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BMW will introduce a modern and authentic performance coupe that draws inspiration from its iconic 2002 models of some 40 years ago. The next BMW legend, the 1 Series Coupe, represents the core BMW philosophies of pure performance and premium design. By combining sporty rear-wheel-drive dynamics, agile handling, powerful engines and seating for four, the 1 Series Coupe will reinvent the niche that the legendary BMW 2002 created.

On sale in the spring of 2008, the 1 Series Coupe will be available in two versions; the 128i and the 135i. Powered by a 3.0-liter, 230 horsepower inline 6-cyinder engine that generates 200 lb-ft of torque, the 128i Coupe will feature Valvetronic valvetrain management and aluminum/magnesium contruction—core elements of BMW’s EfficientDynamics. The powerful 135i Coupe features BMW’s twin-turbocharged 3.0-liter inline six-cylinder engine that produces 300 horsepower and an incredible 300 lb-ft of torque from as low as 1,400 rpm. With its direct piezo gasoline injectors, twin low-mass turbochargers and air-to-air intercooling, optimum performance and economy is achieved with no loss in engine response. For the 135i Coupe, acceleration from 0-62 mph is accomplished in 5.3 seconds and top speed is electronically limited to 155 mph. Both engines feature on-demand engine coolant pumps that improve fuel economy and reduce parasitic losses for increased output.

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World’s most powerful production six-cylinder diesel engine comes to the X5. M Sport specification available across the range BMW’s class-leading Sports Activity Vehicle is now available with the world’s most powerful production six-cylinder diesel powerplant. The award-winning twin-turbocharged 3.0-litre diesel engine has been brought to the BMW X5 range to cater for a growing demand for performance SAVs.

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The ground-breaking BMW Hydrogen 7 car was presented to Deputy Mayor of London and London Hydrogen Partnership Chair, Nicky Gavron, at City Hall yesterday to raise awareness of hydrogen as an alternative energy source for tomorrow’s consumers.

BMW’s Head of Government and Industrial Affairs, John Hollis, handed over the BMW Hydrogen 7 for the use of the Deputy Mayor. Hydrogen is an efficient and clean form of power supply resulting in only water vapour exiting the exhaust. The car is part of BMW’s initiative to encourage debate around the role of hydrogen in the economy. For the next two months, cars will be evaluated in the UK by business leaders and opinion formers.

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Following its launch at the BMW PGA Championship at Wentworth, a fleet of three BMW Hydrogen 7s will, today (5 June 2007), take part in the Revolve Brighton to London rally for low and zero-emission cars. Starting on Madeira Drive in Brighton, the fleet of Hydrogen 7s will follow a pre-planned route ending at Trafalgar Square in London.

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BMW’s ever-popular M Sport derivative is to be introduced to the new BMW X5 range for the first time. On sale now, the new flagship offers customers a substantial level of sports-orientated standard equipment when compared to SE specification to offer a distinctive and dynamic range-topping model.

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One of the most successful cars of its class is the BMW X5. BMW only recently introduced its latest successor and HAMANN has already put together a complete program for the new X5. Hardly any area has been left untouched. Whether it’s suspension, wheels, performance, interior or aerodynamics, the Laupheim German specialists provide clear individualisation launching far above the norm.

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BMW Motorrad has launched an innovative new Neck Brace System that greatly reduces the risk of serious neck injury for riders. The system, which sits comfortably between a rider’s shoulders and any helmet, has been designed to provide optimum protection for the spine during an accident. Made from a mix of carbon fibre, Kevlar and fibre-glass for supreme strength, the Neck Brace System is comfortable to wear as a soft, impact-absorbing and ‘skin-friendly’ foam layer sits between the hardened outer casing and the rider. It has also been designed to easily slip on around the neck, like a collar, courtesy of two rapid action fasteners at the side. These fasteners allow for simple handling and easy adjustment.

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BMW UK has joined forces with AEG to become the official automotive partner for The O2, the UK’s première entertainment venue. When it opens in June, The O2 will feature significant BMW branding and signage as well as allowing BMW to showcase its latest products at the venue. BMW is the title sponsor of the VIP entrance and walkway as well as a Welcome feature in the main Entertainment District.

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Further details of the new BMW M3 Coupe, the most powerful road-going M3 the marque has ever produced, have been announced. The latest BMW M3 Coupé is a technical tour de force. The 420hp V8-engined performance car is capable of zero to 62mph in 4.8 seconds, before going on to an electronically-limited top speed of 155mph. But while engine capacity, cylinder count and output have increased compared to the previous M3’s six-cylinder unit, engineers have managed to reduce powerplant weight and introduce elements of BMW’s EfficientDynamics programme.

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The results of the ninth International Engine of the Year Awards will be announced on 9 May 2007 at Engine Expo in Stuttgart, Germany – and last year’s champion, BMW, is hoping that its current crop of engines can fend off stiff competition from a number of bold new powerplants… After dominating last year’s Awards, with the M5 V10 heart collecting the overall International Engine of the Year title for a second consecutive year, BMW will go head-to-head with the likes of Volkswagen’s 1.4-litre TSI that utilises both turbocharging and supercharging, Porsche’s 3.6-litre twin turbo powerhouse and Toyota’s economical, but extremely sprightly, 1-litre three-cylinder, which is said to be the lightest internal combustion engine on sale today.

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