SMG Toyota Hillcrest capped off another successful year with a host of awards at the 2020 Toyota Dealer of the Year awards, which was broadcast virtually due to COVID-19 restrictions.
Last year proved to be one of the most challenging years in motor retail, with sales the lowest in 18 years. SMG Toyota Hillcrest and SMG Lexus Hillcrest was one of the few retailers that came out on top with success in Toyota Financial Services, Automark, Parts, Service and Customer Experience.
“This is an incredible accomplishment for the dealership and for SMG. A huge thank you is extended to our loyal customers, and to the industry-leading team at SMG Toyota & Lexus Hillcrest. Without you, accolades like these would not be possible,” acknowledged Dealer Principal, Warren Demmer.
One of the most extraordinary accolades given to SMG Toyota Hillcrest on the night, was the Vice Presidents Award for Customer Experience in the Mega Category. This award, which is acknowledged to be one of the most coveted accolades, has been won by the dealership for 9 of the last 11 years. This award is testament to the ’SMG Experience’ principals inherent in all SMG dealerships. The SMG experience is something that is at the heart of every dealership in the Group. It is the benchmark for how the consumer experience should be delivered and enjoyed.
Our 2020 Performance and Efficiency Awards Include:
Vice President’s Award: Customer Experience: Mega Category Vice President’s Award: Lexus Dealer of the Year: Runner Up Automark Dealer of the Year: Mega Category Customer Service – Parts Manager of the Year: Mega Category Customer Service – Service Manager of the Year Runner Up: Mega Category Pyramid of Excellence Award: Toyota Financial Services
From motorsport to the road – for more than 30 years, AC Schnitzer has opened the door to superior vehicle technology for dedicated BMW, MINI, Toyota, Land Rover and Jaguar drivers.
Beyond the standard, AC Schnitzer combines this exclusive form of automotive driving dynamics with unrestricted everyday usability.
MAKE A STATEMENT.
The core products offered by AC Schnitzer include individual components such as exhausts, chassis and wheel sets. AC Schnitzer also provides aerodynamic components, engine upgrades to increase performance with presence and specialised interior accessories.
ONE OF A KIND VEHICLE
SMG is honoured to have been appointed as the sole importer and distributor of the AC Schnitzer range of products in Africa. With six BMW Dealerships and two MINI Dealerships across KwaZulu-Natal and the Western Cape, our network of BMW and MINI enthusiasts now have their dream custom vehicle at their fingertips. SMG’s state of the art facilities and meticulous attention to detail, paired with the superior quality and innovative custom designs from AC Schnitzer is a perfect match to create your one-of-a-kind performance vehicle.
Step beyond the M-series to AC Schnitzer and discover custom-designed components for those very special driving moments.
For any AC Schnitzer related enquires, please contact Brian Daniel at SMG Umhlanga.
For the past 18 years, it has been SMG’s pleasure to be part of Rally to Read South Africa, an initiative that helps underprivileged children in outlying rural areas develop their literacy skills. Together with the Department of Education, Rally to Read also supports and trains teachers in these areas to overcome the challenges that their formal training does not prepare them for. Our hope is that through our donations, the books, teaching aids and other educational materials we deliver to these schools, we can help to empower the future of our children by equipping them with the most powerful tool of all, education!
The Rally to Read initiative was founded in 1998 after research conducted by the Human Sciences Research Council highlighted the desperate lack of educational resources in remote KwaZulu-Natal Schools. It did not take long to realise that the lack of resources was not specific to KwaZulu-Natal, and the project was then extended nationally. Research showed that the average 14-year-old child attending a rural school in South Africa had the reading age of 7. This places these children at a disadvantage in their ability to cope with reading textbooks on high school level, resulting in an increase in school dropouts. ”By reaching children at an early age, Rally to Read gives them the opportunity and foundation for a proper education.” Each year, SMG proudly rallies up our vehicles across KwaZulu-Natal and the Western Cape to deliver hope for this extremely worthy cause.
FEEL LIKE STARTING A NEW CHAPTER?
If you would like to find out more about this amazing initiative, please visit www.rallytoread.org.za.
Refreshed Land Cruiser Prado comes with more performance and unique Black Pack.
Available in more than 190 countries worldwide – the most of all existing Toyota models, the Land Cruiser’s unrivalled off-road abilities have earned it a rock-solid reputation as one of the toughest and most reliable 4x4s, and made it the segment sales leader in numerous European countries.
The updated 2020 Land Cruiser further enhances this reputation with a more powerful 2.8 litre diesel engine, upgrades to both the multimedia system and the Toyota Safety Sense suite of active safety technologies, and the addition to the range of a special Black Pack featuring bespoke styling cues.
Nothing is out of bounds
With an off-road heritage spanning almost 70 years, Toyota’s iconic Land Cruiser remains unique in its segment for its ability to combine outstanding quality, durability and reliability with peerless off-road performance and ever-greater levels of luxury, occupant comfort and ownership prestige.
More powerful 2.8 litre diesel engine – 200 DIN hp/147 kW and 500 Nm of torque – 3.0 seconds faster 0-100 km/h acceleration in 9.9 seconds
Upgraded multimedia system with faster software and screen response, Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™
Second-generation Toyota Safety Sense with improved PCS pedestrian and cyclist detection, and Intelligent Adaptive Cruise Control
Special Black Pack with bespoke exterior styling cues
The proven 2.8 litre, 4-cylinder, DOHC, 16 valve, common rail diesel engine benefits from an increase in both power and torque. Maximum power output has been increased by 23 DIN hp/17 kW to 200 DIN hp/147 kW at 3000-3400 rpm, and maximum torque has increased by 50 Nm to 500 Nm at 1600-2800 rpm.
Mated to a 6-speed automatic transmission, this gives the Land Cruiser a maximum speed of 175 km/h and lowers its 0-100 km/h acceleration time to 9.9 seconds – an improvement of 3.0 seconds over its predecessor. Conversely, average fuel consumption has been lowered by 0.3 l/100 km to 7.4 l/100 km.
On-board, equipment levels have been enhanced through the adoption of an upgraded multimedia system. With faster software and screen response, a multi-touch screen and a customisable Home view, the new system offers both Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™ connectivity.
System Features
The system features a one-box search facility, 3 years of map care connected services and over-the-air map updates. The connected services include live internet traffic reports and a Google online search engine.
The Land Cruiser now features the second generation set of Toyota Safety Sense active safety technologies. These have been expanded to include a Pre-Collision System (PCS) with both night time pedestrian and daytime cyclist detection and Intelligent Adaptive Cruise Control.
In addition to these technological updates, the Land Cruiser also offers customers more style and greater prestige with the availability of a special Black Pack to the model range.
Exterior features of the new, optional ‘Black Pack’ include unique front and rear bumper treatment with additional aero parts, a full dark chrome front grille and rear garnish – a first for the Land Cruiser family; black fog lamp bezels, door mirrors, door belt mouldings and alloy wheels and clear rear lamp clusters. A stylish ‘Onyx Black’ badge adds exclusivity to this unique version.
No other SUV can offer the updated 2020 Land Cruiser’s unique combination of off-road performance and on-road dynamics. Now more than ever, its powerful road presence, enhanced performance and higher levels of on-board technology hallmark it as a premium 4×4 with the perfect blend of go-anywhere capability, comfort and refinement.
Wherever you want to go, Land Cruiser will take you there. And bring you back.
The latest iteration of Toyota’s revered ‘bakkie’, first launched in 2016 with an increased focus on technology, convenience, and comfort, while still retaining the traditional Hilux hallmarks of toughness and durability, builds on the robust foundation of the eighth-generation architecture and Legend 50 model which was introduced in 2019, representing a new frontier with even greater dynamic performance, technology, style and features.
New Grade Strategy
The model line-up and grade strategy has been revised in keeping with evolving market trends. The utility-focused S and SR models, complete with their original front façades, continue as before. The largest change is in the ‘mid-range’ where the SRX is replaced by the Raider.
“The SRX model has continuously evolved in line with market requests. SRX and Raider have now effectively merged, creating an opportunity for a flagship grade above Raider –precisely what the new Legend grade offers,” says Glenn Crompton, Vice-President of Marketing.
Exterior Styling
The most visible change is in the front, with new slim-line headlamps flanking an all-new front-grille and bumper design. The new styling gives the Hilux a modern, yet unmistakably tough appearanace.
Raider
Raider models feature a large, trapezoidal front grille with broad chrome border and horizontally-separated 3D grille elements, new boomerang-shaped fog lamp bezels and an integrated bumper guard. The 2.4 GD-6 models get four-bulb Halogen headlamps, while the 2.8 GD-6 Raider now boasts a Bi-LED headlamps and LED turn-signals.
Legend
The Legend name now signifies a new flagship grade to introduce a Hilux like never before.
The trapezoidal grille (outlined in black) integrates with the front bumper, bonnet protector and skidplate, creating an imposing front façade with dark-plated headlamp inserts and a centred chrome inlay with Toyota insignia.
Legend ‘RS’
An optional ‘RS’ accessory package (referring to Roller Shutter) will be offered on Legend-grade models with a motorised roller shutter, graphite-coloured sportsbar, rubberised bedliner, assisted tailgate with central-locking function and dust-defense kit.
New-Generation Infotainment
The Raider and Legend models boast an all-new 8-inch infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto functionality, allowing users to mirror applications off their mobile phone. Google Maps and Waze are included, and occupants can access their music libraries and streaming accounts via Apple Music, JOOX, Spotify and SoundCloud. Wireless telephony is supported via Bluetooth with a USB input for additional media options.
Specification Additions
S & SR
The S-grade now features emergency brake signal and the SR-grade receives a Limited Slip Differential (LSD) and Variable Flow Control power steering.
Raider
Raider models maintain their generous specification level and in the case of 2.4 GD-6 variants (previously SRX), now also boast side and curtain airbags. LED fog lamps, enlarged Multi-Information Display(MID) and Park Distance Control (PDC) is fitted across the board, with Bi-LED main beam headlamps and chrome front treatment also part of the 2.8 GD-6 Raider.
Legend
The Legend-grade derivatives come feature-packed, based on Raider specification, including an Electrochromatic (auto-dimming) rear view mirror (standard across all Legend models). Double-cab 4×4 models have leather interior trim, electrically adjustable front seats, a 9-speaker audio system with dash-mounted speakers, keyless entry and push-button start.
Safety & Security
For the first time on Hilux, the Toyota Safety Sense (TSS, a Pre-collision system, Lane Departure Alert and Adaptive Cruise Control) forms part of the standard inventory on Legend 4×4 models.
Toyota Connect
All Hilux models are also equipped with the Toyota Connect telematics system with an in-car Wi-Fi hotspot and complimentary 15Gb data.
Warranty and Maintenance
All Hilux models have a 3-year/100 000 km warranty and a 9-services/90 000 km service plan.
New Hilux: updated interior
Raider
A new instrument cluster design welcomes the driver and features metallic inserts, a notched outer ring and metallic bezel. The 8-inch infotainment system incorporates a floating screen-design while retaining rotary adjustment knobs for ease of use.
Legend
Legend variants receive bespoke interior treatment with a unique accent treatment to the instrument cluster, interior trim panels, switchgear and gear lever. Cool, blue door illumination complements the perforated leather upholstery and black roof lining.
Exterior Colours
Nine exterior colours are on offer, including the new Oxide Bronze and Pearl White, a first for Hilux. Attitude Black is exclusively available on the 2.8 GD-6 4×4 Legend.
Wheels & Tyres
Raider models return to a 17-inch alloy wheel in Dark Grey metallic finish with 265-65-R17 rubber. Legend models are equipped with new rugged, two-tone 18-inch alloy wheels with a machined surface and darkened centre caps – employing 265-60-R18 tyres. The other models retain their existing ‘footwear’.
More Power & Performance
The 2.8 GD-6 engine now delivers 150kW and 500Nm (Auto). Toyota engineers have improved fuel economy by adopting a larger turbocharger and a new common-rail injection system.
The Legend 4×4 Auto offers an elevated driving experience without compromising the core Toyota values of ‘QDR’, while the six-speed automatic transmission allows improved acceleration, especially while towing.
Towing Capacity
The 2.4 GD-6 4×4 can now tow up to 3.5 tons, matching that of the 2.8 GD-6 4×4.
Improved Ride Comfort, Handling and NVH
Toyota engineers improved ride comfort without compromising off-road performance and durability thanks to new spring rates, shock absorbers and suspension bushes, delivering more agile handling and improving ride comfort, particularly when unladen. At the same time, Hilux maintains its renowned off-road performance, load-carrying capability, stability and body control – including performance on corrugated dirt roads.
This is the all-new Land Rover Defender. Given the particularly difficult task of reinventing an icon, Land Rover’s thrown everything at this new model – with highlights including an all-new platform, a wide range of engines including petrol, diesel and plug-in hybrid, and significantly increased dimensions. Production has also moved from Solihull to Slovakia.
New Land Rover Defender: tech specs
The new Defender 4×4, which is codenamed L663, switches from body-on-frame construction to an aluminium monocoque construction derived from the D7 platform of current Range Rover, Range Rover Sport and Land Rover Discovery siblings.
As is the case with those cars, that also means the Defender has switched from solid axles to double-wishbone front suspension and Integral Link independent rear suspension. Buyers can opt for either coil-sprung suspension or air on the 90s, while the 110 variants are only offered with air suspension.
However, the Defender’s platform is said to be 95 per cent new compared to that used in existing models, and is dubbed D7x – denoting ‘extreme’. Land Rover says it’s the strongest, stiffest structure it’s ever engineered, with torsional rigidity of 30kNm/Degree. To put things in perspective, that’s slightly better than a Jaguar E-Pace SUV.
In order to help bolster its off-road performance, hardware such as the battery, cooling circuits and spare wheel (normally positioned underneath, now fixed to the side-opening rear door) has been moved to help shorten the front and rear overhangs.
The wheelbases are unrelated to any other D7 models (or indeed the imperial measurements that 90 and 110 once represented). The suspension hardware has been significantly beefed up, too: the Defender’s steel subframes feature sturdier welds, and it also benefits from extra braces, more durable bushings and ball joints for suspension control arms, and the longer and stiffer front control arms.
The Defender is also bigger than it was before: the new 90 and 110 models measure 4583mm and 5018mm long respectively (including the spare wheel on the rear door), which is up 722mm and 440mm on previous models.
The wheelbases of the 110 clocks in at 3022mm (or 119in), which is 99mm longer than a Discovery’s, helping keep the Defender’s trademark short overhangs that are so essential to its off-road performance.
Wheel sizes have grown from the previous 16-18 inch wheels to 22 inches. The interior space has increased dramatically, as we’ve already experienced in our passenger ride, and weight increases over 200kg on like-for-like models. The new 90 model, for example, weighs a minimum of 2133kg as a four-cylinder diesel.
New Land Rover Defender: performance specs
At launch, the performance figures for the new Defender engine line-up is as follows.
D200: 196bhp, 317lb ft, 0-62mph in 10.2sec, 109mph
D240: 237bhp, 317lb ft, 0-62mph in 9.0sec, 117mph
P300: 296bhp, 295lb ft, 0-62mph in 8.0sec, 119mph
P400 MHEV: 395bhp, 406lb ft, 0-62mph in 6.0sec, 129mph
These figures are all for the 90 versions, but the heavier 110 models are only fractionally slower and slightly less efficient.
On the economy front, you can expect the following – and these are the most recently published WLTP figures, so should better represent real-world usage.
D200: 29.9-32.2mpg, 230-248g/km of CO2
D240: 29.2-32.2mpg, 230-248g/km of CO2
P300: 23.2-25.1mpg, 255-277g/km of CO2
P400 MHEV: 23.6-25.6mpg, 251-271g/km of CO2
Additionally, all versions have a braked towing weight of 3500kg.
New Land Rover Defender: going off-road
Off-road smarts are bolstered by permanent all-wheel drive and an eight-speed automatic transmission with a two-speed transfer case as standard, plus an optional locking rear diff in addition to the centre diff, which is locked by swiping the central touchscreen.
Air suspension can lower the ride height by 50mm, but also raise it by up to 75mm, with a further 70mm boost to a maximum of 145mm (for a maximum of 291mm ground clearance overall) – for when the body needs a brief lift to clear obstacles. The wading depth matches the 900mm of a Discovery, and represents a huge 400mm over the previous model.
There’s new off-road technology too, including the ClearSight GroundView that projects a picture of the ground normally hidden by the bonnet onto the central touchscreen and first debuted on the second Evoque. The familiar Terrain Response system now has four individual profiles that owners can configure to their liking.
However, while the new Defender promises to best its predecessor off-road in many areas, its reduced ground clearance and longer overhangs make it inferior in terms of off-road geometry. A 90’s maximum approach (38 degrees), departure (40 degrees) and ground clearance of 291mm on raised air suspension are all lower than its coil-sprung predecessor’s 47-degree approach- and departure angles, and 314mm ground clearance.
Land Rover cites the need to comply with modern crash and emissions regulations, but stresses that overall the new hardware and technology have made this generation more capable in the vast majority of off-road environments, and that it has aced trials that were previously off-limits to the old workhorse, including the notorious Steel Bender, Poison Spider and Hell’s Revenge trails in Moab, America.
Still, if you were a particularly devious TV producer you might arrange for an old Defender to be driven up a steep incline that represented the very edge of its abilities, then make viewers gasp when the new one failed to repeat the trick.
New Land Rover Defender: updated interior
The interior embraces the Defender’s utilitarian roots with rubberised flooring (though UK cars get easily removed carpet inserts too) and an exposed magnesium cross-car beam that’s hidden behind the dashboard in sister models. An optional ‘jump-seat’ in the first row (inspired by the early Series models) means buyers can choose from five-seat, six-seat or seven-seat variants, if not eight.
Defender also jumps forwards several generations with technology including a 12.3-inch digital instrument binnacle, 10-inch infotainment touchscreen with over-the-air software updates and the full A-to-Z of driver-assistance systems.
Five trim levels are available: S, SE, HSE, First Edition (available for the first year) and range-topping Defender X, with upholstery spanning base models’ Resolve textile to top-spec Windsor leather.
There are also four accessory packs – Explorer, Adventure, Country and Urban – and 170 accessories, including a pop-up roof tent to take full advantage of the roof’s ability to support a 300kg static load.
For a more in-depth look at the new Land Rover Defender, including interviews with design boss Gerry McGovern, vehicle line director Nick Collins and durability and robustness programme manager Andy Deeks, check out CAR’s October 2019 issue.
Contact any of our Jaguar Land Rover Dealerships to book yours.
No clutter. No excess weight. No limits. There’s nothing holding the MINI John Cooper Works GP back. Custom dampers, stabilisers and springs have been finely tuned for next-level handling. Then there’s the wider track width and lower-than-standard suspension – all primed for pure performance. This is a rebel with a very definite cause.
TURNS HEADS, BLOWS MINDS.
Resplendent in Racing Grey, complemented by Melting Silver contrast roof and mirror caps, the MINI John Cooper Works GP makes a confident statement. Sharp edges and lines showcase its precision. And powerful design elements like the large front apron, side skirts and roof spoiler help to create a formidable presence. Power never looked so good.
MINI THRILLS. TURBOCHARGED.
Pushing boundaries is in our nature. After all, our rich racing heritage stretches back over six decades. But with the MINI John Cooper Works GP, we’ve pushed things even further. We’ve embraced the raw power of a 2.0 litre, 306 HP 4-cylinder turbocharged engine with an outstanding 450 Nm torque.
Add in an 8-speed automatic transmission with limited slip differential for maximum acceleration, grip and agility. Sporty, 3D-printed metal shift paddles for effortless control. A performance-engineered air intake system that lets the engine breathe easier. And a second external cooler that optimises engine cooling and power output. Plus, we’ve modified the acoustic insulation material to make this MINI lighter, punchier and more exhilarating.
Munich. The BMW iX3, the production of which will commence in 2020, facilitates locally emission-free driving in a novel and efficient form, whilst also being suitable for everyday use. A range of more than 440 km* within the legislative WLTP test cycle will be achieved with a net-battery size of 74 kWh*. The first purely electric Sports Activity Vehicle (SAV) is the trailblazer for BMW eDrive technology of the fifth generation, which, starting 2021, will also be deployed in the BMW i4 and the BMW iNEXT. For this purpose, both the drive system and the high-voltage battery unit featuring pioneering battery cell technology have been completely redeveloped. In the BMW iX3, the related advancement ensures brand-typical driving experience combined with outstanding efficiency and a novel balance of weight and range.
The BMW iX3 is yet a further milestone in the consistent realisation of the BMW Group’s electrification strategy. In 2020 the BMW X3 will become the brand’s first model available both with conventional petrol and diesel engines as well as plug-in hybrid and purely electric drive. With this “power of choice” offer, the globally operating company is taking into account the various different requirements and needs of their worldwide customers worldwide as well as maximum effectiveness in the reduction of CO2 emissions. The BMW iX3 is produced for the world market by the joint venture BMW Brilliance Automotive in Shenyang, China.
* = preliminary data
________________________.
The fifth-generation BMW eDrive technology is the key to future-oriented sustainability for vehicles with electrified drive systems. It is the result of consistent development work within the framework of BMW EfficientDynamics and the experience gained by the BMW Group in the field of electric mobility spanning more than 10 years. All powertrain components used for BMW eDrive technology were developed solely by the BMW Group. Moreover, the electric motor and the high-voltage batteries are produced in corporately owned manufacturing facilities. In this way, the BMW Group ensures it has a decisive influence on the product properties and the quality of each component. Furthermore, the drive unit and the high-voltage battery unit are flexibly scalable in terms of power and energy content and can thus be used in various different vehicle concepts and segments.
EfficientDynamics at its best: New drive component with high efficiency and brand-typical power characteristics.
In the BMW iX3, EfficientDynamics reaches a new level. The vehicle’s fifth-generation BMW eDrive technology comprises a drive unit in which electric motor, system electronics and transmission are brought together into a central housing. As a result, the required installation space of the drive technology and its weight are considerably reduced. The ratio between motor output and weight of the drive system improves around 30 percent compared to the previous generation.
The electric motor featured in the BMW iX3 delivers a maximum power output of 210 kW/286 hp*. The torque of 400 Nm* allows for high initial acceleration and keeps a high level even at the upper motor speeds because of exclusive BMW design measures.
A further special feature of the electric motor being deployed in the BMW iX3 for the first time is a construction method that eliminates the need for rare earth materials.
The electric motor used in the BMW iX3 transfers power to the rear wheels. This effectuates a further increase in drive system efficiency. Moreover, the range of the BMW iX3 benefits from the drive design conveying the traditional BMW rear-wheel drive experience.
High-voltage batteries with significant higher energy density and responsible use of raw materials.
The high-voltage battery unit of the BMW iX3 is integral part of BMW’s fifth eDrive generation and is based on the latest evolution in NMC-811 technology in BMW typical prismatic design. The BMW Group has outstanding development capabilities in this field. This know-how flows into precise specifications with regard to the use of materials and battery design, according to which the battery cells are produced. Consistent research and development work not only raises energy density but also constantly improves all battery cell characteristics, in particular also durability and safety. In total, the BMW high-voltage battery shows the optimum of what is possible nowadays.
At the same time the BMW engineers were able to reduce the share of cobalt contained in the battery by another two thirds. Compared to former technology used by BMW Group, the gravimetric energy density on cell level in the BMW iX3 is around 20 percent higher.
With the BMW iX3 the raw materials Cobalt and Lithium for the first time are purchased by BMW directly and then handed over to the producer of the battery cells.
In addition, scalability and the compact design of the high-voltage battery unit have been further optimised. The battery cells are grouped into modules at specialised BMW production locations and finally assembled as high-voltage battery packs aligned to each model. The high-voltage battery unit in the BMW iX3 is installed in an extremely flat position in the vehicle floor. Thanks to this arrangement, there is no loss of space for passengers and the luggage compartment compared to the conventionally powered versions of the BMW X3.
Greater range thanks to high efficiency rather than a bigger battery
With a net energy content of 74 kWh*, the high-voltage battery unit installed in the BMW iX3 achieves a range of more than 440 km* in the legislative WLTP test cycle. Within its segment, the BMW iX3 boasts not only a unique low power consumption of less than 20 kWh/100km* accordingly to the WLTP test cycle, but also stands for a novel ratio between battery size and range.
Thanks to the favourable efficiency rating of the drive components and the high energy density of the high-voltage battery unit, the BMW iX3 achieves a range that is only possible for common electric vehicles with larger and thus heavier batteries.
Positive environmental impact secured.
The “real” ecological footprint of electric vehicles is sometimes questioned, particularly in markets still having a low percentage of green electricity in the public power grid. At the BMW Group every electrified model has to proof that for the entire cycle, comprising raw material procurement, supply chain, production and usage phase as well as recycling, its CO2 balance is substantially better than the one of a conventionally powered sibling. For the BMW iX3 the related advantage is more than 30 percent compared to a BMW X3 sDrive 20d when average European power supply is used during the car’s usage phase. If the vehicle is charged with green electricity the advantage is around 60 percent.
Furthermore, in analogy with the BMW i3 Plug&Play technology, the high-voltage battery featured in the BMW iX3 is planned for a second life as a stationary battery pack for the period following the first long life in the car. This way the already positive CO2 balance of the BMW iX3 can be further improved.
In celebration of Transport Month, Jaguar South Africa and a fleet of all-electric I-PACES recently participated in EVRT Africa, the electric vehicle road trip powered by ACDC Dynamics and driven by Generation.e in partnership with the Department of Transport and the Gauteng government.
The event took place from 2 to 10 October following a Smarter Mobility Conference where Brian Hastie, Network Development Director at Jaguar Land Rover South Africa and sub-Saharan Africa, participated as a key note speaker.
The Jaguar I-PACEs then travelled approximately 2000km, through three provinces in the journey from Pretoria to Cape Town. Special guests, both local and international, together with media were given the opportunity to drive the vehicles as they travelled and visited various locations in SA. The activities included a visit to the hydroplant at Gariep Dam, a tour of uYilo eMobility Programme at, Nelson Mandela University and culminated in a grand finale at The Silo District at the V&A Waterfront.
The goal of EVRT Africa was to showcase to the public and other stakeholders that South Africa is ready for the electric revolution and that smarter mobility can be a reality in South Africa.
Brian Hastie, Network Development Director, Jaguar Land Rover for South Africa and sub-Saharan Africa said: “South Africa is well positioned for mass electric vehicle adoption and this road trip was able to highlight the recent strides made by various stakeholders, including Jaguar South Africa, in infrastructure development through its Powerway and product availability.
“Jaguar South Africa introduced its all-electric I-PACE early this year and this platform is a great way to show a broader audience how Jaguar customers are already successfully living with electric vehicles and existing infrastructure in urban environments and on long distance journeys. In 2017 Jaguar Land Rover CEO Prof Sir Ralf Speth announced that all new model lines would be electrified by 2020. In South Africa we are on track to deliver the promise with a portfolio of electrified products including fully electric, plug-in hybrid and mild hybrid vehicles.”
The new BMW M2 CS is the first exclusive and limited-run special-edition model created by BMW M GmbH for the premium compact class. It is positioned as a high-performance model above the BMW M2 Competition and will build on the success already achieved by the BMW M3 CS and BMW M4 CS.
Immensely capable basis for the BMW M2 CS Racing model, BMW M Motorsport’s new entry point to amateur racing and the new Clubsport segment (available from 2020).
New carbon fibre-reinforced plastic (CFRP) construction for the bonnet cuts its weight by 50 per cent; eye-catching central air vent increases downforce and improves engine cooling; roof made from CFRP.
New front splitter, Gurney spoiler lip on the boot lid and rear diffuser in exposed carbon fibre.
Six-cylinder in-line petrol engine with M TwinPower Turbo technology and 3.0-litre displacement develops 331 kW (450 hp) in the BMW M2 CS – i.e. 29 kW (40 hp) more than in the BMW M2 Competition; peak torque is 550 Nm (405 lb-ft).
Acceleration from 0 – 100 km/h (62 mph) in 4.0 seconds (with manual gearbox: 4.2 seconds); electronically governed top speed with standard M Driver’s Package: 280 km/h (174 mph).
Six-speed manual gearbox fitted as standard for the first time in a BMW CS model, seven-speed M double-clutch transmission (M DCT) available as an option.
Fuel consumption combined (provisional figures): with six-speed manual gearbox: 10.4 – 10.2 l/100 km [27.2 – 27.7 mpg imp]; with optional M DCT: 9.6 – 9.4 l/100 km [29.4 – 30.1 mpg imp].
CO2 emissions combined (provisional figures): with six-speed manual gearbox: 238 – 233 g/km; with optional M DCT: 219 – 214 g CO2/km.
Standard specification includes Adaptive M suspension with Comfort, Sport and Sport+ modes, plus M Sport brakes with red-painted callipers; M Carbon ceramic brakes are optional; Active M Differential and M Dynamic Mode (can be selected as required).
Lightweight 763M 19-inch Y-spoke forged wheels in a high-gloss black (jet black) or optionally a matt gold colour shade; shod with specially adapted Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2 tyres.
Dual-branch exhaust system enhances aesthetic and aural appeal, features two electrically controlled flaps and four stainless steel tailpipes bearing the M logo.
Lightweight, bucket-style M Sport seats from the BMW M4 CS with integral head restraints featuring BMW M stripes; seat backrests in Merino leather / Alcantara and with red contrast stitching.
M Sport steering wheel with Alcantara covering and a red centre marker as an option.
Exclusive Misano Blue metallic paint finish.
Prices for the BMW M2 CS start at €95,000.
2020 BMW M2 CS Specs:
2020 Model Year only
2,200 will be produced worldwide (U.S. production numbers still TBD)
444 hp @ 6250 RPM
406 lb-ft of torque @ 2,350 – 5,500 rpm
7600 rpm redline
6 speed manual or 7 speed DCT
3.8 second 0-60 (DCT)
4.0 second 0-60 (manual)
174 mph top speed
Three radiators, an oil cooler, two pumps in the oil pan, oil sump baffle
Transmission oil cooler (when equipped with DCT)
Unique to the M2 CS dual-branch exhaust system
Electronic locking differential in the rear helps maintain traction both on the track and in slippery situations
Standard adaptive dampers with Comfort, Sport, and Sport+ modes
Steel subframe bolted to the body frame without bushings
Forged aluminum rear five-link suspension control arms and wheel hubs
15.75-inch vented rotors with 6-piston fixed calipers up front
14.96-inch vented rotors with 4-piston calipers in rear
Optional Carbon Ceramic Brakes
763M 19-inch forged wheels in a staggered setup with 245/35R19 tires up front and 265/35R19s in back
Jet black finish wheels standard
Matte gold finish wheels optional
Michelin Cup 2 tires or summer performance tires
Carbon fiber vented hood (1/2 weight of steel hood, increases downforce and has cooling effect)
Carbon fiber front splitter, rear spoiler, rear diffuser, and M mirrors
Carbon fiber transmission tunnel (saves 6 pounds)
Carbon fiber roof
Alcantara dashboard, armrests, and steering wheel
CS badge embroidered on dashboard
Black leather and Alcantara M Competition front seats featuring CS logo
Embroidered BMW M Motorsport stripes on front seats
4 exterior colors: Alpine White, Misano Blue Metallic, Black Sapphire Metallic and Hockenheim Silver Metallic
1 interior color: black
Pricing and ordering details will be announced closer to the 2020 M2 CS’s launch in spring 2020.
Standard and Optional Equipment
Standard (US):
6-Speed Manual transmission
Adaptive M Suspension
Active M Differential
19-inch Forged Jet Black M Style 763M wheels with mixed performance tires
CFRP roof
CFRP hood
CFRP front spoiler, rear spoiler, rear diffuser and mirror caps,
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