Doha – The A-list of tennis celebrities stepped out last night to attend the Qatar ExxonMobil Open 2009 players’ reception, hosted by Alfardan Group at the Ritz-Carlton Doha. Top seeds of the ATP Men’s tour such as Roger Federer, Rafael Nadal and Andy Murray mingled with Qatar’s high society at the VIP gala evening held in honour of all the players participating at the Qatar Tennis Open this year.
Alfardan Group, sponsors of the tournament and exclusive importers of BMW, which has been named the ‘official car of the tournament’, hosted the ceremony to honour players and officials who have supported the development of tennis in Qatar over the years, either through their participation in tournaments or behind-the-scenes work to promote the sport.
Mr. Ali Alfardan, Vice Chairman of the Alfardan Group, presented special gifts from Alfardan Jewellery to players like Roger Federer, Rafael Nadal, and Andy Murray in recognition of their repeated participation in the International Tennis tournaments which take place in Qatar. Alfardan also presented special gifts to officials in recognition of their successful playing careers and their contribution to tennis in the Gulf, including Tournament Director Karim Al Alami, who was the first Arab player to be internationally ranked and achieved a career-high rating of 22nd on the circuit, and President of the Qatar Tennis Federation, Mr. Nasser Ghanem Al Khulaifi, who has been the GCC Tennis champion.
Mr. Alfardan said: “We are very proud to gather such a prestigious group of world-renowned tennis professionals and officials here to honour them for their hard work and commitment to the success of the Qatar Tennis Open. We look forward to sponsoring such prestigious sports events in the future and seeing further success for Qatari tennis.”
The Qatar ExxonMobil Tennis Open continues until the 10th January at the Khalifa International Tennis & Squash Complex and offers $1,049,000 in prize money.

08.01.2009

Doha – Qatar Tennis Federation and Alfardan Group announced the Group’s sponsorship to one of the most prestigious sports events in Qatar, ExxonMobil Qatar Open, which will take place from January 5th until January 10th 2009 at Khalifa International Tennis Complex in Doha.
As part of the sponsorship activities for the tournament, and being entitled as the ‘official car’ of this major event, which offers $1,049,000 in prize money, Alfardan Automobiles, will provide a large fleet of BMW 7 series limousines with chauffeurs to be on hand for the top tennis stars such as Roger Federer, Andy Murray and Rafael Nadal, and Roddick, with ‘sheer driving pleasure’ for the duration of the tournament. Crowds will also be able to see the recently-launched 7 series model - the first ever to be designed by Middle-Eastern designers - displayed at the venue.
Mr. Ali Alfardan said: “We are delighted to be the partner of choice for the Qatar Tennis Federation during ExxonMobil Qatar Open 2009. The Qatar Open has always been a favourite with players on the ATP Tour and we are proud to be a part of such a prestigious event.”
“Under the leadership of HH the Emir Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al-Thani, and HH the Heir Apparent, Shaikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, Qatar has established itself as a world-class destination for international events and a benchmark for the region. Alfardan Group has been actively supporting sporting events in Qatar with our luxurious services and products for many years, and we hope to continue this commitment in the coming years.”
“The Qatar Tennis Federation is delighted to partner with Alfardan Group. Our partnership with Qatar’s premium business entity means two of country’s major organizations are combining to show our prestigious visitors the very finest Arabic hospitality during Qatar’s most significant sports occasion,” commented Qatar Tennis Federation President, Mr. Nasser Ghanem Al-Khulaifi.

08.01.2009

Although their long, smooth drives will not be down the fairways of the Doha Golf Club, BMW Group exclusive importer in Qatar, Alfardan Automobiles, will ensure that players, officials and organizers of this year’s Commercialbank Qatar Masters 2009 enjoy sheer driving pleasure throughout the tournament with a luxury fleet of chauffeur-driven BMW limousines at their disposal.

As “Official Car” of this prestigious event, Alfardan Automobiles are proud to be associated with an internationally recognized tournament that has become the highlight on the European PGA calendar,and reflecting the company’s continued commitment to the support of international sports events in Qatar.

Established in 1996, under the umbrella of the Alfardan Group of Companies, Alfardan Automobiles is the exclusive and official importer in Qatar for BMW, MINI and Rolls-Royce cars, BMW motorcycles, and Alpina. With conveniently located showrooms in West Bay and Suhaim bin Hamad, and unrivalled aftersales and service facilities featuring the most advanced service and diagnostic technologies, Alfardan Automobiles and staff are committed to delivering , not just the ultimate driving experience, but also the ultimate ownership experience.

Uncompromising in their customer care and personal attention to detail, Alfardan Automobiles reflects the premium luxury performance of BMW in every element of their business. Experienced and fully trained staff ensure the highest level of service is offered to their discerning customers with the full support of BMW Group’s Headquarters in Munich, Germany.

Enjoying unprecedented success in Qatar – one of the fastest growing markets in the Middle East for BMW, MINI and Rolls-Royce cars – Alfardan Automobiles continues to strive for excellence. Investments in new state-of-the-art showrooms, an expansion of the Qatar network, and the launch of new models, including BMW’s new flagship 7 Series, new 3 Series and the Rolls-Royce Phantom Coupe, will continue to keep Alfardan Automobiles at the forefront of the performance luxury car sector in Qatar.

The success of Alfardan Automobiles has mirrored that of Qatar, which under the sage leadership of His Highness The Emir, Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani, has become a global player in business and development, and an established host and organizer of the most high-profile international sporting events.

The Commercialbank Qatar Open 2009 will continue to keep the world spotlight on Qatar, thanks to the participation of the golfing world’s top players, superior venue and excellent organization. Alfardan Automobiles and BMW are proud to part of this success.

08.01.2009

Doha - Ian Robertson, Board Member for Sales and Marketing of BMW AG, the world’s leading premium automotive manufacturer, and Chairman of Rolls Royce Motor Cars, Ltd. arrived in Qatar to hold meetings with the exclusive BMW Group importer, Alfardan Automobiles. His visit signals the importance of the region to the BMW Group’s business, which despite a contraction in the global automotive market, continues to demonstrate a positive outlook for the future.
Robertson, who was joined by Tom Purves, CEO of Rolls-Royce Motor Cars Ltd, also met with top management executives from various industries to discuss local economic issues and exchange views on the current economic situation.
The executive tour of the region, currently the Group’s third largest market for Rolls-Royce sales and the fourth largest market for sales of the flagship 7 Series model, included stops in Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Lebanon and the UAE.
Commenting during his meetings in Qatar Robertson said: “I am excited to visit Alfardan Automobiles at their state-of-the-art showroom in Qatar and take the opportunity to meet and talk with our local partner here to fully understand the opportunities and challenges in this market.”
Mr. Omar Alfardan, President of Alfardan Automobiles, added: “Mr. Ian Robertson’s visit indicates the support and commitment of BMW Group to Qatar. I am sure he will take away a great deal from his meetings with us and we have gained much value from his input during his visit.”

Prior to his appointment to the board of BMW AG in March 2008 Robertson was CEO of Rolls-Royce Motor Cars Ltd. and has held a number of senior positions during his 30 years in the automotive industry including Managing Director of BMW South Africa.

01.03.2009

30 years ago, BMW’s “large class” of cars spawned a successor that was to become a byword for luxury, elegance and innovation: the BMW 7 Series. Drawing on technology based on the large 6 Series Coupé, launched in 1976, and styling that bore the signature of BMW’s chief designer Paul Bracq, BMW succeeded in creating a car that was larger than its predecessor yet managed to retain the hallmark dynamics associated with the brand.

The ingeniously tailored, understated bodywork borrowed its main styling cues from the BMW 6 Series Coupés. The gently sloping bonnet and boot, short overhangs and low beltline granted occupants excellent visibility. Like the other cars in the BMW portfolio, the 7 Series models also came with a central rollover bar.

Initially customers could choose from three models: the 2.8-litre BMW 728, the 3.0-litre BMW 730 and the 3.2-litre BMW 730 with 170, 184 and 197 hp respectively.

Even the BMW 728 boasted standard specifications that included speed-sensitive power steering; a diagonal-split, dual-circuit brake system; inner-vented front brake discs, together with a newly developed hydraulic brake servo; a laminated front windscreen; adjustable steering column and seat height and an electrically adjustable exterior mirror. The BMW 730 ushered in the Check/Control system, an electronic monitoring unit that checked the level of the engine oil, brake fluid, coolant and windscreen washer fluid, as well as the functioning of the brake lights and rear lights, and the thickness of the brake linings. Beyond this, the top-of-the-range 733i featured not only a Bosch L-Jetronic injection system, but also boasted a contactless, transistorised ignition; central locking; heat-insulating glass and a leather steering wheel.

In addition, customers could order from a long list of optional extras to personalise their BMW 7 Series. These included automatic transmission, a steel slide/tilt roof, headlamp washer and wiper, air conditioning, electric window lifts, self-levelling rear suspension, metallic paintwork, leather upholstery and separate electrically adjustable seats in the rear. The range of special equipment was augmented by “sporty extras” such as a limited slip differential, alloy wheels and a leather sports steering wheel.

The BMW 7 Series enjoyed an extremely successful market launch. Company turnover had risen by 32 per cent the year before and BMW was turning out 24 per cent more cars and 10 per cent more motorcycles. The upward trend continued in the first half of 1977, with production figures for the BMW 7 Series of almost 20,000, a figure that would rise to 35,745 cars in the first full year of production, and still exceed 35,000 units in the subsequent two years. BMW 7 Series sales outperformed all previous large, luxury BMW saloons.

The early years of the 7 Series saw the regular addition of even more optional extras. In 1978 BMW began offering its Anti-lock Braking System (ABS). To make driving BMW’s top-of-the-line model even safer and more comfortable, it also launched features such as an anti-theft warning system, driver's vanity mirror and heated door locks, heated seats, onboard computer, cruise control, sun blinds for the rear windscreen and automatic air conditioning. For business people who spent a lot of time on the road, a built-in telephone system was also available.

In September 1982 a number of technical and visual changes began to be phased in as part of a model revision. As well as some slight exterior modifications, the top-of-the-range 745i now had a 3.4-litre engine under its bonnet, though output remained unchanged. It also had a 4-speed automatic transmission as standard. The BMW 735i and 745i also came with the option of executive leather upholstery.

Model year 1984 brought the option of a 4-speed automatic transmission with electric-hydraulic control and three shift modes. In the autumn, two more luxury models augmented the BMW 7 Series range: the BMW 735i Highline and the 745i Highline with luxury specifications. By the time this series was discontinued in June 1986, production figures had hit 285,029.

But the BMW 7 Series not only stood for dynamism and luxury; it was always a byword for innovation, too. The early 1980s saw the inception of a pioneering experiment: in collaboration with the German Test and Research Institute for Aviation and Space Flight (DFVLR), a BMW 735i and 745i were converted to so-called bivalent operation on either liquid hydrogen or petrol. By then BMW had already recognised the environmental credentials of hydrogen and the fact that, as a secondary energy source, it offered virtually unlimited long-term availability. The systematic pursuit of this path would lead, after almost 25 years of development work, to the launch of the first hydrogen-powered production model in late 2006: the BMW Hydrogen7, the world’s first luxury hydrogen vehicle for everyday use.

November 2008 saw the launch of the 5th generation BMW 7 Series – a new milestone in automotive progress. This next chapter in the BMW 7 Series story is a completely new interpretation of style, luxury and driving pleasure, attributes that are expressed visually by their design, which radiates a natural presence, inherent sportiness and an elegance born of precision in concept and execution.

The new BMW 7 Series enters the Middle East market with two brand new engine variants – the straight six cylinder 740Li and V8 750Li – both with twin-turbo technology and direct fuel injection. The BMW 750Li, the flagship in the 7 Series range, is the most efficient engine in its performance class that produces 407bhp and accelerates to 100 km/h in 5.2 seconds.
The all-new BMW 7 Series is the first vehicle in the serie’s long history to make use of Driving Dynamics Control, which enables the driver to select from four progressively sporty driving programmes with the touch of a button, and Active Roll Stabilisation, which reduces body roll using electro-hydraulically actuated anti-roll bars.

A host of new and familiar technology offerings such as Adaptive Cruise Control, with new Stop-and-Go capability, Active Blind Spot Detection and Lane Departure Warning, High Beam Assist and BMW Night Vision all make an appearance on the new BMW 7 Series.

Safety is at the heart of the new BMW 7 Series, with an optimised body structure and interacting and electronically controlled passive safety systems. Both models come standard with side and head airbags, crash-activated headrests at the front, runflat tyres and a tyre defect indicator.

The BMW 7 Series also comes with a wide range of comfort touches and innovative entertainment options, including an audio system with hard-disc memory and AUX-in sleeve featured as standard. A USB port, multi-channel audio system, DVD system in the rear, four-zone automatic air conditioning, active seat ventilation and massage seats all combine to show how this new range is once again the leader in luxury.

03.03.2009

Doha - Alfardan Automobiles, the exclusive importer for BMW Group in Doha has achieved excellent sales growth for its BMW flagship 7 Series model. The results place Alfardan Automobiles among the top three performing BMW importers for sales of the 7 Series regionally, in addition to maintaining its first rank in the premium segment for the month of January 2009 as per the leadership report generated by (MEAC)

The positive start to the year follows the recent arrival of the new 740Li and 750Li models. Launched in November 2008 and featuring some of BMW’s most advanced automotive technologies, the new models offer unrivalled performance, luxury and style.

“We have witnessed strong demand for the 7 Series translating into increased sales among our customers,” said Naim Majdalani, Director of Sales and Marketing, Alfardan Automobiles.

The Middle East is one of the biggest growth markets for the BMW Group and represents its fourth largest market worldwide for sales of the flagship 7 Series model. Regionally, the Group’s sales of the model in January increased 121% over its 2008 figures. In addition to Qatar, the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and Lebanon also achieved high growth results.

Naim Majdalani continued: “These sales results, given the current economic climate in which we are operating, are particularly encouraging. The new BMW 7 Series represents the best of automotive engineering and technology. We’re confident our flagship model will continue to set the trend in the luxury performance class, and maintain BMW’s leading position at the forefront of automotive innovation.”

Outlining the reasons for the strong growth Mr. James Chrichton, Director of Sales and Marketing, BMW Group Middle East, explained: “The new 7 Series is one of our best selling models in the region. This is the fifth generation model that succeeds the predecessor model launched seven years ago in 2001, so anticipation from customers for the new model has been strong.”

A class-leader in emissions reduction, the new 7 Series has been designed around BMW’s robust EfficientDynamics strategy - encompassing many technology innovations to offer outstanding performance and a reduction in fuel consumption and CO2 emissions. The BMW 750Li is the most fuel efficient engine in its performance class; it produces 407bhp and accelerates to 100 km/h in 5.2 seconds.

The exterior, styled by Lebanese designer Karim Habib, has a long bonnet, short overhangs and dynamic lines adding to the dominant road-presence of the new model. Large classic BMW vertical kidney grills impose a strong on-road presence.
Inside, the new 7 Series is a modern rendition of pure luxury. The ambience is exclusive, sophisticated and inviting. High-quality materials as well as enhanced space and luxury give the interior a beautifully harmonious feel.

The cockpit has been designed to promote the sheer pleasure of driving. The latest generation of BMW’s trendsetting iDrive control system, the simplest and most user friendly control system in its class, features a 10.2 inch display with a high-resolution graphic presentation, enabling easy control of the car’s entertainment, information, navigation and telecommunication functions.

New safety and comfort features have been integrated into the range, including Integral Active Steering to improve manoeuvrability and safety at low and high speeds, Driving Dynamic Control for variable drive settings depending on road conditions and iBrake - a function that pre-tensions the braking system if the system detects a possible collision. Active and passive warning systems such as

the Lane Change and Lane Departure Warnings ensure that the driver stays within lane limits. Head-Up Display with new BMW Night Vision, the automotive world’s first system with individual person detection, makes driving at night even safer for both driver and pedestrians.

The BMW 7 Series also comes with a wide range of comfort touches and innovative entertainment options, including an audio system with hard-disc memory and AUX-in sleeve featured as standard. A USB port, multi-channel audio system, DVD system in the rear, four-zone automatic air conditioning, active seat ventilation and massage seats all combine to show how this new range is the leader in luxury.

03.03.2009

For many the art of driving would normally involve a physics lesson, the reaction times of Michael Schumacher and a lot of practice. For Robin Rhode, the South African urban artist, the art of driving has meant becoming the first person to use a high performance premium sports car as a paintbrush.
For his piece “Expressions of Joy” Rhode used the new BMW Z4 Roadster, the latest sports model to be revealed by the world’s leading premium automotive manufacturer, to paint a massive 100 by 200-foot canvas. To the naked eye the swirls of bold splattered tyre marks look spontaneous, but in reality Rhode and his team painstakingly created the artwork in a Los Angeles studio, where they were joined by director Jake Scott (son of Ridley Scott) to shoot the latest TV ad campaign for the launch of the new Z4 Roadster.
The brief was to present the next generation of the BMW Z4 in a totally unusual location, in a manner that blended innovation and artistic vision. “This work is an expression of painting in action – my hope is to communicate the power and thrill inherent in the creation of art. For me, the use of an unconventional paintbrush like a high performance car is a great way to investigate the relationship between emotion, technology and industrial creativity,” said Rhode.
“Expressions of Joy” also pays homage to another BMW artist. "One source of inspiration was the seminal work of Gerhard Richter´s series of paintings 'Red, Yellow, Blue' made in 1973 for the company headquarters in Munich, Germany," Rhode explained.
The art work is the main theme for the marketing campaign supporting the launch of the new BMW Z4 Roadster, which engages a full range of channels including print and television advertising, guerilla marketing, point of sale packs, window stickers, flags, event invitations and even lifestyle merchandising. The highly unique concept is sure to help the new BMW Z4 to stand out from the crowd.

BMW is of course no stranger to the fine arts scene. For the past 32 years it has commissioned many of the world’s foremost artists to transform its production models to collection pieces for its BMW Art Car Series. But instead of being the canvas, this is the first time a BMW car has become the paintbrush.
James Crichton, Director of Sales and Marketing, BMW Group Middle East said: “This piece of art is a modern interpretation of the sheer driving pleasure that a BMW Z4 delivers. Characteristic design features on this model such as the low-slung front end, long wheelbase and gill intakes, combined with its fantastic performance on the road, means that the Z4 driving experience can be truly compared to an expression of joy. We believe the Z4 will outperform its predecessor model in the Middle East and look forward to its arrival.”
The new BMW Z4 was recently unveiled at the 2009 Detroit Motor Show and will arrive in the Middle East in April 2009. It has met with rave reviews across the globe with many critics hailing it as a work of art as well as a triumph of engineering. Featuring a new 6-cylinder engine, double-clutch gearbox and BMW M suspension with two damper settings, the new Z4 delivers a sportier yet harmoniously tuned driving experience. In fact it was the Roadster’s combination of innovation and elegant design that served as the rationale for Rhode’s masterpiece.

12.03.2009

The design philosophy of the BMW Group continues to receive acclaim for the world’s leading premium automotive manufacturer with design experts at the red dot awards becoming the latest judges to bestow their seal of approval.

The number and diversity of the BMW Group products recognised by some of the world’s most prestigious design awards this year, is testament to the success of BMW’s product-specific design strategies.

The BMW Group’s design philosophy inspired an impressive tally of seven major accolades from the internationally renowned red dot label for design quality in the field of product development. This included the experts’ acclaim for the new BMW 7 Series and the new Z4 roadster – a significant accomplishment given the 3,231 products submitted from around the globe for judging.

The new BMW 7 Series, a key player in the luxury saloon segment and the brand’s flagship model, received praise for its harmonious combination of elegance, sportiness and visual presence, and a body design offering both an outstanding degree of comfort as well as superior driving dynamics.

The new BMW Z4 roadster, which launches in May, also scooped a red dot award. According to judges, its modern interpretation of classic roadster styling is a quality that helps the new BMW Z4 to attain a special position in its segment. The elongated bonnet, flat waistline and seat position located well to the back in the vicinity of the rear axle, combined for the first time with a retractable hardtop also makes this a hotly anticipated model launch for the Middle East region.

The red dot award successes follows the recent IF Product Design Awards in Hanover, where BMW scooped wins for its new 7 Series, 1 Series Coupe and Convertible as well as the MINI Cooper S Clubman. In recent weeks, BMW, MINI and BMW Motorrad vehicles also received awards from the Design Prize of the German Federal Republic, the Eyes On Design Award and the Good Design Award presented in the USA.

The award ceremony will take place during a festive award gala at the Aalto Theatre in Essen on 29 June 2009.

06.04.2009

Doha- BMW once again raced to the forefront in its support of Qatar sporting events as it was named the official car for the Qatar round of the Commercialbank MotoGP Championship in Doha for the sixth successive year. Alfardan Automobiles, the exclusive importer of BMW Group in Qatar, is a prime sponsor of the tournament, and will be providing a luxury fleet of chauffeur-driven BMW cars for VIP guests, media, medical services and race-direction team.

“We are very excited to once again sponsor and be the official car of the Commercialbank MotoGP championship. The race is one of the most exciting and hotly-anticipated sporting events in the region, and we are delighted to support it again and continue our strong relationship with the Qatar Motor and Motorcycle Federation (QMMF),” said Mr. Naim Majdalani, Director of Sales and Marketing of Alfardan Automobiles.

VIP guests will have the chance to experience the thrill of racing on the track as BMW will be providing BMW M cars, the official safety cars of the tournament globally, to give them special fast laps around the circuit. “The Losail International Circuit is a world-class venue and we will be offering some of our customers the once-in-a-lifetime chance to experience it in our M cars,” said Mr. Majdalani.

He continued, “Under the visionary leadership of the Emir His Highness Sheikh Hamad Bin Khalifa Al Thani, Qatar has established itself as a world-class destination for international sporting events and a benchmark for the region”.

Mr. Nasser Al Atiya, Qatar Motor and Motorcycles Federation President, added: Losail International Circuit boasts the second-longest MotoGP race track in the world at 5.38 km, and last year became the first venue ever to host the race under floodlights; and we have always been glad with the long term relationship we have with Alfardan Automobiles and the fact that BMW has been the official car of the Commercialbank MotoGP championship in Doha since its inauguration in 2004 at the specially built Losail International Circuit”.

Alfardan Automobiles will also be holding a raffle for audience members where they will give out a BMW 325i Car, a Ducati and a KTM Motorcycle. In addition to the prizes, Alfardan Automobiles will be setting up a special Alfardan Automobiles lounge in the VIP village and will arrange paddock tours for their VIP customers. They will also host a wide range of entrainment for families at the public area with activities such as face-painting for kids.

“Alfardan Automobiles is committed to supporting these events, as demonstrated in our recent sponsorships of the Sony-Ericsson Tennis Open, Exxon-Mobil Open, Qatar Masters Golf Tournament and now MotoGP. We hope to continue doing our part in supporting the development of sports in the country and further establishing it as a major international sporting destination.” concluded Mr. Majdalani.

08.04.2009

BMW Group, the world’s leading premium automotive manufacturer, has unveiled the highly anticipated BMW X5 M and the BMW X6 M that are scheduled to arrive in the Middle East in October this year. These are the first all-wheel-drive models to offer the supreme performance, dynamic driving features, athletic design, and premium quality typical of a BMW M Car.

An unprecedented story in its own right, BMW pioneered the Sports Activity Vehicle segment with the launch of the BMW X5, which has sold over 845,000 units globally in just one decade. The BMW X5 is testament to the leading and progressive nature of the BMW brand becoming a benchmark for innovation, design and performance for the premium automotive industry.

In 2008 BMW took another bold step forward with the world’s first Sports Activity Coupé, the BMW X6. This highly innovative vehicle captures the features and design qualities typical of a large Coupé combined with the X family high driving position and versatility. The X6 has secured an unrivalled position in the Middle East market reporting sales of 2,372 units since its launch in 2008.

Now, the combination of power, agility and character of both the BMW X5 M and the X6 M results in a level of driving performance never seen before in their respective classes. Both models offer unparalled performance in every respect, providing dynamic driving qualities unique to any of their rivals, and ensuring an experience of unlimited supremacy in challenging motoring conditions or in everyday traffic.

Both models are powered by a newly developed M TwinPower Turbo V8 high-performance engine delivering 555 hp at an engine speed range between of 6,000 rpm and a top speed electronically limited to 250km/h. The six-speed sports automatic gearbox allows for extremely short shift times and very smooth gear-changes.

The new M TwinPower Turbo engine develops outstanding output and performance with equally outstanding efficiency. In addition to direct High Precision Injection, both the BMW X5 M and the X6 M are equipped with a wide range of BMW’s EfficientDynamics technologies that offer a significant reduction in fuel consumption and CO2 emission.

BMW’s intelligent xDrive all-wheel-drive system improves traction on rough terrain and enhances driving dynamics on the road. BMW’s xDrive is naturally geared to the specific power and performance characteristics of the BMW X5 M and the X6 M. Dynamic Performance Control, a unique technology which delivers uncompromised tracking stability on the road comes standard on both models. The xDrive also interacts with the cars’ special M suspension including Adaptive Drive and the newly developed Servotronic Power Steering, to ensure the dynamic driving behaviour so characteristic of a BMW M Car.

In the M Drive menu the driver is able to set up and pre-configure both the Power Mode and the set-up of the Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) and Electronic Damper Control (EDC), which help stablise handling even in critical situations. The driver is even able to save his favourite set-up and subsequently retrieve it at any time simply by pressing the M Drive button on the steering wheel.

The BMW X5 M and the X6 M are the only vehicles in their segment to come as standard with different-sized front and rear tyres, running in each case on model specific 20-inch light-alloy rims. The combination of ideal tyre sizes in terms of driving dynamics promotes both the exceptionally good transmission of power to the rear axle and the precise, exactly dosed steering behaviour of both models.

The truly outstanding potential of both models comes out clearly in their looks and design. The front – uniform for both models – with their massive air intakes and twin exhaust tailpipes are an impressive indication of the awesome engine power. Both models have a M specific cockpit and are fitted with M seats, M leather steering wheel and many opportunities for personalization.

Beyond these features, both of these all-wheel-drive high performance
sports cars stand out clearly as unique models in their own right: The BMW X5 M clearly boasts its superior power and exclusivity at very first sight, while the BMW X6 M, in its unique design, alludes to fascinating driving dynamics and the car’s athletic charisma.

20.04.2009

Doha- Double celebrations are the order of the day at Alfardan Automobiles this month, when the exclusive importer of BMW and MINI in Qatar, marks both the first anniversary of its state-of-the-art BMW and MINI showroom in Alfardan Towers and the 13th anniversary of its BMW Showroom on Suhaim Bin Hamad Street with a special promotion for their customers.

Not only will customers who visit the showroom during May benefit from very special prices on BMW cars, they will also receive sparkling markdowns from Alfardan Jewellery and special offers from the exclusive health and fitness Spa Chakra at Alfardan Towers.

“Since we began our exclusive partnership with the BMW Group thirteen years ago, we have proven time and time again that a lifestyle of luxury is not just about what you wear and what you own – it’s also about what you drive,” said Mr. Antoine Lakis, Assistant General Manager at Alfardan Automobiles. “We are proud to be able to celebrate this occasion with our loyal customers by offering them very special prices as gesture of our appreciation for their support over the years. We look forward to continuing our strong relationship with them for a long time to come. “

Alfardan Automobiles became the exclusive importers of the BMW Group with the launch of their Showroom on Suhaim Bin Hamad Street since more than a decade; and they crowned their expansion achievements in 2008 with the launch of their new state-of-the-art showroom at Alfardan Towers in West Bay.

29.04.2009

Doha – Guests staying at the Four Seasons Hotel Doha are in for a treat as Prestige Cars has announced the extension of an exclusive partnership to provide the hotel with a fleet of new BMW 7 Series models for its guests’ transportation needs.

Prestige Cars, a subsidiary of the Alfardan Group, had previously secured partnerships with the most luxurious hotels in Doha to include BMW vehicles in each hotel’s fleet.

Commenting on the partnerships, Mr. Antoine Lakis, Acting General Manager of Prestige Cars, said: “The new 7 Series is BMW’s flagship model and has always represented the best in comfort, luxury, power and driving pleasure. Customers in Qatar recognize the prestigious association that the new 7 Series brings, reflecting powerfully on its owner whether a person, company or hotel.”

Mr. Simon Casson, General Manager of the Four Seasons Hotel Doha, said “The Four Seasons Doha Hotel is a world-class five-star destination with a premium positioning and a high-profile customer base, therefore it is appropriate for us to associate ourselves with a premium automotive brand like BMW.”

18.05.2009

Commemorated yearly on 5th June, World Environment Day (WED) is one of the principal events through which the United Nations stimulates worldwide awareness of the environment and enhances political attention and action. In line with WED’s core objective of empowering people to become active agents of sustainable development, BMW Group is working towards a more sustainable future in the development of its vehicles.

The BMW Group is the world’s most sustainable automotive manufacturer today. In 2008, and for the fourth consecutive year, the Dow Jones Sustainability Index ranked the group the automotive industry’s global sustainability leader. Behind this achievement lies the firm’s recognition that the future of mobility requires a new balance between individual and ecological requirements, and that this balance applies to both drive systems and production processes.

Phil Horton, Managing Director of BMW Group Middle East explained: “The ethos of World Environment Day compels us to take responsibility and all work collectively towards a more sustainable future. At BMW Group we believe that mobility and sustainability are inseparably linked and we are constantly working to reduce our impact on the environment while offering our customers the best in mobility.”

Commenting on BMW Group’s focus for a more sustainable future, Horton added: “We have anchored sustainability in our production process through our “Clean Production” philosophy which works to reduce waste, while EfficientDynamics is our product-specific development strategy to ensure we reach zero emissions for all of our vehicles.”

As part of its “Clean Production” philosophy, the German Steyr plant, which produces around 60% of all BMW engines, recycles all the water used in the production process, saving around 30 million litres of water each year, - the equivalent of 12 Olympic size swimming pools. In Spartanburg, where X3, X5 and X6 models are produced, the production plant now obtains half its energy from methane gas generated from a nearby landfill. BMW Group plans to reduce the consumption of energy, water, sewage, solvent emissions as well as waste in its international production network by another 30 percent between 2006 and 2012.

EfficientDynamics has helped the BMW Group reduce fleet emissions further than any other car manufacturer. The new BMW 7 Series is the most fuel-efficient vehicle in its class and yet more powerful than its predecessor, proving that sustainability need not compromise driving performance.

The 7 Series also includes a comprehensive range of design and technology features, exemplifying the EfficientDynamics strategy, which reduce the impact of the vehicle on the environment. Brake Energy Regeneration, which transforms the vehicle’s kinetic energy into electricity to charge the battery; Intelligent Lightweight Construction which uses aluminium to reduce weight and improve weight distribution, thereby improving fuel efficiency; and Low Rolling Resistance Tyres with Runflat Technology, made of special materials that prevent tyre deformation and ensure maximum efficiency.

Another important project is BMW Group’s MINI E. BMW is the first premium manufacturer to deploy a fleet of fully electric-powered cars for private use in daily traffic in the United States and Germany. The MINI E is part of a pilot project designed to demonstrate a whole new dimension in individual mobility which is entirely emission-free, driver friendly and ideal for every day, and just as much fun to drive as a MINI with a combustion engine.

For the BMW Group designing for the future relies on innovation, which is why it remains at the forefront of new technologies and mobility concepts. This includes hybrid technology, electric drives, hydrogen fuel and mobility solutions for the world’s megacities. Next year will see the introduction of the first Active-Hybrid variants of the 7 Series and X6 to the Middle East, bringing the goal of zero emissions ever closer.

05.06.2009

Doha - Following its global debut at the Detroit Motor Show earlier this year, the new BMW Z4 – a modern interpretation of the classic roadster design – has made its much anticipated arrival in Qatar.

Reinforcing BMW Group’s position as the world’s leading premium automotive manufacturer, the BMW Z4 offers all the driving pleasure of a BMW Roadster with a seating position moved close to the rear axle, rear-wheel drive and an automatically retractable hardtop.

With a mere 20 seconds separating the thrill of open-air driving with the roof down and the comfort of a sporting coupé with the hard top closed, the BMW Z4 offers the ultimate in diversity and sheer driving pleasure in this premium motoring segment.

Commenting on the latest BMW model to arrive in Qatar, Mr. Naim Majdalani, General Manager at Alfardan Automobiles said: “The BMW Z4 is an authentic roadster: sporty, stylish and like any BMW, a pleasure to drive. We are delighted to be able to offer our customers an even more exciting and exclusive motoring experience.”

Mr. Majdalani continued: “The design elements of the new BMW Z4 Roadster have already been recognised internationally, having won a prestigious red dot award, the largest and most renowned design competition in the world. We are confident that our clientele in Qatar will also recognise and appreciate the inherent beauty and performance of this exceptional car.”

In addition to the authentic proportions and flowing design language of the car, the design of the new BMW Z4 is demonstrated through classic details interpreted in contemporary style. The aluminum shells of the two-piece lightweight hardtop come to rest in the roof compartment, retracting in just 20 seconds and saving maximum space in the process. Even with the roof closed, the new BMW Z4 retains all the proportions so typical of a genuine roadster.

The driving comfort and the feeling of space in the new BMW Z4 achieve a standard unique in this segment. Head and elbow room as well as the degree of comfort in entering the car have been significantly enhanced, while the low seating position near the rear axle guarantees a driving experience typical of a BMW Roadster. High-quality materials, first-class finish and driver-oriented design of both the instrument panel and the centre console guarantee an emotional driving experience in a particularly refined ambience.

The most sporting and dynamic version of the new BMW Z4 comes with the world’s first straight-six power unit to feature Twin Turbo technology, High Precision Injection with direct injection of fuel. The top model is also available with sports automatic featuring seven gears and double-clutch transmission.

To ensure passionate driving pleasure at all times, the new BMW Z4 comes with a range of three straight-six power units: 306 hp in the BMW Z4 sDrive35i, 258 hp in the BMW Z4 sDrive30i, and 204 hp in the BMW Z4 sDrive23i ensure truly outstanding performance and dynamic acceleration at all times. The sport roadster’s top speed is 250 km/h (155 mph).
Comprehensive use of BMW Efficient Dynamics technologies ensure an unparalleled balance of driving pleasure and fuel economy. Efficient Dynamics is BMW Group’s robust strategy encompassing many technology innovations to offer outstanding performance and a reduction in fuel consumption and CO2 emissions.

The BMW Z4 boasts Dynamic Drive Control as standard, acting on various parameters and influencing the overall set-up of the car, as well as the gearshift characteristics in sports automatic. In the SPORT and SPORT+ modes, this ensures significantly more powerful acceleration with an even faster gearshift, gears being shifted by closing the clutch even faster than before, with sporting feedback going straight to the driver. The BMW Z4 allows the driver to select a mode of driving from comfort to sportier settings.

BMW’s revolutionary iDrive system is now available for the first time as an option on the BMW Roadster, coming together with the optional Professional navigation system. In the new BMW Z4 the iDrive control system, enhanced to an even higher level of technology, serves to activate and mastermind all entertainment, information, navigation and telecommunication functions.

The system itself is made up of a Controller on the centre console and a folding, high-resolution Control Display on the instrument panel, allowing the driver to intuitively and safely mastermind all available functions through standardised movements of the Controller.

The new BMW Z4 Roadster meets the highest safety standards, including a comprehensive safety concept with extremely stiff body structures, defined load paths, specific use of high-strength steel and special deformation elements.
Head and thorax airbags are integrated at the front and sides, and in the seat backrests, while three-point inertia-reel seat belts come equipped with new belt tightening technology, and reinforced A-pillars and roll bars behind the headrests ensure uncompromising standards of safety.

The new BMW Z4 is now available from Alfardan Automobiles, the exclusive importer of BMW in Qatar.

07.06.2009

The BMW Group steps up its commitment to sustainable production processes by investing an additional US$12 million in the expansion of its “Gas to Energy” programme at its Spartanburg plant, the production facility for BMW X vehicles. In an effort to improve capacity and efficiency, new gas turbine generators are being fitted which will double the plant’s overall electrical output while using the same amount of methane gas.

Capable of producing 11,000 kilowatts (kW) of electricity, the two new turbine generators will replace four older ones and improve electrical output at the plant from 14% to nearly 30%.

The programme, which was implemented in late 2002, collects methane gas at a nearby landfill and transports it 9.5 miles via pipeline to BMW's Spartanburg production facility. More than 60% of the plant's total energy requirements are already met by burning methane gas, a byproduct of landfill waste decomposition. BMW says the expansion will help the company to more efficiently use the gas siphoned from the landfill.

“BMW’s landfill gas programme has been a tremendous initiative for the plant,” said Josef Kerscher, President of BMW Manufacturing. “Using methane gas to power our plant is one example of our focus on environmentally-friendly production processes.”

In addition to adding larger turbines and heat recovery boilers, BMW will integrate a new specialised treatment system to remove siloxanes from the methane gas (a compound common to landfill gas and potentially destructive to gas turbines). Two of the four original 1,200kW gas turbine engines will remain in place to serve as a back-up for the new system.

The landfill project has saved BMW Group an average of US$5 million in energy costs annually. The new turbines are expected to increase those savings by up to US$2 million a year while reducing carbon dioxide emissions by approximately 92,000 tonnes per year.

Additional Facts:

• BMW has overseen the design, procurement, and construction of the expansion and will manage the overall operation and maintenance of the new system

• BMW's landfill project is the only project that co-generates electricity and hot water for use at an industrial location remote from the landfill

• By recycling methane gas, BMW is able to improve local air quality by lowering regional emissions of greenhouse gases (methane and carbon dioxide)

• For its original efforts BMW Manufacturing Co. LLC has won several national and state environmental awards, including the 2003 South Carolina Governor’s Pollution Prevention Award, EPA’s Green Power Award, and EPA’s Landfill Methane Outreach Program (LMOP) Project of the Year award

• Based on calculations provided by the EPA, the reduction of 92,000 tonnes per year of carbon dioxide emissions is equivalent to the benefit of planting over 23,000 acres of trees annually or 30 times the size of New York’s Central Park

• To date, over 60% of the plant’s total energy requirements are provided by landfill gas

18.06.2009

Munich / Stuttgart. Scoring outstanding wins in the three categories of the International Engine of the Year Award, the BMW Group once again highlights its top position this year as a manufacturer of particularly powerful and, at the same time, efficient engines. In the world’s most significant engine contest, the V8 power unit featured in the BMW M3, the straight-six with Twin Turbo Technology to be admired, among other models, in the BMW 3 Series, the BMW 1 Series and the BMW X6, as well as the four-cylinder twin-scroll turbocharged engine in the MINI Cooper S, have all scored triumphant victories in their respective classes.

The Awards were presented on 17 June 2009 at the Engine Expo in Stuttgart.

This triple victory continues the BMW Group’s story of success in the International Engine of the Year Award. In this contest held since 1999 BMW engines have brought home overall victory no less than six times, including the four last years in a row.

This year’s three winners once again thrilled the jury through their fascinating development of power as well as their up-to-date efficiency. This combination of such superior virtues is the result of the BMW EfficientDynamics development strategy characterising both the eight cylinder from BMW M GmbH, the straight-six from BMW, and the MINI four-cylinder.

In the engine category between 3.0 and 4.0 litres the V8 power unit featured in the BMW M3 successfully defended the title it had already won last year. Indeed, this 309 kW/420 hp 4.0-litre makes a substantial contribution to the success of BMW’s high-performance sports car in the market, now available in the guise of the BMW M3 Coupé, the BMW M3 Saloon, and the BMW M3 Convertible.

The 3.0-litre 225 kW/306 hp six-cylinder with Twin Turbo and High Precision Injection, in turn, this year dominates the engine category between 2.5 and 3.0 litres for the third time in a row.

Continuity has also been the name of the game in the engine category between 1.4 and 1.8 litres ever since the year 2007, with the 1.6-litre four-cylinder power unit in the MINI Cooper S with its twin-scroll turbocharger, direct gasoline injection and maximum output of 128 kW/175 hp still setting the standard.

The decisions on the International Engine of the Year Award are taken by an international jury made up of renowned motoring journalists. This year the team of no less than 65 experts came from 32 countries, awarding prizes in eight engine classes based on size and in three special categories, as well as the special award for the overall winner.

In the eleven contests held so far since 1999, the BMW Group has already brought home more than 40 trophies. This ongoing success in the world’s most significant engine contest is impressive proof of the BMW Group’s unique competence the world over in the area of powertrain development.

17.06.2009

Celebrated as the world’s best-selling premium car, the BMW 3 Series consistently raises the bar in terms of technology and driving dynamics thanks to impressive engineering and design leadership.

In 2008 the Middle East BMW entered a new era in driving dynamics, premium quality and innovative technology with the launch of a redesigned 3 Series model.

The new model is set to extend its lead of the premium automotive segment even further with revised exterior and interior design modifications, a revised range of engines and innovations in the areas of drive technology, safety and comfort that set unsurpassed standards for driving dynamics in its segment.

For a number of years, the BMW 3 Series has accounted for over 40 per cent of BMW’s global market sales. It is renowned for its unbeatable driving dynamics that offer drivers precise steering and impeccable road holding, unmatched performance and world-class efficiency.

Built to perform, the model is now available in five petrol engines for the Sedan, Coupe and Cabrio models with a performance spectrum ranging from 156 bhp for the BMW 320i to 306 bhp for the 335i, the 3 Series continues to attract worldwide fans. In 2009, the BMW 3 Series engine range is more diverse and efficient than ever before in its 33-year history.

All models in the BMW 3 Series range have better fuel economy and emission levels than their immediate rivals in each of their respective performance classes – and some of them even considerably better driving dynamics.

Now the BMW 3 Series sets out to extend its lead even further with striking design accentuations giving the exterior a sportier and more athletic look, from the striking v-shaped character lines on the bonnet which draws attention to the kidney grille. The hallmark dual headlights feature gleaming chrome surrounds and the rear of the vehicle is now wider, with new bumpers and L-shaped LED light technology giving the vehicle a more powerful appearance.

The modern, high-quality interior has been ergonomically designed to ensure optimum comfort with specific modifications in the selection of materials and additional chrome details to give a modern, high tech feel. Sporty elegance is highlighted by technology-oriented styling, including further refinements to the advanced iDrive Controller, air conditioning and audio controls.

The revised design enhancements, range of engines and innovations in the areas of drive technology, safety and comfort make the new BMW 3 Series more attractive than ever before.

Elite Performance at the highest level of Motorsport

Time and again, the BMW 3 Series has proven to have the spirit of a champion at the very highest level of Motorsport. From 1973 to 1979 the BMW 3.0 CSL Coupe won the European Championship no fewer than six times, dominating the international touring car scene for almost a decade.

In the 1980s the BMW M3 raced to touring car history bringing home one victory after the other for BMW Motorsport. Scoring countless trophies and titles over the years, the M3 has become the most successful touring car of all time.

But what many would consider the 3 Series’ crowning glory came in June 2004 when two BMW M3 GTRs crossed the finish line in first and second place at the 24 Hours of Nurburgring, widely recognised as the most challenging race track in the world. Bringing home its 17th overall win on this 24.4 kilometre-long track, BMW also succeeded in impressively underlining its place as the most successful manufacturer by far at the Nurburgring.

33 years of efficient dynamics.

Efficiency and dynamics – these two characteristics have been the hallmarks of the BMW 3 Series for 33 years. The first generation of the medium class saloon managed to spark enthusiasm with a sporty performance, unique to its segment in those days, while achieving exceedingly high fuel economy. Today, the BMW 3 Series owes its leading position to the pioneering BMW Efficient Dynamics strategy which is included as standard on all models.

Engines with an exceptionally high degree of efficiency, intelligent energy management inside the vehicle, lightweight construction and optimised aerodynamics are the result of a development strategy to achieve better driving dynamics coupled with a reduction in fuel consumption and emissions. BMW engine designers have been bound to this principle for some time.

And it is precisely for this reason that the success story of the BMW 3 Series from 1975 to the present day has been influenced by numerous innovations from which both performance and fuel economy have profited. For BMW power and efficiency are inseparably linked and is clearly demonstrated by its 3 Series drivetrain engineering over the years.

The BMW 3 Series has demonstrated throughout the years an unwavering commitment to high performance and the delivery of an unsurpassed driving experience. The evolution of this model denotes BMW’s quest for motoring perfection that strikes the perfect balance between performance and efficiency. There’s no question that the BMW 3 Series just keeps getting better.

3 Series at Alfardan Automobiles

Since its establishment in 1996, Alfardan Automobiles has time and time again proved to its customers in Qatar and across the region that a lifestyle of luxury is not just about what you wear and what you own – its about what you drive. As the official importer in Qatar of the BMW Group, the world’s leading premium automotive manufacturers, Alfardan Automobiles’ association with luxury comes naturally. It first brought the BMW 3 Series to Qatar in 1996 and the vehicle has been one of its highest selling models over the past thirteen years.

Part of Alfardan Group of Companies, Alfardan Automobiles is the exclusive and official importer in Qatar for BMW, MINI and Rolls-Royce cars, and BMW motorcycles. With conveniently located showrooms in West Bay and Suhaim bin Hamad, and unrivalled aftersales and service facilties featuring the most advanced service and diagnostic technologies, Alfardan Automobiles and staff are committed to delivering, not just the ultimate driving experience, but also the ultimate ownership experience.

Milestones in BMW 3 Series engine development:

1975: World premiere of the BMW 3 Series featuring four four-cylinder engines.

1977: BMW 323i and BMW 320/6 – the first six-cylinder models in the BMW 3 Series.

1982: Presentation of the second generation of the BMW 3 Series.

1984: BMW 325e with a six-cylinder engine for particularly good fuel economy.

1985: Premiere of the BMW 324d, the first diesel-powered model in the BMW 3 Series.

1989: Introduction of four-valve technology to high volume production with the launch of the BMW 318is.

1990: Launch of the third generation of the BMW 3 Series.

1992: VANOS featured in the BMW M3 and six-cylinder versions of the BMW 3 Series Coupe.

1994: BMW 318tds with the first four-cylinder diesel engine in the BMW 3 Series.

1995: Six-cylinder petrol engines with aluminium crankcase.

1996: Alfardan Automobiles brings the BMW 3 Series to Qatar

1998: Launch of the fourth generation of the BMW 3 Series.

2000: Six-cylinder petrol and diesel engines each with a 3-litre cubic capacity.

2001: BMW presents throttle-free load control VALVETRONIC featured on the four-cylinder engine of the BMW 316ti compact.

2004: BMW 320Cd Convertible – the first open top BMW to feature a diesel engine.

2005: Presentation of the fifth generation of the BMW 3 Series, new six-cylinder petrol engines with a composite magnesium-aluminium crankcase.

2007: BMW 335i Coupe with Twin Turbo and High Precision Injection. Direct petrol injection for lean burn operation in the six-cylinder models BMW 330i and BMW 325i as well as the four-cylinder models BMW 320i and BMW 318i, four-cylinder diesel with aluminium crankcase and third-generation Common-Rail Injection.

2008: Five models from the BMW 3 Series with a CO2 emission level of between 123 and 131 grams per km.

25.06.2009

Munich / Stuttgart. Scoring outstanding wins in the three categories of the International Engine of the Year Award, the BMW Group once again highlights its top position this year as a manufacturer of particularly powerful and, at the same time, efficient engines. In the world’s most significant engine contest, the V8 power unit featured in the BMW M3, the straight-six with Twin Turbo Technology to be admired, among other models, in the BMW 3 Series, the BMW 1 Series and the BMW X6, as well as the four-cylinder twin-scroll turbocharged engine in the MINI Cooper S, have all scored triumphant victories in their respective classes.

This triple victory continues the BMW Group’s story of success in the International Engine of the Year Award. In this contest held since 1999 BMW engines have brought home overall victory no less than six times, including the four last years in a row.

This year’s three winners once again thrilled the jury through their fascinating development of power as well as their up-to-date efficiency. This combination of such superior virtues is the result of the BMW EfficientDynamics development strategy characterising both the eight cylinder from BMW M GmbH, the straight-six from BMW, and the MINI four-cylinder.

In the engine category between 3.0 and 4.0 litres the V8 power unit featured in the BMW M3 successfully defended the title it had already won last year. Indeed, this 309 kW/420 hp 4.0-litre makes a substantial contribution to the success of BMW’s high-performance sports car in the market, now available in the guise of the BMW M3 Coupé, the BMW M3 Saloon, and the BMW M3 Convertible.

The 3.0-litre 225 kW/306 hp six-cylinder with Twin Turbo and High Precision Injection, in turn, this year dominates the engine category between 2.5 and 3.0 litres for the third time in a row.

Continuity has also been the name of the game in the engine category between 1.4 and 1.8 litres ever since the year 2007, with the 1.6-litre four-cylinder power unit in the MINI Cooper S with its twin-scroll turbocharger, direct gasoline injection and maximum output of 128 kW/175 hp still setting the standard.

The decisions on the International Engine of the Year Award are taken by an international jury made up of renowned motoring journalists. This year the team of no less than 65 experts came from 32 countries, awarding prizes in eight engine classes based on size and in three special categories, as well as the special award for the overall winner.

In the eleven contests held so far since 1999, the BMW Group has already brought home more than 40 trophies. This ongoing success in the world’s most significant engine contest is impressive proof of the BMW Group’s unique competence the world over in the area of powertrain development.

02.07.2009

The quest of BMW, the world’s leading premium automotive manufacturer, for automotive perfection is not limited to design and engineering. With BMW Service Inclusive customers can enjoy “worry free” ownership wherever their vehicle may take them.

The programme consists of two market-leading packages: BMW Service Inclusive Plus and BMW Service Inclusive Ultimate. Both offer a range of service benefits tailored to customers’ requirements and are available with different warranty periods, starting from five years or 60,000km up to 10 years or 200,000km.

BMW Service Inclusive Plus covers all service and maintenance work plus wear and tear repairs, while BMW Service Inclusive Ultimate covers all service and maintenance work plus repair work after the expiry of the warranty. Some examples of these benefits include oil service, air filters, fuel filters, spark plugs, brake fluid, front and back brake pads and wiper rubbers.

Both packages ensure that vehicles are only worked on by certified BMW technicians using state-of-the-art diagnostic technologies and original parts. And because the package is covered by an international contract, BMW owners can service their vehicle at any authorised workshop in the region.
“Every BMW car comes with a promise; not only to be the ultimate driving machine but also to provide the ultimate ownership experience,” said Rudolf Spann, Aftersales Manager, BMW Group Middle East. “We remain committed to enhancing our BMW Service Inclusive packages to ensure we offer the best ownership experience in the luxury car segment.”


“BMW Service Inclusive really does offer our customers peace of mind motoring. Not only do they receive vehicle maintenance to the highest BMW standards, which of course improves the resale value of their vehicle, it also gives them the financial security to budget total ownership costs for the service period,” added Rudolf Spann.

With BMW Service Inclusive unexpected servicing and repair expenses are alleviated and should a customer sell their BMW car before the expiry of the package, the remaining benefits are easily transferred to the new owner because the package belongs to the vehicle.

For more information please contact your local BMW Importer.

28.07.2009

Doha – Alfardan Automobiles, the exclusive importer of BMW in Qatar, has announced that BMW Premium Selection program, the industry-leading global used car programme, has proved in Qatar successful records since the program was launched a year ago.

“We are receiving extremely positive feedback from customers and given the current economic climate, we see huge potential to grow these numbers further. The program is appealing because we give access to a quality-assured luxury product at a more affordable price,” commented Mr. Antoine Lakis, Assistant General Manager at Alfardan Automobiles.

Lakis added: “BMW Premium Selection also offers a manufacturer’s warranty. The warranty can also be transferred to the new owner if one decides to sell their vehicle so this is a huge added benefit that makes purchasing a used car through BMW Premium Selection very attractive.”

The BMW Premium Selection programme is reserved exclusively for used BMW vehicles that meet strict criteria. Vehicles need to be less than five years old, have a mileage under 100,000 km and have been serviced by authorised BMW importers to qualify for the programme.

Vehicles pass a comprehensive 75 point technical check by trained BMW technicians before they are accepted and sold, ensuring high levels of quality, reliability and value to customers. A 12 month warranty and road side assistance is given when purchasing a BMW Premium Selection vehicle ensuring buyers that they not only have the best offer available in the used car market but they also have peace of mind.

28.07.2009

Doha - As the world’s best-selling premium car, the BMW 3 Series has now been at the forefront of technology, impressive engineering and design for an impressive 33 years.

Alfardan Automobiles, the exclusive importer of BMW in Qatar, first brought the 3 Series to Doha in 1996, and has seen it become one of its most successful models. The model is now available in Qatar in five petrol engines for the Sedan, Coupe and Cabrio models with a performance spectrum ranging from 156 bhp for the BMW 320i to 306 bhp for the 335i.

Antoine Lakis, Assistant General Manager at Alfardan Automobiles, said “The BMW 3 Series has been the world's best-selling premium model for more than three decades and accounts for more than 40 percent of BMW's global sales. The model is renowned for its sporty driving dynamics that offer drivers precise steering and impeccable road holding, unmatched performance and world-class efficiency.”

The BMW 3 Series has always been synonymous with performance, even at the highest level of Motorsport. From 1973 to 1979 the BMW 3.0 CSL Coupe won the European Championship no fewer than six times, dominating the international touring car scene for almost a decade.
In the 1980s the BMW M3 raced to touring car history bringing home one victory after the other for BMW Motorsport. Scoring countless trophies and titles over the years, the M3 has become the most successful touring car of all time.

But what many would consider the 3 Series’ crowning glory came in June 2004 when two BMW M3 GTRs crossed the finish line in first and second place at the 24 Hours of Nurburgring, widely recognised as the most challenging race track in the world. Bringing home its 17th overall win on this 24.4 kilometre-long track, BMW also succeeded in impressively underlining its place as the most successful manufacturer by far at the Nurburgring.
In 2008 the 3 Series entered a new era in driving dynamics, premium quality and innovative technology with the launch of its redesigned fifth generation, featuring revised exterior and interior design modifications, and a revised range of engines and innovations in the areas of drive technology, safety and comfort that set unsurpassed standards for driving dynamics in its segment.

Lakis added, “The BMW 3 Series has demonstrated throughout the years an unwavering commitment to high performance and the delivery of an unsurpassed driving experience. The evolution of this model denotes BMW’s quest for motoring perfection that strikes the perfect balance between performance and efficiency. There’s no question that the BMW 3 Series just keeps getting better.”

29.07.2009

Middle East sales of BMW's flagship 7 Series increased by 73% with 2,077 units sold during the first half of 2009. The fourth largest market for 7 Series sales worldwide recently took delivery of the fifth generation model. A class leader in emission reductions and automotive technologies, the new BMW 7 Series has proven to be one of the most hotly anticipated luxury car launches of the year.

The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia was the largest market for the 7 Series with 617 units sold, representing an increase of 124%. The UAE was another a strong market for the flagship model, with Dubai and Abu Dhabi witnessing sales of 311 and 259 cars respectively, up 32% and 142%. Qatar achieved 147 new BMW 7 Series vehicle sales during the first six months of 2009, 41% better than the year before.

The new BMW 7 Series is currently available in the Middle East in three engine variants – the in-line six cylinder 730Li and the power-optimised 740Li and V8 750Li models with new twin-turbo technology and direct fuel injection. They will be joined later this year by the V12-powered 760Li which produces an enviable 544bhp and accelerates to 100km/h in just 4.6 seconds.

Designed around BMW’s robust EfficientDynamics strategy to reduce fuel consumption and CO2 emissions, the new BMW 7 Series offers more power and better fuel economy than the predecessor model and boasts the most fuel efficient engines in its class.

James Crichton, Director Sales & Marketing, BMW Group Middle East said: “These sales results are very encouraging. The new BMW 7 Series represents the best of automotive engineering and technology. We are confident our flagship model will continue to set the trend in the luxury performance class, and maintain BMW’s leading position at the forefront of automotive innovation.”

05.08.2009

BMW is the world’s first automotive manufacturer to offer in-car technology that allows full internet access from the dashboard display of its flagship model, the BMW 7 Series. This ground-breaking feature named BMW Online combines the thrill of luxury mobility with the convenience of internet usage.

Offered through the BMW ConnectedDrive communications service, BMW Online gives passengers the option to surf the internet while travelling. The internet is viewed on the central display in the instrument panel or on the rear passenger DVD display screens and navigated using the iDrive controller. Rear seat passengers can browse websites and access their e-mails at any time. For safety reasons, those in the front can only access these functions when the car is parked.

The new 7 Series is BMW’s flagship model and represents some of the most significant technology developments. Combined, these features not only contribute to a more dynamic driving experience, but also increased safety for the driver and other road users.

12.08.2009

On 15th September 2009 the IAA Frankfurt Motor Show will open its gates and this year the BMW Group will be proud to present all three brands under one roof. Hall 11, which was officially opened by Frankfurt’s Lord Mayor Petra Roth, is Europe’s most state-of-the-art exhibition hall and will host BMW, MINI and Rolls-Royce. The highlight of BMW’s 2009 motor show presentation is a circuit of several hundred metres in length that encloses the entire exhibition space and on which the BMW EfficientDynamics fleet and the world premieres will be presented.

Thomas Muderlak, responsible for BMW Group’s presentation at the IAA Frankfurt Motor Show said: “Participation in motor shows is an important feature in our communication activities directed at customers, the media and trade visitors. We are delighted that the 2009 IAA gives us the opportunity to build on our tradition of innovative motor show presences and this time to present all three brands under one roof – a first. A highlight for our visitors will be to experience our vehicles in motion: for the BMW brand, our presentation will implement the brand’s motto of ‘Sheer Driving Pleasure’ quite literally.”

The BMW Motor Show Presentation: “Experiencing Joy”

The basic concept behind the BMW brand’s presence at the 2009 IAA focuses on sheer driving pleasure. For the first time, IAA visitors can experience the cars’ design and appeal in motion – thanks to the dynamic presentation of the vehicles on a circuit. The BMW EfficientDynamics fleet presented on the circuit will be an impressive demonstration of the fusion of driving pleasure and low consumption. Thanks to EfficientDynamics, BMW is able to prove uncompromisingly that these are not mutually exclusive. With its two most recent model generations, BMW Group has reduced the fleet’s consumption in Europe by more than 25 per cent while improving driving pleasure. By the time the IAA opens, BMW will have delivered about 1.4 million vehicles equipped with the award-winning EfficientDynamics technology package. As well asthe presentation of the EfficientDynamics fleet, the focus at the BMW stand will be on the world premieres of the hybrid vehicles BMW ActiveHybrid 7 and BMW ActiveHybrid X6 as well as on the world premieres of the BMW 5 Series Gran Turismo and the BMW X1. Visitors can expect further additional product surprises.

BMW Motor Show community and events

Presenting the three brands so close to each other this year will allow BMW Group to state various corporate initiatives. As the organiser of the Junior Campus and the host of the ZEIT Conference, BMW Group will seize the opportunity to set the stage for important social issues such as sustainability. Taking a stand in the socio-political debate on mobility and sustainability, BMW Group’s future summit – the ZEIT Conference – provides a platform for a panel discussion with high-ranking representatives from the worlds of politics, business, architecture and environmental protection. Also, the 2009.2010 Sustainable Value Report will be presented at the BMW Group press conference on 15th September. Sustainability is the central theme of the BMW Group’s exhibition stand concept as well: the Company applies a reusable exhibition system to motor shows and exhibitions. The concept is based on modular, reusable structural elements which reduce the amount of demolition material and waste.

Between 15th and 27th September 2009 children aged between 3 and 13 years can discover the fascination of the sustainability and mobility at the Junior Campus. A workshop explains through play how to handle resources in a responsible manner for children aged between 7 and 13. In addition, a children’s Road Safety School with a driving course located in the outdoor area of the Junior Campus helps children from 3 to 6 behave responsibly in road traffic.

The MINI Stand: “What a Birthday. It’s MINI.”

On 26th August, MINI will celebrate its 50th Anniversary. Honouring this special occasion, the MINI motor show presence is all about MINI’s 50-year success story. This agenda is also translated into the stand’s architecture: visitors are received at the stand by a banner displaying the large-scale claim “What a Birthday. It’s MINI.”. The banner stretchs diagonally across the entire open space of the stand with a length of 35, a height of six and a depth of four metres. The MINI world premieres include the birthday editions MINI 50 Camden and MINI 50 Mayfair as well as further surprising product innovations. Another focus at the MINI stand at the 2009 IAA is the MINIMALISM concept – a package of measures developed to optimise fuel consumption and to reduce emissions, which is presented in a futuristic area that offers great experiences.

The Rolls-Royce Motor Show Presence

The highlight of the Rolls-Royce motor show presence is the world premiere of the Rolls-Royce Ghost. The stand itself has been designed as an open building with a daylight roof in which Rolls-Royce presents not only the Ghost, but also the Phantom product range with the Phantom Extended Wheelbase, the Drophead Coupé and the Phantom Coupé.

13.08.2009

Doha- Alfardan Automobiles, the exclusive importer of BMW and MINI in Qatar, is celebrating the commencement of Ramadan by offering its customers total peace of mind with free insurance and servicing packages on all new vehicles purchased during the Holy Month.

Throughout the month, customers who purchase new BMW vehicles from Alfardan Automobiles will be entitled to one year of free insurance in addition to the BMW Service Inclusive Ultimate package, which covers all major servicing on BMW cars for the first five years including wear and tear parts that are beyond the standard warranty, costs for labour, original BMW replacement parts and top-up oil.

“BMW engineers and designs extraordinary cars so we are offering a seasonal campaign to match,” said Naim Majdalani, General Manager, Alfardan Automobiles. “In celebration of the Holy Month, we are delighted to offer our customers peace of mind ownership by taking care of all extra costs such as vehicle repairs, insurance and servicing.”

The BMW Service Inclusive Ultimate package offers the financial security of being able to budget ownership costs for the inclusive period, without the worry of unexpected servicing and repair costs, and even enhances the resale value of the car. Should the customer sell their BMW before the expiry of the package, the remaining benefits are fully transferable to any subsequent owner as the package belongs to the vehicle.

The Ramadan promotion runs in parallel with Alfardan Automobiles Aftersales’ ‘Back to Doha’ campaign, which offers customers an 18-point safety check on their vehicles and a full polish at a very attractive price.

31.08.2009

Doha- Following on from the successful launch of the fifth-generation BMW 7 Series 740Li and 750Li models last year, the new BMW 730Li has made its much anticipated debut in Qatar.

The new addition to the flagship BMW 7 Series model range is set to strengthen BMW’s position in the premium segment with the latest in automotive innovation and technological development, offering unrivalled performance, luxury and style. The fifth-generation model has boosted car sales this year across the region for the world’s leading premium automotive manufacturer, with Middle East sales of the BMW 7 Series achieving 2,077 units during the first half of 2009, a 73% increase on the same period in 2008.

“The new BMW 7 Series has been immensely popular in Qatar and has remained one of our best selling models since its launch last year, consistently contributing to our overall sales growth. The new BMW 730Li model offers stylish design, outstanding performance, luxury, power and sheer driving pleasure,” said Mr. Naim Majdalani, General Manager of Alfardan Automobiles.

The new BMW 730Li enters the Qatar market with a six cylinder engine, a top speed of 245 km/h and acceleration from 0-100 km/h of 7.8 seconds.

A class-leader in emissions reduction, the new 7 Series has been designed around BMW’s robust EfficientDynamics strategy - encompassing many technology innovations to offer outstanding performance and a reduction in fuel consumption and CO2 emissions.

The cockpit has been designed to promote the sheer pleasure of driving. The latest generation of BMW’s trendsetting iDrive control system, the simplest and most user friendly control system in its class, features a 10.2 inch display with a high-resolution graphic presentation, enabling easy control of the car’s entertainment, information, navigation and telecommunication functions.

New safety and comfort features have been integrated into the range to improve manoeuvrability and safety at low and high speeds, Driving Dynamic Control for variable drive settings depending on road conditions and iBrake - a function that pre-tensions the braking system if the system detects a possible collision.

The BMW 7 Series also comes with a wide range of comfort touches and innovative entertainment options, including an audio system with hard-disc memory and AUX-in sleeve featured as standard. A USB port, multi-channel audio system, four-zone automatic air conditioning, active seat ventilation all combined to show how this new range is the leader in luxury.

The BMW 730Li is available in Qatar at Alfardan Automobiles.

03.09.2009

Doha - Alfardan Automobiles is celebrating the Holy Month of Ramadan with a special ‘Back to Doha’ servicing promotion. The exclusive importer of BMW and MINI in Qatar is ensuring peace-of-mind for its customers by offering them a free 18-point vehicle safety check on their vehicles.

Owners of BMW and MINI vehicles purchased from Alfardan Automobiles are entitled to an 18-point safety check for only QR 500. Alfardan Automobiles Aftersales highly qualified service personnel will collect the car, give it a complete polish and perform a safety check up, and the parts to be replaced will be offered with a 25% discount.

Chris Weglinski, Service Manager at Alfardan Automobiles, said: “As we are approaching the end of summer, during which cars can go through a lot of wear-and-tear in the heat, it is important that our customers get their cars checked in order to have a safe and comfortable Ramadan. The vehicle check will ensure a thorough review of the vehicle and alert the customer of a possible defect. We are also offering customers special prices for service jobs, so it’s a win–win situation for them.”

This offer further exemplifies Alfardan Automobiles’s focus on customer care and satisfaction, a key factor the importer’s successful growth of market share in Qatar. Alfardan Automobiles has also invested heavily to ensure that both staff and facilities attain the highest standards.

Alfardan Automobiles has invested in the recruitment and training of highly skilled staff and experts, to manage its facilities and implement the sales and aftersales processes, ensuring that customers experience “sheer driving pleasure“ at all times.

Alfardan Automobiles has also invested in a multi-million dollar showroom and workshop - which was constructed according to the BMW aesthetic and functional specifications and standards. With state-of-the-art showrooms and a service centre, Alfardan Automobiles is equipped to handle all requirements of its esteemed customers with careful detail, based on the commitment to quality and excellence.

The servicing checks will be available at the BMW Main Service Centre in the Industrial area, Street Number 1, Building No1, as well in the BMW Service Centre at Khalifah Town.

06.09.2009

The BMW 7 Series is currently the best-selling car in the premium automotive segment in the Middle East. Buoyed by the launch of the fifth-generation of the flagship model late last year, the BMW Group recorded sales of 2,949 units of the BMW 7 Series across the Middle East from January-August 2009.

The 7 Series is also the highest-selling model in the BMW portfolio, achieving impressive results across the region’s biggest markets. The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia was the largest market with the sale of 864 units. The UAE was another strong market for the flagship model, with Dubai and Abu Dhabi witnessing sales of 435 and 365 cars respectively.

The new BMW 7 Series was initially available in the Middle East in two engine variants – the in-line six cylinder 740Li and V8 750Li models with new twin-turbo technology and direct fuel injection. They have since been joined by the 730Li and V12-powered 760Li which produces an enviable 544bhp and accelerates to 100km/h in just 4.6 seconds.

Designed around BMW’s robust EfficientDynamics strategy to reduce fuel consumption and CO2 emissions, the new BMW 7 Series offers more power and better fuel economy than the predecessor model and boasts the most fuel efficient engines in its class.

James Crichton, Sales & Marketing Director, BMW Group Middle East said: “The BMW 7 Series embodies all the qualities associated with premium vehicles such as power, performance and luxury, and is a class leader in emission reductions and automotive technologies. These enduring qualities have been continually refined over the past thirty years in which the BMW 7 Series has delivered stellar performance in the premium automotive segment. We are proud of its latest sales results, and we look forward to the continuing success of our flagship model for the rest of the year.”

The new BMW 7 Series features a host of assistance technologies that bring unmatched driver engagement, handling and safety features to the luxury performance segment. These include Head-Up Display, which projects driving information such as speed, navigation, direction and alerts onto the windscreen, so that the driver’s attention stays on the road; Night Vision, which uses thermal imaging technology to detect humans in the dark at distances of up to 100 meters; and Lane Departure Warning and Lane Change Warning which help the driver overtake safely by monitoring traffic conditions in adjacent lanes with radar sensors.

28.09.2009

The new BMW X5 M and X6 M models have made their debut in the Middle East, heralding a new chapter in the proud history of BMW M. The new BMW X5 M and X6 M are the first all-wheel-drive models to offer the supreme performance, dynamic driving features, athletic design and premium quality typical of a BMW M Car.

Commenting on the arrival of these exciting new models, Phil Horton, Managing Director of BMW Group Middle East said: “The combination of BMW’s M philosophy with X range models paves the way for a truly exclusive and dynamic driving experience.

“Both models set new standards in their class in terms of dynamic performance, reflecting their motorsport lineage. The X5 M and X6 M take the Sports Activity Vehicle segment to the next level and we are confident that both models will contribute to BMW Group’s ongoing success, considering that both the X5 and the X6 are already excellent performers in this market place.”

An unprecedented story in its own right, BMW pioneered the Sports Activity Vehicle segment with the launch of the X5 which has sold close to one million units globally in just one decade. The X5 is testament to the leading and progressive nature of the BMW brand becoming a benchmark for innovation, design and performance for the premium automotive industry.

In 2008 BMW took another bold step forward with the world’s first Sports Activity Coupé, the BMW X6. This highly innovative vehicle captures the features and design qualities typical of a large Coupé combined with the X family high driving position and versatility. The X6 has secured an unrivalled position in the Middle East market reporting strong sales since its launch in 2008.

Both the X5 M and X6 M new models are powered by a newly developed M TwinPower Turbo V8 high-performance engine delivering 555 hp at an engine speed range between of 6,000 rpm, acceleration from 0-100km/h in 4.7 seconds, and a top speed electronically limited to 250km/h. The six-speed sports automatic gearbox allows for extremely short shift times and very smooth gear-changes.

The new M TwinPower Turbo engine develops outstanding output and performance with equally outstanding efficiency. In addition to direct High Precision Injection, both the BMW X5 M and the X6 M are equipped with a wide range of BMW’s EfficientDynamics technologies that offer a significant reduction in fuel consumption and CO2 emission.

BMW’s intelligent xDrive all-wheel-drive system improves traction on rough terrain and enhances driving dynamics on the road. BMW’s xDrive is naturally geared to the specific power and performance characteristics of the BMW X5 M and the X6 M. Dynamic Performance Control, a unique technology which delivers uncompromised tracking stability on the road comes standard on both models. The xDrive also interacts with the cars’ special M suspension including Adaptive Drive and the newly developed Servotronic Power Steering, to ensure the dynamic driving behaviour so characteristic of a BMW M Car.

In the M Drive menu the driver is able to set up and pre-configure both the Power Mode and the set-up of the Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) and Electronic Damper Control (EDC), which help stablise handling even in critical situations. The driver is also able to save his favourite set-up and subsequently retrieve it at any time simply by pressing the M Drive button on the steering wheel.

The BMW X5 M and the X6 M are the only vehicles in their segment to come as standard with different-sized front and rear tyres, running in each case on model specific 20-inch light-alloy rims. The combination of ideal tyre sizes in terms of driving dynamics promotes both the exceptionally good transmission of power to the rear axle and the precise, exactly dosed steering behaviour of both models.

The truly outstanding potential of both models comes out clearly in their looks and design. The front – uniform for both models – with massive air intakes and twin exhaust tailpipes are an impressive indication of the awesome engine power. Both models have a M specific cockpit and are fitted with M seats, M leather steering wheel and many opportunities for personalization.

Beyond these features, both of these all-wheel-drive high performance sports cars stand out clearly as unique models in their own right: The BMW X5 M clearly boasts its superior power and exclusivity at very first sight, while the BMW X6 M, in its unique design, alludes to fascinating driving dynamics and the car’s athletic charisma.

14.10.2009

Doha - Alfardan Automobiles has once again put customers first with a new financing package that allows customers to purchase vehicles covering all the BMW range with an interest rate of just 1.99%.

The exclusive importer of BMW in Qatar has also announced that customers buying new vehicles will benefit from a three-year unlimited warranty package, in addition to a three-year or 60,000 km BMW Service Inclusive package, which covers all service and maintenance work plus wear and tear repairs.

Not content with simply providing their customers with peace of mind in financing and servicing, Alfardan Automobiles has also ensured they will be safe on the road by providing 24-hour road assistance with all car purchases.

“There are many different considerations when purchasing a new vehicle, including the financing, servicing, repairs and insurance. We have simplified that process by ensuring that the customer does not need to worry about anything but which car he prefers,” said Naim Majdalani, General Manager of Alfardan Automobiles. “Alfardan Automobiles has always placed customer satisfaction at the top of its priorities and our new financing package continues that commitment. We want to provide our customer with the best possible ownership experience.”

20.10.2009

Doha – Some of Hollywood’s biggest celebrities will be driven around Qatar in style this week as BMW has been named the Exclusive Premium Car of the Doha Tribeca Film Festival, which runs from October 29th – November 1st at the Museum of Islamic Art (MIA).

Further enhancing its reputation as the leading luxury car service in Qatar, Prestige Cars, BMW’s luxury rent-a-car service, will provide the vehicles through its role as an official sponsor of the prestigious festival and the exclusive premium transportation provider for the event.

BMW 5 series and 7 series limousines with chauffeurs will be on hand to provide top movie stars with ‘sheer driving pleasure’ for the duration of the festival, which will showcase the best of Hollywood and Bollywood cinema, in addition to internationally acclaimed Arab films, documentaries, and animation.

Mr. Antoine Lakis, Acting General Manager of Prestige Cars, said: “We are delighted to be involved in the inaugural Doha Tribeca Film Festival which serves to celebrate cinema, culture and community in Qatar and to help transport filmmakers, entertainment industry luminaries and the Qatari dignitaries during the event.”

“This is another exciting partnership for Prestige Cars, as celebrities arriving for the Doha Tribeca Film Festival are accustomed to the very best in luxury transportation. Our experience in providing high-end cars such as BMW for hotel fleets, conferences, sporting events and multi-national gatherings makes us the perfect choice for an event with such esteemed guests. We look forward to showcasing Qatar as the luxury capital of the Middle East and extending BMW’s ‘sheer driving pleasure’ to visiting celebrities.”

While most of the Doha Tribeca Film Festival action will take place at the Museum of Islamic Art, the festival will also extend to Souk Waqif, hotspot hotels such as the W and Four Seasons, and other choice venues around Doha.

Launched in 1997, Prestige Cars works in cooperation with its sister companies at Alfardan Automotive Group to provide luxury cars for rental, leasing and limousine services. It is fast becoming the supplier of choice for the capital’s most prestigious and luxurious hotels, and recently signed a deal to become the official limousine provider for The Pearl-Qatar.

27.10.2009

Doha - The new BMW X5 M and X6 M models have made their debut in Qatar, heralding a new chapter in the proud history of BMW M. The new BMW X5 M and X6 M are the first all-wheel-drive models to offer the supreme performance, dynamic driving features, athletic design and premium quality typical of a BMW M Car.

Commenting on the arrival of these exciting new models, Naim Majdalani, General Manager of Alfardan Automobiles - the exclusive importer of BMW in Qatar - said: “The combination of BMW’s M philosophy with X range models paves the way for a truly exclusive and dynamic driving experience.”

“Both models set new standards in their class in terms of dynamic performance, reflecting their motorsport lineage. The X5 M SAV and X6 M SAC take the Sports Activity (Coupé) Vehicle segment to the next level and we are confident that both models will contribute to BMW Group’s ongoing success, considering that both the X5 and the X6 are already excellent performers in this market place.”

An unprecedented story in its own right, BMW pioneered the Sports Activity Vehicle segment with the launch of the X5 which has sold close to one million units globally in just one decade. The X5 is testament to the leading and progressive nature of the BMW brand becoming a benchmark for innovation, design and performance for the premium automotive industry.

In 2008 BMW took another bold step forward with the world’s first Sports Activity Coupé, the BMW X6. This highly innovative vehicle captures the features and design qualities typical of a large Coupé combined with the X family high driving position and versatility. The X6 has secured an unrivalled position in the Middle East market reporting strong sales since its launch in 2008.

Both the X5 M and X6 M new models are powered by a newly developed M TwinPower Turbo V8 high-performance engine delivering 555 hp at an engine speed range between of 6,000 rpm, acceleration from 0-100km/h in 4.7 seconds, and a top speed electronically limited to 250km/h. The six-speed sports automatic gearbox allows for extremely short shift times and very smooth gear-changes.

The new M TwinPower Turbo engine develops outstanding output and performance with equally outstanding efficiency. In addition to direct High Precision Injection, both the BMW X5 M and the X6 M are equipped with a wide range of BMW’s EfficientDynamics technologies that offer a significant reduction in fuel consumption and CO2 emission.

BMW’s intelligent xDrive all-wheel-drive system improves traction on rough terrain and enhances driving dynamics on the road. BMW’s xDrive is naturally geared to the specific power and performance characteristics of the BMW X5 M and the X6 M. Dynamic Performance Control, a unique technology which delivers uncompromised tracking stability on the road comes standard on both models. The xDrive also interacts with the cars’ special M suspension including Adaptive Drive and the newly developed Servotronic Power Steering, to ensure the dynamic driving behaviour so characteristic of a BMW M Car.

In the M Drive menu the driver is able to set up and pre-configure both the Power Mode and the set-up of the Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) and Electronic Damper Control (EDC), which help stablise handling even in critical situations. The driver is also able to save his favourite set-up and subsequently retrieve it at any time simply by pressing the M Drive button on the steering wheel.

The BMW X5 M and the X6 M are the only vehicles in their segment to come as standard with different-sized front and rear tyres, running in each case on model specific 20-inch light-alloy rims. The combination of ideal tyre sizes in terms of driving dynamics promotes both the exceptionally good transmission of power to the rear axle and the precise, exactly dosed steering behaviour of both models.

The truly outstanding potential of both models comes out clearly in their looks and design. The front – uniform for both models – with massive air intakes and twin exhaust tailpipes are an impressive indication of the awesome engine power. Both models have an M specific cockpit and are fitted with M seats, M leather steering wheel and many opportunities for personalization.

Beyond these features, both of these all-wheel-drive high performance sports cars stand out clearly as unique models in their own right: The BMW X5 M clearly boasts its superior power and exclusivity at very first sight, while the BMW X6 M, in its unique design, alludes to fascinating driving dynamics and the car’s athletic charisma.

15.11.2009

Lord Sebastian Coe, chairman of the London Organising Committee of the Olympic Games and Paralympic Games (LOCOG) has today announced that BMW has become the Automotive Partner of London 2012. BMW will provide the 4000 or so vehicles which are required at the Games to transport athletes, technical officials, media, LOCOG operational teams, national Olympic Committees, International Sports Federations, the IOC and marketing partners.

In addition, BMW becomes a Sustainability Partner supporting London 2012’s commitment to deliver its ‘low carbon’ and ‘healthy living’ Games.

Ian Robertson, member of the board of management of BMW AG, responsible for sales and marketing said: “Sustainability is a central pillar of our business and guides all aspects of our operations. This has lead to our being named by the Dow Jones Sustainability Index as the most sustainable automotive company, for the fifth year in a row. Therefore we have a natural affinity with London 2012 and its commitment to low carbon and healthy living.”

He continued, “We see our partnership as a major opportunity, over the next three years and beyond, to focus attention on our range of the most fuel efficient premium cars – and also to shine a light on the future of individual mobility. This partnership will be an inspiration for our customers, employees, dealers and suppliers.”

LOCOG set challenging targets with respect to CO2 and European emission standards for the car fleet. BMW will provide a fleet of cars which not only meet the Euro 6 emissions standard but also beat the maximum average of 120g CO2 / km established by LOCOG. BMW leads the automotive industry in emission-lowering technology through its Efficient Dynamics programme.

The company will also showcase electric vehicles as part of its activation in 2012.

LOCOG Chairman Sebastian Coe commented, “Operationally, an automotive deal is vital for any organising committee and so I’m thrilled BMW is on board. They share our vision to stage a sustainable Games in 2012 and will be a valued partner. We welcome BMW on board and look forward to working with them over the next three years.”

During the Games, BMW bicycles will be available for use by athletes in the Athletes Village and by London 2012 staff. BMW motorcycles will also be used in certain Olympic and Paralympic events.

A proportion of the fleet will be wheelchair-accessible and BMW will convert a number of vehicles for use by disabled drivers and passengers.

BMW has invested over £1bn in the UK since 2000 and employs over 8,000 people in manufacturing, distribution and financial services in Britain. The company has created over 50,000 further jobs through support services, suppliers and dealer distribution networks. BMW will also activate the deal sacross the iconic Mini brand between now and 2012.

LOCOG and BMW have many shared values which are an important foundation to this partnership agreement. A commitment to fair play, sporting competition and intercultural exchange have always been fundamentals of BMW’s value system – in addition to the central theme of sustainability.

18.11.2009

Doha – BMW reaffirmed its support for German-Qatari cultural relations as it was named, for the fourth year running, a sponsor of the German National Day. Additionally, BMW was named an official sponsor of the ‘German-Qatari Cultural Weeks’ activities, organized by the German Embassy for the first time in Doha.

As part of the sponsorship, Alfardan Automobiles, the exclusive importer of BMW in Qatar, was named the official transportation provider of the German/Arab Jazz Concert, held at the Al Rumailah Park Amphitheatre recently. The sponsorship further highlights Alfardan Automobiles’ successful 14-year relationship with the BMW Group, one of Germany’s iconic companies and the world’s most successful premium automotive manufacturer.

Mr. Naim Majdalani, General Manager of Alfardan Automobiles, said: “Alfardan Automobiles has enjoyed a long and rewarding relationship with the BMW Group since 1996. We have worked hand in hand with BMW to ensure that this premium automotive brand continues to add ‘sheer driving pleasure’ to the streets of Qatar, and we look forward to continuing this relationship in the future.”

“As a Qatari company it is important to foster not only commercial business relationships with Germany but also cultural and social ones to ensure that the bond between the two countries strengthens, and our joint initiatives prosper” he added.

The ‘German-Qatari Cultural Weeks‘ activities run until December 12th across a host of different venues in Qatar, and include events such as classical concerts, architectural exhibitions, hip-hop festivals, photographic exhibits and movie nights.

22.11.2009

Dubai- The world’s most successful premium automotive manufacturer has announced plans to debut the new BMW 5 Series sedan in the Middle East in March 2010. The launch of the sixth generation of this immensely successful model marks the epitome of aesthetic design and supreme driving pleasure in the midrange premium segment.
With its sporting and elegant design, excellent comfort and the highest standard in efficiency in its class, BMW’s latest executive sedan sets the benchmark in driving dynamics.

The new model’s design is imaginative, creative and effective, with BMW’s designers and engineers working hand-in-hand to ensure the perfect interplay of design and technology. The new BMW 5 Series sedan will make its debut in the Middle East with one eight-cylinder and three six-cylinder petrol engines offering outstanding performance.

The new BMW 5 Series is a class leader in emissions reduction. It has been designed around BMW's successful Efficient Dynamics strategy that encompasses many technology innovations to offer outstanding performance and a reduction in fuel consumption.

Some of the wide range of sophisticated driving and comfort features offered in the new BMW 5 Series include Dynamic Drive Control with three modes: comfort, normal, sport and sport +; Comfort Start; Head-Up Display; Multi-Channel Audio System, Rear Seat Entertainment; Four-Zone Automatic Air Conditioning, BMW iDrive control and Parking Assistant.

The interior of the new BMW 5 Series has a stylish and modern design with exciting lines that create a generous and harmonious ambience. High quality materials and superior craftsmanship underline the premium interior ambience.

Commenting on the launch of the new model, Phil Horton, Managing Director of BMW Group Middle East said: “The 5 Series is one of our best selling models in the Middle East, so we are looking forward to launching this new model early in 2010. It is a totally different car from its predecessor in terms of design, comfort, technology and engineering, so we are confident that it's going to be well received and help us maintain our position at the forefront industry trends.”

The new BMW 5 Series Sedan clearly stands out from the crowd, convincingly demonstrating its ability to offer the Sheer Driving Pleasure typical of the BMW brand.

24.11.2009

Doha – Alfardan Automobiles, the exclusive Importer of BMW & MINI in Qatar, expressed its support for safety on the roads by providing the Traffic Department with BMW and MINI vehicles for the “National Campaign for Road Accidents Prevention.”

The educational campaign, now in its second year, aims to promote road safety awareness among high school students through workshops on traffic safety and demonstrations of correct driving habits. Alfardan Automobiles have provided the Traffic Department with a BMW 530i sedan and the new MINI Cooper S Cabrio to use for the training sessions.

Mr. Naim Majdalani, General Manager at Alfardan Automobiles, said: “We are proud to be involved in this important road safety campaign that serves to educate our youth on correct driving culture to help maintain safer roads and better driving conditions in Qatar. Although a small percentage of accidents are due to technical malfunctions, the majority occur as a result of human error, so the best possible accident protection that an automobile manufacturer can provide motor vehicle drivers with is active safety which is achieved through creating awareness of driving methods.”

The National Campaign for Road Accident Prevention is running until the 29th of December 2009 in high schools across Qatar.

01.12.2009

The BMW 7 Series, BMW’s flagship model and major contributor to the brand’s Middle East growth, continues to remain at the forefront of the luxury segment by offering the latest in automotive innovation and technology development.

The fifth generation model, launched in the Middle East earlier this year, offers a host of driver assistance technologies including innovative safety features, such as Lane Departure Warning and Lane Change Warning systems.

The Lane Departure Warning system alerts the driver before the vehicle drifts over the marked edge of the lane. Using a camera integrated in the rear-view mirror, the system recognises if the vehicle is threatening to stray outside the lane and the driver is alerted by a vibration of the steering wheel.

Lane Change Warning system helps the driver avoid collisions when overtaking and changing lanes. Radar sensors at the rear of the car monitor the traffic behind, and trigger the appearance of a dark symbol on the wing mirror whenever any vehicle moves into a potentially dangerous position. This symbol begins to flash and the steering wheel vibrates as a warning to the driver.

Commenting on these safety features, Phil Horton, Managing Director of BMW Group Middle East said: “Both these advanced driver assistance technologies demonstrate BMW’s commitment to road safety and innovation by reducing the potential risk of accidents by providing the driver with greater information on surrounding road users through industry-leading assistance technologies.”

The new BMW 7 Series represents some of the most significant technology developments in the automotive industry. Combined, these features not only contribute to a more dynamic driving experience, but also increased safety for the driver and other road users.

09.12.2009

Dubai – BMW Middle East has unveiled five new models today at the 10th Dubai International Motor Show including two ActiveHybrid models, marking the second phase in BMW’s sustainable mobility strategy.

In addition, the new BMW Gran Turismo, BMW X1 along with the star of the show, the BMW M1 Homage concept vehicle all made their Middle East debuts.

Earlier this week, the BMW Group announced a significant commitment towards addressing climate change at the UN Copenhagen Climate Change Conference. The premium automotive manufacturer will reduce CO2 emissions on all of its products by at least 25% by 2020. To achieve this goal, technologies such as zero-emission electric vehicles will play a vital role.


The second phase of its EfficientDynamics strategy has been implemented with the unveiling of the ActiveHybrid X6 and ActiveHybrid 7 at the Dubai International Motor show. These two models integrate the latest electric and petrol engine technologies to further reduce fuel consumption and emissions and are the most fuel efficient models in their respective segments with an average fuel saving of over 15%.

BMW has already enjoyed significant success on the path to zero-emissions vehicles, with over 1.5 million vehicles already fitted with EfficientDynamics technologies that reduce emissions and improve efficiency during phase one of the EfficientDynamics strategy.

16.12.2009