BMW has reported positive sales growth throughout the year and sold 5,42,362 units; in talks with Great Wall for a potential EV tie-up
The automotive market in China is so unique that you would often see manufacturers introducing special editions or rather interesting long wheelbase versions of the regular models sold worldwide. The market has become a paradise for luxury brands in particular apart from the fact that Chinese love more space in the rear.
BMW appears to have understood the market well more than anyone else and according to a report emerged on Automotive News, it is all set become the bestselling luxury automaker in that country by overtaking its fellow counterpart Audi. In the eleven months of 2017 so far, BMW’s sale has grown by a massive 15 percent.
The Munich-based company has sold 5,42,362 units in the year and in November the growth trend has continued as it managed 12 percent increase in sales. While BMW had posted throughout 2017 in China, it wasn’t all smooth sailing for Audi as it dispossessed to third position by Mercedes-Benz. In comparison, Audi’ sales dipped by 2.1 percent to 5,28,706 units.
Mercedes-Benz moved up the order with a strong sales push as 5,39,728 vehicles were delivered from January till November. As Chinese government encourages local production and development of domestic companies, its regulations meant global manufacturers often end up in local partnerships. BMW is currently in talks with Great Wall Motor to set up a joint venture for building vehicles in China.
Information regarding the potential partnership has not been officially by both parties yet but reports say BMW and Great Wall will work in unison to build electric vehicles and associated technologies under one roof in a brand new name. It is expected to be similar to what Mercedes-Benz and BYD have done with the EV producer Denza.
Source: AutoNews