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MINI Driving Experience

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Since 1977 BMW drivers have been able to hone their driving skills through a number of specialist training courses, and since 2003 MINI drivers have been able to learn more about go-kart handling and now the range of courses has been further extended.

Both new and advanced drivers benefit from course contents such as drifting on ice and snow, finding the ideal line on the racetrack or touring through scenic landscapes. The underlying principle of all the courses is the same, by learning how to handle their car in various, and sometimes challenging situations, the customers will ultimately become better and safe drivers in everyday traffic.

All MINI Driving Experience training sessions and tours are conducted in small groups, guided and accompanied by specially trained MINI instructors. In addition to the safety training (MINI Safety Training) and racetrack training (MINI John Cooper Works Experience), tours lasting from one to several days are offered. The third component of the MINI Driving Experience is the MINI Customised Experience featuring events which can be individually selected or personal coaching. Since all the training sessions are not only intended to be instructive but also fun, the motto for all training modules is "More Safety. More Fun".

The individual programmes impart technical knowledge as well as teach about the rules of physics as they apply to driving. Fast lane changing, braking and steering manoeuvres at speed as well as slalom driving are already practised in the basic courses. Anyone who has tried out these exercises in a safe environment on the training track will have better and faster reactions in real-life situations.

For advanced participants the programme offers a section where they can test the limits of their car – for example under- and over-steering or drifting in a circle. True MINI enthusiasts can book the two-day MINI John Cooper Works Fascination Nordschleife Training where they can take the range-topping MINI to its limits on the 20.8 km long legendary racetrack with its 73 corners and 300 metres of altitude difference.

Worldwide more than 120 competent BMW and MINI instructors – among them many experienced test drivers, engineers and car developers – offer participants their technical and didactic skills and often many years of motor-racing experience to achieve optimum learning success and deliver an unforgettable driving experience.

http://www.bmw-drivingexperience.com/bmw/COM/bmw_driving_experience_com/en/training-courses/mini-driving-exp.html

British marques are best of the best

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News

When it comes to fantasising about your dream car it seems the best of British are in pole position, taking five of the top six spots in a giant poll of the most coveted cars.

And it’s Range Rover which is streets ahead of the pack beating Ferrari, Mercedes and Porsche to claim not just one but three of the top ten places, and MINI taking two of the top ten.

A survey of more than 55,000 petrolheads by Best of the Best, the airport and online car competitions’ company, has revealed British motoring is in a league of its own, even out-classing previous front runners of German and Italian descent.

The Range Rover, once the preserve of the country gent, has eclipsed its rivals with a series of new models adding to its widespread appeal to both men and women. The Sport TDV6 SE version is top of the podium with the Evoque in third place and the Vogue SE in fourth position.

MINI's top-of-the-range Cooper S and Cooper S JCW models were a popular pick amongst participants and demonstrate how the car still appeals to the masses.

With James Bond’s latest adventure, Skyfall, a massive hit in 2013, the Aston Martin badge has never had more pulling power with the Vantage named the second most popular.

British cars feature strongly throughout the list of more than 140 cars, giving a clear indicator the feel-good factor really is slowly returning to the UK economy.

While there are three Porsches in the top 20, there is no Ferrari – the 458 Italia only manages 21st place. Meanwhile, the recently launched Jaguar F-Type has proven hugely popular, reaching number six in the list.

William Hindmarch, who founded Best of the Best in 1999 and has since given away more than £15m of dream cars, said he was amazed with the results.

“It is great to see how popular British motors are, particularly when they are in direct competition with your ordinary motoring fan who dreams of winning his ultimate car. There is no better test of their popularity and proof that the ones we would assume are top of the list are nowhere near,” he explained.

“Our survey shows that drivers want performance and of course a good-looking car but it is the prestige of a British badge which is winning time after time.

“One of the really exciting things about this survey is that more than 80 nationalities took part, which means the British brand really is valued across the globe.”

And the least popular on the list? That prize goes the BMW Alpina D5 Saloon.

Here’s the top 10 in full:

    Range Rover Sport TDV6 SE
    Aston Martin Vantage
    Range Rover Evoque
    Range Rover TDV6 Vogue SE
    Mercedes A220 Cdi AMG Sport
    Jaguar F-Type V6S
    Mini Cooper S
    Audi R8 V8 Coupe
    Porsche 911 Carrera S
    Mini Cooper S JCW

www.botb.com

Silverstone Classic TV highlights at Christmas

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• ITV4 to air Silverstone Classic highlights on Christmas morning
• Wake up to festive fun for all the family

Waking up Christmas morning is always a very, very special occasion – but perhaps even more so this year as ITV4 is screening highlights of last summer’s award-winning Silverstone Classic.

Confirmation that the dedicated one-hour programme is to be broadcast on free-to-air television at 9:05am on Wednesday 25 December also provides those seeking the perfect last-minute Christmas present with a truly unique opportunity – the chance to gift tickets for next year’s Silverstone Classic while watching all the action from this year’s record breaking extravanza.

“It will really bring Christmas presents to life,” admitted Nick Wigley, Event Director. “Can you imagine the added thrill of waking up on Christmas morning, receiving Silverstone Classic tickets and then fully appreciating what a special treat is in store by switching on the television. The prospect is almost too good to be true!”

Adding to the festive occasion, a bespoke Silverstone Classic gift certificate can be downloaded from silverstoneclassic.com/giftcertificate. What’s more those buying tickets as Christmas presents can also take full advantage of ‘early-bird’ savings on offer to those booking well in advance.

ITV4’s decision to repeat the Silverstone Classic on Christmas morning comes after the ratings success of the original four broadcasts screened immediately after this year’s spectacular event. More than a million viewers have already savoured those fast-moving programmes, which include much of the stunning on-track action as well as focusing on the amazing arrays of classic cars on display.

While taking centre stage, the cars are by no means the only on-screen stars. Among a host of famous racing legends interviewed are three-time F1 world champion Sir Jackie Stewart, five-time Le Mans winner Derek Bell MBE and veteran commentator Murray Walker OBE.

With the on-line box office open throughout the holiday period, tickets can be even be purchased on Christmas Day for those either taking their present buying right down to the wire or, perhaps, inspired by what they’re waking up to on ITV4 television. Full details can be found on the official www.silverstoneclassic.com website.

John Cooper Works Concept to be unveiled at the NAIAS Detroit 2014

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Launch

All new, all MINI: the new MINI

The new edition of an original is the central focus of the MINI presentation at the North American International Auto Show (NAIAS) 2014 in Detroit. The British premium brand presents the new MINI - with a distinctive and carefully refined design, further increased driving fun and a range of innovative fittings that is unique in the small car segment. As well as this latest addition, the limelight in Detroit will also be on the six other members of the MINI family. All in all the diversity of the model program is greater than ever before in the history of the brand. What is more, MINI provides visitors to the NAIAS from January 18th - 26th 2014 with a look ahead to a new form of extreme driving fun. The MINI John Cooper Works Concept sees its world premiere in Detroit, instantly conveying a genuine passion for racing.

More than 800,000 visitors are once again expected to attend the 26th North American International Auto Show at Detroit's Cobo Center. Some 200 exhibitors from all over the world will be displaying their latest models, products and technologies. The NAIAS is one of the world's leading automobile trade fairs, and as it is traditionally the first of the year it typically points ahead to the future.

The new MINI: more innovations, more space, more driving fun

The latest generation of the MINI is once again a pioneer of individual style, premium quality and high-end technology. The evolutionary refinement of its design, entirely new engines and innovative driver assistance systems make the new MINI more athletic, efficient, expressive and progressive than ever before. The car's characteristic go-kart feeling is now enhanced with optimized ride comfort, adjustable dampers being offered as an optional extra for the first time. More interior space, optimized functionality and detailed refinements in terms of material and finish likewise reflect the maturity of the latest generation.

All four seats of the new MINI tangibly increase freedom of movement and the luggage compartment has been expanded by 30 per cent. A new display and operating concept, innovative driver assistance systems and the latest MINI Connected features also allow even more intensive interaction between driver and MINI. And the new MINI is the first automobile in its class to be fitted with LED headlamps and a Head-Up Display.

The new MINI is due to go on the market in the USA in spring 2014. There will be a choice of the models MINI Cooper and MINI Cooper S at the market launch. Both can be fitted with either the standard 6-speed manual transmission or the optional 6-speed automatic transmission according to preference. The transmissions and engines have both been newly developed. The entire drivetrain technology along with an extensively optimized suspension provides the perfect basis for maximum driving fun in the small car segment. At the same time, the engines and transmissions, a weight-optimized design and improved aerodynamic properties along with extensive MINIMALISM technology all contribute to the enhanced efficiency of the new MINI.

MINI model program: success based on diversity and individual style
The new MINI puts the British automobile manufacturer fully on track to continue its global success story. 12 years after the re-launch of the brand, MINI has become established in the USA, too, as the epitome of efficient driving fun, stylish individual flair and uncompromising quality. The consistently expanded model program is one aspect which has contributed to its ongoing growth in popularity. Over the past few years the MINI family has expanded to a current total of seven members. The hallmark brand qualities are to be found in the classic MINI concept as well as in the MINI Clubman, the MINI Coupé and also the two models designed for open air driving fun - the MINI Convertible and the MINI Roadster.

And there are now two models representing the brand's venture into a new market segment. The trailblazer here was the MINI Countryman, the first model of the brand to be fitted with four doors, a large tailgate and space for up to five occupants. This agile all-rounder is now joined by the MINI Paceman, the world's first ever Sports Activity Coupé in the premium compact segment. The all-wheel drive system ALL4 specially developed for MINI is also available for the MINI Countryman and the MINI Paceman.

World premiere in Detroit: the MINI John Cooper Works Concept

In the USA, too, the aspirations of especially performance-oriented MINI fans are addressed by the extremely sporty John Cooper Works models. At the NAIAS 2014 MINI gives the public a first impression of the future of this brand so deeply rooted in racing passion. The MINI John Cooper Works Concept premiered in Detroit represents the next generation of the small car segment's fascinating top sports car.

The model-specific features of the car's exterior design are instantly recognizable, deriving directly from the technical requirement for optimized air ducting and precisely controllable handling in extremely sporty driving situations. Among other things, the MINI John Cooper Works Concept has very large air inlets in the front apron and a rear spoiler as well as distinctively designed side sills and rear apron. What is more, 18-inch John Cooper Works light alloy wheels, a sports brake system and a sports exhaust system reflect drivetrain and suspension technology developed with extensive race track expertise.

The model-specific features of the car's exterior design are instantly recognizable, deriving directly from the technical requirement for optimized air ducting and precisely controllable handling in extremely sporty driving situations. Among other things, the MINI John Cooper Works Concept has very large air inlets in the front apron and a rear spoiler as well as distinctively designed side sills and rear apron. What is more, 18-inch John Cooper Works light alloy wheels, a sports brake system and a sports exhaust system reflect drivetrain and suspension technology developed with extensive race track expertise.

MINI sales stagnate despite new model

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News

About a month ago, the BMW Group presented the new MINI at its Oxford plant. Even with the upcoming model change, MINI sales remained at roughly the same high level as last year, with 24,873 vehicles sold worldwide in November (prev. yr.: 25,078/ -0.8%).

Despite persistent market challenges in Europe, MINI deliveries for the first eleven months of the year were slightly higher year-on-year at 274,575 (prev. yr.: 272,775/ +0.7%). The new MINI Paceman (12,350) released in March 2013 was one of the main growth drivers.

Source: BMW Group

New operators for Mallory Park

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Motorsport

Mallory Park, the popular Leicestershire motor racing circuit, has new operators.

Stuart Hicken and Eddie Roberts, both well known in the motorcycle racing world, have formed a jointly-owned company - Real Motorsport Limited - to run the circuit on a day-to-day basis.

They commented: "This is a great day for us both. We have grown up with Mallory Park, firstly as spectators, then as competitors and now running businesses associated with the sport".

Eddie owns Complog, a leading worldwide retailer of motorcycle tyres which also supplies the British Superbike Series. He enjoyed a 20-year racing career, which saw him compete in many events, including Grands Prix and the Isle of Man TT.

Stuart is owner of the Buildbase BMW Motorrad UK British Superbike Team. He started racing in the late 1960s, then managed successful racing teams for others, before setting up his own Hawk Racing squad. Stuart's career also included several years at Mallory Park.

The previous operating company went into administration, after a series of problems associated with the contravening of agreed noise regulations.

Both men commented: "We realise that there is a lot of bridge building to be done with the local community, but Mallory Park has been here for a long time and we are hopeful that - with understanding all round - it will have a long and successful future. We would like to thank circuit owner Chris Meek for giving us the opportunity of re-establishing Mallory Park and also Hinckley & Bosworth Borough Council for advice regarding noise issues and the community".

The pair will now start a programme of works to get the circuit into shape for the forthcoming season and plan to stage their first race meeting in the spring, together with a programme of practice and track hire days.