Heinz Krusche: the man behind the new BMW 5 Series’ brilliant steering and dynamics
Business Car Manager: Editor’s Blog
HEINZ KRUSCHE is the man behind the driving dynamics of the new BMW 5 Series. He has the final say-so, the sign off, on the ride dynamics – for which BMW is renowned.
At the launch of the new 5 Series I walked with Heinz to dinner. Our path was appropriate for Heinz, who often spends time blasting around the fearsome Nurburgring honing BMWs to his liking.
We were at Pau in France, and Pau hosts a motor race around its street – our route followed the course of the circuit, identified by the red and white kerb markings. I’ve always wanted to watch the race here – it must be some round-the-streets event.
As we walked I asked Heinz what he was most proud of on the new 5 Series – what gave him the most satisfaction? “The steering feel combined with the dynamic feel,” came the reply, Heinz going on to explain how difficult it had been to tune the electric power steering to get the correct feedback in every situation.
Called Electric Power Steering (EPS) by BMW, it is part of the EfficientDynamics package that reduces emissions. As it uses no energy when the wheel is in the straight ahead position, it uses less energy. When you need assistance, an electric motor is activated to provide steering assistance when needed. It can also be tailored with optional equipment so the degree of steering force is slightly increased in accordance with the style of driving.
The next day I drove the BMW 530d SE and I can see why Heinz is so pleased. Often electrical systems can distance you from the front wheels. But not this. It’s precise, and places you firmly in the centre of the action. It really is a very impressive car. If you decide on a BMW 5 Series for your next business car, you know who to thank – Heinz.
But is the right business car for you? I’ve not driven the 520d yet, but I can’t see why it wouldn’t be. Jason King is the head of market intelligence at Glass’s Guide, the used car price people. Jason’s job is to forecast the values of cars in the future, basing his predictions on experience and intelligence – Jason will have often seen a car months before anyone else, the car maker’s keen to get his take on their new model. Jason is also a contributor to Business Car Manager, so I grabbed Jason after the driving event for his opinion.
“I’m surprised BMW has achieved such a low
