BMW CS1 Concept Car Makes North American In New York

March 27 -- Fresh from its world introduction earlier this month at the Geneva Motor Show, the BMW CS1 Concept Car will make its North American debut at the New York International Auto Show, providing a first glimpse of the design philosophy which might characterize the exterior of future BMW models. The all-new 2002 BMW 7 Series will also be featured.

BMW CS1 Concept Car

In its design, the CS1 is dynamic yet elegantly agile. The domain of agility and pure elegance will be found where the car's occupants enjoy the thrill of driving. But where the car communicates with its outside world, conveying its power and dynamic performance are the dominant factors in the exterior design.

Short overhangs front and rear typical of BMW, as well as the striking side-sills, help to impressively underline this special look. The philosophy of light, carefree elegance is shown in the interior of the CS1 Concept Car. The designers were inspired by the world of fashion and modern architecture. The result is a fresh and modern ambience. Both classic and modern materials are used consciously in their ideal form.

The CS1 Concept Car consistently maintains BMW's new interior and control philosophy featuring iDrive management for the driver. This allows the driver to concentrate on the essential, the actual process of driving. All the driver has to do is briefly press the Controller in the center console and the monitor previously concealed will come out of the cockpit, facing the driver's line of vision directly from above.

The CS1 is a BMW through and through in its drive concept as well -- that is with the engine fitted longitudinally and the drive wheels at the rear. The CS1 is powered by BMW's 115 horsepower, 1.8-liter four-cylinder which features VALVETRONIC valve control. The SMG Sequential Manual Gearbox shifts gears within fractions of a second via paddles on the steering wheel. Power is conveyed to the road by 18-inch light-alloy wheels with tires measuring 215/45 at the front and 235/40 at the rear.

All-New 2002 BMW 7 Series

This month the all-new long wheelbase 2002 BMW 745Li joins the previously introduced 745i in setting new benchmarks in performance, luxury, design and safety.

Both models are powered by a new 4.4 liter, 325 horsepower V8. This is a 15% increase over the previous 4.4 liter V8. The 745i and 745Li accelerate from 0 - 60 mph in 5.9 seconds, a full second faster than their predecessors, yet they deliver 13% better highway fuel economy. Power output, responsiveness and efficiency are all improved by double VANOS variable valve timing for both the intake and exhaust camshafts. In addition, the new engine features a fully variable intake manifold. BMW's new VALVETRONIC technology eliminates the inefficiencies created by a partially open throttle by doing away with the throttle altogether. Engine speed is regulated by varying the degree of lift of the intake valves themselves. The engine is mated to the first production six-speed automatic transmission, which utilizes drive-by- wire technology.

The new 7 achieves unprecedented handling with standard 18 inch or optional 19-inch wheels and tires. Aluminum suspension components improve responsiveness. BMW's new Active Roll Stabilization helps resist body lean in corners, enhancing handling without compromising ride comfort. Steering response is improved with variable ratio rack-and-pinion steering that again uses Servotronic variable assist.

The luxurious interior offers a choice of four different wood trims. 20- way Comfort seats are available as an option on the 745i and standard on the 745Li. Programmable heated seats are available as is seat ventilation. Advancing BMW's leadership in vehicle ergonomics, the new 7 is the first car to offer iDrive. iDrive groups all important and frequently used functions within easy reach of the driver. All other entertainment and information functions are accessed using the centrally located, force feedback, control knob and larger dash-mounted control screen. The 745Li also features adjustable rear seat controls for both left and right side passengers making this Ultimate Driving Machine the ultimate riding machine as well.