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BMW M235i Racing takes to the track

Last month, BMW showed off a motorsports version of its new 2 Series Coupe called the M235i Racing. While that single image was obviously a rendering or design model, BMW Motorsports has now released a video showing the real deal being tested.
From what we can tell from beneath the camouflage, the wide-body fenders ­- to accommodate a 3.5-inch track stretch - are slightly different than the image BMW previously released. Still, the body is noticeably different from the stock coupe. The video, which is posted below, shows glimpses of the race-prepped interior, including a full FIA roll cage, but more importantly we get to hear the 333-horsepower engine and its throaty exhaust in action.

BMW 1 Series GT morphs into production-spec 225i Active Tourer

Based on the effort - and money - BMW is spending to break off the coupes and convertibles in its lineup as even-numbered models (like the new 2 Series and 4 Series), we figured the production version of the 2012 Concept Active Tourer was a lock to wear the 1 Series GT name. These spy shots paint a different picture, however, as they show the car seemingly in full showroom-ready trim during a photo shoot, wearing the 225i name indicating that it will be in the 2 Series family.
While it's still very possible that this badging is the final bit of trickery for disguising the front-wheel-drive 1 Series GT, the hatchback itself appears to be the real deal. Aside from new fascias, a smaller grille and slightly different lights, the styling of this "225i" stayed pretty true to the Concept Active Tourer. Thanks to our long-lensed photographer, we also get a brief glimpse inside the hatchback, which reveals a two-tiered instrument panel layout including the free-standing navigation display that is similar to the concept car.
Regardless of what name this new model will wear, expect it to be unveiled at next year's Geneva Motor Show in March before arriving in the US sometime in 2015.

BMW has the first smart emergency system for motorcycles

While cars and trucks have long had smart emergency systems to send help in the event of a crash (think services like OnStar), motorcycles have had to go without -- a scary thought if you've ever worried about wiping out miles away from help. That's where BMW might just save the day, though. It's introducing the first smart emergency tech for motorbikes, Intelligent Emergency Call, to give the two-wheel crowd a proper safety net. You can trigger it yourself, such as when you need to help a fellow motorist, but the real magic comes with its automatic responses. IEC's acceleration and lean angle sensors can not only tell if your bike falls or crashes, but time the call for help based on severity. A bad accident will call for help immediately, for instance, while a gentler incident provides a delay so that you can cancel the call. If things are dire enough for that call to go out, it'll send your ride's position at the same time. Don't expect to see this system in North America, at least not any time soon. IEC will first launch in Germany sometime in early 2017, and it'll spread to other European countries soon afterward. There's no mention of availability in other countries, unfortunately. However, you may well see equipment like this become widespread among bike makers eager to one-up the competition.Related Video: This article by Jon Fingas originally ran on Engadget, the definitive guide to this connected life. BMW Driving Ownership Safety Motorcycle Police/Emergency transportation gear