BMW at the 2013 Johannesburg International Motor Show (JIMS)

Nasrec, Johannesburg –The 2013 Johannesburg International Motor Show (JIMS) saw both the present and future of driving pleasure converge in the new models presented by BMW South Africa.

JIMS 2013 was the platform to showcase the new BMW i3, which is scheduled to be introduced in South Africa in 2014. With its passenger cell made from carbon-fibre-reinforced plastic (CFRP) and BMW eDrive technology designed to deliver zero-emission driving, the first series-produced model from the BMW i brand heralds a new era in mobility.  

In addition, the BMW i8 – the second model unveiled by the new BMW i sub-brand – combines a plug-in hybrid drive system also with a passenger cell made from CFRP and an aluminium frame for the combustion engine and electric motor, the battery pack and the suspension. With this revolutionary concept and the emotional appeal of its aerodynamically optimised body design, the 2+2-seater – which was conceived from the outset as a plug-in hybrid – paves the way for an engagingly dynamic and futuristically efficient take on BMW’s hallmark driving pleasure.

The BMW Group also offered a preview of the future of the BMW X family in the form of the new BMW Concept X4. It takes no more than a first glance to see how smoothly the qualities of a BMW X model can blend with the genes of a BMW Coupe. The new Sports Activity Coupe concept from BMW is poised to continue the success story of the BMW X6 in a new vehicle class.

Continuing to set the pace in its class, the third generation of the most successful Sports Activity Vehicle in the world – the BMW X5 – made its first local appearance.

Meanwhile, a new chapter in the history of elegantly sporty, two-door BMWs, will begin with the BMW 4 Series Coupe. The new model embodies the ultimate in aesthetic appeal and driving pleasure in the premium mid-size segment. Likewise setting the pace in its class was the new BMW 5 Series Sedan and BMW 5 Series Gran Turismo.

Also on show is the locally produced BMW 3 Series Sedan and the recently launched BMW 3 Series Gran Turismo. Opening up a new dimension of dynamics with impressively powerful engines from BMW’s M Performance and M Division is the BMW M135i, BMW M5 Sedan with the new Competition Package as well as the BMW M6 Gran Coupé.

The BMW Z4, which represents an alluringly contemporary interpretation of the traditional roadster concept, was also presented.

Showcasing BMW Group’s groundbreaking EfficientDynamics innovations, and taking the development of intelligent hybrid drive systems to the next level, was the BMW ActiveHybrid 7.

More information is available in the attached press kit.