BMW creates roadmap for increase in local manufacturing in India.

BMW has 15 car launches planned for the year in India but the German luxury car maker will refrain from challenging its rivals, Audi and Mercedes-Benz, in the entry segments.

Philipp von Sahr, BMW India's president, told Business Standard the focus would be the higher-end models that deliver much better profit and it was willing to forgo the lure of high volumes.

In a few weeks, BMW will launch a limited volume 'i8' hybrid sports car. That will be followed by four models under the ‘M’ performance brand, all of which will likely be above Rs 1 crore. In contrast, both Mercedes and Audi recently launched entry sedans in the Rs. 30-lakh range, the CLA and A3, respectively.

'This is what our customers want as well, a focus on the premium image. Our rivals might discount heavily to clear stocks but we will not compromise on our prices. Our focus is on sustainable growth and we will focus on the higher-end models,' said von Sahr.


BS