BMW Design Goes The Path Of Trans-Humanism Or Something

The Frank Files is a series of deep dive critique on design, produced by noted Art Center College of Design graduate Frank Stephenson, primarily focused on the creations found in the world of motor culture. Image Credit: Frank Stephenson (2022)

Lessons Learned In The Needs-Satisfaction World Of “Chasing Perfect”

Lessons Learned In The Needs-Satisfaction World Of "Chasing Perfect"
The first half in a life lived as a motorcycle competitor, artist, pursuer of nature, perfectionist and ... mobility solutions designer, Frank Stephenson.

"Chasing Perfect" is a documentary style film production by Salon Pictures and Lionsgate UK that is a biographical look behind the curtain of the creative and commercially productive life of Casablanca born, Frank Stephenson.

BMW M5 Competition Announced For 2019

2019 BMW M5 Competition. Image Credit: copyright 2018 BMW M GmbH
 

BMW M5 Competition Announced For 2019

BMW M GmbH has unveiled the most powerful BMW M5 sedan ever.  "The new 2019 BMW M5 Competition Sedan raises the bar for performance, agility, and precision within it's class. With engine output increased to 617 hp, sharper response times, and enhanced chassis tuning."
 

The All-New High-Performance Quintessential 2018 BMW M5 Sedan.

The All-New High-Performance Quintessential 2018 BMW M5 Sedan.Image Credit: BMW Media

• The 6th generation BMW M5 is the quickest most technologically advanced M-vehicle to date: 0–60 mph in a lightning-quick 3.2 seconds; 0–124 mph in just 11.1 seconds. Top speed: 189 mph with optional M Driver’s Package.
• The latest generation M TwinPower Turbo technology 4.4-liter V8 engine develops 600 hp and peak torque of 553 lb-ft.
• Debut of the first ever BMW M xDrive system with 2WD capability.
• M compound brakes fitted as standard. Available M carbon ceramic brakes provide a 50 lb. unsprung weight reduction.
• Like all M models, the chassis was honed on the world’s most challenging race circuit, the Nürburgring Nordschleife.
• Reduced weight by intelligent use of materials such as a carbon fiber reinforced plastic (CFRP) roof and a weight-optimized exhaust system.
• Exceptional performance both in day-to-day driving and on the racetrack.
• BMW M5 First Edition with exclusive specification available in limited 50 unit run in the US.

Today, BMW unveiled the all-new 2018 BMW M5, a car that since 1984 has been regarded as the quintessential high-performance sports sedan. The previous generations of the BMW M5 all possess purebred racing genes and acquitted themselves impressively on the racetrack as well as on the road. The all-new BMW M5 represents the 6th generation and, like those that have come before it, delivers on these promises – and more. The all-new 2018 M5 will also debut the M-specific all-wheel-drive system, M xDrive. This new system allows the M5 to reach new heights of dynamic performance and delivers poise in all driving situations. Frank van Meel, Chairman of the Board of Management at BMW M GmbH, explains the benefits of this pioneering drivetrain technology: “Thanks to M xDrive, the all-new BMW M5 can be piloted with the familiar blend of sportiness and unerring accuracy both on the racetrack and out on the open road, while also delighting drivers with its significantly enhanced directional stability and controllability right up to the limits of performance when driving in adverse conditions such as on wet roads or snow.” When the engine is first started, the all-new BMW M5 will be in all-wheel-drive mode (4WD) with Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) turned on. The driver is then able to vary the handling characteristics of the M5 by enabling various driving dynamics modes, including a rear-wheel-drive mode with no DSC. In this 2WD mode, the all-new BMW M5 offers drivers the opportunity to experience BMW’s traditional rear-wheel drive characteristics.