Bmw preparing diesel offensive in the United States! Will keep V8s!
By Andrew C., 26 Aug, 2010. 0 Comments
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Despite the inevitable rise of the hybrids and electric vehicles, BMW said that it will pursue its plan to put its new clean diesels at the center of the development strategy in future years. It seems not all car manufacturers are prepared to make the hybrid/EV trend as its priority.
BMW is developing the X6 ActiveHybrid but it won't give up easily its diesel-oriented strategy in the US. Jim O'Donnell, BMW North America CEO, said that in light of the future mileage and emission requirements, BMW will also try to bring diesel engines to other models in its range as well, including a diesel 5_Series in 2010. BMW is aiming to achieve 10-20% diesel penetration in the US.
As most of BMW's vehicles were not able to meet the criteria to participate in CARS, it was forced to resort to its own sales incentive. Did you know that BMW only sold 748 vehicles under CARS? That's a dismal percentage compared to the 24,343 units sold in the US in August. BMW's own scheme provided the same $4,500 (eco-credit) to be offered to customers who bought two of its diesels: the 335d and the X5 xDrive35d.
BMW has yet to issue figures on how many vehicles were sold under the eco-tax. The scheme is extended throughout September so it's not too late for you to go out and buy a BMW vehicle. Meanwhile, BMW said that V8s are here to stay.
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