BCIC BMW Clubs World Issue 1 2026

BMW CLUBS’ WORLD

BCIC RETURNS TO MUNICH

The BMW Clubs International Council gathered at BMW Group Classic in the restored original BMW building in Munich for its 2025 annual meeting. Delegates and observers from all over the world participated in two full days of meetings as well as many special adventures and opportunities to expand their BMW experiences and provide BMW executives with their unique perspectives.

Do you want to be part of the next BCIC World newsletter? Please let us know! Just send us your text and images. We’ll give you the space to share your adventures with the community!

INTRODUCTION

BY TREVOR DEAN

Welcome to the first 2026 edition of BMW Clubs’ World.

This newsletter highlights the remarkable community of BMW clubs and the varied and interesting events held by the clubs. It contains articles describing the workings of the International Council Meeting that was aligned to the opening week of IAA Mobility Munich, the world’s leading event for automotive mobility, sustainability, and technical innovation, attended in 2025 by half a million visitors.

The International Council Delegates were very fortunate to be invited to the keynote speech to introduce the BMW Neue Klasse to the world. The launch of the BMW iX3 was described by Oliver Zipse, Chairman of the Board of BMW AG, as the largest investment in the history of BMW and it represented the future direction of the brand. Hundreds of international jour-

BMW enthusiasts account for a very significant proportion of BMW new vehicle sales. Official BMW clubs and associated social media groups, combined with other BMW interest groups, represent some 10% of annual BMW sales.

BMW has been clear that the marque’s heritage is more important than ever and that BMW clubs embody the heritage of BMW. The year 2025 saw the 50th anniversary of the BMW 3 Series and many BMW clubs around the world held major events with displays of all seven generations of the BMW 3 Series.

On page 32 is a listing of BMW anniversaries occurring in 2026. BMW club members who own historic cars and motorcycles are proud to display them along with new BMWs that have benefited from years of research and development. BMW club members love the brand and embrace both new and classic BMWs. At the same time, many BMW clubs around the world are celebrating 50th, 60th, or 70th anniversaries. We will bring news of these clubs to future newsletters.

The location for the 2026 Council meeting has been confirmed by BMW Clubs Canada. The Council Meeting will be held in Vancouver, Canada from Saturday, 19 September to Tuesday, 22 September 2026.

This edition of the newsletter has been collated by Martina Günter and the professional layout and editorial and the lead article, “BCIC Returns to Munich” was undertaken by Scott Blazey.

We look forward to the next Council newsletter. Please tell us your stories.

nalists attended the very impressive launch. You can find an excellent article on the keynote event in this newsletter. We have a strong relationship with BMW Classic, and they are extremely supportive of BMW clubs. At the Council Meeting we bade farewell to Scott Blazey as Chair and welcomed Kah Keen Wong as Vice Chair Motorcycles to the Board to join Colin van Son and Martina Günter.

BCIC RETURNS TO MUNICH FOR THE 2025 COUNCIL MEETING

BY BCIC BOARD

The BMW Clubs International Council meets annually in person for the purpose of improving and expanding the BMW experience for hundreds of thousands of official BMW Club members around the world. Council delegates and observers bring decades of experience to share with and inspire each other and fulfill the Council’s responsibility of being the liaison between BMW AG and the official BMW Club community. The 2025 Council Meeting was exceptional for this and also as a demonstration of the high regard in which BMW Clubs are held by the BMW Group.

The start of the Neue Klasse launch was the Official Keynote. BMW showed the high regard it has for BMW Clubs by inviting International Council members to attend this very exclusive event. It had never happened before. The Council can thank Helmut Käs, Head of BMW Group Classic; Ulrike von Mirbach, Head of BMW Group Customer Formats and BMW Brand Experience; and other executives higher up in BMW management. Most of the seats at the Neue Klasse Keynote were reserved for the international automotive press and key BMW employees, but this time, 15 fortunate BMW Clubs International Council delegates went to the Munich Messe on Friday morning for a first-rate event. They spoke with some of the BMW executives and design team members responsible for the Neue Klasse.

The Keynote was hosted by BMW Group CEO Oliver Zipse and included a presentation from BMW Group Design Director Adrian

Annual BCIC meetings alternate locations each year, from Europe—usually Germany or Austria—to elsewhere in the world usually hosted by a BCIC Umbrella Club in their home country. In 2024 the meeting was held in Dubai, United Arab Emirates. The 2025 meeting returned to Munich, Germany at the official headquarters of BMW Group Classic, This placed the Council within a few blocks of the iconic BMW “four-cylinder” headquarters building, the BMW Museum, and the BMW Welt at a very unique and special time for BMW.

Two days before the start of the BCIC meeting, BMW officially announced to the world the “Neue Klasse” (New Class) line of BMW vehicles that signified a major shift in the direction of the entire BMW company. How significant was this? The last time BMW launched a “neue klasse” was in 1962, and the line of vehicles it introduced ultimately saved the company and made BMW a global brand linked to performance, quality, and comfort.

van Hooydonk The star of the show was the Neue Klasse flagship, the BMW iX3, a distinctively styled, all-electric SAV. After the formal presentations, attendees could speak with design and engineering team members about the Neue Klasse and see more specific presentations. It was spectacular.

But what about the other Council delegates, observers, and their partners? BMW Club & Community Management (BCCM) arranged a different but also exclusive trip for them—a rare visit to “The Depot” in Garching that holds per-

BCIC RETURNS TO MUNICH

BY BCIC BOARD

haps the greatest BMW collection of treasures in the world: 1,500 significant and historically irreplaceable BMW cars and motorcycles. The group was given an unrestricted tour to BMW Art Cars, racing cars, motorcycles of all types, and super-rare, one-of-a-kind BMWs usually seen only in magazines or museums—if at all. BMW rarely allows access to this part of their collection but made an exception for the Council. No photos are included here because cameras were not allowed, but imagine a rare BMW and they probably saw it. Some thought “The Depot” was an even bigger treat than the Neue Klasse keynote, but that’s understandable, given how devoted most of them are to the history of the marque.

Saturday morning brought the opportunity to do what BMW enthusiasts love— drive BMW cars through Bavaria. BCCM organized a driving tour from Munich to Tegernsee over back roads and autobahns using seven cars from BMW Classic’s collection plus seven new BMWs from the press fleet. Council members and guests selected their cars at the BMW Museum and started with a quick dash on the autobahn before hitting the back roads. At the halfway point, everyone swapped cars and headed for Kaltenbrunn on the Tergernsee. The return trip allowed everyone to try different cars. It was thrilling.

The day was not yet over. An afternoon visit to the BMW Museum for the special exhibition “Belle Macchine,” which featured BMW cars through the years with bodies by Italian designers was followed by an evening of food, drink, and music at the MINI Pavilion Lehnbachplatz. Two concept vehicles in collaboration with DEUS Ex Machina were introduced.

Upon arriving at Kaltenbrunn, members were treated to a rare tour of a private car museum. The cars on display included unique and valuable BMWs, Mercedes-Benz’s, Porsches, Ferraris, Bentleys, and others, some dating back to the turn of the 20th century. Lunch was enjoyed at the Gut Kaltenbrunn restaurant overlooking the lake, before reluctantly heading back to Munich and turning in the cars.

BCIC RETURNS TO MUNICH

BY BCIC BOARD

The Council went to work on Sunday morning in BMW Classic’s main hall. Chairman Scott Blazey called the 2025 BMW Clubs International Council Meeting to order at 8:30 am. After observing a moment of remembrance for two recent BMW Friend of the Marque awardees who unfortunately had passed away—Guy Timmerman and Robert Bensley—new Council members were introduced and the Council approved the minutes of the 2024 BCIC meeting.

Helmut Käs, Head of BMW Group Classic, provided the official welcome from BMW and an update on the latest company news. He pointed out that the departmental shift of BMW Group Classic from Communications to Marketing is proving to be a significant opportunity for the company to support the BMW enthusiast community and BMW Clubs in particular. Mr. Käs then introduced his boss, Ulrike von Mirbach, Head of BMW Group Customer Formats and BMW Brand Experience. It was an honor to hear from a BMW executive at Ulrike’s level. She reiterated the importance of BMW Clubs to the company and emphasized the communications reach. Social media posts from marketing under the main BMW name reach over 20,000,000 followers compared to the 1,000,000 followers of the BMW Classic Instagram account. Ulrike also emphasized what Helmut Käs has been stressing to the Council for years; that BMW is actively combining its classic heritage with new product launches to create a stronger brand narrative. The Neue Klasse keynote was an excellent example, posing the “new” Neue Klasse vehicles alongside some of the original Neue Klasse cars from 1962.

The Chair thanked Ulrike and Helmut for their presentations, their ongoing support of the Council and official BMW Clubs worldwide, their efforts in gaining access to the Neue Klasse keynote for Council members, and the tour of the BMW collection in Garching. The staff

of BMW Club & Community Management were also recognized for their hard work and continuous support, most recently their help in planning the Council meeting, supporting events, and logistical support. Andreas Ederer, Benjamin Voss, Matthias Neuer, Benedikt Allar, and Lara Benitz work every day to help BMW enthusiasts and clubs and their work is greatly appreciated.

Representatives of the 14 official BMW Club umbrellas delivered their reports, emphasizing the accomplishments of their members and clubs around the world and providing examples of best practices from which other clubs could draw ideas and inspiration. The umbrellas included the BMW Car Club of America, BMW Riders Association (US), BMW Clubs Japan, BMW International Classic and Type Clubs, BMW Clubs Africa, BMW Clubs Asia,

BMW Clubs Australia, BMW Clubs Canada, BMW Clubs Europa, BMW Clubs European Federation, BMW Clubs New Zealand, BMW Motorcycle Owners of America, BMW Clubs Middle East, and BMW Clubs Latin American Federation.

Colin van Son, Vice Chair Classics, presented the report from the BCIC Board, highlighting board members’ travel, event attendance, and ongoing projects. Trevor Dean, Vice Chair Motorcycles spoke on the importance of BMW Clubs and how they might be recognized and supported by BMW.

Delegates and observers then discussed progress in BCIC communications, such as the BCIC website. Andres Martinez of BMW Clubs Latin American Federation emphasized the need for content from the umbrellas.

BCIC RETURNS TO MUNICH

BY BCIC BOARD

The Board also announced the most recent issue of the BCIC World newsletter and asked the Council members to download it and forward it to all their clubs so that it can be made available to all official BMW Club members worldwide.

After lunch, the Council heard from another highly placed BMW executive, Dr. Stefan Floeck, Product Line MINI and Compact Class BMW. He spoke about BMW’s core strategy of balancing MINI’s strong heritage with a future-oriented product plan.

More routine business followed, including reviewing financial matters. This included umbrella support funding, paid advertisement placement for certain umbrellas, and support to the International Classic and Type Clubs.

Council members then considered and agreed upon topics for three working groups to discuss. These topics were designed to generate discussions that would be introspective, exploratory, and informative, with the goals of helping clubs expand their capabilities and new opportunities for members to enjoy the BMW and club experiences. The three topics were (1) How to help local clubs grow and keep growing, with Eric Raterman as leader; (2) Is the existing club model correct, effective, and efficient for today’s world, with Ian Verhulp as leader; and (3) Creating a new Club structure to meet the needs of the world now and moving forward, with Nick Thomas as leader. Members chose the groups in which they wished to participate and the discussions proceeded with the working groups until the end of the day.

As valuable as the official meeting discussions were, the unofficial discussions were just as important, and these happened during breaks, meals, and social gatherings. BCCM selected a great restaurant for Sunday evening—the Jacci restaurant— where Council members and guests enjoyed the camaraderie as well as the food.

Back at BMW Group Classic on Monday morning, the meeting reconvened at 8:30 am with an informative presentation by Dr. Jeorg Reiser on advances made in the BMW Museum’s DigiTour app. This innovative way of augmenting the BMW Museum experience combines information and entertainment. Accessible at digiTour.bmw.com, DigiTour is intended as an addition, not a replacement of in-person guided tours. It uses AI-generated videos based on real photos when original footage is unavailable. It also is capable of translation and text-to-speech.

The new Head of BMW Archives, Tatjana Otto, was the next guest presenter. She succeeded the legendary Fred Jakobs, a long-time friend of the International

Council. Tatjana explained the challenges brought by digital transformation, including the shift from physical files and cabinets to increasing volumes of digital data such as manuals, catalogs, press releases, and marketing materials. Ongoing projects include the historical BMW model overview of each BMW vehicle, available on the BMW Classic web site.

The remainder of the morning saw the conclusion of the working group discussions.

Lunch was served again in the BMW Classic Hall, which is next door to the large hall containing BMW Group Classic’s showcased vehicles. These are BMW cars and motorcycles and MINI cars that are historically significant or one-of-a kind. It was the perfect place for a group of dedicated BMW club leaders to relax after lunch and during breaks.

The International Council is tasked by BMW to administer three prestigious awards on behalf of the company and this was taken up on Monday afternoon. For the most prestigious individual award, BMW Friend of the Marque, three individuals were nominated. Two of these—Guy Timmerman of BMW Clubs Europa and Robert Bensley of BMW Clubs European Federation—were

BCIC RETURNS TO MUNICH

BY BCIC BOARD

reviewed and approved by delegates in the weeks leading up to the meeting due to exigent and imperative health circumstances. Sadly, Guy and Robert passed away before the meeting. The third candidate, Nick Wright from BMW Clubs European Federation, was voted on by the delegates at this meeting and approved. All three will have their names inscribed on the Wall of Honor at BMW Group Classic.

There were no nominees to consider for the Prof. Dr. Gerhard Knöchlein BMW Classic Award this year.

The BMW Club of the Year Awards recognize achievement and excellence by official BMW Clubs. The total number of awards each year is limited to 10 percent of the official BMW Clubs worldwide or eight clubs.

Nominations were received from the BMW Riders Association for the Airhead Beemers Club, from the BMW International Classic and Type Clubs for BMW Youngtimer Club Italia, and from BMW Clubs Asia for BMW Motorcycle Club Thailand. Each nominating umbrella made a presentation on behalf of their nominees. At this meeting, the Council voted to confer BMW Club of the Year awards to all three nominated clubs.

Each year, the Council entertains proposals from umbrellas to host a future meeting. One proposal was received in advance to host the 2026 meeting, and that was from the BMW Car Club of America to have the event in Greenville, South Carolina, USA in September 2026. During subsequent discussions, BMW Clubs European Federation proposed a location in Sweden, with travel through Copen-

hagen. They requested that the Council defer its decision to allow BCEF to prepare a more comprehensive proposal and meet virtually later in the year to decide. The Council agreed to this plan.

The final official business was Council elections. Council Chairman Scott Blazey had announced earlier in the year that he would not be standing for reelection. In accordance with Council Guidelines, Trevor Dean, delegate from BMW Clubs Australia and the current Vice Chair Motorcycles, had submitted his nomination. Trevor was elected to a three-year term as Council Chairman. This created a vacancy for Vice Chair Motorcycles. In accordance with the Guidelines, nominations were accepted from the floor and the three nominees were allowed to make presentations. By secret ballot, Kah Keen Wong from BMW Clubs Asia was elected to a three-year term as Vice Chair Motorcycles. The Chair thanked all the nominees for their dedication in putting their names forward.

Going forward after the conclusion of the 2025 meeting, the BCIC Board will comprise Trevor Dean as Chairman, Colin van Son as Vice Chair Classics, Martina Günter as Vice Chair Automobiles, and Kah Keen Wong as Vice Chair Motorcycles.

With official business concluded, Trevor Dean presented a tribute to outgoing Chairman Scott Blazey. This was followed by remarks and a presentation of a deed of appreciation and model BMW from Helmut Käs, Andreas Ederer, Benjamin Voss, Matthias Neuer, Lara Benitz, and Benedikt Allar from BMW Group Classic. Scott offered his gratitude for the opportunity to serve, reiterated his opinion that the BMW Clubs International Council delegates and observers were the elite of BMW Club leadership around the world and the best of the best. He thanked everyone for their friendship and their support. In his final act as Chairman, he adjourned the 2025 Council Meeting at 4:40 pm.

The BCCM staff went above and beyond for the farewell dinner, choosing the Wirtshaus Eder—a true Bavarian restaurant that was normally closed on Mondays. BCCM not only convinced them to open but came dressed for the occasion in authentic Bavarian costumes. They even arranged for a traditional Bavarian band. Helmut Käs, Benjamin Voss, Matthias Neuer, Bernhard Knöchlein and Scott Blazey, among others, made appropriate parting remarks, marking the official end of the Council Meeting festivities.

The 2025 BMW Clubs International Council Meeting was not just a gathering of delegates for a business meeting. It was also a family reunion, a gathering of old and new friends, a driving and travel adventure, and a unique BMW experience that exemplified the fun and satisfaction that can be generated and appreciated by enthusiasts worldwide of their favorite German marque.

BMW NEUE KLASSE KEYNOTE

BY DON WEERASURIYA

It is always a great feeling when the BMW Clubs International Council meeting gets closer, knowing we will again meet our exceptional and lively group of friends for our once-a-year gathering.

This time was a little different. Besides our usual meeting agenda, it was clear that BMW had something special lined up for us. We had to create accounts on their BMW Group sites and sign up to confirm our attendance well ahead for something truly unique. It was revealed that this was for the keynote speech, not just for any brand-new car, but for the reveal of a new design language. To put this in context, in my own opinion, the last time this happened was probably just before the Chris Bangle era nearly 25 years ago, to showcase the designs after the E46 3 Series and E39 5 Series era. Of course, BMW has had impressive evolutions of

beginning of a remarkable shift in BMW design. The venue was elegantly arranged with different elements instilling BMW’s new language, with food and drink stalls and canapé tables outside, leading to a corridor that guided us to a design study and presentation room.

Journalists from all over the world were seen furiously typing their stories into laptops and phones to get their notes back to their editors. Camera operators recorded on-air and Internet personalities doing live interviews inside the iX3 and in front of the many stands showcasing innovations of the Neue Klasse. BMW had a stand featuring the battery chassis, videos showing the drive train computer system, and a display of customization options with the price of each element.

The customization options are also available to view online on a BMW website called Discover and configure all BMW models: https://www.bmw.com/en-au/models.html

As we know from working with BMW Group Classic, heritage is huge with BMW. The entrance room featured a striking BMW 1500, the first of the original Neue Klasse from 1962.

Photos by Don Weerasuriya

designs even up to now, with highlights like the F30 3 Series, the G05 X5, the i8, and even the F10 5 Series that still looks stunning today, 15 years later. But what BMW was about to reveal during our time in Munich was no mere evolution; it was a complete transformation.

Since the 2000s, highlights of BMW design include the reborn L-shaped rear lights, the evolution of the angel eyes, the long bonnet with muscular lines, and the curving front air vents and splitters. They were elements that traditional BMW enthusiasts accepted as modern interpretations of their favourites. Many new car buyers embraced them enthusiastically, as sales proved that BMW’s designs were widely accepted by the broader audience. This helped secure the luxury sales crown consecutively over that 20-year period.

Council members flew in earlier just to make it for the keynote address. Entering the building where it was being held, with everyone wearing business attire—including the media camera crews—it was clear; we were among a select few invitees allowed to witness the

BMW NEUE KLASSE KEYNOTE

BY DON WEERASURIYA

That Neue Klasse propelled BMW to what it is today by prioritizing premium, reliable, and exquisitely engineered automobiles that drove and looked superb instead of expensive chauffeur-driven cars like those from the Baroque era such as the 502 or the ultra-luxurious two door cars like 3200 CS, and 507 Roadster.

After some chats and mingling, it was time to take our seats for the show in a room with a few hundred people. A captivating display of lights and graphics began. I could see some eager folks, including myself, gripping our hands together or our seats tightly. Of course, plenty of people were poised to video the moment of the reveal. The mirror rose and the car gently moved forward.

Some stood in awe, and a wave of applause filled the room. What a masterpiece they had created—this was the iX3. For those familiar with BMW’s naming system, it basically means the X3 will look the same, which implies this design language will shape BMW’s themes for the next 3 Series, M3, M2, X5, and so on.

BMW CEO Oliver Zipse gave a speech that resonated enthusiastically with all the people in the room. He spoke about how, in 2021, he had decided that BMW would go a new way, and that day had come. It was inspiring to see the energy and joy from the team at BMW on this successful launch and design.

I was coincidentally sitting next to the BMW Vice President who oversees all the augmented driving capabilities the iX3 had and that future cars would have, to

enhance driver awareness of road conditions, assist with navigation, and utilize safety or performance features without looking at a screen but via holographic projections on the windscreen. I shook his hand and congratulated him on their triumph. It truly was remarkable to witness his and his colleagues’ pride and uplifting spirit. We later spoke with the Head of Marketing, Ms Ulrike Von Mirbach. She was eager to hear our thoughts and which parts of the world we all came from.

It was wonderful to see, as there were so many of us BMW Club International Council members from all over the world, from Malaysia, Panama, Australia, USA, South Africa, Sri Lanka, New Zealand, and the list goes on. There were 15 of us there from the Council, and we savored every second of it. It was a privilege to be invited to the launch of Neue Klasse. Thank you to BMW Group and to BMW Classic for their support of the BMW Clubs International Council. We understand this is the first time that Council members have been invited to a major BMW launch.

To us enthusiasts, it was design perfection. As I mentioned earlier in this article, BMW reigned supreme in the market for so long, but the downside to that is other car companies copy the successful elements from your product, from the angel eyes and sharp horizontal slat grille to variations of the Hofmeister kink on the C-pillar, and even near-exact versions of the bumper/bonnet grooves and design

BMW NEUE KLASSE KEYNOTE

BY DON WEERASURIYA

lines. It was time for BMW to demonstrate that even if everyone is copying them, they are going to make it harder with the upcoming designs as they boldly imagined the future while also playing to key and iconic elements from their past. Let me explain how they’ve achieved this.

Many cars started featuring horizontal slit grilles or similar versions of BMW grilles, either in design or dimensions. With the Neue Klasse iX3 design, it’s completely evident that this grille cannot be replicated. It is a minimal and aesthetically pleasing rendition of the original grilles on the 1500 or 2002, the icons that placed BMW on the global map, but rendered in LED lighting rather than metal. The flat bonnet with the line in the middle emphasizing the badge and the raised ends of the bonnet are pure 2002 and 3.0CSL.

While the front of the car embraced this very modern yet minimal take on the 1960s classics, the rest of the car embodied flawless proportion lines that complemented this fresh approach to the front. Nothing was out of place, but everything was purposeful.

As a car, and moreover, a BMW enthusiast, you couldn’t be happier than seeing the people at the helm of BMW be so enthusiastic, proud, and yet expressing genuine, non-corporate human emotions about their role in shaping the history of one of the world’s premier marques.

We on the International Council wish BMW all the success across the world with the Neue Klasse and feel truly honored and appreciative to have been invited to something even our grandkids can tell their kids about. I’m sure that, just like this new design language, BMW will continue to evolve with the future while always paying tribute to its iconic past.

Click on the BMW iX3 grille for the link to the BMW Group Neue Klasse Keynote video.

The link URL is https://www. youtube.com/watch?v=tRA3B-w7BUY

BMW MUSEUM DIGITOUR: A JOURNEY THROUGH TIME, ONLINE

BY IAN VERHULP

In September 2025 I had the privilege of attending the BMW Clubs International Council Meeting as the delegate for BMW Clubs Africa. It was an inspiring few days filled with meaningful discussions, exciting updates, and some truly memorable presentations. One that stood out was by Dr Jeorg Reiser, who introduced us to the BMW Museum DigiTour, a digital twin of the iconic BMW Museum in Munich.

His presentation sparked my curiosity, and after exploring the DigiTour myself, I knew it was something worth sharing. (You’ll find more about the Council Meeting in another article in this newsletter— it’s well worth the read.)

BMW has a wonderful corporate museum in Munich that showcases the history, innovation, and artistry of the brand across more than a century. The exhibits include BMW Art Cars, historic and milestone vehicles, motorsport legends, and future-focused concepts demonstrating sustainability and electromobility.

Exploring the BMW Museum from Anywhere

The BMW Museum DigiTour is far more than a simple virtual walkthrough. It’s designed to mirror the physical museum, offering intuitive navigation through themed exhibition spaces. Visitors can zoom in on individual vehicles and dive into multimedia storytelling that brings each exhibit to life.

A great example of this immersive experience is the digital recreation of the first car produced by BMW, the BMW 3/15 PS DA 2. BMW has used artificial intelligence (AI)-driven storytelling to bring this historic vehicle to life by way of a video, in a way that feels both nostalgic and modern. The segment begins with the car on the factory floor, surrounded by the sights and sounds of early automotive production. Then, in a clever twist, the scene transitions into what could easily be a contemporary advertisement—stylized, upbeat, and visually rich. It’s a brilliant blend of past and present, showing how BMW’s heritage can be re-imagined through modern technology.

Unfortunately, since the museum is in Munich, not everyone can visit it in person. This is a real shame, because there’s so much nostalgia and fascinating detail to explore.

The good news is that BMW has developed a digital twin of the museum, available online and easily accessible via mobile device or computer. You can visit the site at https://digitour.bmwmuseum.com and really immerse yourself in a world of digital storytelling.

BMW MUSEUM DIGITOUR: A JOURNEY THROUGH TIME, ONLINE

BY IAN VERHULP

What You’ll Find Inside

Each section of the museum is recreated in 3D, allowing users to “walk” through the halls at their own pace. You can rotate around classic cars, click on hotspots for detailed information, and watch embedded videos that explain the historical significance or design philosophy behind each model. For something digital, it has a surprisingly real-world feel making it impressively engaging.

Tips for Navigating the DigiTour

• Use a desktop computer or tablet for the best experience. Larger screens help you appreciate the design and layout.

• Start with the guided tour option if you’re new to the museum. It offers a curated path through key exhibits.

• Click on the “i” icons throughout the tour to access deeper layers of content, including videos, photos, and historical notes.

• Don’t rush. The DigiTour is designed to be explored at your own pace, just like the real museum.

Highlights include:

• BMW Art Cars, with close-up views and artist commentary.

• Historic Milestones, including the BMW 507, Isetta, and early motorcycles.

• Motorsport Legends, showcasing race cars and engines from BMW’s competitive history.

• Future Concepts, where you can explore BMW’s vision for sustainability and electromobility.

The vehicle catalogue is extensive, with over 400 BMW models listed, including entries from MINI and BMW Motorrad. These are organized by model series, decade, and body type.

In the Interactive Exhibit section, you’ll find virtual tours of BMW’s milestones, like the BMW 328, the evolution of the 3 Series, and electric innovations such as the i8. Some models even offer 360° views and virtual test drives!

The Stories and Multimedia section features indepth articles, videos, and interviews covering motorsport legacy, design collaborations, and engineering breakthroughs. There’s also a digital timeline showcasing BMW’s innovations in turbocharging, hybrid systems, and safety tech.

What makes this experience unique is how it combines museum grade archival content with modern digital interactivity.

Whether you’re a BMW enthusiast, a design lover, or simply curious, the BMW Museum DigiTour offers a compelling way to experience the brand’s legacy from anywhere in the world. It’s a brilliant example of how technology can make culture and history more accessible.

BMW GROUP ARCHIVE NOW HEADED BY TATJANA OTTO

BY MATTHIAS NEUER

Tatjana Otto joined BMW Group in 2002. Since then, she has held various positions, mainly in the areas of BMW Events, Lifestyle, and Marketing. She brings incredible professional and personal experience with a wide network and is now excited to deepen her expertise at the BMW Group Archive. As she already knows, BMW Clubs are key stakeholders for the BMW Group Archive, so it was important to her to attend a BMW Clubs International Council Meeting as early as possible—which she did when she spoke at our Council Meeting in September 2025 in Munich.

At that meeting, Council Members were asked to write about different presented topics, so I decided to take the Archive. Besides the big news of Ms Otto as the new head, I guess it’s always important to mention some of the latest figures from our BMW Group Archive. So maybe for some of our readers it’s the first time to read some history of the Archive itself.

A Brief History of the BMW Group Archive.

1944

The first traces of the BMW Archive were found in the Werbeabteilung, or advertising department. Today we would call it a marketing department (where it resides again since August 2024). In the beginning, Items in the Historischem Kundendienst (historical customer service) were predominantly collected pictures, sales brochures and technical literature.

1946

Return of the outsourced archive to the company headquarters.

1966

50th Anniversary of the Company. Establishment of the first museum (opened in 1967), consolidation of the BMW archive, acquisition of archival materials to complete company chronicles.

1973

Opening of the current BMW Museum next to the company headquarters in Munich.

1980s

Monograph by Horst Mönnich. Significant influx of archival materials.

1991 Implementation of the first electronic data archive system (FAUST).

1994

Foundation of BMW Mobile Tradition, which became BMW Group Classic in 2008. Consolidation of all departmental archives into one BMW Archive.

1998

Realignment as Corporate Archive. Implementation of a new database, start of the digitalization of photographs/movies, and starting to make items available online from 1999 on.

2014

Relocation of the BMW Group Archive. The old building next to the FIZ was demolished.

2016

BMW Group Archive is now located within the BMW Group Classic premises at Moosacher Strasse. 66 in Munich.

BMW GROUP ARCHIVE NOW HEADED BY TATJANA OTTO

BY MATTHIAS NEUER

About the Archives.

The BMW Group Archive is a source of information for everything related to the BMW Group. It contains comprehensive information about the company, its brands, and products throughout its history. BMW enthusiasts, historians, journalists, authors, and researchers may find what they need in the BMW Group Archive, an information network spanning over 100 years of BMW history that is continuously being updated both in content and presentation.

Important Links.

BMW Motorcycle Classic Model Catalogue

Historic Model Overview BMW

Historic Model Overview MINI

Where does this myth come from?

The myth that the BMW logo represents a stylized propeller originates primarily from the company’s early advertising in the late 1920s and early 1930s. Specifically, a 1929 BMW advertisement depicted the logo’s blue and white quadrants as the blades of a spinning airplane propeller, linking BMW’s roots in aircraft engine manufacturing to the emblem. This visual association led many to interpret the logo as a propeller, a notion that has persisted over time despite the logo’s original design being inspired by the colors of the Bavarian State flag.

Here is an interesting topic from the Ms. Otto’s predecessor at the Archive, Fred Jakob.

Fun Fact:

BMW owns still one aircraft from that time, the Klemm 25 (D-EBMX) from 1927. The restoration team decided to build into the propellers some LEDs. And now we have again the discussion…

Photos courtesy of BMW Group Classic

DRIVING HISTORY ON THE AUTOBAHN: AN UNFORGETTABLE BMW EXPERIENCE

BY CHAD GARCIA

Last September, I had the incredible opportunity to step into BMW history—and the future—all in one day. In conjunction with the 2025 BMW Clubs International Council Meeting and over the course of a single day, we were able to drive twelve different BMWs: six classics and six brand-new models. From the growl of vintage engines to the futuristic quiet of electric innovation, it was absolutely AMAZING!

The highlight for me was driving a 1971 BMW CSL fourspeed manual—a car valued at over $300,000—at 180 kph (115 mph) on the Autobahn. To say it was a thrill would be an understatement. Equally memorable were stints behind the wheel of the 1992 M3 and the 2001 M3, each representing an era of BMW performance and engineering excellence.

But the cars were only part of what made this experience so special. The Bavarian roads and scenery were breathtaking, offering the perfect setting to appreciate each vehicle’s personality. Along the way, we toured a private car collection, enjoyed a lakeside lunch, and spent time with an amazing group of fellow BMW enthusiasts from around the world—including the USA, Canada, the Netherlands, Denmark, Austria, South Africa, the UK, Germany, Australia, Japan, Saudi Arabia, Malaysia, and more. Every meal was a celebration, shared with new friends who share the same passion for BMW.

On the modern side, I sampled the 2025 i7, complete with massaging seats and a full backseat theater—a feature my wife, Rhonnie, enjoyed thoroughly. The lineup also included the powerful 2025 X3 M50i, showing just how far BMW continues to push the limits of luxury and performance.

Driving these cars wasn’t just about speed or technology— it was about history, community, and the joy of the road. It’s an experience I will never forget, and it reminded me why BMW truly represents “The Ultimate Driving Machine.”

CM 2025 SPOUSES’ PROGRAM

BY RHONNIE GARCIA

What a truly wonderful program! As the wife of a BMW Clubs International Council delegate, I wasn’t entirely sure what to expect from this trip, but it turned out to be an experience I will always treasure. The first days were spent together as a group—spouses and Council members alike—touring BMW Classic, the BMW Museum, and the BMW Welt, followed by a scenic drive through Bavaria in both new and classic BMW cars. The excitement continued with the unique experience of attending a MINI release party. Each activity was carefully planned to help us connect, not only with the BMW brand, but also with one another. The BMW Classic staff, Council members, and fellow spouses were welcoming and genuine, and our shared passion for BMW cars and motorcycles quickly sparked conversations that blossomed into new friendships.

From there, we rode up to Wallberg, where spectacular views awaited us—mountain peaks, the lake below, and the faint sound of cowbells echoing from free-roaming cattle. Paragliders dotted the sky, adding splashes of color to the alpine backdrop. After coffee, cake, and plenty of photos, we returned to the hotel to reunite with the larger group for dinner.

Day One–Sunday, 7 September 2025

While Council members attended their meeting, the spouses set off to explore Rottach-Egern by horse and carriage. The route was picturesque, with a cheerful driver who made the ride all the more delightful. The horses confidently followed their familiar path, allowing us to slow down, admire the local architecture, and soak in the serene natural surroundings. Along the way, local people greeted us with smiles and waves, adding warmth to the morning. We paused for a delicious lakeside lunch at Mesmer Gütl before continuing by carriage to the mountain railway.

CM 2025 SPOUSES’ PROGRAM

BY RHONNIE GARCIA

Day Two–Monday,

8 September 2025

As Council members resumed their work, the spouses embarked on a culinary journey through Munich’s city center, beginning at the Viktualienmarkt and continuing through Old Town. This wasn’t just a walking tour—it was a feast. We sampled Bavarian specialties and local favorites in such abundance that we happily skipped lunch. The afternoon was filled with further exploration— watching adventurous “city surfers” ride the waves of the Eisbach, admiring the city’s historic architecture, shopping in charming boutiques, and ending our excursion with drinks in lively Marienplatz. That evening, we gathered once more with the entire group for a closing dinner—an opportunity to share stories, laughter, and heartfelt goodbyes with both old friends and new ones.

As a first-time participant in this event, I am especially grateful to Julia, our guide, whose thoughtful planning ensured that every detail flowed seamlessly. In just two short days, she gave us a window into the beauty and culture of Germany. At first, the idea of spending time with so many unfamiliar faces seemed daunting, but the warmth of the women—and our good-natured “king”—made me feel instantly welcome. BMW not only filled our days with memorable experiences but also helped create connections that I know will last far beyond this trip.

FAREWELL TO SCOTT BLAZEY

BY TREVOR DEAN

Scott started his BMW journey in 1975 while he was stationed in West Germany as a US Army officer. He bought a 1975 BMW R75/6 motorcycle and joined the local BMW Club Bad Windsheim. He was so impressed with the BMW bike that a year later he added a 1976 BMW 2002. After three years in Germany, Scott transferred back to the US in 1976, taking his two BMWs with him.

After a few years he traded the R 75/6 for a 1977 R100RS. He kept the 2002—meticulously maintained—for more than 18 years but finally sold it to afford an E36 M3 in 1995. He still wishes he could have kept them both.

Scott was not done driving BMWs in Germany, however. In 1987 he began another three-year assignment there, although this time he wasn’t single. He married Betty in 1982, and they both enjoyed their BMWs in Europe. Betty

drove her 325es and Scott had his R100RS and a 1983 Euro-spec BMW 635CSi that they frequently drove to Berlin. In fact, they were there to watch the historic fall of the Berlin Wall.

In 1981 he had discovered that the U.S. also had BMW clubs and that’s when he joined the BMW Car Club of America. Scott served as regional vice-president before being elected National

BMW CCA President from 2004 to 2008. That was also when he first served as a delegate to the BMW Clubs International Council.

Scott retired from the US Army in 1992 and started a design and publishing company specializing in document and book editing, layout, and pre-press. He retired from that in 2021. In 1994 Scott contributed his first article to the BMW CCA’s Roundel Magazine and has been writing for it ever since. He even joined the editorial staff as News Editor for a time.

Scott and Betty joined their local club, the Kansas City BMW Club (now Heartland Chapter) in 1990. He was actively involved on committees and served as Chapter President, Newsletter Editor, the chapter’s first Webmaster, and High-Performance Driver Education (HPDE) registrar and instructor.

Aviation was also one of Scott’s passions. Eventually he earned his private and commercial pilot licenses and even became a certified flight instructor. He spent many years teaching flying, but that tapered off when he finally made another dream come true—motor racing. He was an active BMW CCA Club Racer from 2002 to 2022, going wheel-to-wheel with other BMW racers on dozens of tracks across the

US. His race car is the same 1995 M3 for which he sacrificed his 2002, but at least he still has the M3.

We remember Scott as a calm and considered Chair. He had good communication skills with the BCIC Board, BMW Classic, and the Council members and had an inclusive style. He provided regular updates to the umbrellas and initiated multiple virtual Council meetings throughout the year in addition to the annual Council meeting. During his tenure, the Council expanded the BMW Club of the Year Awards and brought back the BCIC World Newsletter after a long absence.

Since his retirement as Chair, Scott continues to serve as a Trustee of the BMW CCA Foundation, an American charity that operates a BMW museum and oversees a national teen safe driving education program called Street Survival. Jeff Caldwell continues as the BMW CCA Delegate to the International Council.

We thank Scott for his friendship and contribution to BMW and to BMW club life and he is always welcome to attend a BMW Clubs International Council meeting.

BOLOGNA MOTOR SHOW, ITALY 2025

BY ALESSANDRO BOTTA

The Bologna Motor Show in Italy, called Auto e Moto d’Epoca, is now recognized as one of the most important and trendsetting in the world. With 160,000 visitors and a high-profile international presence, collectors, press and the most important stakeholders gathered for the October 2025 automotive extravaganza.

As its ambassadors for the Italian clubs for a couple of years, the BMW Youngtimer Club joined forces and presented BMW cars, BMW motorcycles, and MINIs in a single stand designed to reflect BMW’s corporate identity. The stand was supported by BMW Classic and BMW Club & Community Management (BCCM), which provided light walls and produced prints for the event that will also be used in future displays. Matthias Neuer from BCCM was present throughout the event to support the BMW clubs.

BMW’s contributions allowed us to rent a larger space where we could comfortably accommodate 10 BMW and MINI vehicles. Of the three classic MINIs, one had the famous wooden profile while another—a daily driver still—reflected an appreciation for the marque’s history at Monte Carlo.

The BMW Historic Legends International Club (BHLIC) exhibited four motorcycles. These included a BMW R5, a BMW R12, the famous R80GS, which led the way for a whole new segment of BMW motorcycles, and a very rare BMW R50.

We arranged the four motorcycles in the corners of our club area to give them prominence. We added three reception desks for the clubs, given that often collectors have multiple interests for one or more of the clubs. The BMW Youngtimer Club, which coordinated this event, exhibited a BMW 320is and an Italian E30 M3—a very rare limousine version in pastel red. This M3 was recently featured in the magazine La Manovella (09/2025) for the special feature on the 50th anniversary of the BMW 3 Series. Also on the stand was a BMW Z3 1.9 16v to celebrate the 30th anniversary of the Z3; and a BMW M3 GT featured in Ruoteclassiche (6/2025) for the 30th anniversary of that model. A relaxation area comfortably accommodated our guests, as well as drinks and snacks to recharge after the exertions of the fair.

We wanted to illustrate the structure of BMW clubs and our sense of belonging to the BMW International Classic and Type Clubs umbrella, so we created a wall with all the logos of the participating clubs and the BMW Club Book to help introduce ourselves and convey the great interconnection and cooperation of the clubs with each other and with the BMW Group. Visitors were fascinated by the structure of the BMW Clubs International Council and its Umbrella Clubs. Officials from the Italian Historical Automotorclub (ASI) and the International Federation of Historic Vehicles (FIVA) also expressed their admiration.

The Bologna show event organizer holds the BMW brand and our presence and style in high regard. In fact, it granted us a free island on all four sides in the brightest and most visited Club pavilion next to the ASI village. ASI is the Italian representative of FIVA and the president of ASI is also the newly elected president of FIVA. Our proximity to the highest authority of world historic motoring led to many high-profile meetings and relationships. We had visits from personalities and leaders of important associations who complimented us on the clean, elegant, and linear style that the BMW brand has in its corporate identity. We also welcomed visits of the heads of the Turin Mauto and of the registers of national Fiat brands, who greatly envied the support, presence, and cohesion that the BMW Group

Photos by Alessandro Botta

BOLOGNA MOTOR SHOW, ITALY 2025

BY ALESSANDRO BOTTA

has with our clubs. On this occasion, we also described and showed them photographs of the fantastic BMW stand we had in Stuttgart. They were amazed by the efficiency and the high level of participation of all the clubs.

The Z3 Mendi Club visited us to introduce themselves to Matthias. At that time, the process of formalizing their association under the Z3 Club was under way (it was completed shortly thereafter). We enthusiastically welcomed them, showed them the work we had done, and offered to have them join us at next year’s stand.

For the BMW Youngtimer Club, it was an opportunity to make the final push for the coveted membership in the ASI federation of clubs in Italy, which is crucial to our club’s growth. For this, we extend thanks to Matthias Neuer and Benedikt Allar

of BCCM and Guido Portinari, president of the BHLIC, who collaborated to provide us with maximum support and increase the contacts that led us to complete this major step in December. Starting in 2026, the BMW Young–timer Club will be able to certify classic BMWs aged 20 years and over for the Italian state, exempting them from property tax and granting them access to discounted insurance—a tremendous service for our members.

On Saturday, the Youngtimer rally organized by the fair took place in the outdoor parking lots. Anyone with a classic car could access the fair and park inside. Many of our members brought their vehicles and enthusiastically participated.

The editorial group of the Italian Automobile Club (ACI) also organizes award ceremonies. This year we were all very proud when a special award dedicated to the BMW 3 Series was won by one of our members.

Speaking of relations with newspapers, all the Italian car magazines have had specials on the 50th anniversary of the BMW 3 Series. We collected them all in a dedicated volume for presentation at the fair. Those magazines counted on us and our members to obtain cars for their articles.

We believe that as an ambassador of the BMW brand, collaboration with the magazines is fundamental. In fact, the BHLIC also collaborates with About BMW and presents its initiatives in every new issue. As a Club, we also manage the prices of the magazine Ruoteclassiche, which in Italy are used as the appraisal and reference values, even in court, for our beloved classic cars. As the author of this article, we are part of the founding committee that also updates the prices for ALPINA brands and BMW motorcycles. This additional initiative requires us to maintain a close eye on the market, allowing us to discover new members; not just newcomers, but also younger members to encourage generational change.

This year we also had the honour of having Hans Rosenstein present at the stand for two whole days to support our presentation to the public and to give concrete help with a lot of kindness and charisma. Hans met many of our members, who came to visit the fair or took turns managing our presence at the stand. We were able to meet many new enthusiasts, collect new registrations, and support those who were specifically looking for help for their favorite cars and motorbikes.

As we do every year, we organized a joint dinner for all the clubs at an excellent restaurant in Modena, coordinated by Cesare, to explore the synergies that could exist among our members. We also saw how it’s possible to build cross-functional relationships and leverage our specific skills. Next year, we’ll begin to see the fruits of this shared project.

On Sunday we also had the visit from the attending Mercedes Youngtimer Club. They only presented one car and Mercedes was not present anymore. Porsche clubs also came to greet us, to praise us on our growth, and confer on support strategies. They found that BMW’s presence, especially in difficult economic conditions, to be very intelligent and effective.

We have always considered our International Classic and Type Clubs umbrella, and its excellent relationship with BCCM to be a strong point. By presenting it at the forefront, it creates interest from new and prospective members. Our members are particularly proud to carry our club card, a fundamental point in the growth process, and added value to being a Club Member

BOLOGNA MOTOR SHOW, ITALY 2025

BY ALESSANDRO BOTTA

We make the most of the strength that the union of clubs has, each within its own umbrella and moving away from the individualism of the single club, enabling us to present ourselves as a harmonious and synergistic family. In a nation like Italy, where joining a club is almost always a financial calculation, having a physical membership card in your hands is an enormous gain.

The results for us are extremely positive, reflecting our prestige, image, and presence, and the value we give to our clubs as brand ambassadors is recognizable and authoritative. Above all, we provide solidity to all our members who can’t attend the fair, but who are proud to see our clubs present, so well-regarded and respected, despite the strong nationalism of the Italian media. For those who simply want to do the math, after 20 years of attending the fair, new members don’t cover the investment in terms of revenue, which is borne solely by the BMW Youngtimer Club for stand expenses. However, our presence must be viewed from a strategic perspective for the brand and the club.

The Bologna 2026 event was a great fair with a huge attendance of high-quality, knowledgeable, and interested visitors. Above all, the organizer believes the BMW brand is increasingly strategic. We are very happy with the result. Our members were enthusiastic. We see that many BMW Classic friends visit the fair every year, and we hope that more and more of our fellow BMW clubs will also make the trip to Italy for a dinner together and a visit that is worth the trip.

Thanks to all our friends and everyone who supported us, including our graphic designer and one of our members who photographed the stand with a drone. We’ll see you again in 2026, where we will celebrate the 50th anniversary of the 6 Series and the 20th anniversary of BMW Youngtimer Club, along with other anniversaries!

I’d like to make a quick mention about the last event of 2025. Matthias Neuer and I visited the Milan fair in November, a much smaller and more selective but nonetheless interesting fair. The reason for our visit was to present the Z3 Mendi Club with their official recognition as a BMW club. They welcomed us

in their stand with incredible kindness and courtesy, presenting us with a commemorative plaque to thank us for the work we’ve done to bring them to this important milestone, after more than 20 years as an independent BMW club. We are proud we were able to welcome them.

Also in Milan, ASI delegates met with us, and the Italian Automobile Club invited Professor Giacinti (tax consultant and collector), Daniele Turrisi (historical car dealer and Broad Arrow Consignment Consultant) and me, moderated by Marco di Pietro, for a talk about the future of classic cars, evaluations, trends, and who will keep them alive.

Since this topic is of interest to all of us, I feel a brief summary is in order. A recurring important question is whether there is a market bubble, and what future we can foresee. Despite our differing views, Daniele and I later persuaded Professor Giacinti to agree that there will always be bubble moments for individual brands, models, or eras. However, a sector that sees new vehicles and new enthusiasts enter the market every year is a natural evolution, and therefore the peak wave involves the era and what’s in vogue now, and can therefore experience declines. Generally speaking, the 1950s and 1960s are suffering while the 1980s, 1990s, and 2000s are on the upswing, but the classic vehicle market is healthy and growing, with natural waves. The secret for professionals is to predict where and when the waves will hit. For enthusiasts like us, who voluntarily commit to keeping our passion alive, we must understand where to find new enthusiasts and engage young people. This is our challenge for the next 10 and even 20 years. We must try to impart on others the beauty of even the older models and bring in new members to help us bring them to life.

BCA BURN 2025—EVENT REPORT

BY IAN VERHULP

Overview

The BCA Burn 2025 was an unforgettable celebration of riding, music, and community spirit. Held at Karoo 62, the event attracted 180 attendees from across South Africa, with one adventurous participant from the BMW Car Club Gauteng making the trip in a race car—surely an interesting ride for the Karoo roads!

Breakfast and dinner were included in the ticket price, and the meals were outstanding. The highlight? A Karoo lamb spit braai on Saturday night—simply unforgettable.

Entertainment

The entertainment lineup was a major highlight:

• Harmony Junction (Cape Town) –Regular performers at BMW Motorrad Club Cape events.

• Tomorrow Band (Namibia) – All members of the Namibia Motorrad Club.

Both bands delivered incredible performances, keeping the crowd energized. Between sets, DJ Arno kept the vibes alive with a fantastic mix of tracks.

Venue & Hospitality

The venue, Karoo 62, exceeded expectations. The staff were exceptionally friendly and displayed a “can-do” attitude throughout the weekend. The bar was wellstaffed, ensuring there were no queues, and food vendors and coffee suppliers kept everyone fueled with snacks and refreshments.

Activities

• Outrides: Dirt and tar routes through the Karoo offered breathtaking scenery and thrilling rides.

• Skills Challenge: Courtesy of Country Trax, the obstacle course tested riders with sharp turns, low ropes, water bucket grabs, stair descents, sandbag throws, and even a bow-and-arrow finish! All great fun. Check it out in the full video that will be released in November. In the meantime, watch the one-minute teaser video here: https://www.bmwclubs.africa/global/posts/ bca-burn-2025-teaser-drop/

BCA BURN 2025—EVENT REPORT

BY IAN VERHULP

Sponsors and Vendors

A big thank you to our sponsors and vendors:

• MC Tyre – Lifesavers for puncture repairs and tyre replacements.

• Leatt, Flying Brick, Lekka Rides, and Alublack—For their support and presence at the event.

Charity Initiative

Our chosen charity was I Love Boobies, and funds were raised through the sale of BCA Burn socks—a great way to combine fun with a cause.

Closing Ceremony

The symbolic burning of the sculpture marked the end of the event and the beginning of anticipation for the next BCA Burn. The sense of camaraderie and shared passion was palpable as the flames lit up the Karoo night sky.

In Summary:

BCA Burn 2025 was a resounding success—an event that blended adventure, music, and community in the heart of the Karoo. Here’s to an even bigger and better Burn next year!

BCA SUPERFEST 2025: AUSTRALIA’S LARGEST BMW CELEBRATION

BY ANDREW GREEN

BMW SuperFest, hosted by the BMW Drivers Club New South Wales, has rapidly become a landmark event for BMW enthusiasts, not only in Australia but across the Southern Hemisphere. In just its second year, SuperFest garnered over 2,500 passionate owners and fans from every corner of the country, with many traveling thousands of kilometers to Sydney Motorsport Park for a day dedicated to the iconic marque.

A Festival Born from Enthusiasm

The concept for SuperFest originated from the club’s Social Events Manager, Ash Sherry, who envisioned an annual celebration of the brand that would unite the BMW community. The result was a multifaceted festival featuring a SuperSprint race, a judged car show, a Show & Shine, sponsor displays, and BMW lifestyle exhibits. This blend of activities ensured there was something for every BMW aficionado, from motorsport fans to collectors and families.

Racing, Showcases, and Community

On 26 October 2025, Sydney Motorsport Park was transformed into BMW paradise as 100 vehicles competed in the Supersprint, tackling the 3.93 km, 11-turn GP Circuit. For those unfamiliar with this category of motorsport, a supersprint is an event where drivers race against the clock on a circuit to achieve the fastest single lap time in their class.

The fastest lap of the day was set by Jordan Cox in the SouthernBM’s M2 Competition, clocking an impressive 1:35.249. The event also featured standout performances from Sam Hou in his race ready M3 and James Hughes in his 130i, whose car control wowed spectators.

Show N Shine: Honouring 50 Years of the BMW 3 Series

A major highlight was the tribute to the BMW 3 Series, celebrating its 50th anniversary in 2025. Over 30 cars were arranged on the skid pad to form a giant “3”. This was captured by drone, creating a stunning aerial photo. This fantastic display showcased the diversity of the 3 Series, from heritage models to the latest releases, and symbolized the depth of the club’s membership.

The overall Show N Shine display featured more than 250 BMWs, ranging from meticulously restored classics to cutting-edge modern models. The Judged Display introduced a formal assessment, with a panel of six judges evaluating cars on engine bay, interior, and exterior presentation. The coveted Best in Show award went to Andrew Cartledge’s E60 M5, celebrated for its legendary V10 engine and flawless attention to detail.

Parade Laps and International Flair

The parade laps were a true spectacle and an integral part of BMW SuperFest. Led by the club President John Cotter in his E46 M3 and followed by a collection of three BMW Highway Patrol vehicles courtesy of the NSW Police Force—including an iX xDrive 40 Sport—which is used for community engagement events as well as to evaluate the effectiveness of a fully electric car for

BCA SUPERFEST 2025: AUSTRALIA’S LARGEST BMW CELEBRATION

BY ANDREW GREEN

Australia’s Law enforcement agencies. The parade featured nearly every BMW model, from the iconic ‘02 to the latest 2025 releases. The sight of hundreds of BMWs lined up on the main straight was unforgettable, capturing the spirit of BMW enthusiasts that defines the event.

Behind the Scenes: Dedication and Teamwork

The event’s success was made possible by a dedicated team of volunteers, including scrutineers, flag marshals, and support staff. Their tireless efforts ensured that every aspect of SuperFest ran smoothly, from race control to merchandise sales. The club committee and volunteers worked hard all day to assist attendees, answer questions, and keep the energy high.

A Lasting Impression

From the electric atmosphere of the Show N Shine to the adrenaline of the SuperSprint and the unity of the parade laps, BMW SuperFest 2025 delivered unforgettable experiences for all involved. The drone shots, photos, and videos will serve as lasting memories for the club’s magazine, archives, and social media. Above all, SuperFest stands as a testament to the passion, diversity, and community spirit of BMW enthusiasts in Australia and is becoming an event that sets a new standard for BMW gatherings worldwide.

BCA SUPERFEST 2025: AUSTRALIA’S LARGEST BMW CELEBRATION

BY ANDREW GREEN

BMW V8 CLUB CELEBRATES 50 YEARS

WITH 50TH ANNUAL MEETING

BY MONI EWE

In 2025, the BMW V8 Club celebrated its 50th anniversary with its 50th International V8 Annual Meeting—half a century of life, stories, and adventures.

Returning to the first club meeting’s location was already something special for the anniversary gathering, but then to celebrate the 50th anniversary with over 150 club members on fantastic drives and in perfect weather was simply magnificent. The anniversary meeting at the end of June 2025, like the club’s very first meeting, took place in Hildesheim, Lower Saxony.

This historic city lies about 30 kilometers southeast of Hannover More than 75 vehicles attended, in 1976, including BMW 501s, 502s (both sedans and convertibles), 503s (both convertibles and coupes), and the Bertone BMW 3200 CS.

overwhelmed by the number of participants. Eighty-eight vehicles with 150 people turned up including seven BMW 507s, a dozen 503s, the Jacobsen & Steinberg plastic convertible, and the only original 3200 CS convertible. Even a member from abroad attended. On that Saturday, the participants and their vehicles lined up in the larger market square. At the invitation of Albrecht Graf von Goertz (designer of the 503 and 507), the group drove to his estate in Brunkensen near Alfeld. Graf von Goertz had come all the way from New York. He treated them to draft beer, coffee and cake, and soft drinks.

The newly founded V8 Club awarded Graf von Goertz an honorary membership and presented him with a plaque. The first vehicle judging also took place in the courtyard and 53 vehicles were judged for originality. Graf von Goertz also exhibited his design for a Porsche 911 successor as well as the Datsun 240Z Coupe. Throughout the evening, numerous stories and adventures from earlier days were shared. Those were truly special times, 49 years ago.

The first stop of the meeting was the Hannover Tram Museum in Sehnde-Wehmingen near Hannover, which offered insights into the development of trams since their beginnings during industrialization. Selected vehicles were displayed in the halls and on the grounds—from 19th-century horse-drawn trams to modern subways. A particular highlight was a ride on a vintage tram.

In the evening, President Moni Ewe officially welcomed all participants and wished them engaging discussions and an enjoyable experience over the coming days of the event. A special welcome, including of a bottle of Riesling sparkling wine, was given to the oldest participant, 89-year-old Günter Rommel, and to the participants who had traveled the farthest: Lothar Schüttler from Maryland, USA, and Omar Namnieks from Sweden.

In her opening speech, Moni Ewe recalled the first club meeting in Hildesheim in 1976. According to honorary president and founder of the V8 Club, Erich Reckel, the organizers were

BMW V8 CLUB CELEBRATES 50 YEARS

WITH 50TH ANNUAL MEETING

BY MONI EWE

The next highlight was the Fagus Factory in the small town of Alfeld. This factory complex was designed in 1911 by the architect Walter Gropius and his colleague Adolf Meyer. The building has been listed as a historical monument since 1946, as one of the first examples of architectural modernism. In June 2011, the entire factory complex was named a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Our vehicles were allowed to park on the protected grounds

During the evening program, members celebrating 25, 35, and 45 years of membership were honored with a gift and a bottle of sparkling wine. Unfortunately, none of the original attendees from the very first meeting were present at the 50th anniversary celebration in 2025, but several members who had joined the V8 Club back in 1976 were there. The club anticipates 19 members will be celebrating their 50th anniversaries in 2026. Wow, what a remarkable number!

The final day of the event started off calmly. The traditional vehicle judging began, along with a vehicle judging from a woman’s perspective, as well as a parts market and club clothing sale.

Even early on, several car owners could be seen in the parking lot making sure their “treasures” looked their best for the judging and for the audience.

After a midday snack, the BMW enthusiasts set off for the final highlight of the meeting—the privately owned Söder Castle for a photo opportunity. Under brilliant sunshine and with a breathtaking backdrop, our club presented its prized possessions. Numerous photos were taken, with a drone captured the spectacle from above.

BMW V8 CLUB CELEBRATES 50 YEARS

WITH 50TH ANNUAL MEETING

BY MONI EWE

Afterwards, the Störy Oldtimer Club and the Hanomag Club awaited us. They had spent the entire week sprucing up their workshop, cleaning, polishing, and setting up benches and tables. A tour was offered for those interested in the technical aspects, and the Oldtimer and Hanomag Club members treated us to coffee and cake.

President Moni Ewe welcomed the participants of the 50th meeting to the gala evening with a champagne reception, generously sponsored by BMW, and everyone raised a glass in celebration. The highlight of the evening, and thus a fitting conclusion to the anniversary meeting, was a performance by the Swedish pop artist Namelle, daughter of a Swedish club member. The last song was an absolute sing-along favorite. It’s a hit by the Swedish pop singer Siw Malmkvist from the 60s, sung by Namelle in German. Most of the gala attendees knew the lyrics by heart and were able to sing along: “Liebeskummer lohnt sich nicht my Darling. Schade um die Tränen in der Nacht...”

NEW BMW CLUBS 2024/2025

These are the new accepted or pending BMW Clubs approved by the BMW Clubs International Council in 2024 and 2025.

BMW Alpina Club Nederland Kingdom of the Netherlands Accepted

BMW Club Heritage Brussels Kingdom of Belgium Accepted

BMW Club M Society Federal Republic of Germany Accepted

BMW Drivers Club Luxembourg Grand Duchy of Luxembourg Accepted

BMW Moto Club Anatolia Republic of Turkey

Accepted

BMW Motorrad Touren Freunde Deutschland e.V. Federal Republic of Germany

Accepted

BMW R18 Club Boxer Heritage Nederland Kingdom of the Netherlands

Accepted

BMW Rehin-Nahe e.V. Federal Republic of Germany Accepted

BMW Club Enzkreis Federal Republic of Germany Accepted

BMW Z-Roadster Club Slovakia Slovak Republic Accepted

BMW Motorrad Club Calabria Kingdom of Spain Accepted

BMW Club Sardegna Italian Republic Accepted

BMW Motorrad Community Indonesia Republic of Indonesia Accepted

BMW M Club Korea Republic of Korea Pending

BMW Motorrad Club of Zimbabwe Republic of Zimbabwe

Accepted

BMW Z3 Clubmendi

Italian Republic

Accepted

BMW Veteranen Klassiker Schweiz

Swiss Confederation

Accepted

BMW ANNIVERSARIES IN 2026

110 years of BMW as a brand.

60 Years of BMW 02 – Bavaria Tour 2026

50 Years of BMW 6 Series

40 years of M3

25 Years of „New“ MINI

BMW EXPERIENCES

BY TREVOR DEAN AND MATTHIAS NEUER

Munich is the home of BMW with many BMW facilities for BMW club members and enthusiasts to visit.

Guided Tours

BMW Museum (Tuesday – Sunday)

The BMW Museum is located next to BMW’s iconic 4-cylinder headquarters building. It displays the history of BMW from the beginning and exhibits the journey of the marque through design, prototypes, racing, and historic models.

Please book your entrance ticket in advance. BMW club members receive a discount (Book a reduced ticket cost). Please have your club membership card ready.

BMW Welt (Open all week)

This is BMW World, which showcases a range of the latest models of BMW Group Brands: BMW, BMW Motorrad, Rolls-Royce Motor Cars, and MINI. There is also a big BMW Lifestyle shop for merchandise.

Admission to BMW Welt is free.

Both the BMW Museum and BMW Welt offer guided tours. The guided tour of the BMW Museum features 125 exhibits and is approximately one hour in duration. Similarly, the guided tour of BMW Welt takes approximately one hour. It allows access to restricted and exclusive areas with the tour guide. Check the day, as some tours are in English and on other days in German.

Here is the link for admission and guided tours. https://www.bmw-welt.com/en/index.html

BMW EXPERIENCES

BY TREVOR DEAN AND MATTHIAS NEUER

BMW Group Classic

The BMW Classic historic building in Moosacher Straße 66 is the home of BMW Club & Community Management. They have an extensive collection of BMW Group cars and motorcycles.

It is not open to the public, but BCCM will sometimes be able to offer a tour of the BMW collection for BMW club members, depending upon their work or travel commitments.

BMW Classic also offers a group tour which is approximately one hour long. https://www.bmwgroup-classic.com/en/company/location/ guided-tours.html

BMW Plant Tours

The BMW plant tour in Munich is approximately 2 hours in duration. The tours are fascinating and comprehensive. They show the manufacturing of a BMW car from the initial rolls of steel, stamping into parts, robotic welding of the chassis, painting, installation of E-engines, drive train, and interiors to the final product being test driven.

BCCM keeps a slot for a Group Guided Tour every Friday. Do not hesitate to contact BCCM. It makes sense to book at least 6 weeks ahead of your visit. To book a plant tour you need to contact: https://www.bmw-welt.com/en/index.html

Information on the BMW Plant Tour Munich can be found at: https://www.bmw-welt.com/en/ausstellungen/fuehrungen.html#groupPlant

View this link for information about factory tours in Munich, Berlin, Leipzig, and Oxford. https://www.bmwgroup-werke.com/en/general/information-plant-tours.html

BMW EXPERIENCES

BY TREVOR DEAN AND MATTHIAS NEUER

BMW Car Rental

CARVIA is the proud partner of BMW Welt. You can easily rent a new BMW directly there or online.

Drive your favourite BMW at BMW Welt. Rent a BMW from 1 hour up to 7 days.

carvia.com/bmw-welt-x-carvia-driven-by-freude/

If you need a fleet of cars, please get in touch with BCCM.

BMW M Driving Experience

BMW M Driving Experience offers a variety of options in various countries. Experience the thrill on the closed BMW Driving Experiences track in Maisach.

Ready for a driving adventure?

Visit the following link: https://www.bmw-m.com/en/fastlane/aream/international.html

Deutsches Museum

The Deutsches Museum is the world’s largest museum of science and technology. It features 20 exhibitions ranging from aviation to chemistry and robotics. There are huge industrial engines, historical trams, trains and airplanes, with many hands-on stations.

It is well worth a visit. See: deutsches-museum.de/en

There are BMW displays including one of the few BMW 507’s built and a BMW E38 750hL Hydrogen.

Deutsches Museum Flugwerft Schleissheim

There is also a separate aircraft museum called Deutsches Museum Flugwerft Schleissheim which has 70 flying exhibits as well as engines and models to tell the history of aviation in huge aircraft hangers.

See the BMW 803 Radial aircraft engine. deutsches-museum.de/flugwerft-schleissheim

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CALENDAR

DATE EVENT

15–17 May 2026

23 May 2026

11–13 June 2026

18–21 June 2026

13 August 2026

14–18 September 2026

19–22 September 2026

31 January 2027

31 January 2027

5–8 February 2027

18–21 March 2027

25–27 March 2027

We at BMW Club & Community Management love to meet up with the community! That’s why we are organizing events for you, with some coming up soon. We will be happy to welcome you there!

Concorso D’ Eleganza Villa D’ Este, Lake Como, Italy

Wheels & Weisswürscht, BMW Group Classic, Moosacher Straße66, Munich (Also 6 June, 4 July, 1 August, and 5 September 2026)

BMW MOA National Rally, Essex Junction, Vermont USA

BMW RA National Rally, Chippewa Falls, Wisconsin, USA

BMW CCA Legends of the Autobahn Concours d’Elegance, Pacific Grove, California, USA

BCIC Council Meeting Pre-Tour, Vancouver, Canada

BMW Clubs International Council Meeting, Vancouver, Canada

BMW Friend of the Marque and Knöchlein Award nominations due at BCCM

BMW Club of the Year award nominations due at BCCM

BMW Motorcycle Club New Zealand National Rally/AGM, North Island, NZ

BMW Clubs Australia Cars National Rally

BMW Clubs Australia National Motorrad Rally

BMW LOVE TO GO.

Do you know our BMW Group Classic Podcast “Classic Heart“? Find exciting stories via the QR code on Spotify and all known podcast platforms. More information at bmwgroup-classic.