BMW has opened a new purpose- built performance centre at Rock-ingham, Northamptonshire to cater for in-house and external driving activities.

Customers will be able to drive BMW cars and motorcycles and the facility will also be used for BMW training, new product launches, corporate events and dealer driven events and activities.

The performance driving area will feature the Z4, M3, X5, 3-series and the Mini Cooper S on nine possible track configurations, an off-road course and Rockingham's unique high-speed oval race track.

“The relationship with Rockingham and the unveiling of the BMW Performance Centre means we can offer the ultimate driving experience at a bespoke motoring venue to the benefit of BMW, our customers, prospects, the dealer network and Rockingham visitors,” says Phil Horton, marketing director of BMW GB.

Events planned for 2004 include the company's annual dealer principal conference and a corporate family day for key corporate customers and fleet managers.