Autoblog

Voi scooter taxi offers options for commuters in mega cites

Jonathon Ramsey — Tue, 23 Apr 2013 17:00:00 EST

Filed under: Concept Cars, Videos, Misc. Auto Shows, Motorcycle, Electric

TUM Create, a section of the Technical University of Munich, Germany, that has more than 100 technical types working on future solutions to mobility, worked with Singapore's Nanyang Technical University to come up with the Voi multipurpose electric scooter. The Voi - from the Vietnamese word for elephant - puts a rider behind an enclosed passenger cell that keeps proceedings narrow and can keep one of the occupants dry.

What's more, that front cell can be swapped for other modules like an open seat, a cargo box or a mobile kitchen. With the aim of being as convenient and affordable as a scooter and as comfortable as a car, the Voi can get up to 45 kilometers per hour (28 miles per hour) and has an 80 kilometer range (50 miles). A video explaining the project can be found below.

Revealed at the Taiwan International Electric Vehicle Show (EV Taiwan) this month, you can watch it being built and taken for a spin in the video below, and check out the press release below that.

Continue reading Voi scooter taxi offers options for commuters in mega cites

Voi scooter taxi offers options for commuters in mega cites originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 23 Apr 2013 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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The List #0414: Buy A Car For European Delivery

John Neff — Tue, 09 Oct 2012 14:57:00 EST

Filed under: Car Buying, BMW, The List

Let's face it, the dealership experience when buying a new car is not very special. But when you're handing over serious stacks of cash for a car that you've dreamed of owning, the occasion calls for something more than a free car wash before you drive off the lot. That's where something like the European Delivery program offered by BMW comes in. Instead of picking up your new M3 at the local dealer, BMW builds it in Munich and has it waiting for you to come get it. And while you're there, why not tour the factory where your car was built, visit the BMW Museum and world headquarters, and then go off on your own and explore what Germany has to offer a new BMW owner. And did we mention you actually save money by taking possession of your BMW this way?

Taking an international pilgrimage to pick up your new car is an experience that easily makes The List, so we sent Jessi and Patrick to Germany to walk us through what it's like for a new owner who goes this route, including the special treatment and various places one gets to go during the visit to BMW's campus in Munich.

The experience also afforded Jessi and Patrick the opportunity to complete a couple of other items on The List that could only be done in Germany. Can you guess which two they chose? What would be on your German edition of The List? If you haven't already guessed, you'll find out when we publish the next two episodes in the coming weeks.

Scroll down to watch The List #0414: Buy A Car For European Delivery.

Have an RSS feed? Click here to add The List.

Click here to learn more about our hosts, Jessi and Patrick.

Continue reading The List #0414: Buy A Car For European Delivery

The List #0414: Buy A Car For European Delivery originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 09 Oct 2012 14:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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BMW highlights factory tour experience in Munich

Noah Joseph — Wed, 28 Mar 2012 08:59:00 EST

Filed under: Europe, Plants/Manufacturing, BMW

Like other European automakers, BMW is keen to welcome visitors at its headquarters in Munich, and you don't even have to buy a car to see it.

The Bavarian automaker's principal visitors center is BMW Welt, a dynamic attraction that has welcomed some two million visitors every year since opening in 2007. BMW Welt (from the German for "world") includes a delivery center where as many as 100 new customers pick up their new cars every day, as well as interactive exhibits showcasing the company's operations in R&D, design and production, as well as concert venues and conference rooms and even a Junior Campus for younger guests.

Visitors to BMW Welt can also stop by the neighboring BMW Museum to check out the 120 original exhibits covering 90 years of BMW history laid out on a virtual roadway across 25 exhibition areas that some 400,000 visitors see each year. Finally, visitors can also tour the company's main plant in Munich where BMW produces the 3 Series sedan and wagon as well as the bulk of its engines.

Planning a trip to Germany sometime soon? Follow the jump to read more in the full press release and scope out the enormous gallery of high-res images for an idea of what to expect.

Continue reading BMW highlights factory tour experience in Munich

BMW highlights factory tour experience in Munich originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 28 Mar 2012 08:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Bentley soars over Munich with new Continental GT V8

Noah Joseph — Mon, 13 Feb 2012 13:31:00 EST

Filed under: Coupe, Europe, Marketing/Advertising, Videos, Bentley, Luxury

You'd think that lobbing four cylinders off a car's engine would have an adverse effect on its performance, right? But Bentley is out to show that its new Continental GT with the V8 engine can fly every bit as much as the W-12 model. And by fly, we do mean fly.

Not only is the updated 2013 twelve-cylinder model 55 pounds lighter than the one it replaces, but the eight-cylinder model is lighter still. That helps the V8 achieve 40-percent better fuel economy, while still delivering 500 horsepower - 131 hp shy of the W12 - for a 4.6-second sprint to 60.

To drive the point home, Bentley airlifted its new Continental GT V8 over Munich - the hometown of its parent company's arch-rival BMW - and placed it on a rooftop for all to see. If you missed the publicity stunt while driving home from the beer hall, you can scope it out in the video and press release after the jump and the high-res image gallery above.

Continue reading Bentley soars over Munich with new Continental GT V8

Bentley soars over Munich with new Continental GT V8 originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 13 Feb 2012 13:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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F1 driver Adrian Sutil to stand trial in Germany over Shanghai bar fight

Noah Joseph — Thu, 19 Jan 2012 16:00:00 EST

Filed under: Motorsports, China, Europe, Government/Legal

An impending court trial in Germany is shaping up to be the largest parade of Formula One drivers since the 2011 season wrapped up in Brazil this past November. The proceeding pits one Eric Lux (CEO of Genii Capital that owns part of Lotus Renault GP) against Adrian Sutil (a veteran grand prix driver who most recently drove for Force India) over an alleged fight in a Shanghai night club.

Now, most of us have been there and done that, but the details of this particular incident remain scarce. Apparently, during the altercation, Sutil cut Lux's neck with a broken bottle. Over what they were fighting, exactly, we don't know, but the fight apparently broke out after the end of the Chinese Grand Prix last April. According to ESPN, a number of F1 personalities - drivers, managers, team owners - were present and celebrating together, lending to the likelihood that some of the world's hottest of hot shoes could be called to testify at the trial scheduled for the end of this month.

Whether Sutil is found guilty of any wrongdoing or not, it seems the incident has all but completely scuttled any chance he had of returning to the grid for the upcoming season: Force India has already replaced him and Williams (his other prospect) went with Bruno Senna, leaving only HRT with a seat open.

F1 driver Adrian Sutil to stand trial in Germany over Shanghai bar fight originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 19 Jan 2012 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Video: BMW gives sneak peak into Plant Zero skunkworks

Aaron Richardson — Mon, 28 Mar 2011 11:31:00 EST

Filed under: Concept Cars, Europe, Plants/Manufacturing, Technology, Videos, BMW

BMW Plant Zero skunkworks - Click above to watch video after the jump

In the heart of Munich, hidden away from public view by corporate headquarters, is a factory that builds and develops BMW's prototypes, concept cars and test mules. The factory is a small operation, and, according to BMW, it was the first of its kind in the auto industry and continues to be one step ahead.

The plant serves not only as a site to build prototypes and test mules, but as a center to develop manufacturing methods for new models, and make sure tooling for upcoming models fit together just so. That purpose is served by one of the coolest parts of the skunkworks: a prototype milled from a solid block of aluminum. The company is mum on what the one-piece prototype represents, but just the fact that it exists is good enough for us.

The plant's other key function is the rapid development of parts as cars are being tested. If something breaks on a mule or BMW decides it's not up to snuff, Plant Zero can turn around a redesign piece in as little as three days. According to the plant manager, that's possible even with aluminum parts.

To see more of BMW's secret development center, check out the video after the jump. Thanks to all for the tips!

[Source: BMW via YouTube]

Continue reading Video: BMW gives sneak peak into Plant Zero skunkworks

Video: BMW gives sneak peak into Plant Zero skunkworks originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 28 Mar 2011 11:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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BMW reportedly catches ring of workers stealing up to $4 million in parts

Jeremy Korzeniewski — Mon, 29 Nov 2010 17:32:00 EST

Filed under: Europe, Government/Legal, Plants/Manufacturing, BMW

According to reports, a ring of 18 workers at BMW's plant in Munich have been stealing from the German automaker for years. It seems the individuals would stop the lines for fake quality control checks and make off with the goods to be sold on the open market. The most lucrative business reportedly centered around reselling seats through internet auctions.

BMW's own internal investigators discovered the thievery - but not until €3 million in goods ($4 million) was stolen - and reported the matter to local authorities. At least three ex-employees are currently in custody. Thanks for the tip, Gregg!

[Source: The Local | Photo: Drew Phillips/AOL]

BMW reportedly catches ring of workers stealing up to $4 million in parts originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 29 Nov 2010 17:32:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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A behind-the-scenes look inside the BMW Classic warehouse

Michael Harley — Wed, 27 Oct 2010 14:58:00 EST

Filed under: Concept Cars, Classics, Europe, BMW

BMW Classic in Munich - Click above for high-res image gallery

Located just a short distance from the BMW Museum and Welt (famous as the company's European delivery center) in Munich, Germany, is BMW Classic. According to the German automaker, "BMW Classic coordinates all activities that are connected with the company's varied and successful history covering everything from the historical archives, assortment of aeroplanes, communication, the museum and BMW's role in the international club scene." In a nutshell, BMW Classic is tasked with archiving, restoring and preserving the company's ninety-year manufacturing history.

Earlier this year, the BMW Classic Center opened its doors to the public offering a full range of classic parts, restoration services and vehicle authentication. While local dealerships will continue to stock late model parts and accessories, BMW Classic is tasked with keeping an inventory part supply for vehicles (including motorcycles) that are generally more than fifteen years old. Not only are 30,000-plus components kept on hand, but the tooling that is relevant for subsequent fabrication is held at the facility as well. In addition, there are on-site restoration services, using 100 percent original parts, upholstery and paint, at prices that are very competitive to local shops (especially when you consider that BMW Classic Center is a one-stop shop for a turn-key restoration process).

While the downstairs shop area is in a constant flurry of activity, the multi-story warehouse - where much of the really good stuff is stored - is unfortunately closed to the public. However, thanks to a special invite, Autoblog was recently escorted on a private behind-the-scenes tour of the facility.

Viewed from the outside, the building is nothing spectacular. Yet, hidden inside its concrete walls are several floors of immaculately restored and preserved engines, motorcycles and automobiles. In addition to some of the company's most classic offerings, such as the BMW 507 and BMW 328, we stumbled over Isetta microcars and mint-condition 2002 race cars. We found the famed E53 X5 fitted with a V12 LMR powerplant (the 700 horsepower SUV clocked a record-setting 7:49 lap around Nürburgring at the hands of Hans Stuck nearly a decade ago) and a pristine street-ready McLaren F1 (parked yards away from its race-ready F1 GTR siblings). Look past the James Bond's genuine E38 7 Series (with highly-custom rear-seat driving controls), and you will see the fluorescent orange nose of the 1972 BMW Turbo Concept - the vehicle that inspired the BMW M1, arriving just five years later.

Our favorite has got to be an unassuming 1987 E32 7 Series, (aka the "Goldfish" 767), fitted with a prototype 6.7-liter V16 rated at 408 horsepower. The only hint to its potency are custom gill-like air intakes on each rear quarter panel - its massive engine is so long that the engineers were forced to move its cooling system to the trunk.

Take a long look through our extensive gallery, and let us know which ones are your favorites.

Gallery: BMW Classic Warehouse

A behind-the-scenes look inside the BMW Classic warehouse originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 27 Oct 2010 14:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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20 Audi A1 e-trons hitting the streets of Munich

Zach Bowman — Tue, 14 Sep 2010 18:28:00 EST

Filed under: Europe, Technology, Hatchback, Audi, Electric

Audi A1 e-tron - Click above for high-res image gallery

Audi has chosen Munich as its launch pad for the company's new electric vehicle effort. The German manufacturer is planning to roll out 20 of its A1 hatchbacks as part of a research project with the Technical University of Munich. The cars will be powered by an electric motor with the equivalent of around 102 horsepower, which should give the vehicles a top speed of 81 mph. In city driving, a lithium-ion battery pack can keep the electrified A1 going for a total of 31 miles, though past that there's a small Wankel rotary engine on board to recharge the battery packs and keep things moving.

With the help of the small gasoline engine, the A1 e-tron can cover an additional 124 miles for a combined range of 155 miles depending on driving habits. Audi says this set up provides the equivalent of 148.7 mpg, though we're not sure if that imperial or U.S. gallons. Either way, that's a sizable fuel economy number.

A total of 200 electric charging stations have been set up throughout Munich as a part of the program, which is funded by Germany's Federal Ministry of Transport. Hit the jump for the full press release.

Gallery: Audi A1 Etron

[Source: Audi]

Continue reading 20 Audi A1 e-trons hitting the streets of Munich

20 Audi A1 e-trons hitting the streets of Munich originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 14 Sep 2010 18:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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2011 Audi A7 Sportback shows its shapely rump in Munich

Steven J. Ewing — Mon, 26 Jul 2010 16:30:00 EST

Filed under: Sedan, Hatchback, Audi, Design/Style, Luxury

2011 Audi A7 Sportback - Click above for high-res image gallery

There's a new automotive segment being born as we speak. Previewed by the Porsche Panamera, Aston Martin Rapide and BMW 5-Series Gran Turismo, modern four-door sportback sedans combine the functionality of a hatchback with seating for four or five, all wrapped in a shapely, sleek package. Audi previewed its own offering at the 2009 Detroit Auto Show by way of the Sportback concept, and now the production model has officially been unveiled in Munich.

From a design standpoint, it's obvious that the A7 Sportback was penned alongside the all-new flagship A8 sedan. Audi's signature LED running lamps are intact up front, in a more angular shape than what you'd see on the A4 or R8, and the chopped rear deck is not only a throwback to fastback sedans from many decades ago, but its design mimics that of the larger A8, as well. The most striking view, however, is the side profile, which looks to be one part shooting brake and one part coupe, though if we're honest, we wish the A7's front overhang were reduced just a bit. Interestingly, at one point, Audi refers to the A7 has having a boattail, which initially made us cringe, but staring at it a bit more, this notion makes a degree of sense.

Powertrain details are slim as of this writing, but Audi says that the A7 Sportback will debut with four different V6 offerings, two petrol and two diesel. Expect the 3.0-liter supercharged V6 from the S4, S5 and A6 to be on hand, as well as the 3.0-liter TDI V6 found in the Q7 SUV. Audi will offer the A7 in both front- and all-wheel-drive configurations, with the Multitronic CVT and seven-speed S-tronic transmissions being used, respectively. Interestingly, unlike the A8, the A7 will make use of electric power steering, so we hope Audi's boffins have done their homework on dialing in feel and linearity.

Inside, we expect the standard raft of Audi amenities, including the automaker's new MMI Touch infotainment interface. From there, the latest in Audi technology will be on hand, including wireless internet connectivity. The interior is very much akin to that in the new A8, and we fully expect that it will offer premium creature comforts while still being driver-focused.

No official confirmation for North American consumers just yet, but we expect an all-wheel drive model to make it to these shores - presumably with a gasoline and S-tronic gearbox only configuration.

Hit the jump to read the full details in Audi's press release, and click through the attached gallery for high-res shots. We fully anticipate that Audi will open the floodgates on further information and images in the near future, so stay tuned.

Gallery: 2011 Audi A7 Sportback

[Source: Audi]

Continue reading 2011 Audi A7 Sportback shows its shapely rump in Munich

2011 Audi A7 Sportback shows its shapely rump in Munich originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 26 Jul 2010 16:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Audi confirms A7 Sportback global reveal for Monday

Sam Abuelsamid — Wed, 21 Jul 2010 09:29:00 EST

Filed under: Sedan, Hatchback, Audi, Luxury

2009 Audi Sportback concept - Click above for high-res image gallery

The long-awaited production version of the Audi A7 will finally debut on Monday, July 26 at 8:30pm CET - that's 2:30pm Eastern - and you'll be able to watch live on the interwebs at Audi TV. interestingly, Audi has chosen to head over to the hometown of one of its primary rivals for the unveiling. The A7 will be unwrapped at the Pinakothek der Moderne art museum in Munich, just a couple of miles from the world headquarters of BMW.

The A7 is expected to take the form of a large, five-door fastback built on the modular platform shared with the A8 sedan. The styling is expected to be very close to the Sportback concept that we saw at last year's Detroit Auto Show. Unlike BMW's 5 Series Gran Turismo, the A7 doesn't have the elevated roofline that adds passenger volume, so it's likely to be tighter inside, but it's also likely to avoid the 5GT's ungainly appearance.

Gallery: Detroit 2009: Audi Sportback Concept

[Source: Audi]

Continue reading Audi confirms A7 Sportback global reveal for Monday

Audi confirms A7 Sportback global reveal for Monday originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 21 Jul 2010 09:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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BMW offering chauffered tours of Munich in classic cabrios

Noah Joseph — Sun, 18 Apr 2010 09:03:00 EST

Filed under: Classics, Convertible, Europe, BMW

BMW Classic tour of Munich - Click above for high-res image gallery

The pilsner-swilling Bavarians in charge of BMW's classics sure have been keeping busy lately. With Oktoberfest half a year away, they've launched a new vintage racing division and opened up their restoration garage to private owners. Now they're offering tours around Munich, chauffeured in some very rare classic Bimmers from the company's private collection.

The tours begin and end at the BMW Museum, and visit BMW Tower, BMW Welt, and the 3 Series assembly plant as well as various historic sites around the city. The roster of cars used for the tours includes 326 and 335 Cabriolets from the 1930s, the 50s-era 502 "Baroque Angel" Cabriolet, and a one-of-a-kind 3200 CS Cabriolet. The tour will cost a not-insubstantial 90 euros per person (about $120 USD), but if you're planning a trip to Germany between now and October, it looks well worth checking out. Details in the press release after the jump.

Gallery: BMW Classic tour of Munich

[Source: BMW]

Continue reading BMW offering chauffered tours of Munich in classic cabrios

BMW offering chauffered tours of Munich in classic cabrios originally appeared on Autoblog on Sun, 18 Apr 2010 09:03:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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VIDEO: BMW M1 in mule-style camo?

Alex Nunez — Sun, 29 Nov 2009 10:48:00 EST

Filed under: Coupe, Performance, Etc., Videos, BMW

BMW M1 in camouflage - Click above to watch the video

For the life of us, we can't figure this. BMWblog has posted a video of what surely looks like an O.G. BMW M1, dressed up in that ubiquitous swirlydelic camouflage du jour and parked on a Munich street. It's either a very clever gag being put on by someone, or something potentially awesome is afoot. Either way, we can dig it. See for yourselves after the jump. Thanks to Mike S. for the tip!

[Source: YouTube via BMWblog]

Continue reading VIDEO: BMW M1 in mule-style camo?

VIDEO: BMW M1 in mule-style camo? originally appeared on Autoblog on Sun, 29 Nov 2009 10:48:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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VIDEO: Chris Pfeiffer takes his BMW freestylin' ways to company headquarters

Jonathon Ramsey — Sun, 13 Sep 2009 18:57:00 EST

Filed under: Videos, BMW, Motorcycle

Chris Pfeiffer does tricks atop the BMW Tower -- Click above to watch video

Freestyle rider Chris Pfeiffer took a BMW F 800 R to the top of the 22-story BMW Tower in Munich, then decided to play around with it. What that means is two minutes and ten seconds of gymnastic 2-wheeled goodness that would be impressive enough were it happening at ground level. Speaking of the ground, our favorite part might come on the first floor, before Pfeiffer gets in the elevator and rides by a BMW employee whose look says "I'll just pretend I didn't see that..." Follow the jump to see the vid.

[Source: BMW]

Continue reading VIDEO: Chris Pfeiffer takes his BMW freestylin' ways to company headquarters

VIDEO: Chris Pfeiffer takes his BMW freestylin' ways to company headquarters originally appeared on Autoblog on Sun, 13 Sep 2009 18:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Spy Shots: BMW Vision EfficientDynamics concept snagged at Munich photo shoot

Noah Joseph — Wed, 02 Sep 2009 11:37:00 EST

Filed under: Concept Cars, Frankfurt Motor Show, Spy Photos, Hybrid, Performance, Europe, BMW

Excited by BMW's new Vision EfficientDynamics concept car? So are we. But while the rest of us have to wait another couple of weeks to see the future-think show car at the Bavarian automaker's show stand in Frankfurt, one lucky enthusiast got an early glimpse while visiting the company's flagship BMW Welt in Munich.

Looks like he got quite an eyeful too, as Car and Driver has a comprehensive gallery of the car shot from every angle while BMW was apparently doing some photography and video work itself. Follow the link to check it out.

[Source: Car and Driver]

Spy Shots: BMW Vision EfficientDynamics concept snagged at Munich photo shoot originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 02 Sep 2009 11:37:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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BMW wants 2018 Winter Olympic in Munich

Jonathon Ramsey — Fri, 19 Jun 2009 08:32:00 EST

Filed under: Etc., Europe, BMW

Munich, Germany is working hard to attract the 2018 Winter Olympic and Paralympic Games, and native son BMW has signed up to help. The Munich automaker is providing financial aid and vehicles during the initial phase of the application for the city and bidding partners Garmisch-Partenkirchen and the Berchtesgadener Land region.

It isn't BMW's first dabble in Olympics glory -- the roundel provided an electric BMW 1602 for the marathon and walking events when the summer Olympics visited Munich in 1972. If Munich wins the spot, it will be the first time the same city has hosted both the summer and winter Olympics. The winning city will be announced in 2011. For more on BMW's involvement, you can read the full press release after the jump.

Continue reading BMW wants 2018 Winter Olympic in Munich

BMW wants 2018 Winter Olympic in Munich originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 19 Jun 2009 08:32:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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VIDEO: BMW GINA Light Visionary Concept teased ahead of June 10th unveiling

Damon Lavrinc — Thu, 05 Jun 2008 15:27:00 EST

Filed under: Concept Cars, Convertible, BMW

Click above for a gallery of screen shots.

BMW is gearing up for the online unveiling of its latest design study, the GINA Light Visionary Model. Unlike the BMW M1 Homage concept, this one's actually a runner, as evidenced by the video posted below the fold, showing the concept being driven from the studio into a car carrier then unloaded at the BMW Museum in Munich.

No details about the roadster are available from the BMW-web.tv site, but judging by the open cockpit and massive width, we're expecting something akin the M1, sans roof and sporting many of the design cues found on the homage. Check back for more when the BMW GINA Light Visionary Concept is unveiled on June 10th.

Gallery: BMW GINA Light Visionary Concept teaser

Continue reading VIDEO: BMW GINA Light Visionary Concept teased ahead of June 10th unveiling

VIDEO: BMW GINA Light Visionary Concept teased ahead of June 10th unveiling originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 05 Jun 2008 15:27:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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German fuzz impound Libyan dictator's son noisy Ferrari

Noah Joseph — Thu, 03 Jan 2008 09:02:00 EST

Filed under: Etc., Europe, Government/Legal, Supercars

Germany may still have a few stretches of autobahns unrestricted by speed limits, but local law enforcement stick rigidly to noise pollution regulations. That's what one student found out, the hard way, when he had his Ferrari impounded by police in Munich for producing too much noise: nearly 110.5 dBa, twelve and a half decibels over the 98 dBa limit.

The student happened to be 25-year-old Seif al-Arab, the second youngest of Libyan dictator Col. Muammar Gaddafi's seven sons. (Somewhat ironically, Seif's younger brother Khamis is himself a police officer in Libya.) Coughing up the fine, reported at ?100, shouldn't be a problem for a student with a trust fund big enough to buy a Ferrari F430 in the first place, but he might have to play the diplomatic immunity card over a reportedly expired international driver's permit.

Uh, Baba? Can you send me some more cash and a new license?

[Source: Telegraph via Winding Road]

German fuzz impound Libyan dictator's son noisy Ferrari originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 03 Jan 2008 09:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Schumacher under investigation for taxi-driving affair

Noah Joseph — Mon, 17 Dec 2007 09:42:00 EST

Filed under: Etc., Government/Legal

When news broke of Michael Schumacher's adventure behind the wheel of a taxi in Germany, most of us chuckled at the thought of the multiple-champion driver hustling a cab through the streets of Munich. German police were evidently not quite so amused, and have reportedly launched an investigation into the matter.

Both Schumacher and Tuncer Yilmax, the cabbie whose taxi Schumacher commandeered in exchange for fare plus a 100-Euro tip, are under investigation by the Coburg traffic authority for their respective involvement in the erstwhile-amusing affair.

"That was an offence against transport laws. We will have a hearing," said a local law enforcement official. Schumacher's response: "You just have to laugh about it". We'll go with Michael's approach, but keep you posted on what couldn't very well turn into the court-room drama of the year.

[Source: Autosport, photo by Lars Baron/Bongarts/Getty]

Schumacher under investigation for taxi-driving affair originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 17 Dec 2007 09:42:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Europeans like HUMMERs too

Alex Nunez — Tue, 19 Sep 2006 18:25:00 EST

Filed under: SUV, Europe, Hummer

It's official. Everyone loves a HUMMER. What else are we supposed to think when we get word of a big HUMMER rally in -- get ready -- Munich! You know Munich, that would be in Germany, which is in Europe, where we're repeatedly told no one wants a big, ugly gas-guzzling Suburban Assault Vehicle like a HUMMER.

Clearly, this is just some marketing stunt by GM, right? Wrong.

The 2006 HUMMER World Run is the brainchild of GeigerCars, Europe's biggest HUMMER dealer and one of the biggest HUMMER tuner/customizers you'll find in any country. If the name rings a bell, you probably remember their recent contribution to the American law enforcement community -- a 700-horsepower H2 that went to an unnamed County Sheriff in Texas.

Said to be the first international meet for HUMMER owners, the two-day extravaganza is scheduled for October 7-8, during which over 150 HUMMERs and mil-spec HMMWVs will be on display and testing their mettle on an off-road course designed to showcase their capabilities. As of press time, we were not able to find out if the course has been altered to include a simulated US fast-food drive-thru lane complete with poles. Clearly, that would make it the most challenging HUMMER test course of all time...

Regular visitors to the festival will be able to test drive the HUMMER range, be eligible to win a 1-year HUMMER lease, and go for rides in GeigerCars' 10-meter-long H2 limousine -- allowing them to experience what it's like to go to to an American prom, albeit with better beer. It is Germany, after all.

(More pimped HUMMERs and a press release after the jump)

[Source: GeigerCars.de]

Continue reading Europeans like HUMMERs too

Europeans like HUMMERs too originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 19 Sep 2006 18:25:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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