December News in Brief

The new BMW X5 Security
The world's most advanced fully-armoured SUV has been launched. The new BMW X5
Security offers captains of industry, heads of state and other VIPs the
ultimate in go-anywhere protection.


The BMW X5 Security meets the toughest ballistic protection standards. The
five-seat X5 Security comes with fully armoured passenger and luggage
compartments that have been approved to the strictest B4 world-class standards.
Its 22mm-thick safety glazing can withstand shots from .44 caliber Magnum
pistol.


And unlike competitor products whose models feature retro-fitted security
components, the BMW X5 Security comes with special materials produced at a
bespoke facility for a truly tailor-made fit. This dedicated process means the
passenger compartment of the BMW X5 Security has no weak points. Even door
joints and pillar transition segments withstand attack from bullets, foiling a
well-known weakness terrorists can exploit.

Special safety tyres can be shot at or be driven over sharp objects, and suffer
complete pressure loss, yet will still offer over 30 miles' mobility at speeds
of up to 50mph. A full assault and intercom alarm allows occupants to speak
with attackers without opening doors or windows. Front, rear and side view
cameras are also fitted, displaying full images in the car's control panel -
even when exiting side roads.

A full suspension overhaul compared to a 'standard' X5 includes reinforced
components, while the xDrive all-wheel-drive is supported by Dynamic Stability
Control and masterminded by Integrated Chassis Management. Active Steering
provides further control and Adaptive Drive ensures the vehicle remains
roll-free through corners, enhancing both stability and VIP comfort.

The BMW X5 Security is fitted with a 4.8-litre V8 engine developing 355hp and
475Nm of torque. It accelerates from zero to 62mph in 7.5 seconds and is
electronically-limited to a 131mph top speed. Its introduction is the latest in
along line of BMW security vehicles stretching back more than 30 years.

BMW designs new super yacht
BMW Group DesignworksUSA and Belgian yacht experts Zeydon have collaborated to
develop a new generation of yachts. The first result of this endeavour is the
Performance Cruiser Z60, a 60ft offshore yacht capable of downwind speeds of 23
knots.

The Belgian shipbuilding newcomer was chosen as a long-term partner of BMW
Group DesignworksUSA because of the innovative approach its young, progressive
designers follow. When working on the project, the joint design team wanted to
combine offshore performance sailing potential with the equipment, range and
elegance of a modern luxury cruiser.

BMW has since implemented a knowledge transfer process which will see learning
experiences from the project transferred to its car making division. Zeydon
plans to build up to eight Z60 yachts a year with an on-the-water price yet to
be confirmed.

BMW and MINI to pass on new Government VAT ruling
BMW UK Ltd is to pass on the full 2.5 per cent reduction in VAT to customers
buying a new car. The announcement follows the Government's 13-month package to
drop VAT to 15 per cent. The ruling has an impact on the on-the-road costs of
BMW and MINI vehicles and optional equipment pricing.

See downloadable document for tables of revised OTR prices for all models.