www.bmw-audiobooks.com

Inspired by the success of BMW's innovative series of internet-based short
films under 'The Hire' banner (starring Madonna, Clive Owen, James Brown and
Gary Oldman), BMW is now entering another new media arena with audio books. The
four debut short stories mix the best in BMW product with contemporary original
literature.

The stories have been designed to be experienced while driving, with the
average length of 45 minutes per story matching the average driver's commute.
The first four stories feature the BMW X3, 1 Series, Z4 and 7 Series models and
scripts have been written by both established and up-and-coming authors - Karin
Slaughter (Kisscut, Faithless, Indelible), James Flint (The Book of Ash, 52
Ways to Magic America), Don Winslow (The Power of the Dog, California Fire and
Life) and Simon Kernick (The Crime Trade, The Murder Exchange).

The first audio book, Don Winslow's Beautiful Ride, features a BMW Z4 and
launches on February 7, 2006, three weeks before the car's European debut at
the Geneva Motor Show. Slaughter, Flint and Kernick's stories will be launched
during the next six weeks.

BMW Audio Books are available for free download via www.bmw-audiobooks.com
Users can then burn their own CDs and / or load the content on their iPods or
other MP3 players. The website also provides background information about the
authors and allows users the opportunity to submit reviews.

BMW's advertising agency WCRS collaborated with Random House, the world's
largest publisher, to develop the audio books. The principle behind this new
genre for BMW was based on the concept that senses and experience are
influenced by environment. For example, reading a ghost story while sitting
alone at night in a derelict gothic mansion will be more emotionally involving
than reading the same story on a Spanish beach. The same principle applies to
an audio book featuring an exciting or challenging drive-story heard whilst at
the wheel - particularly if the wheel in question is the same car as described
in the story.

Richard Hudson, BMW UK Marketing Communications Manager, said: "BMW Audio Books
are another innovative marketing communication that were inspired by the
success of the BMW Films series. The audio books take a traditional creative
process and twist it into a unique offer for a forward-thinking audience. BMW
has always challenged perceptions and driven new technology forwards and we
believe that BMW Audio Books reflect the same principles. We also think that
the best place to enjoy the stories will be at the wheel of the BMW featured in
the story."

Ends

For further information please contact:

Gavin Ward BMW Media Relations Executive
Tel: 01344 480829 Email: Gavin.Ward@bmw.co.uk