Vorsteiner Releases VRS Aero Package for the BMW X6 M [with VIDEO]

Following a teaser announcement back in March, German tuning specialist Vorsteiner has launched its new VRS Aero Package for the BMW X6 M crossover. Trying to improve the X6 M's appereance ain't an easy task, though Vorsteiner seems to have pulled this one off with its new kit.

At the front, the Germans opted for a carbon fiber front spoiler, which increases downforce on the front axle while also channeling more air towards the engine and brakes. The new hood is also made from the same lightweight material and features vents that extract the heat produced by the stock 555 hp twin-turbocharged V8.

A carbon fiber diffuser replacing the plastic factory piece dominates the rear, encompassing three modular fins and two vents. The latter cool the exhaust system.

An add-on rear deck lid spoiler and forged mono-block aluminum alloys, shod in Michelin PS2 tires, complete the package. If potential customers don’t like the rims showcased on the SUV, they need not worry, as Vorsteiner has a wide variety of wheels they can choose from.

By Csaba Daradics

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SPIED: BMW X1 Tries Out M Sport Package

The idea of an M-Package is hardly fresh news for BMW as the Bavarian automaker has been spiffing up its normal production models with sports accessories for years now, the most recent recipients being the latest 5-Series sedan and Touring, and the X3 SUV. Next up on the menu is BMW's smallest crossover model, the X1, which went on sale in Europe and other markets in March 2010, but won't arrive in the U.S. until later in 2011.

As with other M Sport Package models in the range, the upgrades for the X1 will include a host of unique styling cues inside and out, plus larger alloy wheel designs shod in wider tires and a sports tuned suspension.

The prototype models of the X1 with the M Sport Package that were spied by our man with the long lens in Germany had most of the aero parts covered in BMW's traditional swoopy wrap. These include the modified front and rear bumpers plus the new side skirts. Being prototype models, the X1s seen here appear to be fitted with normal alloys, however the actual M Sport Package will offer buyers a choice of special wheel designs.

Inside, while the test car seem pretty much stock, it is certain that BMW will adorn the cabin with M-Sport-sourced steering wheel, handbrake lever, gearbox knob and pedals, as well as unique trim and upholstery for the sports seats. Expect the M Sport Package to join BMW's option list early next year.

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AC Schnitzer Turns All-Electric MINI E into a Police Car [with Video]

In support of the German Automobile Tuner Association’s “Tune it! Safe!” campaign, AC Schnitzer built the MINI E Police Look Concept, which is being showcased at the 2010 Essen Motor Show. The idea behind the campaign is to create a car that can satisfy tuning aficionados and also meet safety standards.

The BMW Group's MINI E is powered by an electric motor with 204 hp on tap and plenty of low-down torque (maximum is 220 Nm or 162 lb-ft). It completes the standard sprint from standstill to 100 km/h (62 mph) in 8.5 seconds and has a limited top speed of 152 km/h (95 mph).

AC Schnitzer’s comprehensive tuning package made it even better while the police livery is an interesting take on the “safety” theme.

Finished in the classic Polizei colors, the concept has the latest signaling system from Hella mounted on the roof and special wraps from Foliatec. Modified front and rear bumpers, plus lowered side skirts, improve the car's looks, while bonnet vents and a large roof spoiler complete the bodykit.

The tuner opted for new alloys, too. The 18-inch MI 2 wheels feature an 8-spoke design and are wrapped in high-performance Hankook Ventus S1 Evo tires. Stopping power is provided by an upgraded brake system, boasting 328mm 4-pot caliper (in front) ventilated disks. There is also a complete suspension kit.

Inside, the boys in blue are greeted by aluminum pedals, footrest and handbrake handle.

AC Schnitzer says that most of the tuning accessories shown on the concept model are either already available or will soon be offered for the production MINIs.

By Csaba Daradics

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Wald International Presents the F01 BMW 7-Series “Black Bison” Edition

After having unveiled numerous other Black Bison Edition-labeled cars in the past, including the Bentley Continetal Flying Spur and the W212 Mercedes E-Class, Japanese tuning firm Wald International has now applied the styling treatment to the latest F01 BMW 7-Series.

The Black Bison Edition aero-kit adds a new front bumper with a lip spoiler and LED daytime running lights and a sportier but more complex-looking rear apron with a diffuser and an LED braking light. True, we would have preferred a matte finish for the 23-inch Wald Renovatio alloys and could do without the "muffler cutter" tailpipes, as they somehow remind us of those found on the Lexus IS-F, but, nevertheless, BMW's designers could learn a thing or two from the Japanese tuner's styling department.

Lowered side skirts along with a pair of spoilers on the roof and trunk lid, plus fake wing vents that cut into the doors complete the package. The Black Bison 7-Series is anything but black, though the white paintjob does makes it look a bit more imposing than the standard model.

Wald International didn't release any information on pricing and availability.

By Csaba Daradics

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