We bring you the first photos of the all-electric BMW Concept ActiveE 1-series production model. Compared to concept version, the production ActiveE receives more conventional wheels and tires, a different front bumper, a new hood with a bump, new headlight design, and “E Drive” badges. The upcoming lifecycle impulse (aka “LCI” or “facelift) changes to the 1-series coupe and cabrio are seen here with new rear and front headlight lenses with LED technology and more reprofiled aerodynamics in the bumpers. The 1-series coupe and cabrio LCI, along with the 1M and Active E will be seen for the first time at the NAIAS in Detroit this early January.

Also similar to the Mini E electric car, the ActiveE is powered by a rear-mounted electric motor that … CONTINUED

We bring you the first photos of the upcoming 2012 1-series hatch (F20) 135i revealing its grille and front bumper design (also an M-sport bumper). Judging by the front bumper design, dual split exhaust, uprated wheel/tire combo, and large brakes, this is likely the 135i model, powered by the N55 6-cylinder turbo motor. An examination of the front bumper reveals a similar design to the current 135i’s, which happens to also be the 1-series M-sport bumper, with its aggressive twin splitters.

According to our BMW longterm roadmap, we expect the next generation F20 1-series to make its public debut at the 2011 Frankfurt IAA motorshow in September 2011.

Follow our complete 2012 1-series (F20) coverage: http://www.bimmerpost.com/spyshots/1-series/

The Berk Technology N54 based 135i Time Attack car ripped up its competition this season. Since its racing season is nearly over, the car’s secrets have now been unveiled. In fact, many parts of its recipe for speed come from Bimmerpost sponsors. See the great writeup inside.

See inside for the the entire list of changes that will take place to most BMW models beginning in September 2010 when the 2011 model year begins for most models. This is a must read primer on ALL changes coming.

We bring you the first photos of the the F20 1-series interior on a 135i. The center console is clearly seen. Compared to the current 1-series, the console appears to be more driver oriented, the screen remains a hide-away version, and the radio controls have swapped positions with the air controls.

Autobild magazine has a new rendering of the 2012 F20 1-series, as well as what it believes is a full list of models and engines, including 5 body styles, 7 gasoline models and 4 diesel versions. The 3-door and 5-door models should debut at the 2011 Frankfurt IAA in September of next year.

1-series enthusiasts in Germany had a meet & spectacular drive this weekend. The meet took place around Bamberg and the convey then tore through picturesque Fränkische Schweiz (Little Swiss) area. In all, 17 1-series attended the meet and cruise. A ton of photos can be found inside.

Here are the first clips we’ve seen of the BMW Performance Exhaust matched to a N55 motor and it sounds terrific! N55 BMWs come from the factory with a throatier exhaust than the N54 due to the absence of two mid cats. Paired with a Performance Exhaust, the N55’s growl is amplified beautifully.

BMW has released an updated BMW Performance promo video, now also featuring the X6 and X5. The original clip featuring just the E90 3-series and E82 1-series portion of this video was released back in November 2008.