personal computers to game consoles today, but the earliest use of Bluetooth was to integrate cell phones into automobiles, so drivers could use these devices without having to take their hands off the steering wheel.

BMW Bluetooth integration means just that – you’ll be able to use your cell phone while keeping your eyes on the road and maintaining control over your vehicle. No physical connection between your cell phone and your vehicle is necessary.

BMW Bluetooth Has Features Galore

BMW Bluetooth integration allow you to control your cell phone using nothing more than your steering wheel and radio controls. You’ll be able to go though your digital phone book, dial numbers and adjust the volume easily and safely.

If your cell phone supports such features, you can also display information on your BMW’s dashboard console and even activate it using voice commands. In addition, BMW Bluetooth integration using a quality kit from Bavarian Soundwerks means you’ll never miss an important call just because you’re listening to the radio. Whenever you make an outgoing call or receiving an incoming one, BMW Bluetooth integration allows your cell phone to mute the programming playing on your sound system at that moment.

Easy and Affordable

Bavarian Soundwerks assembles each BMW Bluetooth integration kit from genuine BMW parts. These kits use the original OEM wiring and come with clear, step-by-step instructions. With virtual “plug-and-play” capability, you’ll have your vehicle ready for “hands-free” cell phone operation in minutes.

Bavarian Soundwerks BMW Bluetooth integration kits are also compatible with your existing equipment, as long as your vehicle is not equipped with BMW Assist (this must be removed before installing a BMW Bluetooth integration kit). BMW vehicles that were not originally manufactured for the U.S. market must also have a factory installed phone system or “Option 640” pre-wiring.

Call or visit Bavarian Soundwerks today. With just a few bits of information about your BMW, their experts can tell you exactly what you need in order to enjoy BMW Bluetooth integration.



Glen

Share and Enjoy: These icons link to social bookmarking sites where readers can share and discover new web pages.
  • Digg
  • Bumpzee
  • del.icio.us
  • Facebook
  • Furl
  • Mixx
  • NewsVine
  • Reddit
  • StumbleUpon
  • YahooMyWeb
  • Google

No Comments | Tags: BMW

15 April 2008 - 4:55Choosing a Used BMW SUV

BMW
Christine Harrell asked:


It’s no surprise that BMW has been a leading luxury car brand since soon after it’s inception in 1917. A latecomer to the SUV market, BMW released its first X5 SUV in the year 2000 followed by the X3 in 2003. Now in 2006, there are a great number of options and features to choose from in a used BMW SUV. With such a broad range of choices, choosing the perfect SUV can seem a bit overwhelming. In this article, we’ll take a look at the year to year variations in the X5 and the X3 BMW SUVs.
The 2000 X5:
The 2000 model BMW SUV is the earliest year model you’ll find for any used BMW SUV. The first release of the X5 was an 8 cylinder model (4.4i), but if you’re looking for lower price, all years of the BMW SUV also come in a 6 cylinder version (3.0i.) Among the many common features that you’ll find on every X5 used BMW SUV some of the most prominent are an anti-skid system, 4 wheel drive, traction control, a hill decent control feature, and front side impact air bags.
The 2001 X5:
You’ll find no differences between the 2000 X5 SUV and the 2001. However, you may find feature variations within these 2 years due to the presence or absence of optional features such as head protecting tubular air bags located above the front door windows, rear lower body side air bags, and a super-slick luxury option for the 6 cylinder with 18 inch tires, leather seats, and elegant wood trim.
The 2002 X5:
As seems to be the trend with many new models, the 3rd year of production is where the X5 saw the most changes. When shopping the 2002 BMW SUV models, you’ll find yet another 8 cylinder SUV; the 4.6is with 20 “wheels as opposed to 19″, a more robust engine, and more stylish interior. Sun-lovers will enjoy the fact that both the 6 cylinder 3.0i and 8 cylinder 4.4i model of this used BMW SUV come with a Panorama glass sunroof.
The 2003 X5:
The 2003 is identical to the 2002 year model.
The 2004 X5:
The 2004 offers a fresh new styling with new taillights, a redesigned front end, and a new wheel style. The 2004 used BMW SUV sports upgrades under the hood as well with the 6-speed “x drive” for both manual and automatic transmission models. The 2004 SUV turns up the luxury factor a notch also with rain sensing wipers, a power passenger seat, and an optional heated rear seats.
The 2005 X5:
If you love those optional luxury features but have been having a hard time finding them in other year models, you’re likely to find them in the 2005 model. Instead of creating new features in 2005, BMW decided to make many of the optional features standard on the 8 cylinder 4.4i model. You’ll find features such as front and rear obstacle detection and Xenon headlights are standard on the 2005 4.4i used BMW SUV, but still optional on the 6 cylinder 3.1i.
The 2003 – 2005 X3:
In 2003, BMW introduced the X3, designed to compete with the smaller luxury SUV’s on the market like the Lexus RX. The main difference between the X5 and the X3 is that the X3 is smaller; referred to by BMW as a “compact luxury crossover SUV” or a “Sports Activity Vehicle.” The X3 is built upon the 3-Series car platform and truly is a beefed up version of the beloved 3-Series BMW with all of its class and styling designed for drivers in the new millennium.
The 2005 X3:
Whenever a new model is released, there are always some kinks to smooth out in the design or engineering. For the X3, the complaint seemed to focus on the X3’s rough ride, which was rectified in 2005. Earlier models had mismatched interior plastics and carpeting – another issue addressed in 2005. Other changes you’ll find with the X3 2005 BMW SUV are one-piece front wheel fenders, and an “open door” indicator.
The 2006 X3:
The 2006 X3 model offered no significant changes over the 2005 – apparently the 2005 changes were enough to keep critics and buyers smiling. This 2006 X3 used SUV won both the Intellichoice Best in Class awards for highest retained value and for lowest maintenance.
The year or model of BMW SUV you choice will be as individual as you are. Any used BMW SUV is a smart option when it comes to value, prestige, and satisfaction of ownership. The greatest benefit of buying a used SUV or luxury vehicle is having the opportunity to read consumer reviews, to review crash test reports, and to see the progression of a new model over the course of several years before choosing the one that fits your lifestyle as well as your price range.

Ana
Share and Enjoy: These icons link to social bookmarking sites where readers can share and discover new web pages.
  • Digg
  • Bumpzee
  • del.icio.us
  • Facebook
  • Furl
  • Mixx
  • NewsVine
  • Reddit
  • StumbleUpon
  • YahooMyWeb
  • Google

No Comments | Tags: BMW

13 April 2008 - 21:19Does the Bmw Hydrogen 7 Make Sense to You?

BMW
Chet Waters asked:


Does The BMW Hydrogen 7 Make Sense To You?

All we have been hearing for years is how we need to free ourselves from dependence on foreign oil. With the price of gas going out of site and the terrible emissions from car engines, it’s no wonder that BMW has taken the lead to create a better vehicle. The time is right for change in the automotive world.

What do you think about this?

First of all let me tell you that as of April 2008 there is no such thing as a production car from BMW or anyone else that runs on hydrogen. But the research being done by BMW is absolutely fascinating. The experimental model is the 2007 BMW Hydrogen 7. It’s really a 7 Series Sedan converted to run on liquid hydrogen. And like all experiments, this car is only for the purpose of learning how to make a hydrogen car work safely and economically.

According to a BMW company spokesman, “A BMW that is not a BMW anymore is not acceptable to us”. The fact is, BMW is putting their reputation and money on the line to adapt their existing 6.0 liter V12 to burn liquid hydrogen. When BMW works out a few sticky technical problems, hydrogen promises to revolutionize transportation as we humans know it.

The first problem with hydrogen is that it currently has to be produced from a source such as natural gas. To do this requires huge amounts of electricity usually being generated by burning coal. Not only is this expensive, but it is also bad for the environment. It’s like setting fire to your house in mid-January just so that you can keep warm for awhile. That doesn’t make much sense either, does it?

So don’t expect to see a production model BMW Hydrogen 7 anytime soon.

The second problem with a hydrogen car at this point is something most drivers will not tolerate. And that is, 30 gallons of liquid hydrogen will only get you about 125 miles. That’s why the BMW Hydrogen 7 is a dual-fuel vehicle. It can go another 310 miles on the 19.5 gallons of gasoline. Even though hydrogen may be the fuel of the future, finding a “hydrogen filling station” today is difficult to say the least. It’s just not going to happen soon.

The upside of driving a BMW Hydrogen 7 car is the positive effect on the environment. As you probably know, as you are motoring down the highway the exhaust is mostly good old fashion water.

But there is more to the exhaust than just water.

What you don’t know is that there will be small amounts of crankcase oil still emitted as it gets burned in the combustion chambers. This is the same with all internal combustion engines. There is also a small amount of nitric acid that is formed during combustion. Without getting too technical my friend, the nitric acid can be removed by a simple three-way catalyst.

Now, for all of you out there who either didn’t take chemistry in high school or college or who were sleeping in class when you should have been paying attention, I’ll make this easy for you. What comes out of the back end of the BMW Hydrogen 7 is “pretty darn clean”. It’s mostly just water.

Whew. That was easy. I told you it was going to be simple.

So, fellow traveler, our great adventure to create the car of the future has begun in the form of the BMW Hydrogen 7. There are many challenges to be overcome before you will see one of these cuties in your garage. But when it does make its grand entrance, I’ll be one of the first in line. The BMW Hydrogen 7 makes sense to me.

Does it make sense to you?

Chet Waters is the BMW Specialist. Learn How To Find Your BMW And At The Price You Can Afford. Go To:

http://www.bmwsauctions.com

Roland

Share and Enjoy: These icons link to social bookmarking sites where readers can share and discover new web pages.
  • Digg
  • Bumpzee
  • del.icio.us
  • Facebook
  • Furl
  • Mixx
  • NewsVine
  • Reddit
  • StumbleUpon
  • YahooMyWeb
  • Google

No Comments | Tags: BMW