And this isn’t even new-ish tech either. BMW first announced the hands-free software, dubbed Digital Key Plus, to the BMW iX back in February 2021. Now, the company has expanded the app, and will now be available for users with Android smartphones.

With a compatible smartphone, customers can now lock and unlock their BMW or start the engine without even the need to take their phone out of their pocket.

Digital Key Plus also works as a proximity sensor, where the car will react automatically when an owner is either approaching or walking away from their vehicle. This is similar to BMW’s existing walk-away feature with key fobs. 

BMW’s Digital Key Plus is currently compatible with the following smartphones:

• Samsung Galaxy S23+ / Ultra
• Google Pixel 7 Pro

Plus a select few older models with suitable hardware. More smartphones will be rolled out in future, and Digital Key Plus works on vehicles produced from November 2022. Some remote software upgrades will help expand this feature to vehicles built before November 2022.

Ultra-wideband technology is also built into technology, minimising the possibility of relay attacks which can jeopardise the vehicle’s locking systems.

Read more automotive news at AutoApp, or check out our latest videos on Ignition Labs TV!

The M Club of Singapore, Singapore’s leading owner’s club for BMW M and M Performance vehicles, has recently welcomed Eurokars Auto as a new 2023 Platinum Sponsor.

Enacted in 2010, the owners club is currently the only local BMW M car club recognised and supported by both Performance Motors and Eurokars Auto.

The club actively organises a wide variety of gatherings, including regular drive events both in Singapore and up north. Owners also enjoy exclusive access to events and corporate deals provided by the yearly Platinum, Gold, and Silver sponsors.

Club members also occasionally receive invitations to special events, including private viewings of the latest BMW M vehicles. The partnership with Eurokars will allow owners to know more about the dealer, as well as the opportunity to learn more about Eurokars Auto’s services, including a visit to the Eurokars Group Integrated Aftersales Facility.

Eurokars Auto has already supported a few events for the club this year. These include M Club’s Dinner and Dance 2023 cum Annual General Meeting, Breakfast drive to Malacca which facilitated over 50 cars, and even a 4D3N Track Night and Holiday Drive for 50 cars.

The inauguration was commemorated by Mr Ong Pang Yang, President of the M Club of Singapore, and Mr Jason Lim, Managing Director of Eurokars Auto Private Limited.

Read more automotive news at AutoApp, or check out our latest videos on Ignition Labs TV!

Produced on high-quality printed stock, the expansive magazine showcases the world of Aston Martin, diving into inspirational stories and stunning imagery. 

The first edition of the newly refreshed luxury lifestyle magazine is dubbed V53 and will include the likes of Fernando Alonso, the Aston Martin Valkyrie, and other prominent memorabilia that Aston Martin fans are sure to appreciate.

One story that will definitely be a thriller to read is a story on the famous Furka Pass in Switzerland, tackled by the critically acclaimed Aston Martin DBX707.

The magazine also charts the incredible four-week journey home made by Entrepreneur JP Thor, who bravely piloted his Airbus ACH130 Aston Martin Edition helicopter from the U.K. all the way to Australia.

Famous photographer Gavin Bond’s latest stellar photography exhibition in London is another feature in the magazine, while the lifestyle sections explore unorthodox topics like the rising popularity of jade and vintage books collections.

Subsequent editions of the lifestyle magazine will be published three times per year and will be produced in both English and Mandarin languages. The first edition is available now, with the next prints due in July and November.

Those that wish to subscribe to the magazine may do so via its official website here.

Read more automotive news at AutoApp, or check out our latest videos on Ignition Labs TV!

Inchcape Singapore, the official dealer for Toyota, Lexus and Suzuki cars here in Singapore, has recently announced that they have acquired AutoInsure, an automotive workshop group that specialises in electric vehicle (EVs) maintenance.

As the world transitions to adopt a more eco-friendly approach, we are seeing more manufacturers pushing out new and state-of-the-art EVs. However, with their complex wiring systems and new-fangled battery technologies, some traditional workshops may not be up to the task to deal with these new EV vehicles. As such, the demand for EV-focused workshops are now all the rage, with companies such as Hyundai curating their own in-house solutions to satisfy demand.

AutoInsure was established back in 2014 and has since gone on to become an official partner of numerous fleet companies. The firm is also an authorised workshop for accident reporting and repairs, partnering with numerous insurance companies. With this new acquisition, AutoInsure will help Inchcape expand its scope into the EV market, as well as expand its customer base for accident repairs.

So what does this deal entail? With the signing, Inchcape will officially take over the location, facilities, and branding of AutoInsure, among others. This will also mean that Inchcape will be able to service vehicles outside of its own dealer ecosystem in the future.

“Mobility-driven innovations are central to our strategy of always delivering the best for our customers,” said Jasmmine Wong, CEO of Inchcape Greater China and Singapore. 

“Through this acquisition, our customers now have access to a full suite of aftersales solutions – all in one place. Moving forward, thanks to our highly qualified teams, we will continue to uphold our promise of delivering excellent service and full support to our customers beyond the point of sale.”

Catch the latest news right here on AutoApp!