Date:01/02/2008 URL: http://www.thehindubusinessline.com/2008/02/01/stories/2008020150443200.htm

Back BMW likely to launch Mini range in India by 2009

Priyanka Vyas

Tokyo, Jan. 31 BMW is likely to launch a premium compact range of cars under its ‘Mini’ brand in the Indian market by 2009. The company has already done a feasibility study and would make an announcement on a possible launch for the Indian market over the next two-three months.

At the BMW round table conference being held here, Mr David Panton, Senior Vice President, Asia Pacific (except China), Middle East, Eastern Europe, Caribbean and Africa, said, “We are positively reviewing it and it is only a question of when do we bring it to the Indian market.” There have been instances in countries such as Brazil where post review, BMW has decided not to go ahead with the launch of its brand, but Mr Panton ruled out such a possibility in India.

At present, to import the Mini in India would cost around Rs 20-25 lakh. The company had earlier said that it was concerned whether it could sell a premium hatchback at such a price point.

The brand that was acquired by BMW in 1994, is sold at separate outlets from BMW showrooms.

Mr Peter Kronschnabl, President, BMW India said that the same model will be replicated in India.

Dealers

“While dealers for the BMW and Mini dealers could be common, the showrooms would be different,” said company officials.

The company is also planning to set up a first-of-its- kind company-owned brand display studio in India.

This would be an exclusive outlet, along with a lounge bar, where it would showcase one or two of its brands and its merchandise to give customers a feel of the product.

The BMW Pavilion would be located in the heart of New Delhi and would be operational by April 2008.