BMW CEO Sees Product Lineup Strengthening in Mid-2017

TL;DR

BMW focuses on model expansion and electrification for 2017.

Transcript

there aren't a lot of glitzy like supercars out here there is a nice I8 and some pretty sweet v12s over there but do you want to shocking all the public or how do you plan on retaking that number one spot first of all we have been number one on the group level in 2016 so if you combine the sales of mini of BMW and Royals Royce together we still rem... Read More

Key Insights

• BMW maintained its number one position in 2016 by combining sales from Mini, BMW, and Rolls Royce, emphasizing more than just sales numbers for leadership.
• The company is undergoing a model expansion starting mid-2017, aiming to capture new market segments and customers with new offerings like the Five Series Touring.
• Despite a delay in new electric models, BMW plans significant electrification with 100,000 electrified vehicles targeted in 2017 and new models by 2021.
• The I Series has been successful, with models like the X5 plug-in hybrid and Two Series Active Tourer performing well in the market.
• BMW is investing heavily in electrification across all brands, including motorcycles, with plans for more electric offerings in the future.
• Autonomous driving technology is a key focus, with BMW planning a test fleet of 40 autonomous vehicles in 2017, offering both safety and comfort benefits.
• BMW believes consumers will pay for autonomous technology due to its potential to enhance driving comfort and safety.
• The company is committed to giving drivers the choice between autonomous and manual driving, aligning with BMW's emphasis on driving pleasure.

Questions & Answers

Q: How does BMW plan to maintain its leadership position?

BMW plans to maintain its leadership position by focusing on more than just sales numbers. The company emphasizes technology leadership, innovation, employer attractiveness, and brand strength. Additionally, BMW is launching a model offensive starting mid-2017, introducing new models to capture different market segments and attract new customers.

Q: What is BMW's strategy for electrification?

BMW's strategy for electrification involves significant investment across all its brands. The company aims to sell 100,000 electrified vehicles in 2017, with new electric models like the I8 Roadster, Mini Electric, and X3 Electric planned for release by 2021. BMW also offers plug-in hybrid versions of traditional models, which have been successful in the market.

Q: How is BMW addressing the autonomous vehicle trend?

BMW is addressing the autonomous vehicle trend by investing in autonomous driving technology and planning a test fleet of 40 autonomous vehicles in 2017. The company believes autonomous technology will enhance driving comfort and safety, and it is committed to giving drivers the choice between autonomous and manual driving, aligning with BMW's focus on driving pleasure.

Q: What are some of BMW's successful electrified models?

Some of BMW's successful electrified models include the X5 plug-in hybrid and the Two Series Active Tourer plug-in hybrid. These models have performed well in the market, demonstrating the successful technology transformation from the iBrand to BMW iPerformance models. BMW anticipates continued success with upcoming models like the Five Series plug-in hybrid.

Q: Will BMW continue to invest in electrification?

Yes, BMW will continue to invest in electrification. The company is committed to expanding its electrified offerings across all brands, including motorcycles. BMW plans to introduce new electric models and increase its electrified vehicle sales, reflecting its dedication to leading the automotive industry's shift towards electrification.

Q: What is BMW's approach to model expansion?

BMW's approach to model expansion involves introducing new models to capture different market segments and attract new customers. The company plans a model offensive starting mid-2017, with new offerings like the Five Series Touring and Mini Countryman. BMW aims to balance its model lineup to meet diverse customer needs without overwhelming them with too many choices.

Q: How does BMW view consumer willingness to pay for autonomous technology?

BMW believes consumers will be willing to pay for autonomous technology due to its potential to enhance driving comfort and safety. The company highlights benefits such as self-parking and increased safety during tired driving. BMW is confident that these advantages will justify the cost to consumers, encouraging adoption of autonomous features.

Q: What is BMW's stance on driver autonomy with autonomous vehicles?

BMW's stance on driver autonomy with autonomous vehicles is to provide drivers with the choice between autonomous and manual driving. The company emphasizes driving pleasure and believes that drivers should have the option to drive themselves, especially in favorable conditions. This approach ensures that BMW maintains its brand identity while embracing new technology.

Summary & Key Takeaways

• BMW's CEO Harald Krueger discussed the company's 2017 strategy at the Geneva International Motor Show, highlighting a focus on model expansion and electrification. Despite criticisms of a slow electric push, BMW aims to sell 100,000 electrified vehicles in 2017 and introduce new models by 2021.

• Krueger emphasized BMW's leadership beyond sales, including technology, innovation, and brand strength. The company plans a model offensive, with new offerings like the Five Series Touring and Mini Countryman designed to attract new customers and capture different market segments.

• BMW's investment in electrification spans all brands, including motorcycles. The company also prioritizes autonomous driving, with a test fleet planned for 2017. BMW will offer consumers the choice between autonomous and manual driving, maintaining its commitment to driving enjoyment.