BMW on high-speed growth track

BMW Group Thailand sold more than 3,800 vehicles in 2011, its best performance since the launch of the company here in 1997.

According to the German auto-maker, it has achieved growth of 26-28 per cent for three consecutive years. Sales in 2011 were 3,858 vehicles. After combining these figures with MINI sales in 2011, the group’s total sales hit a record 4,243 vehicles, 24 per cent higher than in 2010.

Matthias Pfalz, president of BMW Group Thailand, said, “Part of our success was contributed by sales of the BMW 5 Series, which grew nearly 50 per cent of total BMW volume in 2011.”

“Our success in Thailand was in line with the success of BMW Group worldwide. BMW Group achieved record sales of more than 1.6 million vehicles worldwide, an increase of 14 per cent in comparison with the year before,” Pfalz added.

Pfalz said various fuel-saving technologies as well as service-inclusive packages helped increase the value-for-money of BMW and MINI cars.

“As a result, our Customer Satisfaction Index has continually increased in the last five years, both in sales and aftersales, which has consequently reflected in the remarkable sales growth we see today”, he said.

Meanwhile, Christian Wiedmann, managing director of BMW Leasing (Thailand), said the company too achieved a record-breaking performance in 2011 with 24.5-per cent BMW and MINI portfolio growth year on year, reflecting the highest growth ever since the company’s establishment in 2001.

“The success has been made possible by our tailored products and premium services,” he said.

In 2012, the BMW 5 Series with Twin Power Turbo engines will be offered, together with newly introduced models of 520i, 528i and 528i Sport. For the first time in Thailand, BMW will introduce the ActiveHybrid 5 to enhance engine portfolio, leading the field of technology. In addition, the new BMW 3 Series will make its debut this year with 3 distinctive lines.

The MINI Roadster will be introduced as the sixth model in the British premium carmaker’s line-up and the first open-top two-seater in the brand’s history.

For BMW Motorrad, the new K 1600 GT is now available with a 6-cylinder in-line power unit. The touring motorcycle has a supreme, impressive and distinctive appearance, creating a desire to travel at first sight. At the same time, the new S 1000 RR will be offered with its absolute riding stability, supreme engine performance, and resounding dynamic performance. The highest level of active safety is provided by the most advanced brake system today on the market, the BMW Motorrad Race ABS. When accelerating, the rider is supported by the Dynamic Traction Control system. Both of these systems have been optimised for perfect interaction.