Bangkok. BMW Group Thailand is ready to bring its state-of-the-art premium automotive technologies to the 35th Motor Expo – set to be held this year at Challenger Halls 1-3, Impact, Muang Thong Thani from November 29 to December 10, 2018. Leading the line for BMW this year is the all-new BMW M850i xDrive Coupe, a brand new sensation in the luxury sports segment that presents an unrivalled combination of inspiring sportiness and contemporary luxury; the all-new BMW X5 xDrive30d M Sport, capturing the imagination with clarity of design and dynamic driving pleasure; the BMW M2 Competition with its track-ready power in a compact and agile package; the limited-run BMW M4 Convertible Edition 30 Years, which commemorates a special milestone for open-top, high-performance driving; and the locally assembled BMW X3 xDrive20d xLine and M Sport, representing yet another proof of Plant Rayong’s ever-growing capabilities.

The new BMW arrivals are joined by fresh faces from MINI with the new MINI Hatch 3-door and 5-door Oxford Edition, while the MINI John Cooper Works GP Concept will be showing off its pure racetrack DNA for the very first time in South East Asia.

Mr. Christian Wiedmann, President, BMW Group Thailand, said, “The 35th Motor Expo, with its concept of ‘Enjoy Driving! Before Driverless Era’, is a reflection of our vision for future mobility. While we continue to explore new frontiers in autonomous driving through futuristic, unconventional concepts such as the BMW Vision iNEXT and the ACES (Autonomous, Connected, Electrified, Shared) strategy, we are also equally focused on delivering joy in every moment behind the wheel today. Our expanded vehicle lineup – which includes additions across the board for both BMW and MINI – is the ultimate proof of our commitment.”

Also available at the BMW booth this year to offer the most innovative path to vehicle selection and decision making is the HTC Vive VR Headset. Introducing an immersive virtual reality experience to customers, the headset allows them to experience a prospective vehicle in fine details in different trims and colors down to the seat stitching and the night sky reflected on the body of the vehicle.

This headset’s core components consist of two high-resolution screens and a laser-based tracking system that covers an area of 5 x 5 metres in the BMW application. The graphics are computed by software that normally serves to produce the very best computer gaming graphics. BMW uses Unreal Engine 4 from Epic Games for this task. This enables stable rendering of 90 frames per second while achieving photo-realistic quality too. The computation is performed using high-end gaming computers with water-cooled, and state-of-the-art components for unimaginable quality of graphics.
 

Price: THB 12,999,000 (VAT incl. with BSI Standard Package)

BMW presents the redefinition of the sports car with the all-new BMW M850i xDrive Coupe, an unrivalled combination of inspiring sportiness and contemporary luxury. Part of the all-new BMW 8 Series Coupe range, the M850i xDrive opens a further chapter in the brand’s successful sports car history and kicks off BMW’s initiative in the luxury segment.

Sporting emotionally powerful styling under a new design language, the all-new BMW M850i xDrive Coupe sits low on the road with a powerful stance that complements its elegantly flowing lines and precise contours on the long bonnet and along the low-slung body. The signature kidney grille is enlarged for a dramatic first look and flares out as it descends to emphasize the vehicle’s low centre of gravity. The large air intakes enhance the capabilities of the aerodynamics complemented by the additional front spoiler to further minimize lift at the front axle. What’s more, the all-new BMW M850i xDrive Coupe sports full LED headlights with BMW Laserlight that are the slimmest headlights of any BMW model to date. Both light tubes are used to generate the daytime driving lights as well as the low and high beam with High-beam assistant, thereby creating the signature brand look at all times.

From the deep roar of the new generation M Performance TwinPower Turbo V8 engine to the sharp thrill of manoeuvring with M Performance enhancements, this coupe satiates the most driven of adrenaline seekers. The supreme power is propelled by the characteristic 4.4-litre eight-cylinder engine delivering maximum output of 390 kW/530 hp at 5,500 – 6,000 rpm and maximum torque of 750 Nm at 1,800 – 4,600 rpm. The all-new BMW M850i xDrive Coupe enthrals with acceleration from a standstill to 100 km/h within a mere 3.7 seconds, sending the coupe to a top speed of 250 km/h.

Body structure, drive technology and suspension focus squarely on achieving the elite dynamic performance expected of a top-class sports car parallel to the BMW M8 GTE endurance racer. The sports coupe impresses with well-balanced weight distribution and lightweight construction using aluminium, magnesium and carbon-fibre-reinforced plastic (CFRP) yielding an extremely stiff body and suspension structure. Dynamic performance is underlined with Driving Experience Control consisting of ADAPTIVE mode with set-up differentiation between COMFORT and ECO Pro modes at one end and SPORT and SPORT+ modes at the other for an effortless handling in urban traffic and a high level of long-distance comfort.

Embracing the motorsport legacy with an unconditional agility, the all-new BMW M850i xDrive Coupe features M Performance traits ranging from Adaptive M Suspension Professional, M rear spoiler, 20-inch M light-alloy Y-spoke wheels to multi-functional M leather steering wheel with shift paddles. The M sportiness is highlighted by the exterior elements in high-gloss Shadow Line, stainless steel mesh interior trim strips, glass application “CraftedClarity” for interior elements and illuminated door sills boasting the model designation.

The sophisticated interior is crafted to the highest quality giving a refined and luxurious touch to the driver and passengers. The instrument panel is composed of clearly structured arrangement of controls underscoring the focus on the driver. The exclusive glass application creates a luxurious ambience adorning the gear selector with an illuminated ‘8’, the iDrive Controller, the start/stop button and the volume control for the audio system. The all-new BMW M850i xDrive Coupe comes with redesigned front and rear sports seats with low seating position in Merino leather trim, rendering headrests unnecessary.

The all-new BMW M850i xDrive Coupe also takes us another step closer to the future of autonomous driving with Parking Assistant Plus system and the inclusion of advanced driver assistance systems, including Person Warning with City Braking Function, Rear-Collision Prevention, Lane Departure Warning, Blind Spot Detection, Crossing-traffic warning rear, Speed limit info and no-overtaking indicator. The sports coupe also boasts a fully digital instrument cluster and 10.25-inch Control Display with consistent, modern graphics. The latest version of the BMW Head-Up Display provides 16% larger projection surface and optimised 3D graphics.

The seamless connectivity from BMW ConnectedDrive, the latest iDrive system and BMW Gesture Control also come equipped as standard.

BMW is once again setting the standard for the Sports Activity Vehicle with the new fourth-generation X5 boasting an even greater blend of premium luxury performance and comfort.

The latest X5 retains the hallmark proportions of an SAV, but the pared-back design language – clean surfacing and precise lines providing elegant poise and muscular authority – is new. With a longer wheelbase along with increased length (4,922 mm), width (2,004 mm) and height (7,745 mm), the new BMW X5 has both an imposing appearance and generous levels of space for passengers and their luggage with boot capacity of 650-1,870 litres.

Distinctive M Sport design features mark out the new X5 with M Aerodynamics package, side window and roof rails in BMW Individual high-gloss Shadow Line. The kidney grille bars come in matte aluminium while M Sport brakes, M Sport suspensions, 22-inch M light alloy wheels in Double-spoke style bring out the powerful and sporting impressions of the new BMW X5.

Channelling power through an improved eight-speed Steptronic transmission, the all-new BMW X5 xDrive30d M Sport is operated by the 6-cylinder diesel engine with BMW TwinPower Turbo driving the SAV with the maximum output of 195 kW/265 hp at 4,000 rpm and peak torque of 620 Nm at 2,000-2,500 rpm sending the new BMW X5 from 0 to 100 km/h within 6.5 seconds before hitting top speed at 230 km/h. The latest generation of the BMW xDrive intelligent all-wheel drive with more efficient control system and rear-wheel bias as standard is on hand to ensure that power is translated into secure progress – on or off road.

The all-new BMW X5 xDrive30d M Sport also comes equipped with adaptive M suspension, Dynamic Traction Control system, Driving Experience Control switch, and Dynamic Stability Control system make it possible to boost the off-road performance, sportiness or comfort of the all-new BMW X5.

The interior of the all-new BMW X5 exudes a classy and modern aura thanks to sophisticated materials, harmonious design and an innovative control concept. The fully-digital instrument cluster and the Control Display share the same graphics and design. The carefully selected materials in the interior include the Vernasca leather for the standard leather upholstery as well as M Sport leather multifunction steering wheel. Another new feature on board the all-new BMW X5 includes the panoramic glass roof, whose clear surface is 30% larger than on the outgoing model.

As well as increased levels of comfort and exclusivity, the all-new BMW X5 now also offers enhanced functionality. Folding down the 40 : 20 : 40 split rear seat backrest increases boot capacity from 650 litres to a maximum of 1,870 litres. The all-new BMW X5 also has a two-section tailgate for ease of loading while the boot cover now lowers electrically into the load compartment floor.

Innovative suite of driver assistance systems such as Parking Assistant Plus that now includes the new Reversing Assistant, which takes over steering to manoeuvre the vehicle reversely along a path recently negotiated forward – over a distance of up to 50 metres at the maximum speed of 36 km/h, Surround View, Top View, Panorama View and Remote 3D View which can be displayed on the driver’s smartphone via BMW ConnectedDrive. The
all-new BMW X5 also features Driving Experience Control including ECO PRO fitted as standard.

The BMW Live Cockpit Professional display and control concept combines a new 12.3-inch display and the ultimate in connectivity to create a superb all-round package, while the new generation of the BMW Head-Up Display now offers a larger projection surface of 7 × 3.5 inch and optimised 3D graphics. The familiar iDrive and BMW Gesture Control as well as multimodal use of the 10.25-inch touchscreen display are still on hand to provide utmost convenience for the driver.

Complete range of services from BMW ConnectedDrive offers full connectivity between the vehicle and the customer’s digital devices.

Price: THB 6,299,000 (VAT incl. with BSI Standard Package)

The new BMW M2 Competition is setting fresh benchmarks in the compact high-performance sports car segment and adding marked refinement to its predecessor, BMW M2 Coupé. At the core of this new BMW M2 Competition lies an incredibly powerful 3-liter, 6-cylinder in-line engine with BMW TwinPower Turbo technology now boasts an aggressive 302 kW/410 hp at 5,230 – 7,000 rpm – an increase in output of 40 hp from the M2 Coupé. With torque upgraded to 550 Nm, previously 465 Nm, at 2,350 – 5,230 rpm. This powerhouse sprints from 0 to 100 km/h in only 4.2 seconds with the top speed of 250 km/h. The new BMW M2 Competition is equipped as standard with M Double Clutch Transmission (M DCT) with Drivelogic. The cooling system, which has also been developed further, ensures the high-performance engine always works within the optimum temperature range.

Although the BMW M2 Competition remains faithful to the classic dimensions of the M2, there are numerous design details that have been further developed both visually and technically. The model comes in exclusive new metallic Hockenheim Silver paint. The front view of the vehicle is dominated by enlarged air intakes and the double bridge M kidney grill in high-gloss black improving air flow to meet engine performance demands. The front apron has been aerodynamically improved and further emphasises the width of the vehicle. New striking twin-stalk mirrors also provide an aggressive M look – accentuated by the black 19-inch M light alloy wheels in Y-spoke style. The BMW M2 Competition’s rear now features a new dual exhaust system with two electrically-controlled flaps.

The interior of the BMW M2 Competition places a premium on driver personalisation and comfort. All new M sport seats with lumbar support and integrated headrest in leather Dakota offer perfect ergonomics and body support during every dynamic drive. Interior trim finishers in Carbon Fibre and M seatbelts complement the sportiness of the new BMW M2 Competition.

The interface’s modern design offers the latest connectivity options for the infotainment system via 8.8-inch control display with iDrive touch controller and BMW ConnectedDrive.

Price: THB 8,999,000 (VAT incl. with BSI Standard Package)

For three decades now, the open-top high-performance sports car from the legendary BMW M family has combined precise handling and exhilarating dynamics with a fascinating feeling of freedom. Available in a limited run of only 300 units worldwide and only 2 units in Thailand, the BMW M4 Convertible Edition 30 Years is a celebration of the model’s successful tradition.

The open-top four-seater enthuses with 331 kW/450 hp and M Competition package including M Drive, adaptive M suspension with specific SPORT mode and an extremely sporty configuration of the stability control system DSC and the M Dynamic Mode. The track-ready qualities, along with the Carbon Fiber Reinforced Plastic components and aerodynamically optimized body of the edition model, are tributes to the motorsport heritage that inspired the first M3 convertible – the ancestor of the M4 Edition 30 Years.

The BMW M4 Convertible Edition 30 Years stands out with two exclusive color variants: Mandarin II and Macao Blue Metallic. The BMW Individual High-Gloss Shadow Line is complemented by the additions to the iconic BMW Kidney Grille, the M gills and the model lettering. The Edition’s 20-inch forge and bright M light-alloy wheels in Star-spoke style come with a bespoke design exclusively for this model in “Orbit Grey”.

Even on the inside, the Merino full leather trim is characterised to match the selected bodywork. In conjunction with the exterior colour Macao Blue metallic, the interior comes in two-tone colour combinations Black/Fjord Blue. The exclusive features also comprise corresponding contrast stitching on the headrests as well as M floor mats with piping in the respective contrasting colour. Black interior surfaces with yellow contrast stitching are offered in conjunction with the yellow Mandarin II, whilst interior trim strips in the version Carbon Fibre come as standard for all edition model variants.

Moreover, the lettering “30 Jahre Edition” is imprinted both on the doorsills and the headrests. A signet on the interior trim strip on the passenger side dashboard area boasts, in addition to the lettering “30 Jahre Edition”, the number “1/300” gives further reference to the limited series.

Price of the locally assembled BMW X3 xDrive20d xLine: THB 3,359,000 (VAT incl. with BSI Standard Package)
Price of the locally assembled BMW X3 xDrive20d M Sport: THB 3,659,000 (VAT incl. with BSI Standard Package)

After the launch of the third-generation BMW X3 earlier this year, Thai customers can now experience and own the locally-assembled version of the BMW X3 xDrive20d xLine and BMW X3 xDrive20d M Sport. Fresh off the assembly lines at Plant Rayong, the locally-assembled X3 models come with an exciting price drop of THB 340,000 for the xLine variant and THB 140,000 for the M Sport variant while continuing their predecessor’s legacy of outstanding performance on the road, sporty looks and sharp, agile silhouette.

The BMW X3 xDrive20d xLine comes with 19-inch light alloy wheels in Y-spoke style – enhancing the visual appeal with BMW Individual Exterior Line Aluminium satinated. The M Sport variant, meanwhile, comes with 19-inch M light alloy wheels in Double-spoke style, achieving a striking exterior look with the M Aerodynamics package and high-gloss Shadow Line around the windows and roof rails.

The BMW X3 xDrive20d xLine and M Sport impress with the economical yet powerful 4-cylinder diesel engine with BMW TwinPower Turbo technology. Operating alongside the eight-speed Steptronic transmission, the engine produces 140 kW/190 hp, providing a peak torque of 400 Nm, allowing the BMW X3 to race from 0 to 100 km/h in 8 seconds before hitting a top speed of 213 km/h, with a fuel consumption of 17.6 km/l and combined CO2 emission of 150 g/km. The M Sport suspension also boosts the performance of the M variant.

A truly classic and luxurious interior extracting from the essence of BMW, The BMW X3 xDrive20d xLine and M Sport elevate the comfort and driving pleasure with electric seat adjustment with memory for the driver and sport seats for driver and front passenger. The instrument panel in Sensatec and ambient light further enhance the overall atmosphere. Simply elegant with the interior of fine-wood trim in Fineline Anthracite with highlight trim finisher Pearl Chrome for The BMW X3 xDrive20d xLine while the BMW X3 xDrive20d M Sport delivers premium trim finishers with Aluminium and finely brushed lengthwise, plus an M Leather steering wheel with gearshift paddles. Both variants offer enhanced convenience with the parking assistant feature and a rear-view camera that ensures greater confidence and safety in everyday driving.

The iDrive Touch Controller and 10.25-inch high-resolution control display come equipped with the models. BMW gesture control allows various navigation and infotainment system functions to be operated intuitively using finger and hand gestures. Meanwhile, the Intelligent Voice Control Assistance lets drivers use everyday language to have their requests turned into the appropriate actions instead of having to use set spoken commands. The M Sport variant also features BMW Head-up Display and HiFi loudspeaker.

The MINI Hatch 3-door and 5-door Oxford Edition
MINI Hatch 3-Door Cooper S Price: THB 2,819,999 (VAT incl. with MSI Standard Package)
MINI Hatch 5-Door Cooper S Price: THB 2,859,999 (VAT incl. with MSI Standard Package)

The MINI Cooper S Hatch 3-door and 5-door Oxford Edition are exclusively available in Thailand for 60 units only. It comes with the unique characteristics reflective through the iconic design in Pure Burgundy colour with a contrasting black roof and the exterior mirror in Melting Silver. The Oxford Edition is smartly styled with the assertive 17-inch Cosmos Spoke alloy wheels in black –enhancing the visual appeal with eye-catching stripes at the front, the rear and the door handles. The fuel tank cover plus the headlights’ and rear lights’ trims will be in Piano Black adding the sporty MINI’s sprit to the vehicle. The rear lights are distinctive with the structure of the LED light in Union Jack design recreating the flag motif to further stress the brand's British origin.

For the first-time ever, MINI has incorporated the innovative 3D printing technology to make this Oxford Edition more exclusive as MINI side scuttles are uniquely stamped with ‘Oxford’ identity. The interior adds a nice touch of British style with the glowing ambient light in Union Jack design installed in centre console, seats and steering wheels are also embracing British character with Union Jack design throughout.

The MINI Hatch Cooper S are powered by engines with MINI TwinPower Turbo technology, 2.0-litre, 4-cylinder engine. It comes equipped with a 7-speed Steptronic transmission with double clutch, operated by an electronic gear selector lever. This transmission type is characterised by very fast gearshifts, enabling extremely sporty acceleration manoeuvres without torque interrupt which saves on fuel. With the adaptive suspension, it is designed to absorb compression – providing comfortable ride and driving fun in every road challenge.

And it's just as smart on the inside with a 6.5-inch high-res touchscreen control display in the central instrument navigation system and rear-view camera with park distance control that let the driver manoeuvres tight spots with ease and safety. It is also compatible with MINI Connected technology that enables seamless integration between the vehicles’ features and the smartphone.

Inspired by the conquest in the Monte Carlo Rally back in 1967, the new MINI John Cooper Works GP Concept embodies undiluted dynamic flair and the modern racing essence of a MINI. The concept car picks up the baton from the 2012 MINI John Cooper Works GP and 2006 MINI Cooper S with John Cooper Works GP Kit.

The GP Concept aesthetic is presented in a shade of Black Jack Anthracite – which shimmers between grey and black – and the contrast colour Curbside Red and High Speed Orange accentuate the sleek lines of the bodywork. The large front and rear aprons, side skirts and a prominent roof spoiler further create a confident appearance. The use of lightweight materials such as carbon fibre optimises the car’s power-to-weight ratio and evenly balanced weight distribution is a ticket to MINI’s signature go-kart feeling.

Striking an impressive balance of beauty and strength, the rear of the GP Concept is grounded by central twin tailpipes embodying the DNA of JCW. Sophisticated touches, such as the half-Union Jack on each side, represent a nod to the concept car’s British origins, while also providing a sporty and technical flourish.

Stripped-down and simple, the interior combines its pared-back sporting forms with eye-catching elements and bold colour accents. Against the backdrop of the white basic space, it is punctuated by a black patinated smooth leather on the head restraints and bolsters, a bright aluminium roll cage, a black dashboard and a cleanly-designed digital interface in the central instrument to enable even greater personalization.

Customers booking a BMW and MINI during Motor Expo 2018 with vehicle handover by 31st December, 2018 will be able to take advantage of these exclusive offers:

• Upgraded BMW Service Inclusive (BSI) package (excluding BMW i models)
    - BMW models, excluding BMW i models, will receive a complimentary upgrade of the BSI ULTIMATE package from 5 years / 100,000 kilometres of free maintenance to a full 10 years / 100,000 kilometres*

• Upgraded MINI Service Inclusive (MSI) package
    - All MINI models will receive a complimentary upgrade of the MSI Standard package from 3 years / 60,000 kilometres of free maintenance to a full 10 years / 100,000 kilometres**
    - For MINI Financial Services customers, free 1-year first class insurance
    - Free MINI John Cooper Works caps, exclusively for all MINI test drivers

*Extended maintenance to 10 years/100,000 km. Warranty and BMW Mobility Service membership at 5 years/unlimited mileage.

**Extended maintenance to 10 years/100,000 km. Warranty and MINI Mobility Service membership at 5 years/unlimited mileage.

The BMW Group

With its four brands BMW, MINI, Rolls-Royce and BMW Motorrad, the BMW Group is the world’s leading premium manufacturer of automobiles and motorcycles and also provides premium financial and mobility services. The BMW Group production network comprises 30 production and assembly facilities in 14 countries; the company has a global sales network in more than 140 countries.

In 2017, the BMW Group sold over 2,463,500 passenger vehicles and more than 164,000 motorcycles worldwide. As of 31 December 2016, the BMW Group had a workforce of 124,729 employees.

The success of the BMW Group has always been based 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.

BMW Group Thailand

BMW Group Thailand, a subsidiary of BMW AG, Germany, was established on the 3rd October 1998. The three entities of BMW Group Thailand include BMW (Thailand) Co., Ltd. with responsibility for wholesales & marketing of BMW Group products, BMW Manufacturing (Thailand) Co., Ltd. with responsibility for BMW and BMW Motorrad local production, and BMW Leasing (Thailand) Co., Ltd. with responsibility for financial services offerings to both wholesale and retail customers.

Within the first 9 months of 2018, BMW Group Thailand achieved a historic sales record with 8,903 BMW and MINI vehicles delivered to customers, an increase of 15.6% year-on-year. BMW Motorrad Thailand also enjoyed strong year-to-date performance with 1,425 motorcycles delivered for an increase of 9.4% year-on-year.

On the production side, the BMW Group Manufacturing Thailand plant was founded on BMW Group’s strong belief in the growth potential of Asian markets and Thailand in particular with its unique location, strong manufacturing base, and ready supply of skilled automotive labor, being an automotive hub for ASEAN.

On-going investment has been put into the expansion of plant Rayong in terms of assembling processes, aiming to meet growing customer demand. In addition, with approximately 4 billion Thai Baht representing the amount of annual purchasing in Thailand, the BMW Global Purchasing office has been established in Thailand. This is to source various components from local suppliers in Thailand and the broader ASEAN region, in order to supply the entire BMW production network of 30 production and assembly facilities, located in 14 countries worldwide.

As of October 2018, BMW Group Manufacturing Thailand produces the following 15 models: BMW 1 Series, BMW 3 Series, BMW 3 Series Gran Turismo, BMW 5 Series, BMW 7 Series, BMW X1 and BMW X5. For BMW Motorrad the BMW F 800 R, BMW F 750 GS, BMW F 850 GS, BMW R 1200 GS, BMW R 1200 GS Adventure, BMW S 1000 R, BMW S 1000 RR and BMW S 1000 XR are also locally assembled at the plant. In addition, BMW Group Manufacturing Thailand now assembles four BMW plug-in hybrid models; BMW 330e, BMW 530e, BMW X5 xDrive40e and BMW 740Le.

For further information, please contact:
BMW Group Thailand
1-800-269-269
www.bmw.co.th
www.mini.co.th
www.bmw-motorrad.co.th

Media Contacts:
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Nalinuth Sirisombut (08-6977-7881 or 0-2627-3501 ext.155)
sboonsaeng@carlbyoir.com, tthongnab@carlbyoir.com, ptoonkamthornchai@carlbyoir.com, nsirisombut@carlbyoir.com