BMW OF PEABODY

PEABODY, Mass., Sept. 13, 2011 ? Though it is a feature that can be overlooked, BMW has made developing cutting-edge car-headlight technology a priority in models like the 2012 BMW 6 Series, which utilizes adaptive, full-LED headlamps. However, the technology in the new 6 Series is just the beginning. The luxury automaker recently announced the development of its Dynamic Light Spot technology, which identifies and illuminates pedestrians in harm's way, and now BMW is fine-tuning headlights that utilize laser illumination.

Still a few years from seeing action at BMW dealers, the laser headlights are featured on the BMW i8 Concept hybrid sports car, set to debut at the Frankfurt Motor Show on September 15. BMW says its laser technology is capable of generating light a thousand times more intense than that of LED headlights while using less than half the power, which makes the laser system even more attractive to automakers looking to eke out the most miles from a gallon of fuel.

"We often find ourselves talking about engines and transmissions when it comes to increasing efficiency, but there are many other areas that BMW is exploring, including lighting," said Marshal Cabot, general manager of Greater Boston BMW dealer BMW of Peabody. "The truth is that there are lots of inefficiencies in our vehicles today that BMW is working to eliminate without sacrificing quality and performance. Laser headlights are a clear example of that detailed approach."

Beyond efficiency, BMW's laser-lighting technology also saves space with a diode length of just 10 microns, which is one hundred times smaller than the cells used in LED lighting. That miniscule size allows engineers to use light in new ways throughout the car and gives BMW designers the ability to change the face of vehicles making their way to BMW dealerships in the future.

The laser lighting is just one innovative aspect of the new BMW i8 Concept, which is part of the sustainable and sporty BMW i brand and is set to see production in 2014. A plug-in hybrid car, the i8 features a 170-horsepower electric motor driving the front wheels, and a turbocharged three-cylinder engine producing 220 horsepower driving the rear wheels. The result is a car that can travel up to 20 miles on electricity alone before using the combustion engine for more dynamic handling.

The front and rear drive units on the BMW i8 can work simultaneously to give the vehicle four-wheel-drive-like capability in inclement weather. With a top speed of 155 mph, the i8 can accelerate to 62 mph in less than five seconds and was found to return approximately 94 mpg in European cycle testing.

The new BMW i lineup also includes the all-electric i3 hatchback, which features a 170-horsepower electric motor driving the rear wheels and an advanced lithium-ion battery pack. Expected to arrive at dealerships in 2013, the BMW i3 has room for four within its spacious interior that, thanks to its large windows, has an open and airy feel. All the drive components, including the battery pack, are underneath the car, which means more space for passengers and cargo.

"It is good to know that performance cars will remain viable in the future thanks to BMW's efforts," Cabot noted. "BMW's new i lineup of cars will provide efficient, sporty transportation that will set the standard for driving dynamics and comfort. I'm really excited for the future of the brand, and I see many reasons why our customers should be as well."

PEABODY, Mass., Oct. 12, 2011  BMW is committed to building more and more powerful luxury sedans and sports cars, but it wants to do so while improving the fuel efficiency of its lineup. Those efforts have led to the creation of the BMW ActiveHybrid 5 sedan, which will reach U.S. BMW dealers next March sporting impressive power figures and much-improved fuel efficiency.

Based on the BMW 535i Sedan, the ActiveHybrid 5 is expected to get a 35-horsepower boost over its gas-only sibling, along with double-digit percentage improvements in fuel economy, according to the automaker's initial testing. BMW shoppers will have two hybrid sedan options after the launch of the 5 Series hybrid, with the other choice being the ActiveHybrid 7, the world's fastest street-legal hybrid car.

"BMW uses its hybrid technology in different ways than other automakers, and that is to actually add power to its luxury vehicles while using much less gas than they would otherwise," said Marshal Cabot, general manager of Greater Boston BMW dealer BMW of Peabody. "Massachusetts BMW drivers will really enjoy the ActiveHybrid 5's ability to eat up miles while sipping on fuel."

While the ActiveHybrid 7 may be the more speedy selection with its 455-horsepower hybrid drive system, the ActiveHybrid 5 will be no slouch when it comes to acceleration. Featuring the same turbocharged three-liter inline six-cylinder engine found in the 2012 BMW 535i, the ActiveHybrid 5 adds a 55-horsepower electric motor to the mix for a maximum combined output of 335 horsepower. All that power is channeled through an eight-speed transmission to the rear wheels, maintaining the dynamic handling characteristics BMW has become famous for.

Like the ActiveHybrid 7, the ActiveHybrid 5 uses a lithium-ion battery pack to collect energy as the car is coasting or braking and then doles it out to aid acceleration. The luxury hybrid can dash from zero to 60 mph in just 5.7 seconds, but while cruising downtown it can run on electricity alone for up to 2.5 miles when maintaining an average speed of 22 mph.

Fuel efficiency gains in the BMW ActiveHybrid 5 come not only from the hybrid drive system, but from the ECO PRO mode in the standard Driving Dynamics Control software. ECO PRO can temporarily disengage the gasoline engine at speeds up to 100 mph to make maximum use of kinetic energy and, therefore, fuel efficiency.

"BMW isn't simply throwing an electric motor and battery into a 5 Series and calling it a day," Cabot noted. "They've really thought the ActiveHybrid 5 through, adding some truly innovative features that further improve fuel economy and performance without having any impact whatsoever on ride quality."

PEABODY, Mass., Nov. 21, 2011  BMW is celebrating 40 years of its high-performance M division in America by sending a customized version of its iconic sports coupe to 40 U.S. BMW dealerships, but only if they're prepared. The German automaker's aptly named 2012 BMW M3 Competition Edition Coupe will only be shipped to those BMW dealers that become M Certified BMW Centers, and it's first-come-first-serve.

M Certified BMW Centers are those dealers that have taken extra measures to specialize in the luxury automaker's M cars, including the training of special client advisors at the BMW Performance Driving School in South Carolina. The M Certified Centers also create a special atmosphere to display BMW M models and accessories. In other words, they offer an environment that is fitting for the rare BMW M3 Competition Edition Coupe.

"It's an honor to host the M3 Competition Edition," said Marshal Cabot, general manager of BMW of Peabody. "Every BMW is exciting to drive, but BMW's M cars are the pinnacle of dynamic performance. All of BMW's M vehicles have a special spot at our Massachusetts BMW dealership, and we're proud to celebrate their 40 years of high performance."

BMW founded BMW M in 1972, taking standard cars like the BMW 3 Series and transforming them into some of the most famous sports cars in automotive history. BMW M also crafts racecars that have won countless competitions, including American Le Mans Series championships in 1999, 2001, 2010 and 2011. The new M3 Competition Edition pays homage to those winning vehicles, featuring impressive power combined with a number of unique touches.

At the heart of the 2012 M3 Competition Edition is the 4.0-liter 414-horsepower V8 that catapults the car to 60 mph from a standstill in just 4.5 seconds. That acceleration is accomplished through BMW's M Double Clutch Transmission, which allows for smooth shifts at the pull of a steering-wheel-mounted paddle. Handling is enhanced thanks to an included Competition Package that lowers the vehicle 10 millimeters, giving the M3 Competition Edition Coupe an aggressive stance.

Available in just one color, Frozen Silver, the M3 Competition Edition also features dark chrome exterior trim and Black M3 GTS 19-inch wheels. Inside, the doorsills and steering wheel are adorned with checkered flag logos, while the heated black leather seats receive Palladium Silver accents. The M3 Competition Edition will also offer one of the last chances for customers to enjoy the styling of the current-generation 3 Series before the sixth generation of BMW's top-selling car goes on sale next year.

"If there has been one constant in BMW's history, it's the push to always improve and enhance," Cabot noted. "That push is leading to new innovations in the next-generation 3 Series like the available hybrid drivetrain coming next fall, as well as fresh styling that pushes the envelope while remaining distinctly BMW."

The sixth-generation 3 Series will feature a new front end, including stretched headlights that connect with the car's kidney grille, and a wider track for a sportier stance. Coming to dealers this February, the 2012 BMW 328i Sedan will be fitted with a new turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine that the automaker claims will be both more powerful and more fuel efficient than the six cylinder it replaces.

PEABODY, Mass., Dec. 19, 2011  BMW recently pulled back the curtain on its sleek 6 Series Gran Coupe, the automaker's first four-door coupe model. Destined for BMW dealerships next summer, the 2013 BMW 6 Series Gran Coupe adds a more aggressive look to the competitive niche market occupied by the likes of the Mercedes-Benz CLS, Porsche Panamera and Audi A7.

Designed to increase the comfort of passengers in the back seats, the Gran Coupe is 4.4 inches longer than the 2012 BMW 6 Series Coupe, its two-door sibling, but keeps the aerodynamic shape. That sporty design is complimented by features that improve handling, safety and efficiency.

"The four-door coupe is a growing market segment that BMW hasn't previously tackled," said Marshal Cabot, general manager of Greater Boston BMW dealership BMW of Peabody. "However, that extra time spent planning and engineering has resulted in a car that outpaces the competition in all areas, from performance to in-car technology."

Hosting a laundry list of high-tech gadgets, the 6 Series Gran Coupe is available with BMW's next-generation Head-Up-Display, which displays the rear-view camera, BMW Night Vision with pedestrian recognition, Surround View, Active Blind Spot Detection, the Lane Departure Warning System and even the Parking Assistant. The information is projected onto the windshield in a full spectrum of colors, allowing drivers to keep their eyes toward the road. 

BMW will offer the Gran Coupe in three flavors, including the 640i Gran Coupe, the 650i Gran Coupe and the 650i xDrive Gran Coupe with BMW's sophisticated all-wheel-drive system. The 640i will be the first trim level to reach dealerships, joined later in the summer by the V8-powered 650i and 650i xDrive. While the V8 models may produce more power, it is the 3.0-liter TwinPower Turbo six cylinder slated for the 640i Gran Coupe that was recently chosen for the 2012 Ward's Auto 10 Best Engines list.

Ward's annual 10 Best Engines list recognizes powerplants that are affordable, boost horsepower and torque, have an appealing sound and integrate well with their intended vehicle. BMW had a pair of engines on the list, including the Gran Coupe-bound 3.0-liter currently found in cars like the BMW 335i. Though it produces 300 horsepower and 300 pound-feet of torque in the 335i, the TwinPower Turbo six cylinder will be upgraded to produce 315 horsepower and 330 pound-feet of torque in the BMW 640i Gran Coupe.

BMW's other award-winning engine is a four cylinder featured in the Z4 sDrive 28i roadster and the 2012 BMW 528i, displacing 2.0 liters and producing 240 horsepower and 260 pound-feet of torque. The turbocharged unit produces more power than the larger naturally-aspirated 3.0-liter six-cylinder it replaces, yet returns 32 mpg on the highway in the BMW 5 Series.

"Ward's 10 Best Engines list recognizes only the best, and BMW is one of only two automakers to win multiple awards," Cabot noted. "By drawing on its decades of innovation and forward thinking, BMW is consistently turning out engines that are not only powerful, but fuel efficient, reliable and refined."

PEABODY, Mass., Jan. 18, 2012  Since the debut of the 3 Series in 1976, the model has accounted for more than half of BMW's total sales in the U.S. That makes the unveiling of an all-new version of the iconic sedan a big moment for the brand. The luxury automaker pulled back the curtain on the U.S.-spec 2012 BMW 3 Series at the Detroit Auto Show last week, giving fans of the brand a glimpse of what will be available at BMW dealerships in February.

The extensive use of high-strength steel, aluminum, composites and plastics mean that the next-generation BMW 3 Series is some 88 pounds lighter than the outgoing model. Despite that weight loss, the sedan has managed to grow 3.7 inches in length and add 1.9 inches to its wheelbase. The sixth-generation 3 Series puts a premium on dynamic performance, featuring a 50:50 weight balance like its predecessors, yet it provides even faster acceleration.

"BMW has spent decades refining the 3 Series, steadily improving it without losing the soul of the vehicle," said Marshal Cabot, general manager of Greater Boston BMW dealership BMW of Peabody. "With better power and fuel economy, and even more interior space, the 2012 3 Series promises to be the best model yet. That is no small feat considering that its history goes back more than 35 years."

Beneath its sleek new sheet metal, the 3 Series sports a new standard engine that replaces the naturally aspirated six-cylinder engine in the BMW 328i. The new turbocharged four-cylinder unit produces 240 horsepower and 260 pound-feet of torque, an increase of 10 horsepower and 60 pound-feet of torque over the outgoing powerplant. Meanwhile, the popular turbocharged 3.0-liter six-cylinder engine will also still be available, producing 300 horsepower and 300 pound-feet of torque in the BMW 335i.

Both engines will be available with a six-speed manual gear box, as well as an eight-speed automatic that helps the four-cylinder-powered BMW 328i reach 60 mph a full second faster than the car it replaces. Fuel economy numbers have yet to be released, but the same four-cylinder engine in the larger, heavier BMW 5 Series sedan returns 34 mpg on the highway. With the outgoing BMW 328i producing 28 mpg on the highway, the next-generation BMW 328i is expected to significantly increase fuel efficiency.

BMW engineers have also been hard at work on the new ActiveHybrid 3, the first 3 Series to feature a hybrid drivetrain. The system adds a 55-horsepower electric motor and a lithium-ion battery pack to the turbocharged six-cylinder engine of the BMW 335i for a combined maximum output of 335 horsepower and 330 pound-feet of torque. Motor Trend magazine claims the hybrid will outperform the BMW 335i while still returning fuel economy similar to the BMW 328i when it reaches dealerships in early 2013.

"The hybrid model is perhaps the most exciting of all the new versions of the new 3 Series," Cabot noted. "There's nothing else on the market that combines power and efficiency at such high levels, so the ActiveHybrid 3 stands out even among its high-performance brethren."

PEABODY, Mass.   Massachusetts is about to get a major boost to its electric-vehicle-charging network, and future owners of BMW electric vehicles will be able to take full advantage. Coulomb Technologies, the company behind the nationwide ChargePoint Network, and BMW have jointly announced that more than 150 charging stations are being installed in the Bay State, with the majority of them being in the Boston Metro area. The new Massachusetts ChargePoint Network will be fully compatible with the BMW ActiveE electric vehicle when it debuts at select BMW dealerships this fall.

BMW's partnership with Coulomb Technologies is a preemptive move as the automaker prepares to release a group of electric vehicles over the next few years. The BMW ActiveE will be first in line, with its body based on the BMW 1 Series Coupe, but the 1 Series gasoline-powered drivetrain will be replaced by the ActiveE's new electric-drive technology. The same electric components will be used in upcoming BMW electric vehicles built for sustainability from the ground up, like the BMW i3 city car due in 2013.

"You know BMW is serious about electric vehicles when you look at the partnerships it has formed to build up its charging network so that local customers will never deal with range anxiety," said Marshal Cabot, general manager of Massachusetts BMW dealer BMW of Peabody. "BMW has invested a lot of time and energy into creating dynamic electric cars, and their work with the top charging companies is great news for those Greater Boston drivers who are looking forward to more sustainable luxury."

Station charge time for the ActiveE will take between four and five hours, and while most Massachusetts ChargePoint stations will be inside of Route 495, drivers of the electric vehicle will be able to charge up at any ChargePoint Network-enabled charging station in America. With a range of roughly 100 miles, however, ActiveE drivers will be more likely to tour city boulevards than take long road trips. The ActiveE has been designed primarily as a commuter car, and an entertaining one at that.

Like most BMWs available in the United States, the ActiveE is rear-wheel-drive. Unlike its fossil fuel-burning brethren though, its electric-motor engine is mounted in the rear of the car between the wheels. This helps the vehicle make the most of the all-electric drivetrain, allowing a direct drive and improved weight distribution. ActiveE drivers will be able to leverage 170 horsepower and 184 pound-feet of torque, which means sprinting to 62 mph will take just nine seconds.

BMW plans to deliver 700 models of the ActiveE to the United States by year's end, but the first batch will only be available through a 24-month lease. Massachusetts BMW dealers will begin accepting reservations for the ActiveE later this summer. Other markets that will see the ActiveE this year are the New York metro area and select areas in Connecticut, as well as the Los Angeles, San Francisco, San Diego and Sacramento metro areas.

"This is an exciting opportunity for eco-conscious Massachusetts drivers to get their hands on the next generation of BMW," Cabot added. "The ActiveE is the perfect commuter car because it is quiet, refined and inexpensive to run because you never have to stop at a gas station. You plug it in at night, and it's ready to go in the morning."

 

 

PEABODY, Mass. ? Warren Waugh, a co-founder the Lyon-Waugh Auto Group, has a passion for historic cars and charity work, which makes the North Shore Concours D'Elegance a fitting outlet for his affection. Featuring iconic cars from the last century, the car show taking place at Endicott College on July 31 and sponsored by the Lyon-Waugh Auto Group will benefit scholarship programs aimed at current and future students at the school.

Held at the oceanfront Misselwood Estate on the Endicott College campus, the Concours D'Elegance will feature two different show fields, including a judged concours field and a parking area filled with collector's cars that are open to car lovers of any age. In addition to the allure of rare and antique cars, the event will include art, jewelry and fashion shows, as well as musical entertainment.

"I can't think of a better way to spend a day than admiring historic cars along what used to be referred to as the 'Gold Coast' and raising funds to help young people continue their education," said Waugh, whose auto group includes Massachusetts MINI dealership MINI of Peabody, BMW of Peabody, Acura of Peabody, Land Rover Peabody, Audi of Nashua, and Porsche of Nashua. "Last year, the event had everything from a 1904 Grout Steamer to a 1932 Chrysler Imperial. It was a fantastic gathering and I'm hoping this year will be just as successful."

WHAT: North Shore Concours D'Elegance

WHEN: Sunday, July 31, 2011, 11 a.m. EDT ? 3:30 p.m. EDT

WHERE: Misselwood Estate at Endicott College, 407 Hale Street, Beverly, MA

HOW: General admission is $10, with a discounted $6 ticket for Beverly residents and Endicott College students, alumni and staff. Children under 12 are free. Advance tickets are available at https://web.ovationtix.com/trs/pe/9089245. $45 for car registration.

While there are no modern equivalents of classic cars like the 1970 Ford Torino GT 429 Convertible expected to be at this year's show, modern versions of motoring icons are still available as new cars, like the 2011 MINI Cooper available at MINI dealerships. A modern on the first MINI manufactured by the British Motor Corporation in 1959, today's MINI is available in several forms to suit the modern driver's needs.

The original MINI was a huge success, becoming a British icon and selling more than five million units before its original production run ended in 2000. The next-generation MINI would arrive in the United States a year later, and this updated MINI has evolved in the decade since while still maintaining its predecessor's classic charm. The 2011 MINI Cooper still revels its retro looks, complete with a contrasting color roof just like the MINIs of old, along with the round headlights and flared fenders.

"The 2011 MINI Cooper is a faithful modernization of the original," Waugh commented. "It has the old-school playfulness and looks that make it such a hit with people both young and old. The models at the Concours D'Elegance are on display because they showcase timeless designs, and MINIs have remained so popular throughout the years because they too are automotive icons."

PEABODY, Mass., July 18, 2011   When it comes to elite competition, BMW and the U.S. Olympic Team are both often found at the top of the award podium. Now, both U.S. athletes and the German automaker are closer than ever thanks to the BMW Drive for Team USA Event, which benefits Team USA and allows consumers to drive BMWs side-by-side with the competition at BMW dealers like BMW of Peabody.

BMW of Peabody will host its event on Friday, July 29 at their BMW dealership in Peabody, Massachusetts. The event, which includes food and refreshments, starts at 11 a.m. and continues until 6:45 p.m. that evening. A host of Mercedes-Benz vehicles like the C300, E350, S550 and GLK350 will be available for attendees to compare with Bavaria's best offerings, including the 2011 BMW 335i xDrive, 535i xDrive, 750Li, the X3 SUV and the all-new 2012 BMW 650 convertible. For every test drive scheduled at BMW dealerships nationwide, BMW will donate $10 to Team USA to help fund their Olympic and Paralympic Games endeavors.

"Competition breeds innovation and BMW's vehicles are a clear indication of its drive to be the best," said Marshal Cabot, general manager of Massachusetts BMW dealer BMW of Peabody. "When you are confident in your ability, whether as a carmaker or an Olympic athlete, you don't shy away from your competition. This event allows customers to compare luxury cars side-by-side and see that BMWs are head and shoulders above the rest."

The BMW Drive for Team USA Event is a precursor to BMW's sponsorship of the London 2012 Olympic Games, at which the automaker plans to deploy a fleet of its luxury vehicles to escort athletes. In celebration of its sponsorship, BMW recently unveiled Performance Editions of its 1 Series and 3 Series in the United Kingdom that include London 2012 exterior badges and 18-inch light alloy wheels.

While the Performance Edition BMWs won't be available in the United States, the 2011 BMW 335i xDrive will be of particular interest for Massachusetts drivers at BMW of Peabody's Drive for Team USA event. Available as a coupe or sedan, the 335i xDrive combines the handling characteristics that BMWs are known for with the traction of BMW's xDrive all-wheel-drive system. On dry pavement, the xDrive system applies 40 percent of the power to the front wheels and 60 percent to the rear, maintaining the agility of a BMW sedan. Meanwhile, on wintry New England roads, the system can adjust in just milliseconds to prevent understeer or oversteer.

Powered by a responsive yet efficient turbocharged six-cylinder engine, the BMW 335i xDrive can generate 300 horsepower and produce 300 pound-feet of torque at just 1,400 rpm. This capability allows the 335i xDrive to accelerate to 60 mph in just 5.4 seconds while returning 27 mpg on the highway with the automatic transmission.

"BMW is the largest luxury carmaker in the world for a reason," Cabot noted. "They're driven to expand and innovate constantly to stay at the top of the class. I think anybody who comes to our BMW Drive for a Team USA event will plainly see how superior BMWs are compared to the competition, which is why we hold these events."

PEABODY, Mass.    BMW is known for incorporating the latest technology to protect drivers and passengers, but starting this month, the automaker and its dealerships are asking drivers themselves to improve safety on the road by focusing more on driving and less on texting. BMW dealers including BMW of Peabody will add their support to a corporate-sponsored campaign of radio, print, television and Internet ads designed to expose the dangers of distracted driving.

BMW already preaches "Don't Txt & Drive" at its BMW Performance Center in Spartanburg, South Carolina, where it hosts its Teen Driving School using BMW 3 Series cars to teach car control to budding drivers. During the summer, BMW's safe-driving campaign will be rolled out to the more than 100 teen driving schools run by the BMW Club of America Foundation in the hope of reaching an impressionable and high-risk group of drivers. Teen texting behind the wheel is currently widespread, with 87 percent of teen drivers admitting to the behavior, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.

"Anybody that drives in Massachusetts knows that distracted driving is a serious issue," said Marshal Cabot, general manager of Massachusetts BMW dealer BMW of Peabody. "Massachusetts has laws prohibiting texting while driving, but it's still prevalent. Younger drivers just don't recognize how dangerous it can be, so hopefully BMW's ad campaign will open some eyes."

Statistics from the United States Department of Transportation reveal that nearly 5,500 people died in crashes caused by distracted drivers in 2009, and distracted driving has become a cornerstone issue for U.S. Transportation Secretary Ray LaHood, who has made it a priority to meet with automakers to discuss the issue.

BMW's television ad for the campaign has started circulating, featuring overprotective parents and pointing out how their efforts can be undone in an instant by answering a phone call or replying to a text while driving. Various print ads reproduce the view from a distracted driver's perspective, with one showing a phone preventing a driver from seeing a child running to catch a ball in the road. Participating websites will feature the phrase "Text Messaging Is Very Distracting" across their homepages in bold block letters, which should prove inconvenient enough to get BMW's point across.

BMW's commitment to end distracted driving reaches beyond the ad campaign. The German automaker is also designing its car interiors to help drivers keep their eyes on the road. Using data collected through pupilometry, which closely studies eye movements, BMW has been able to move important and commonly used controls and displays to areas that allow drivers to keep their attention on the road ahead.

"Automakers and drivers alike have a responsibility to fight distracted driving, and BMW is doing its part," Cabot added. "Every year, automakers are adding more features and displays, but they also need to stress that there are limits to multitasking while driving. Eliminating texting behind the wheel is a big step in the right direction."

PEABODY, Mass.   Performance may be the first thing that comes to mind when drivers think of BMW engineering, but two innovations in the works from the automaker should boost its growing reputation for sustainability and safety. The all-electric ActiveE coupe rolls out to Greater Boston BMW dealers like BMW of Peabody over the next year, and the BMW i3 will follow, adding a commuter-friendly electric option to the BMW lineup. BMW is also developing new technology that will make dangerous left turns and U-turn maneuvers safer in future vehicles.

Powered by a rear-mounted 150-horsepower electric motor, the all-electric BMW i3 is expected to have a range of about 99 miles and a top speed of 100 mph. The i3 subcompact is made of lightweight materials like carbon fiber and makes the most of the space it has, sporting 14.1 cubic feet of luggage space split between its front trunk and the area behind the back seats. It will come to market in the fall of 2013 with a base price around $35,000.

"The BMW i3 is the first of what will become a complete line of "i" BMW cars that are built not just with electric motors, but designed from the ground up with sustainable materials and practical designs," said Marshal Cabot, general manager at BMW of Peabody. "BMW is developing the i Series for the future urban environment, creating small electric cars that are sustainable, easy to park and cheaper to operate on a daily basis."

As the automaker gets closer to bringing its all-electric vision to the streets, BMW is also addressing one of the top causes of accidents and motorcycle fatalities: taking a left turn. A new system called "Left Turn Assistant" employs three laser scanners at the front of the vehicle to detect oncoming vehicles in the opposite lanes and automatically activate the brakes during close calls. To ensure that the braking doesn't bring the car to a dangerously abrupt stop, the system will only work when the car is traveling at speeds under 10 kilometers per hour, or about 6.2 mph.

Although the Left Turn Assistant technology is still in test mode on the BMW 5 Series, customers can get in line for some other new BMW technology by making reservations for the ActiveE later this summer. Based on the popular BMW 1 Series Coupe, the ActiveE drops the 230-horsepower inline six-cylinder engine found in some models in favor of a 170-horsepower electric motor with a liquid-cooled lithium-ion battery. BMW is promising 0 to 60 mph acceleration times around 9 seconds and 99-mile range on a full charge. The automaker plans to deliver 700 of the vehicles to U.S. BMW dealers by year's end, including dealerships in Greater Boston, with the first batch available only through a 24-month lease.

For those that don't want to wait for the i3 or the ActiveE, there is sustainable Bavarian transport available in BMW's two existing hybrids, the ActiveHybrid X6 sports activity coupe and the ActiveHybrid 750i sedan. The ActiveHybrid X6 uses about 20 percent less fuel than the gas-powered V8 in the BMW X6 xDrive501, earning 17 mpg in the city and 19 mpg on the highway. With fuel economy of 17 mpg city and 24 mpg highway, the ActiveHybrid 7 offers a 30 percent improvement over the gas-powered 750i, according to BMW.

"The diversity of new technology at BMW right now is really impressive, whether you're looking at their electric and hybrid vehicles or their emerging safety features," Cabot added. "The company has always pushed the boundaries of what a vehicle can do, and these new designs allow drivers to enjoy the BMW performance they expect with greater safety and a lower cost of ownership."

At the beginning of the year, the BMW Group made the bold prediction that it would sell more than 1.5 million vehicles in 2011. With the first quarter now in the books, the company's prediction for a record-breaking year may be on the money. Globally, the BMW Group sold more vehicles in March than ever before, while sales at U.S. BMW dealers like BMW of Peabody rose 12.4 percent over March 2010, good for an increase of 13.6 percent for the first quarter on a year-over-year basis.

While it may not be surprising that the popular BMW 3 Series led U.S. sales in March, the recently revamped BMW 5 Series made a statement last month when its sales rose 55.6 percent compared to March 2010. Customers have responded to the new, intelligent features of the sixth-generation 5 Series, including its Adaptive Drive and EfficientDynamics technologies for refined steering, handling and braking, and its innovative driver-assistance systems, which includes Parking Assistant, Frontal Collision Warning and Top View cameras.

"With the economy improving and a variety of new BMW models catching the eyes of luxury drivers, we're seeing ideal conditions for sales right now," said Marshal Cabot, general manager of Massachusetts BMW dealer BMW of Peabody. "A couple of years ago, 1.5 million global vehicle sales would have been out of the question, but BMW is already envisioning even bigger sales numbers. Here in Massachusetts, we're not seeing any letup in buyer interest."

Generating convincing evidence that it is the hottest BMW vehicle at the moment, the new BMW X3 SAV saw its sales increase by nearly 270 percent last month. These March numbers put the BMW X3 in third place among BMW-branded vehicles, and they come off the heels of the X3's "Off-Roader of the Year" award from Off-Road Magazine in February. Meanwhile, the 7 Series, featuring much of the same new architecture as the 5 Series, saw an impressive 40 percent increase last month.

Adding to BMW's current momentum is news about the company's future expansion plans. The automaker recently launched its "i" sub-brand, which will feature sustainable vehicles that are "good for us" and "good for our planet." To strengthen its focus on "born electric" vehicles, the BMW i line will draw upon the knowledge of Frank Weber, lead engineer of the 2011 Chevy Volt team, for vehicle development.

The first two vehicles from the BMW i sub-brand will be the BMW i3 and the BMW i8, with both expected to launch in 2013. While the all-electric i3 will cater to city dwellers with short commutes in heavy traffic, the plug-in hybrid i8 will combine BMW's legendary high performance with fuel economy that is kinder to the wallet and lower emissions for guilt-free driving. Customers can expect to see additional BMW i vehicles on the way as well, with research currently being conducted on range-extended EVs.

"The launch of the BMW i lineup signals a turning point for the entire electric vehicle market," Cabot added. "We're talking about the world's number-one luxury vehicle brand fully committing to building electric vehicles that must live up to the company's reputation. That's not just good news for BMW customers, it's good news for the everyone that wants EVs to succeed."

All automakers tell buyers that their new models are the best in their segments, but not many want you to get a side-by-side comparison and decide for yourself. However, BMW dealers like BMW of Peabody are giving customers an opportunity to do just that during the BMW X3 Difference Event. On March 28 from 11:00 AM- 6:45 PM, interested drivers who preregister for the event can visit BMW of Peabody to test drive the new 2011 BMW X3 and take a competing model out on the road to see how they compare.

BMW expects those who take this unique comparison test drive to notice a clear difference when they are behind the wheel of the 2011 X3. Rather than simply describing the new SUV's features and advantages, this side-by-side comparison test will let buyers experience everything about the X3 that can't be described in a 30-second commercial. Every driver who takes delivery of a new X3 by June 30 will receive a gift card worth $500 toward BMW X3 accessories, like an iPhone Snap-in Adapter, Bicycle Lift System, Luggage Rack or Lockable Roof Box.

"It's a very bold idea that comes from a place of real confidence," said Marshal Cabot, general manager of BMW of Peabody. "Buying a new vehicle, especially a model like the X3, is a big decision, and it's not often that you get to drive a car and its competition back-to-back. It's an opportunity for Massachusetts BMW shoppers to make an informed decision before they buy, and at the end of the day it lets them feel confident that they made the right choice."

The highlight of driving the 2011 BMW X3 is its handling. While most SUVs tend to lose maneuverability due to their weight, the X3 stays agile with the help of a newly developed multilink rear suspension and a 3.0-liter inline six-cylinder direct-injection engine that pushes out 240 horsepower in the base xDrive281 trim. Those seeking more power can opt for the turbocharged xDrive35i, which adds 60 horsepower for more speed off the line.

The BMW X3 SAV (sports activity vehicle) comes equipped with xDrive intelligent all-wheel-drive, designed to detect slipping in individual wheels and direct power away from them to maximize traction in any situation. Along with ground clearance that has increased by half an inch since last year's model, xDrive helps to establish the X3 as a true off-road contender, with Off-Road magazine already naming it "Off-Roader of the Year."

"BMW wouldn't be putting drivers in competitors' SUVs if we weren't confident that the X3 provides a better driving experience," Cabot continued. "I think it's refreshing to see an automaker that has this much faith in its products. You don't do something like this unless you sincerely believe you've got the best vehicle in the segment."

Spaces are limited for the X3 Difference Event, so BMW of Peabody encourages customers to sign up for a preferred driving slot now. Drivers can register by visiting www.bmwusa.com/X3Difference or by calling 1-866-905-4BMW (4269).

For a revolutionary town with one of the world's top science schools on its doorstep, Boston has received little love from automakers with electric models. Nissan, Mitsubishi and Chevrolet have all chosen to test market and launch their e-cars elsewhere, striking the biggest blow to Boston's reputation as a tech hub since Steve Jobs pulled the MacWorld Expo from area convention centers.

The Germans are hoping to restore a little of Boston's tech luster. BMW selected Boston to be one of the first markets to receive the ActiveE, an electric adaptation of the BMW 1 Series, for field trials once the automaker unveils the production-ready model at the Geneva Auto Show this March. The initial 450 ActiveE units available to lease will also ship to a handful of other major metropolitan markets, including New York, Los Angeles, San Diego, Sacramento and San Francisco.

"Boston is a forward-thinking city in a forward-thinking state, so I think it's appropriate that Boston BMW drivers will be among the first to experience the ActiveE," said Marshal Cabot, general manager of Greater Boston BMW dealer BMW of Peabody. "BMW's engineers focused on what makes driving a BMW such a memorable experience, and this eco-friendly vehicle will still provide elite levels of performance and style that will surprise drivers who assume an e-car has to be sluggish."

To promote the upcoming launch of the ActiveE electric vehicle, BMW is releasing a four-part documentary series online, entitled "Wherever You Want to Go." Rather than sell viewers on the innovative features of the new model, the documentary features some of today's most influential automotive and tech visionaries and solicits their opinions on the future of mobility in the United States.

As part of BMW's Activate the Future campaign, the thought-provoking film intends to open up a public discussion that encourages new thinking to meet the challenges of the 21^st century. The first two parts of the series are available now at the Activate the Future website, and BMW will release the remaining two chapters on February 15 and 22.

With the release of the ActiveE, the German automaker is turning the imaginative thinking showcased in "Wherever You Want to Go" into reality.

The 1 Series line inspired the aggressive styling and agile handling of the ActiveE, but instead of the 230 horsepower 6-cylinder engine in the BMW 128i, the ActiveE runs on a lithium-ion battery with a 100-mile range. The electric power, however, does not take the fun out of driving a BMW. True to the automaker's reputation for high performance, drivers can expect impressive power and responsiveness in the ActiveE. The model can reach speeds of up to 90 mph and will provide punchy acceleration, with a 0-60 time of 8.5 seconds.

The ActiveE is just the beginning for BMW, and future alternative and sustainable concepts are in the works through the automaker's "project i" initiative. BMW is currently developing its compact Megacity Vehicle (MCV), an electric, lightweight carbon-fiber model that aims to reinvent urban mobility and which is scheduled to go into production by the beginning of 2013.

"As social and environmental concerns present a need for alternative vehicles, BMW is actively pushing forward innovative technology with models like the ActiveE," Cabot said. "We're looking forward to seeing this groundbreaking BMW model out on Boston's streets soon, and once again having our city be the hub of new technology."

Become an eVIP member of BMW of Peabody and start saving today.  Joining has never been easier. Contact us at sales@bmwpeabody.com and we'll update you with the latest news and events surrounding our dealership.

BMW of Peabody announces that over 500 customers  have joined our Mileage Rewards Program!  Eligible customers have 95,000 miles or  more on their BMW.

Along with your membership, you'll receive a wallet card and coupon book filled with discounts and savings on services for your BMW.

It's easy to register. Just bring your BMW in to our Centennial Drive or Route 114 location for your membership package today.