Webasto-Edscha: Three-piece retractable hardtop for the BMW 4 Series convertible The fifth generation of the successful BMW convertible is also fitted with a convertible roof system from Webasto-Edscha. Hengersberg/Regensburg, May 5, 2014 – Webasto-Edscha, the convertible business unit of Webasto, develops and manufactures the roof system for the BMW 4 Series convertible which was officially launched on 8 March. Just like its predecessor, this new convertible is also fitted with a three-piece roof system of lightweight sheet steel design. More trunk space thanks to new hydraulics At the touch of a button the convertible roof stows away in the trunk within 23 seconds. This is possible at speeds of up to 18 km/h. Webasto-Edscha’s development technicians have designed a new hydraulic variant for the successor model to the BMW 3 Series convertible. The result is a noticeable space saving when the convertible roof is in the stowed position. This space saving installation has allowed a generous through-loading space to be achieved. If required, the car’s owner can thus significantly expand the trunk volume containing 370 liters with the roof closed and 220 liters with the roof open. A simple and handy storage compartment directly behind the rear seat was created for the wind break: An innovation also made possible by the space saving hydraulic system. A hydraulically-powered loading aid integrated into the trunk lid ensures convenient and easy loading of luggage. At the press of a button, the roof stowed in the trunk, raises upwards fully automatically, allowing the luggage space to be conveniently loaded. Approved acoustics and lighting integrated into the headliner An acoustic headliner that keeps wind noise at bay in the new BMW 4 Series convertible ensures significantly improved sound insulation. Interior lighting integrated into the headliner offers additional convenience in the rear seat area, underlining the elegant interior atmosphere of the vehicle. Webasto-Edscha’s development technicians have managed to integrate the roof into the overall vehicle such that the attractive silhouette is maintained even with the roof closed. Open or closed, this convertible scores with its harmonious proportions and a dynamic appearance. Final assembly of this second generation retractable hard top takes place at Webasto-Edscha’s convertible roof factory in Regensburg which is located on the BMW factory site. The pre- assembly work is carried out at the manufacturing facility in Hengersberg, Lower Bavaria. The open-top four-seater has been available on the European market since March 2014. * * * 1 About Webasto: Webasto Group based in Stockdorf near Munich has been a family-owned business ever since the company was founded in 1901. The group operates internationally at over 50 locations (over 30 of these production sites) in the divisions roof and thermo systems. Webasto is one of the top 100 automotive suppliers worldwide. For 2013 the Group realized a sales volume of more than 2.5 Billion Euros and employs over 10,000 employees. The company´s core competencies encompass the development, production and sales of complete roof and convertible systems as well as heating, cooling and ventilation systems for passenger cars, commercial and special vehicles, recreational vehicles and boats. For more information please visit www.webasto-group.com Press Contact: Webasto Group Petra Diederichs Dr. Petra Gulz Vice President Corporate Communications Group Manager Corporate Communications Tel: +49 89 8 57 94-670 Tel: +49 89 8 57 94-650 Email: [email protected] Email: [email protected] 2 .