BMW Opening Design Studio in Shanghai to Keep A Finger on the Pulse of China

April 25, 2011 at 3:49pm by Alexander Stoklosa

The BMW Group’s in-house design consulting firm, DesignworksUSA, will be opening a new studio in Shanghai later this year—supplementing the feeds from existing studios in Los Angeles, Munich, and Singapore with some Chinese design flair. DesignworksUSA may be a subsidiary of an automotive company in BMW, but it dabbles in industrial and product design for a variety of industries, having designed everything from the Embraer Legacy jet to a reimagined 1950’s-era Emeco aluminum chair. Of course, the consulting firm doesn’t forget its parent; contributions to BMW’s stable include the Z4, X Coupe, and Rolls-Royce Phantom.

DesignworksUSA’s Singapore studio has been in operation since 2006, but given the rapidly growing influence of China on the global automotive industry, DesignworksUSA’s execs know it’s important to have a presence in China. This will enable the company to work on non-automotive products there and get a feel for the tastes of Chinese consumers. We’re sure that China’s role as the quickest-growing market for BMW and the largest automotive market in the world played into the decision, too. (BMW is presently represented in China in a partnership with Brilliance Auto.)

This certainly sounds like a good strategic move for the future of BMW design—we just hope it doesn’t lead to a long-wheelbase Z4.

Tags: BMW, China, DesignworksUSA |

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Mini Goodwood Concept headed to Shanghai Motor Show

by Matt Davis (RSS feed) on Mar 15th 2011 at 11:28AM

At the recent Geneva Motor Show, a source within Mini revealed to Autoblog that the automaker will be bringing a new concept, dubbed "Goodwood," to the Shanghai Motor Show next month.

The Goodwood concept is a fully plushified, hand-wrought hatchback updo that pays hommage to not only the current Rolls-Royce headquarters on the Goodwood estate (hey, it's all in the BMW Group family), but also to the Rolls-Royce/Bentley glory years of bespoke treatments by the in-house Mulliner Park Ward department. Consider it a high-margin fluff job for present-day good-taste barometer nations like China, Russia, India, Abu Dhabi and Switzerland.

Coachbuilder Park Ward of London became a wholly owned part of Rolls-Royce/Bentley in 1939, while H.J. Mulliner & Co. was absorbed in 1961. Together these workers melded into one under the legendary Mulliner Park Ward bespoke umbrella. In 1998 when Rolls-Royce and Bentley were hewn asunder, Mulliner was eventually reconstituted under the Bentley brand as its bespoke group, while Park Ward lasted until 2002 at the end of the limited-run Rolls-Royce Park Ward extended-wheelbase model.

We're eager to get our hands on the official images and details sometime before the Wee Roller's debut next month. Should be rich.

[Image: Drew Phillips/AOL]

Filed under: Concept Cars, China, Hatchback, Mini, Rolls-Royce, UK, Specialty, Shanghai Motor Show, Design/Style, Luxury

Tags: 2011 shanghai, concept, goodwood, mini, shanghai 2011, shanghai motor show

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Mini Goodwood packs the heart of a Rolls-Royce for Shanghai

MINI INSPIRED BY GOODWOOD: THE HIGHEST IN EXCLUSIVITY.
Limited production model from the MINI Yours range of special edition vehicles and optionsBased on the MINI Hardtop, this special edition includes authentic Rolls-Royce materials, colors and accessoriesProduction limited to 1,000 units worldwideDeliveries to begin spring 2012
WOODCLIFF LAKE, NJ – April 13, 2011-The MINI INSPIRED BY GOODWOOD, which will make its world debut at the Auto Shanghai 2011, is an exclusive special edition that adds another layer to the MINI brand experience with a generous dose of automotive luxury and exclusivity in its highest form.

Close collaboration with the Rolls-Royce Motor Cars design team at the development center of Rolls-Royce in Goodwood, England has produced a limited-run special edition MINI, whose exterior and interior design is inspired by fine materials and the British luxury car marque's commitment to absolutely flawless workmanship.

The MINI INSPIRED BY GOODWOOD, which will be produced in a limited edition of 1,000 units, combines typical MINI driving fun with discerning craftsmanship, select materials and a styling marked by typical British understatement of the world's leading producer of luxury automobiles. Deliveries of the 2012 model year vehicle, which will launch as part of the exclusive MINI Yours product line, are scheduled to start in spring 2012.

The MINI INSPIRED BY GOODWOOD is characterized by top-grade materials, the highest level of workmanship and stylish supremacy. The special edition of the MINI Hardtop was built under the guidance of the Rolls-Royce Motor Cars designer team and transfers the unmistakable style of the British luxury car manufacturer to the equally unique MINI, an original within the premium small car segment.

The exterior and interior design from the MINI Yours range: fascinating charisma and incomparable high-quality ambience.

As the first premium model in the small car segment, MINI has been a genuine trailblazer, the unsurpassed scope of its equipment features and accessories allowing it to meet the most varied requirements. And now MINI fans can express their appreciation of exclusive individuality, eye for stylish elegance and penchant for uncompromising premium quality with even greater sophistication.

Inside the MINI INSPIRED BY GOODWOOD, a harmonious color concept, selected materials and a production quality characterized by precise craftsmanship guarantee the highest degree of well-being and comfort.

The dashboard, including the surrounds of the central instrument and the air vents, the center console, carpet surfaces, the Lounge leather seats, the roof lining as well as the door, side and body pillar cladding boast the exclusive Rolls-Royce color Cornsilk, a warm and natural shade of beige. Only the upper section of the instrument panel, which is lined with extremely high-quality, soft full-grain leather, is in black.

The dashboard and door handle surfaces are manufactured in Goodwood and finished in Walnut Burr, a wood quality also exclusive to Rolls-Royce. The black nappa leather dashboard top, Tipped Leather Cornsilk door linings as well as Piano Black surface finishes for the buttons on the multifunction steering wheel and the controls below the central instrument all provide additional quality-enhancing accents. These veneers are selected at the Goodwood factory exclusively for the MINI INSPIRED BY GOODWOOD, and the matching black dials for the speedometer and rev counter bear the same typeface as their Rolls-Royce counterparts.

Two of the most striking features of the exterior design are the body finish in the exclusive Rolls-Royce color Diamond Black metallic and 17-inch light alloy wheels sporting a multi-spoke design. Alternatively, the MINI color variant Reef Blue metallic can be specified as an option.

The chosen paint shade is also used for the exterior mirror caps and roof spoiler of the MINI INSPIRED BY GOODWOOD. The exclusivity of the special-edition model is also reflected in its body design. The car's front and rear apron are the same as those found on the MINI Cooper S, but are combined with the bonnet from the MINI Cooper D. Rather than carrying over the air scoop of the MINI Cooper S, it boasts a harmoniously flowing surface which underlines the stylishly elegant appearance of the MINI INSPIRED BY GOODWOOD.

There are also high-class aluminum badges stamped with the lettering "MINI INSPIRED BY GOODWOOD" on the side indicator surrounds above the front wheel arches and on the door sills. Another badge, also featuring the legend "One of 1000", can be found on the centre console in front of the gearshift lever (or selector lever, if the automatic gearbox is specified).

Beyond the signature features of the special-edition model, the standard equipment fitted in the MINI INSPIRED BY GOODWOOD also meets the highest expectations of a premium car. The MINI INSPIRED BY GOODWOOD's range of high-quality equipment offered as standard also includes Xenon Adaptive Headlights, Park Distance Control, automatic air conditioning, an onboard computer and the audio system Radio MINI Visual Boost, which includes the Harman Kardon hi-fi speaker system.

Twin-scroll turbocharged engine delivers customary MINI driving fun.

The MINI INSPIRED BY GOODWOOD is powered by a turbocharged l.6-liter four-cylinder engine that was featured for the first time in the 2011 MINI Cooper S. The MINI Cooper S engine ensures that the hallmark MINI driving fun and imposing power reserves are available on tap. The engine includes a Twin Scroll turbocharger, direct injection and variable valve control.

The 1.6-liter drive unit generates 181 hp and maximum torque of 240 Newton meters (177 lb-ft), which can be raised to 260 Newton meters (192 lb-ft) using the Overboost function.

The most efficient engine in its displacement class combines its outstanding power development with exceptionally low fuel consumption and emissions figures. The sprint from 0 to 60 mph is all over in 6.6 seconds, while its EPA fuel economy ratings are 35 mpg highway / 27 mpg city / 30 mpg combined (manual transmission). As an alternative to the standard six-speed manual gearbox, the MINI INSPIRED BY GOODWOOD can also be ordered as an option with a six-speed automatic.

Inspired by Goodwood, built in Oxford.

The exterior and interior features specially developed for the MINI INSPIRED BY GOODWOOD embody the inimitable style of Rolls-Royce Design. From the initial inspiration, the selection of materials and the detailed preparation of the color concept, to the fine-tuning of the production process to ensure unimpeachable quality standards, the entire development process in Goodwood was carried out in close collaboration with the MINI plant in Oxford and the BMW Group's development center in Munich.

The special-edition car will be built at the Oxford MINI plant, where the MINI Hardtop, MINI Clubman and MINI Convertible are also produced for the global market.

Bred from the finest of stock: The MINI INSPIRED BY GOODWOOD.

The British origins of the two brands, their shared belief in meeting the individual needs and desires of their customers, and the creative pooling of ideas between the various brands at BMW Group Design provided the fuel for the collaboration between Rolls-Royce and MINI. At the Rolls-Royce headquarters in Goodwood, southern England, Rolls-Royce interior designer Alan Sheppard has overseen the emergence of a MINI which reproduces the hallmark majestic allure of the historic luxury brand and an interior ambience born of exquisite materials and outstanding workmanship in a representative of the small car community for the first time.

The exclusive status of the MINI INSPIRED BY GOODWOOD is rooted in a materials and color concept which reflects the unmistakable and globally unique Rolls-Royce style not only in its individual component parts, but also in the configuration put together for the special-edition model.

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Rolls-Royce debuts Ghost Extended Wheelbase in Shanghai

* World debut for Ghost Extended Wheelbase
* Specially commissioned China Edition bespoke Ghost and Spirit of Ecstasy Centenary Collection cars presented
* First quarter global sales more than double compared to the same period in 2010
* China expansion plans announced

Rolls-Royce Motor Cars unveiled its new Ghost Extended Wheelbase model for the first time at the 14th Auto Shanghai Motor Show on Tuesday, 19 April 2011.

First world debut for a Rolls-Royce car in Asia Pacific
The ultra-luxury saloon, the sixth new model from Rolls-Royce Motor Cars, caters for customers who require increased space and comfort without sacrificing Ghost's unique balance of dynamism and poise.

The award-winning, four-seater Ghost has seen outstanding demand since its worldwide launch in 2009. Designed as a vision of simplicity, it is a Rolls-Royce that drives and rides in peerless fashion. Ghost Extended Wheelbase takes this principle further, designed as a car to drive or in which to be chauffeured. It will be built to order and is available in only limited numbers for 2011 until full production begins in 2012.

Ghost's ample interior space is further enhanced in the Extended Wheelbase variant by the addition of 170mm to the car's wheelbase, but with no detriment to the model's balanced proportions and stunning contemporary design. Legroom is significantly enhanced with knee-room more than doubled compared to the standard Ghost.

Increased cabin space in the rear passenger compartment and a panoramic sunroof sets new standards for interior ambience and light. Effortless entry and exit for passengers further reinforces Rolls-Royce Motor Cars' pinnacle position in the ultra-luxury segment.

Powered by the acclaimed Rolls-Royce Ghost 6.6 litre twin turbo charged V12 engine which produces an effortless 563hp and 780Nm of torque at just 1,500rpm, Ghost Extended Wheelbase accelerates from 0-100km/h in just five seconds. An intelligent, four corner air suspension maintains a perfect balance between ride and handling.

On the unveiling of the new car, CEO Torsten Müller-Ötvös said, "This latest Rolls-Royce is a model of outstanding design and unrivalled luxury. Ghost Extended Wheelbase delivers all the poise and dynamism enjoyed by discerning Ghost owners, with the indulgent experience of an extended wheelbase car. It is the very best of both worlds.

"This is the first time we have undertaken a world launch of a Rolls-Royce car in China, underscoring the strategic significance of this market and the Asia Pacific region. We expect to build on last year's record growth, with further strong demand for Rolls-Royce models and a positive economic forecast throughout the region," he added.

Bespoke models showcased
A highly bespoke China Edition Ghost is displayed for the first time, showcasing the company's unique bespoke capabilities for the Chinese market. Featuring a stunning consort red interior, gold twin-coachlines, gold-plated Spirit of Ecstasy and stainless steel pinstripes, the model is available to order in limited quantities by discerning Chinese customers. Three exclusive paint colours (Deep Garnet, Black Ember and Infinity), silver and gold packages (e.g. specially plated Spirit of Ecstasy, coachlines, Rolls-Royce inlays) and a number of other features have been developed for the China market.

Also presented for the first time in the Asia Pacific region are two highly-bespoke Spirit of Ecstasy Centenary Collection models featuring a host of design details that celebrate 100 years of the world's most famous hood figurine. Specially commissioned for Auto Shanghai 2011, Phantom Extended Wheelbase Saloon is exhibited with a Rhapsody Black exterior and a sumptuous mix of Ardent Red and Seashell interior with Piano Black veneer. Also on the stand is a Phantom Drophead Coupé in Maiden Blue exterior, Navy Blue and seashell interior with Straight Grained Oak and Ebony.

Customers from China and the rest of the Asia Pacific region represent the largest proportion of buyers worldwide for Centenary Collection cars, of which only 100 limited edition models are being built. Demand for bespoke Phantom models is also among the highest in the world. Through the Rolls-Royce Bespoke programme, customers can tailor individual features to one-off accessories for their cars, all designed and developed in-house at the Rolls-Royce Headquarters and Manufacturing Plant at Goodwood in England.

Robust first quarter sales worldwide
Rolls-Royce Motor Cars retailed a record number of cars globally in the first quarter of this year, more than doubling sales compared to the same period last year (+160%), with China again experiencing strong demand for cars. The company is on course for expansion in China, after record sales last year which saw dealerships in Beijing and Shanghai topping global sales.

Rolls-Royce Motor Cars has also announced it is in the process of establishing new dealers in Chongqing, Tianjin and Wuhan by the end of this year. Currently, Rolls-Royce has showrooms in Beijing, Chengdu, Guangzhou, Hangzhou, Hong Kong, Ningbo, Shanghai and Shenzhen. The expansion plan will increase Rolls-Royce showrooms in China from 8 to 11, the most in a single market and second only to the United States.

Further expansion is expected to be announced in the rest of the Asia Pacific region throughout the year. Currently, the company's presence spans 18 showrooms in the region and 81 worldwide.

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Mini teases Goodwood special en route to Shanghai

by Noah Joseph (RSS feed) on Apr 12th 2011 at 4:15PM

Mini Inspired by Goodwood – Click above for high-res image
The Shanghai Motor Show may not have ranked among the major expos of the year until recently, but automakers flocking to the Chinese show have put it on the map. And this year's show – now just one week away – is shaping up to be one of the biggest yet.

In Shanghai, visitors will get their first glimpse of the BMW Concept M5, Mercedes-Benz A-Class concept, the new Chevrolet Malibu, Buick Envision crossover concept, Audi's new Q3 and Subaru's XV crossover concept, just to name a few. In short, there's no lack of novelty at the show in China this year. And Mini won't be sitting out the action, either.

As we reported last month, Mini will be presenting its Goodwood show car in Shanghai, and has now released the teaser image you see above. Officially called the Mini Inspired by Goodwood, it's a joint effort between Mini and Rolls-Royce – the two English brands at the opposite ends of the BMW Group spectrum – Shanghai'ing, as it were, Rolls-Royce's cabin craftsmen and putting them to work on a Mini's interior, with a price tag that'll land somewhere in between. Stay tuned for more as the show rapidly approaches.

[Source: Mini]

Filed under: Hatchback, Mini, Rolls-Royce, Shanghai Motor Show, Luxury

Tags: 2011 shanghai motor show, goodwood, mini, mini goodwood, mini goodwood concept, mini inspired by goodwood, rolls-royce, shanghai, shanghai 2011, shanghai motor show

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