The 2013 BMW X1 Sports Activity Vehicle is now available in US showrooms. Two very special vehicles will soon arrive to reflect the X1's special capability to take full advantage of winter fun. The BMW X1 Power Ride Edition will be available at BMW Centers, especially tailored for those who make the most of winter on the slopes. The BMW Concept K2 Power Ride is a reflection of the adrenaline rush of full-speed downhill fun. This unique concept will make its debut at the Los Angeles International Auto Show in November just as the BMW X1 Power Ride Edition becomes available..

BMW Concept K2 Powder Ride: Providing limitless fun on and off the slopes
Youthful, sporting design and lifestyle-oriented functionality shape the face of the BMW Concept K2 Powder Ride. The concept car is the result of a three-year cooperation between BMW and winter sport equipment supplier K2. It embodies both the agile and surefooted driving characteristics of the BMW X1 ? even, thanks to BMW xDrive, under challenging conditions ? and the intense thrill of winter sport. The BMW Concept K2 Powder Ride blends bespoke exterior features with an exclusive roof structure and refined additions to interior details. Valencia Orange metallic paintwork is complemented by a distinctive graphic whose design takes its cues from a limited-edition K2 ski. A central element of this crossover graphic is the stylized image of a fox, which forges ahead of a dynamically penned X from the rear of the car to the front doors.

The exterior design of the BMW Concept K2 Powder Ride backs up this energy-laden graphic with a sprinkling of other distinctive characteristics which accentuate the sporting instincts of the compact BMW X model to impressive effect. An extra eight millimeters of suspension travel over the standard model and 19-inch light-alloy wheels in Ferric Grey with polished spokes exude a feeling of power and presence. The Ferric Grey trim of the front and rear sills and side skirts emphasise the car's uncontained forward momentum over snow and loose ground. Dark tinted side windows with matt Black surrounds and the roof rails ? likewise painted matt Black ? form an appealing contrast to the rich colours of the body surfaces.

Roof boasts innovative ski rack and powerful Harman Kardon hi-fi sound to fuel the apres-ski party.
The unique roof structure specially developed for the concept car is made from milled aluminum. Its broad functionality is reflected in an asymmetric structure: two luggage boxes and a ski carrier are positioned alongside one another. The ski carrier, which can be found on the front passenger side of the car, has an innovative retaining mechanism, while the skis are held at an angle to make their distinctive surface design particularly visible. Designed exclusively for the BMW Concept K2 Powder Ride, the skis also feature the fox graphic, as well as a color scheme inspired by wood, brushed aluminum and carbon surfaces. Its White and Valencia Orange running surfaces display the brand logos of BMW and K2 on either side of a broadly spread X.

A sound system from Harman Kardon is installed in the two luggage boxes on the driver's side. High-end hi-fi systems from the specialist brand also provide an extremely dynamic audio experience in standard series-produced BMW models. The two-way loudspeakers installed in the BMW Concept K2 Powder Ride generate output of 320 watts and turn the cars into a powerful sound stage for après ski fun with a difference at the end of the valley run. A Class D amplifier with 2 x 550-watt output, a 500-watt subwoofer and a high-quality microphone from AKG are also on hand for those spontaneous parties in the snow. And the transparent sounds can be complemented by visual effects, for good measure. The luggage boxes can be illuminated in Blue and Orange, as desired, and three LED spotlights are integrated into the front edge of the roof structure.

The sporting characteristics and exclusive style of the BMW Concept K2 Powder Ride are also underlined by bespoke interior design. Black Nappa leather with orange-colored contrast stitching for the seats and door trim and interior trim strips in exquisite Fineline Bay wood trim conjure up an ambience imbued with quality and individual sophistication. In keeping with the theme, and as a mirror image of the exterior's contrasting effects, the black floor mats have reflective piping and orange-colored accents.

Exclusive equipment, limited edition: BMW X1 Powder Ride Edition.
The creative meeting of minds between BMW and K2 has inspired both the concept car revealed in Los Angeles and a limited-run special-edition variant of the new BMW X1. The BMW X1 Powder Ride Edition, due to arrive in November 2012, boasts exclusive design and equipment features along with xDrive intelligent all-wheel drive. It will be available this winter only.

The BMW X1 Powder Ride Edition makes an excellent advert for the cooperation BMW has fostered not only with ski manufacturer K2 but also with a number of illustrious front-line winter sport resorts. The special-edition variant of the compact BMW X model is therefore also a fine choice of vehicle for trips to the world's most attractive ski and snowboarding destinations. The special-edition model features the xLine, roof rails in Aluminum satinated trim and a storage package, including a front armrest. The perfect range of winter accessories comes as standard for the first time, with the special-edition model featuring the 460 roof box (incl. BMW base support system), a ski and snowboard bag sporting a design specifically created for this model, all-weather floor mats and a fitted luggage compartment mat. And there's another highlight lined up: anyone who purchases this special-edition model will receive a high-quality, exclusively designed pair of K2 LTD Powder Ride skis, available only in conjunction with the X1 Powder Ride Edition.

The BMW X1 Powder Ride Edition comes with the full selection of BMW xLine design and equipment features. BMW xLine includes exterior elements in matt Glacier Silver, special 18" light-alloy wheels and door sill strips, a sports leather steering wheel with multifunction buttons, fabric/leather upholstery for the seats, trim strips in dark copper, and ambient lighting.
The BMW X1 Powder Ride Edition can be ordered in the non-metallic paint shades Black and Alpine White, as well as in Valencia Orange, Mineral White, Mineral Grey, Glacier Silver and Black Sapphire metallic finishes. Also contributing to the unmistakable look is a special decal on the doors and wheel arches of the compact BMW X model. The X-shaped graphic borrows the BMW K2 Powder Ride Concept's motif, which symbolizes the smart and agile character of the BMW X1.

The exclusive design of the BMW X1 Powder Ride Edition and the skis that are included ensure winter sport fans stand out from the crowd on both the road and the slope. This individual look expresses the thrill of the drive (or ride), sporting enthusiasm, lifestyle and sense for premium quality in equal depth. The market launch of the BMW X1 Powder Ride Edition is scheduled for November 2012 and the special-edition model will be available in the US in both BMW X1 xDrive28i and X1 xDrive35i guises.

With the new BMW Concept Active Tourer, BMW presents a vehicle at the 2012 Paris Motor Show which is the first in the premium compact segment to combine comfort and space functionality with dynamic performance and style. Annual growth rates of up to five per cent are expected in the small car and compact segment of the premium class in the years to come. For this reason, the BMW Concept Active Tourer is a key component in the ongoing development of the BMW brand and its model portfolio.

As a plug-in hybrid, the BMW Concept Active Tourer also provides a glimpse ahead to future drive variants in automobiles of the compact class. The eDrive concept familiar from the BMW i8 is used here for the first time in a model of the core BMW brand and will in future be the designation for all electric and plug-in hybrid drives. It covers all components of the electric drive, the electric motor developed by BMW, the lithium-ion battery and the intelligent engine control unit.

Excellent combination of sporty aesthetic appeal and comfort.
The new BMW Concept Active Tourer combines compact dimensions and an attractive, sporty design with hallmark BMW quality. With an exterior length of 4,353 millimeters, a width of 1,834 millimeters and a total height of 1,560 millimeters, the BMW Concept Active Tourer is geared towards customers of the premium segment who appreciate a high level of comfort, a raised seating position and a generous amount of space.

The BMW Concept Active Tourer will also be attractive to families who attach importance to functionality and versatility as well as lifestyle and athletic flair. A long wheelbase of 2,670 millimeters, a high roof line and a compact transverse engine with front-wheel drive make it possible to create a generously sized interior. The spacious load compartment of the BMW Concept Active Tourer provides fully-fledged everyday suitability since the batteries of the hybrid drive are housed entirely underneath the load floor.

The design: dynamic and compact.
With its harmonious proportions the BMW Concept Active Tourer displays sporty elegance from every angle. It demonstrates how compact dimensions, functionality and versatility can be skilfully combined with a dynamic design. The exclusive exterior paint finish in High Reflection Silver contributes to the refined appearance of the BMW Concept Active Tourer. Meanwhile, interesting touches are provided by the additional applications at the front, side and rear. The surfaces are in high-gloss polish with brushed velvet matt on the under surface. This subtle shimmering between matt-and-gloss emphasizes the play of light and shadow created by the new exterior paint finish.

The BMW Concept Active Tourer unmistakably retains the characteristically expressive BMW front view. The dominating element here is the distinctive, slightly front-tilted BMW radiator grille. The striking twin headlines with LED positioning lights (eyebrows) stretching far back into the side panels and the multi-faceted front apron combine to reinforce the sporty presence of the BMW Concept Active Tourer. Furthermore, the two large outer air inlets below the headlights emphasize the impression of width created by the front view. Seen from the side, the elongated silhouette with its suggested wedge shape gives the BMW Concept Active Tourer a dynamic feel even when stationary - something which is unique in the class. Integrated door openers and the strikingly contrasted side sills with their rising shadow line combine with the large 20-inch wheels to give the BMW Concept Active Tourer its sporty, elegant appearance. Short body overhangs at the front and rear and the long wheelbase make for an unusually generously sized interior considering the vehicle's compact exterior dimensions. The raised roof line and large doors at front and rear promise convenient access to all seats.

Meanwhile, the rear section of the BMW Concept Active Tourer is characterized by athletic elegance. Marked, horizontal body lines define the rear view of this compact BMW. The large rear light clusters running well into the side panel highlight the broad wheel arches, visually underscoring the vehicle's solid road-holding. The large tailgate with low load sill and wide opening provides convenient access to the luggage compartment.

The interior: elegant with an unhindered sense of space.
The generously designed interior of the BMW Concept Active Tourer is both transparent and refreshingly new. The open-pore laminated wood milled from a single block provides the visual link between the upper and low decor surfaces of the instrument panel. This creates a very elegant and light overall impression in the front section of the interior. The door trim panels and seats are covered in light, velvety soft full-grain leather and smooth leather, providing a silky, shimmering gloss which emphasizes the luxurious, elegant ambiance of the interior. There are also orange contrasting seams which underscore the vehicle's sporty character. The BMW Concept Active Tourer offers an entirely new sense of space. The center console appears to hover between the two front seats with a smooth transition to the dashboard. This arrangement guarantees maximum legroom for both driver and front passenger.

The cockpit with hallmark BMW driver orientation provides optimum accessibility of all the main controls. The circular instruments in Black Panel Technology are within the driver's field of vision, as is the monitor of the central information display. As an optional extra, a full-color Head-Up-Display appears on a special retracting glass surface between the steering wheel and windscreen - a first in the compact segment. The raised seats in the so-called semi-command position also ensure an excellent all-round view, rounding off the optimum level of operating convenience and comfort.

"Cool Shade" panorama roof:
changes spatial feel and temperature at the press of a button.
An innovative panorama sunroof creates a unique ambiance, extending across the entire roof surface of the BMW Concept Active Tourer. The composite glass roof with innovative Suspended Particle Device (SPD) technology means that the desired brightness or temperature effect can be created at the press of an electric button - either being darkened to the level of powerful sunglasses or raised to crystal clear brightness. Occupants can achieve a special lighting effect by manually adding a large-area leaf structure design to the glass roof. Electrical impulses cause the molecular structure of the glass to change at continuously varying levels between light and dark according to preference. The play of light and shadow thus created highlights the sense of space, thereby generating a pleasantly atmospheric lighting effect on all seats.

Travel & Comfort System: generous lightness in the rear section.
Rear passengers likewise enjoy very comfortable seating in the BMW Concept Active Tourer. The generous leg space created by the long wheelbase and slightly raised roof gives passengers plenty of freedom for movement. This also makes it particularly easy to enter and exit the vehicle. The luggage compartment is highly versatile due to the variable rear backrests, which can be split 40 : 20 : 40. A flat load floor can be created by folding down all three backrest sections.

In addition to these variable luggage space expansion options, the BMW Concept Active Tourer offers rear passengers additional intelligent details as part of the Travel & Comfort System. A centrally located vertical metal track is integrated in the back of the front seats. This innovative clip-on track system allows folding tables offering a range of convenient adjustment options to be attached by means of a quick fastener, and additional storage bags can also be suspended. Use of all common models of tablet computer is especially convenient from the rear seats. Tablets can be fixed to the clip-on track system in either portrait or landscape format and used for internet search, games or relaxed movie-viewing at eye level.

New information experience: the multifunctional instrument display.
A particular highlight of the BMW Concept Active Tourer is the multifunction instrument display. Instead of a conventional instrument cluster with four analog circular instruments providing the driver with information on speed, engine speed, fuel level and oil temperature, there is a 10.25-inch integrated screen which makes for a modern display experience.

The familiar look with four circular instruments is still retained, but the use of extended Black Panel Technology gives the drive a whole new range of display options. For example, the screen shows the drive experience modes COMFORT, SPORT and ECO PRO with differing indicators and in distinctive color schemes, thereby ensuring increased safety and efficiency as well as exemplary driver orientation. As a result, the instrument cluster provides the driver with information which perfectly matches the situation on the road.

"Seismic Surf" app for economical driving made easy.
Rear passengers in the BMW Concept Active Tourer can experience fascinating technology hands-on with the new iPad app "Seismic Surf". "Seismic Surf" creates a game world in real time. It is an exciting ecological racing game which draws on the acceleration figures, engine speed and other data supplied continuously by the BMW Concept Active Tourer. Each real-life driving situation is interpreted and used to generate an infinite variety of new challenges in the computer game.

The aim of the game is to collect as many points as possible along a virtual route and record the most efficient driving style. The driver can directly influence the level of difficulty. Anticipatory driving simplifies the game, while a sporty driving style creates a winding and more difficult virtual route in the game. Only perfect interaction between a fuel-efficient driver and a skilful player at the rear can maximize the point score and achieve a podium position in the BMW games universe.

Head-Up Display with brilliant resolution and a full spectrum of colors.

The BMW Concept Active Tourer is fitted with the latest-generation multicolor Head-Up Display. It projects all important information in brilliant resolution directly into the field of vision of the driver via a retracting glass surface. The intensity of projection automatically adapts to the light available. The day and night design is the same as that of the instrument panel. Depending on the driver's preference, not only the current speed and speed limits can be displayed but also overtaking bans. The driver can also obtain navigation assistance as well as a range of warnings. Because of the large number of driver assistance systems available, the scope of information which can be displayed in the Head- Up Display has reached a level as yet unequaled in this class of vehicle.

Central information display in Black Panel look.
An 8-inch display takes care of the familiar menu guidance and route planning functions in the new navigation system. What is more, the central information display also visualizes the current operating state of the hybrid drive. This ensures the driver is constantly informed on deployment of the combustion engine and electric motor and is able to track the energy flow within the system. The power electronics of the hybrid drive is networked with the intelligent Plus navigation system so as to provide maximum efficiency. Based on the data collected such as route profile, speed limits and traffic situation, the vehicle is prepared in advance so as to make the most efficient use of the energy available.

The drive system of the BMW Concept Active Tourer:
the future begins.

The drive of the BMW Concept Active Tourer follows the BMW Group's pioneering philosophy of sustainable mobility. The drive technology of all BMW plug-in hybrid models and electrically powered BMW i models bears the designation BMW eDrive, a term which includes all electric drive components. The BMW Concept Active Tourer has been designed as a so-called plug-in hybrid - ideally combining the benefits of electric drive with those of a classic combustion engine. The plug-in hybrid (PHEV = Plug-in-Hybrid Electric Vehicle) will have a particularly important role to play in future. This is because plug-in hybrid vehicles normally have a range of well over 20 kilometers when run on electricity and can therefore be used efficiently for both short and long trips as well as in mixed mode. In the case of the BMW Concept Active Tourer, a state-of-the-art 1.5-litre petrol engine from the BMW Group Efficient Dynamics family of engines interacts perfectly with a synchronous electric motor.

PHEV: the best of both worlds for impressive performance.
The BMW Concept Active Tourer presents a drive concept which is new to the BMW brand. The 1.5-litre petrol engine does not drive the rear wheels - as has been the case in BMW models to date - but the front wheels. The electric motor of the BMW Concept Active Tourer is designed as a fully-fledged power unit and acts on the rear axle, if necessary powering the car on its own.

With a system output of over 140 kW/190 bhp, the combination of combustion engine and electric motor enables the BMW Concept Active Tourer to achieve highly sporty performance figures while maintaining extremely low fuel consumption and emission levels. The BMW Concept Active Tourer accelerates in less than eight seconds from standing to 100 km/h, while the maximum speed achieved by the dynamic plug-in hybrid is around 200 km/h. In spite of these impressive performance figures, the average fuel consumption is less than 2.5 liters per 100 kilometers, with a CO2 emissions level of less than 60 g/km.

In addition to convincing performance figures, the innovative drive concept also gives the BMW Concept Active Tourer a driving response which is both comfortable and dynamic.

New 1.5-litre BMW TwinPower Turbo engine:
high-performance power unit with hallmark 6-cylinder genes.
The combustion engine of the new BMW Concept Active Tourer is a new cutting-edge 1.5-litre engine with BMW TwinPower Turbo Technology. Derived from the multiple award-winning 6-cylinder engine with BMW TwinPower Turbo Technology, it combines the latest generation of High Precision Injection with the fully variable valve control system VALVETRONIC and ultra-modern turbocharging. BMW TwinPower Turbo Technology will be used in all power units of the BMW Group's Efficient Dynamics engine family in the future - not least because it does not depend on total capacity or number of cylinders. The new 3-cylinder engine in the BMW Concept Active Tourer is one of the first representatives of this new generation of engines. The compact in- line engine constitutes an exemplary combination of dynamic performance and efficiency.

The new BMW TwinPower Turbo 3-cylinder offers character-specific benefits: running smoothness, revving power, spontaneous response and a dynamic, sporty sound. Since there are no first and second-order inertia forces, it offers an especially high level of comfort in terms of noise and vibration. The level of roll torque is lower than that of a 4-cylinder and is compensated for by a single counterbalance shaft. Among other things, this helps keep the engine extremely smooth-running in the low engine speed range, too.

Synchronous electric motor: additional power without emissions.
The synchronous electric motor in the BMW Concept Active Tourer was also developed by the BMW Group. With a fully charged battery, the BMW Concept Active Tourer has a maximum range of over 30 kilometers when running on electric power alone. This means that the majority of day-to-day trips dispense with local emissions entirely. What is more, the boost function can be applied to use the power provided by the synchronous electric motor for such things as highly dynamic acceleration manoeuvres. In both cases the drive power is made available spontaneously and without delay. The maximum torque of 200 Newton meters is available from standing. The lithium-ion battery of the BMW Concept Active Tourer can be charged at any 220 volt household power socket. Power can be drawn from both axes of the BMW Concept Active Tourer and fed into the lithium-ion battery so as to enhance the efficiency of the plug-in hybrid. While the electric motor automatically recuperates maximum energy at the rear axle during deceleration, a high-volt generator connected to the combustion engine additionally charges the battery whenever needed.

Hybrid drive with intelligent energy management.
As part of the BMW Group's Efficient Dynamics strategy, the BMW Concept Active Tourer also features a measures package specially geared towards the plug-in hybrid to increase efficiency. For example, an anticipatory operating strategy optimizes the efficiency of the electric motor and the high- performance battery. The system draws on data provided by the navigation system, calculating in advance the most suitable sections of the route and driving situations in which to apply electric drive or charge the battery. This optimized charging strategy saves up to ten per cent of energy so as to extend the amount of travel time during which the vehicle runs on electrical power alone.

Wide portfolio of additional BMW EfficientDynamics measures.
The new BMW Concept Active Tourer naturally includes numerous other features of the BMW EfficientDynamics strategy, too. In the case of the BMW Concept Active Tourer, these are all mainly geared towards maximizing the range of the vehicle when running purely on electricity. This involves optimizing the energy consumption of the ancillary units. Every kilowatt of stored energy saved is thus instantly available to power the electric motor.

Other BMW EfficientDynamics measures include an automatic engine start/stop system geared especially towards the plug-in hybrid drive and the second generation of air flap control.

ECO PRO as standard further enhances efficiency.
The BMW Concept Active Tourer is fitted with the ECO PRO mode which is also available in current BMW serial production models. This additional method of cutting fuel consumption remains globally unique in the automotive sector to  date in this form. At the appropriate opportunities, ECO PRO mode reduces the power of the interior air conditioning and other electrically powered comfort functions, ensuring drive components operate on maximum efficiency according to the current situation on the road.

ECO PRO mode also provides the driver with valuable advice. To this end, this system is linked to the navigation system. Based on the calculated route data and the driver's individual style of driving, ECO PRO mode is able to indicate how to reach a given destination with the lowest level of fuel consumption, for example. The preview assistant gives the driver tips such as "Remove foot from accelerator" if a tight bend or speed limit is approaching which the driver cannot even see yet. The preview assistant can take into account such features as bends, built-up areas, roundabouts, T junctions and motorway exits. At the same time, an anticipatory transmission assistant optimizes the electronic transmission control system for imminent situations.

ECO PRO mode can also activate the so-called coasting mode at two levels between 50 and 160 km/h. Here the system completely deactivates the combustion engine at speeds of up to 125 km/h. It also decouples the engine from the drive-train up to a speed of 160 km/h, allowing comfortable driving while making full use of the kinetic energy already generated.

Grand American Road Racing, BMW of North America, LLC and Lime Rock Park announced today that BMW of North America will be the presenting sponsor of the September 28-29th GRAND-AM Rolex Sports Car and Continental Tire Sports Car Challenge Series Championship Finale weekend. This exciting event's name will be the "GRAND-AM Championship Weekend at Lime Rock Park presented by BMW."

BMW of North America and Lime Rock Park have been fast friends for more than two decades. Considered its home track, BMW is the Official Car of Lime Rock Park and supplies all of the circuit's official vehicles.

 

On July 6th, the BMW M3 Coupe Lime Rock Park Edition was announced in honor of the longstanding relationship. In October the first of the 200 limited edition Fire Orange coupes will be delivered. The weekend's championship races will be paced by the iconic BMW M3.

"BMW and Lime Rock Park have been working together for more than 25 years and we are proud to support the GRAND-AM finale weekend at such an historic track," said Larry Koch, BMW NA Motorsport Manager. "We look forward to an exciting weekend of racing."

Skip Barber, Lime Rock Park's president, said, "We are extremely pleased that BMW has sponsored the GRAND-AM race weekend. Lime Rock and BMW have a long and valued relationship, and this presenting sponsorship is, I think, a perfect fit. There is a lot of excitement building up surrounding GRAND-AM's season finale here, especially with its typically close point standings. When drivers and teams know they have just one chance to grab a title, well, it changes things in the cockpit ? and in pit lane. The fans are going to get a terrific show."

In the ultra-competitive GRAND-AM Rolex Sports Car Series, which consists of Daytona Prototypes, Grand Touring cars and the action-packed Continental Tire Sports Car Challenge Series, no less than 11 season championships will be decided in the GRAND-Am finale at Lime Rock on September 28 and 29.

BMW drivers participate in every class of GRAND-AM's Rolex Sports Car and Continental Tire Sports Car Challenge and, in recent years, have raced to great success. Scott Pruett and Memo Rojas have driven the No. 01 Chip Ganassi Racing with Felix Sabates BMW powered Riley to a sweep of the Daytona Prototype class Engine Manufacturer, Team and Driver championships for two consecutive seasons. The duo brings a 13 point lead in the 2012 Driver standings to Lime Rock Park. In the Rolex GT class Bill Auberlen and Paul Dalla Lana have won two races this season in the No. 94 Turner Motorsport BMW M3. Last year Dalla Lana won the CTSCC Grand Sport Driver's title with a Turner Motorsport M3. He was also awarded the 2011 BMW Sport Trophy as the most successful privateer BMW driver in the world. BMW currently stands second in the CTSCC Grand Sport class and leads the Street Tuner class.

In Rolex Sports Car, the DP Driver, Team, Engine and Chassis titles are all up for grabs. In GT, the Manufacturer championship is still being fought for; last weekend at Mazda Raceway Laguna Seca, Jeff Segal and Emil Assentato clinched the Drivers' title and their team, AIM Autosport Team FXDD, clinched the team championship.

In the Continental Tire Sports Car Series, the Driver, Team and Manufacturer points chases are all wide open in both the GS and ST divisions.

The GRAND-AM Championship Weekend at Lime Rock Park presented by BMW will include three championship races. The 2.5-hour Continental Tire Challenge Street Tuner race will take the green flag at 3:20 p.m. Friday, Sept. 28th. The 2.5 hour Grand Sport race will start at 10:30 a.m. Saturday, Sept. 29th. The 2.75-hour Rolex Sports Car Series race will start at 3:00 p.m. and be televised live on SPEED television. The ST race will be broadcast on SPEED Saturday, Oct. 13th at 12 p.m. ET. The GS race will be broadcast on SPEED Sunday, Oct. 14th at 1 p.m. ET.

PGA TOUR Pro Bo Van Pelt kicks-off the 2012 BMW Championship by attempting to hit a golf ball though a 12-inch hole in a 19-foot by 22-foot target hung between the uprights inside the Colts' Lucas Oil Stadium in Indianapolis Tuesday, September 4, 2012. Van Pelt and other athletes were on hand to raise money for the Evans Scholars Foundation, the nation's largest privately funded college tuition and housing scholarship program. All proceeds of the BMW Championship, the third leg in the PGA TOUR playoffs for the FedExCup, benefit the Evans Scholars.  Photo credit: Charles Cherney/WGA.

Making its debut in Indianapolis, the 2012 BMW Championship will "kick-off" at Lucas Oil Stadium on Tuesday, September 4 when PGA TOUR pro and Indiana native Bo Van Pelt attempts to drive a golf ball the length of the field and through a target hung between the far uprights. Van Pelt will be joined by former Indianapolis Colts TE Ken Dilger and American Le Mans Series (ALMS) champion and BMW Team RLL driver Joey Hand, who will each attempt the shot from a tee box constructed in the far end zone. A full scholarship valued at $100,000 in the name of the first person to make the shot will be donated to the Evans Scholars Foundation, the nation's largest privately funded tuition and housing scholarship program.

"I had a few wild shots over the course of my career, but this is something new," said Van Pelt, who was born in Richmond, Indiana. "I'm excited to be back home and representing the 'Hoosier State' at the BMW Championship, in what's going to be a great week. It's an honor to participate in this event and it would be amazing if any of us is able to make the shot and help provide a full college scholarship for an Evans Scholar."

The event will feature two rounds of shots, during which each participant will have an opportunity to "hole" the 100-yard shot. In the event that a hole-in-one is not made, BMW will donate $10,000 to the Evans Scholars Foundation in the name of the player whose ball comes closest to the target.

The 2012 BMW Championship will be played from Thursday, September 6 through Sunday, September 9 at Crooked Stick Golf Club in Carmel, IN, where the top 70 players on the PGA TOUR will compete in the penultimate event of the PGA TOUR Playoffs for the FedExCup. All proceeds from the BMW Championship will benefit the Evans Scholars Foundation. Since 2007, the BMW Championship has raised more than $11 million for the Evans Scholars Foundation.

"I have had the opportunity to meet a variety of Evans Scholars and am greatly impressed by their enthusiasm, drive and strong work ethic," said Ludwig Willisch, President of BMW of North America. "It is an honor and great joy to continue working with the Evans Scholars Foundation, a very deserving organization that provides hardworking young men and women with the support and tools that they need to realize their dreams."

In addition to supporting the Evans Scholars Foundation through the BMW Championship, BMW of North America, LLC also provides a summer internship program for Evans Scholars to work for BMW, offering them real-world experience and invaluable insight into their future careers.

In continuing what has become a BMW Championship tradition, BMW will provide a full four-year Evans Scholarship in the name of the first player to score a hole-in-one on any hole during the tournament. Additionally, for the first time, BMW will feature two hole-in-one vehicles at this year's tournament. The first player who achieves a hole-in-one on the 13th Hole will receive a new BMW 6 Series Gran Coupe and the first to do the same on the 17th Hole will receive a new BMW M5.

"We're looking forward to a great week of Hoosier hospitality in our first-ever trip to Crooked Stick Golf Club," said John Kaczkowski, Western Golf Association President and CEO. "Thanks to the support of our partners at BMW and the added support of thousands of golf fans who will be in attendance, the BMW Championship will be making another very significant contribution to the Evans Scholars program."

With seven races of the 13 race 2102 Grand-Am Rolex Sports Car Series complete, BMW Power is back on top of the Daytona Prototype class. It is familiar territory for 2010 and 2011 class champion Chip Ganassi Racing with Felix Sabates (CGRFS) drivers Scott Pruett and Memo Rojas, but this season has been very different than the domination shown in previous years where the duo won 14 of 24 races.

A myriad of rules changes combined with new designs introduced by the competition had held the No. 01 BMW Riley to four podium finishes (two-seconds, two-thirds) in the first six races of the year, but the team broke through at the Road America 250 on June 23rd for their first victory of the year. Pruett and Rojas now hold a five point lead in the driver point standings and CGRFS leads the team points by an equal amount.

CGRFS recently announced the entry of a second BMW Powered Daytona Prototype for the inaugural Grand-Am race at the storied Indianapolis Motor Speedway on July 27th. The No. 02 Chevron sponsored entry will be driven by 2000 Indy 500 winner Juan Pablo Montoya and 2012 Daytona 500 and Brickyard 400 winner Jamie McMurray.

In Rolex GT competition, Turner Motorsport has upheld BMW honors in fine style. Anchored by 2011 BMW Sport Trophy winner Paul Dalla Lana and BMW of North America driver Bill Auberlen, the No. 94 Turner Motorsport BMW M3 has put together an impressive six race streak that has included one victory, one second and four top-five finishes. Dalla Lana currently stands fourth in GT driver points.

With four races remaining in the Continental Tire Sports Car Challenge Series BMW leads the Manufacturer point standings in the Street Tuner (ST) class behind the efforts of BimmerWorld Racing, Burton Racing and RRT Racing. These privateer teams have combined wins at Barber Motorsports Park and Homestead-Miami Speedway and podium finishes at the season-opening BMW Performance 200 at the Daytona International Speedway, New Jersey Motorsports Park and the most recent round at Road America with their 1 and 3 Series BMWs.

Fall-Line Motorsports and Turner Motorsport field five BMW M3s in the Grand Sport (GS) class. The 2010 and 2011 GS class team champions have been denied the top step of the podium so far this season, but have combined for two second place finishes, two third place finishes and five top-five finishes.

The 2012 Grand-Am Rolex Sports Car and Continental Tire Sports Car Challenge Series continue this weekend with the Sahlen's Six Hours of the Glen and the Continental Tire 150 at Watkins Glen International Raceway.

Live timing and scoring from practice, qualifying and both races can be found on grand-am.com. The Sahlen's Six Hours of the Glen will be televised live on SPEED television beginning at 11:00 a.m. Sunday, July 1. The Continental Tire 150 at the Glen takes the green flag a 3:00 p.m. Saturday, June 30 and will be televised on SPEED television on July 8 at 12:00 p.m. ET.

The BMW X1: The U.S. Now Gets its First Sub-Compact Premium SAV. The Globally Successful BMW X1 comes to the US in the Fall 2012.Woodcliff Lake, NJ - April 4th 2012, 6:00AM EDT...Having demonstrated that it is the perfect blend sports sedan-like driving dynamics and SUV utility in markets around the world, the BMW X1 is setting out to conquer the US. The talented Sport Activity Vehicle of the premium compact segment will make its US market debut armed with state-of-the-art powertrain technology, innovative features, selective design modifications and extensive interior refinements. The new 2013 BMW X1 celebrates its US premiere at the New York International Auto Show and will arrive in authorized BMW Centers in the fall of 2012 starting at an MSRP of $31,545 (including $895 Destination and Handling).The smallest BMW X model - produced at BMW Plant Leipzig - will take the leap across the pond with a renewed spring in its step, the result of a carefully judged honing of its core qualities. The design of the BMW X1 body now provides an even more intense expression of the vehicle's muscular presence, contemporary allure and versatile sporting capability. Its interior includes newly designed surfaces, more polished controls and high-quality touches exuding the exclusive premium ambiance of a compact BMW X model.The BMW X1 has adopted a pioneering role among its premium class rivals in its current markets - and a repeat performance in the US is expected. Blending the versatility and robustness of a BMW X model with a high level of agility and compact exterior dimensions, the X1 has set new standards from the word go. Powerful engines with BMW TwinPower Turbo technology and a broad spectrum of BMW EfficientDynamics technologies fitted as standard worldwide give the new BMW X1 the tools to further increase its lead over the competition in terms of sporting ability and efficiency.Design: new touches to sharpen its contemporary looks and enhance its versatility and sporting flair.Typical BMW proportions, expressive, vibrant surfaces and signature BMW X model design cues shape the appearance of the BMW X1. A sweeping hood, long wheelbase and set-back passenger compartment emphasize the vehicle's dynamic talent, while attractive light and shade effects hint at its inherent agility. The versatility and robustness of a BMW X model are reflected in elements such as the black edging at the lower edge of the body and wide wheel arches.When viewed from the front, the powerful stance of the new BMW X1 on the road and its aura of quality are now accentuated with even greater intensity. A larger number of surfaces painted in body color highlight the vehicle's enhanced elegance. The path of the vehicle's lines, which converge on the license plate mount from either side of the BMW kidney and forge outwards in the lower section of the bumper, is borrowed from BMW X models in higher vehicle segments. The newly designed headlights allow a detailed view of the advanced light technology within. And a chrome-coated accent strip now cuts across the top of the twin circular headlights. Meanwhile, an LED accent light - included as part of the optional xenon light package, complete with LED light rings for the daytime driving lights - provides the classic BMW focused look.The distinctive profile of the X1 is defined by a main character line that rises steadily to the rear of the vehicle while another line visually extends the contours of the side window surrounds as it flows towards the rear. The pronounced side skirts - that are a signature feature of BMW X models and the powerfully bulging wheel arches add sporting flair. Finally, the turn signal indicators are now integrated into the newly designed exterior mirrors.The premium feel of the new BMW X1 is also underlined at the rear by the new subdivision of fascia, bumper and under-tray, with the repositioned reflectors now also bordered by surfaces painted in body color. As a result, the black elements are slimmer, while the silver-colored under-tray has a more striking surface structure.Interior: precise lines, high-quality materials, sophisticated color scheme.The modifications to the design of the new BMW X1 interior create an even more vivid showcase of the sporty driving pleasure, cutting-edge versatility and premium feel this vehicle provides. The side of the center console angled towards the driver is now shallower, spotlighting the driver-focused nature of the cockpit design.High-quality electroplated trim surrounding for the gearshift lever and center console cupholders, a chrome strip for the headlight switch and chrome touches for the side edging of the Control Display ? when the optional navigation system is specified ? all add the finishing touches to the interior's premium feel. Plus, the air vent surrounds are given a high-gloss black surface.The BMW X1: more sporting and efficient than ever.The variants of the BMW X1 offered in the US market will be powered by BMW TwinPower Turbo gas engines. This package of technology consists of twin-scroll turbocharging, High Precision Direct Petrol Injection, VALVETRONIC variable valve timing and Double-Vanos variable camshaft control. In both the award-winning 6-cylinder inline engine under the hood of the BMW X1 xDrive35i - developing 300 hp - and the 240 hp 4-cylinder engine powering the BMW X1 sDrive28i and BMW X1 xDrive28i ensure instantaneous power delivery, impressive acceleration and exceptional efficiency.Both engines are paired with an automatic gearbox and extensive BMW EfficientDynamics technology. Features including the Auto Start-Stop function (28i only), Brake Energy Regeneration and demand-based operation of ancillary units all help to achieve a blend of performance and fuel economy unique in the market.The BMW X1 sDrive28i with customary BMW rear-wheel drive and the all-wheel-drive xDrive35i will be offered exclusively in the US market. The intelligent all-wheel drive of the BMW X1 xDrive35i and BMW X1 xDrive28i varies the distribution of drive between the front and rear wheels, as required. This electronically controlled power distribution ensures optimum traction and unbeatable directional stability in all weather and road conditions, as well as noticeably sportier responses through dynamically taken corners.The BMW X1 sDrive28i, the X1 xDrive28i and the X1 xDrive35i will retail for $31,545, $33,245 and $39,345 respectively (including $895 Destination and Handling).BMW Group In AmericaBMW of North America, LLC has been present in the United States since 1975. Rolls-Royce Motor Cars NA, LLC began distributing vehicles in 2003. The BMW Group in the United States has grown to include marketing, sales, and financial service organizations for the BMW brand of motor vehicles, including motorcycles, the MINI brand, and the Rolls-Royce brand of Motor Cars; DesignworksUSA, a strategic design consultancy in California; a technology office in Silicon Valley and various other operations throughout the country. BMW Manufacturing Co., LLC in South Carolina is part of BMW Group's global manufacturing network and is the exclusive manufacturing plant for all X5 and X3 Sports Activity Vehicles and X6 Sports Activity Coupes. The BMW Group sales organization is represented in the U.S. through networks of 339 BMW passenger car and BMW Sports Activity Vehicle centers, 139 BMW motorcycle retailers, 113 MINI passenger car dealers, and 32 Rolls-Royce Motor Car dealers. BMW (US) Holding Corp., the BMW Group's sales headquarters for North America, is located in Woodcliff Lake, New Jersey.