BMW Counts on Continental Technology for its Top Sports Cars, the M5 and the M6

MK60 E5 brake system and ContiSportContact 2 guarantee exceptional riding quality / 850 watt fan cools 507 hp V10

AUBURN HILLS, Mich., June 29 -- BMW M GmbH's two latest models, the M5 sedan and the M6 coupe, come equipped with Continental Automotive Systems' most advanced brake system, the MK60 E5. "We are very pleased that following the recent M3 and M3 CSL models, BMW is continuing to count on our expertise for its top sports models," said Dr. Karl-Thomas Neumann, President, Continental Automotive Systems and Member of the Executive Board, Continental AG. To underline the dynamic driving qualities of the 507 hp high-tech cars, BMW has also equipped its top models with the ContiSportContact 2 system. A high-performance radiator fan from Continental Automotive Systems and hoses and membranes from ContiTech ensure that the ten- cylinder engines can deliver their performance under perfect thermal conditions.

  MK60 E5 brake system: enhanced pressure sensors and analog controllable
   valves

The MK60 E5 brake system is Continental Automotive Systems' top innovative product. In addition to the obligatory master cylinder pressure sensor, this system employs four additional pressure sensors. Analog, i.e. infinitely variable controllable cut-off and block valves ensure in addition a particularly sensitive brake pressure regulation. This complexity results in finely-tuned, precise brake regulation processes for enhanced forward and side-to-side dynamics. This translates into shorter stopping distances, braking intervention that is hardly perceptible and improved driving stability when undertaking highly dynamic driving maneuvers. Even more safety and comfort is provided by the added functions of the MK60 such as Hill Start Assist (in combination with the standard SMG transmission), automatic brake disk drying in wet weather (Rain Brake Support), and preventive application of the brake pads in situations likely to be followed by emergency braking (Ready Brake Alert).

Sporty drivers enjoy maximum driving pleasure with the M5 and M6, thanks to the M Dynamic Mode, which allows top dynamics coordination of engine, transmission, chassis and braking system. In this mode developed specially for the BMW M, the brake regulation system allows for greater driving freedom before it intervenes, making it possible for experienced drivers to take curves in a controlled drift.

Brake pressure is applied by high-performance foundation brakes supplied by Continental Automotive Systems. Two-piston aluminum calipers (type 2FNR- AL) are used on the front axel of the M5 and the M6; their compact frame construction allow for the accommodation of oversized brake disks with a diameter of 374 millimeters. The caliper brakes used on the rear axle have also been designed to allow the installation of oversized disks.

ContiSportContact 2: the only original equipment tire

In extensive tests, BMW M road trials have determined that ContiSportContact 2 is the perfect tire to go with the chassis of the new M models. "BMW M places a great deal of importance on extremely stable yet harmonious vehicle handling with excellent braking characteristics," said Bodo Mirsch, who is in charge of original equipment at BMW M. "We have to use all the high-tech solutions available to us in developing the equipment in view of the high lateral acceleration and the extreme performance capabilities of these powerful engines." These efforts have apparently paid off: At the start of production of the M5 and the M6, Continental was the only tire manufacturer to receive supplier clearance. To ensure that the high-performance tires always perform optimally, the Deflation Detection System (DDS) made by Continental Automotive Systems -- known as Reifen Pannen Anzeige (RPA) at BMW -- is integrated into the brake system: If tire pressure falls below the critical threshold, a signal alerts the driver.

Radiator fans: compact powerhouses with 850 watt capacity

Drivers of the M5 and the M6 need never fear testing the capacity limits of their high-revolution ten-cylinder engines. The EC 850 radiator fan -- a compact powerhouse supplied by Continental Automotive Systems -- sees to this from a thermal perspective. Its 850 watt electronic commutation motor brings the fan, which has a diameter of 480 millimeters, up to 2700 revolutions per minute and ensures that enough fresh air flows through the engine, even in extreme situations. Together, the motor and the fan are only 73 millimeters long, providing obvious benefits for front-end packaging. Continental Automotive Systems is the only supplier in the world to series produce fan systems in this capacity class, delivering the EC, including the electronic control system, to BMW M GmbH.

Steering, cooling system, variable valve timing: high tech by ContiTech

In the power steering system of the M5, high-pressure flexible hoses and vacuum and return lines made by the ContiTech division provide for secure functioning, while oil cooler lines and Vanos lines for variable valve timing round out the product offering for the flow of media. Sheets for door linings, seats, sun visors and ticket pockets ensure a high-quality interior, v-ribbed belts drive the vehicle auxiliaries in the M5 and the M6, and membranes control the flow of fuel to the injection system. In the M6, fuel and coolant lines are part of the standard delivery package.

With 2004 sales of approximately $15.6 billion (US), Continental AG is a major supplier of brake systems, chassis components, vehicle electronics, tires and technical rubber products. Continental Automotive Systems' North American operation is headquartered in Auburn Hills, Mich. and is a leading global supplier of quality automotive systems that contribute to driver safety, comfort and peace-of-mind. For additional information, visit our media website http://www.contitevesna.com/index2.htm .