Reconfirmed: FWD coming to new smaller BMW entry-level models

SCA · 03-17-2010, 03:42 PM

http://www.autoblog.com/2010/03/17/b...-drive-models/

kooper · 03-17-2010, 03:45 PM

I'm honestly fine with BMW making an entry-level FWD car, as long as the FWD layout is limited to that one model and variations of that one model only.

There was mention not too long ago of BMW apparently deciding whether or not the 1 Series should go FWD (not the one to be released, but the one thereafter). Now THAT worries me a bit.

If FWD starts to filter upwards to the 1 Series, what's to stop it from becoming a feature on the 3, then the 5, then the 7 etc.?

BHairsto · 03-17-2010, 03:49 PM

Forgive me, but I don't get all of the hysteria over BMW introducing FWD cars. So long as BMW continues to offer other cars that meet your performance criteria, who cares? I see no indication that BMW intends to abandon the RWD architecture. It seems like some people may be getting a little too caught up in brand image as opposed to driving experience - those who truly appreciate the latter will continue buying BMWs performance-oriented RWD cars rather than languishing over BMW diluting the brand image. Besides, in the long run, this may be a good thing for BMW's RWD cars--once the FWD fans get a taste of the brand, they may be more easily converted to RWD enthusiasts and grow the brand even further.

Javier · 03-17-2010, 03:57 PM

If there's one thing that's certain in this crazy world, it's that Ultimate Driving Machines are driven by their rear wheels. Sure, there's an occasional all-wheel-drive model thrown in for good measure, but even those revert to the tried-and-true RWD when extra traction from the front two contact patches isn't deemed necessary or desirable. Well, alert the media (oh, wait...): BMW has confirmed the rumors that it will build front-wheel-drive automobiles.

At the Annual Accounts Press Conference for 2010, Dr. Norbert Reithofer, Chairman of the Board of Management of BMW, had this to say:

[The small car] segment is expected to grow further. And we will take advantage of this opportunity. We are exploring the possibility of developing a joint architecture for the front and four-wheel drive systems of these cars. In other words: There will be front-wheel drive BMWs in the smaller vehicle classes in the future.

Heresy, BMW fans? We wouldn't worry too much – there seems little chance that BMW will make a wholesale switch from powering the rear wheels to the fronts, especially for its mainstream models like the 3 Series, 5 Series and 7 Series – but the addition of a FWD chassis will make it easier for the automaker to share platforms with other companies and to "reduce [its] fleet's carbon-emissions worldwide by at least another 25 percent between 2008 and 2020."

In fact, take it from Reithofer himself:

BMW will continue to be a sport-inspired brand. We at the BMW Group continue to deliver maximum performance, tackle new challenges and sharpen our competitive edge.

Javier · 03-17-2010, 03:58 PM

Statement and Charts by Dr. Norbert Reithofer, Chairman of the Board of Management of BMW AG, Annual Accounts Press Conference 2010

Ladies and Gentlemen,

As you can see here: we are creating the future. And, we are on a path to profitable growth.

* In line with our strategy Number ONE, we moved the company's strategic realignment forward during the 2009 economic crisis.

* We have sharpened our profile as a sustainable company.
* We have launched attractive new models.
* We have invested – in our sites, in new engine technologies and in future projects.
* We have cut costs significantly. Today, we are a leaner and more powerful company than ever before.
* We have created a new and emotional design language for our cars.
* Our technology package, Efficient Dynamics, is the best in the industry, combining maximum performance with minimum fuel consumption.

All these points demonstrate that we have approached the economic crisis as an opportunity and have capitalized on it.

In 2007, we set in motion our strategy Number ONE with a clear vision: In 2020, we will be the leading provider of premium products and premium services for individual mobility.

An important milestone in this effort is meeting our profitability targets for 2012. In the current business year 2010, we will take an important step in reaching this milestone:

* We plan to post Group earnings significantly above the 2009 level.
* We expect growth in the solid one-digit percentage range by selling over 1.3 million cars.

Today I would like to highlight the following:

1.) What did we do to succeed in 2009?

2.) Why is the BMW Group on the right track towards future growth?

When we met here last year I told you that 2009 would be a transition year with two priorities: crisis management in the short term, and investing in our future success in the long term.

Today our fixed costs are lower than in 2005. We also managed to cut material costs dramatically, thanks to our ability to increase scalability efficiencies in our processes. These changes have been implemented in collaboration with our suppliers and partners.

We have always made continuous quality improvement a priority. From our perspective, quality is a key aspect of our customer focus. As a premium car company, we constantly strive to improve standards.

Despite the economic crisis, we continued to invest in our future. First off, we invested in new technologies such as hybrid- and electric-motors as well as Efficient Dynamics, an area in which we managed to extend our lead further. We also have invested in our production plants:

* In 2009 and 2010, more than one billion Euros is being invested in our German plants.
* We will have invested around 750 million US-Dollars in our Spartanburg plant from 2008 through 2010.
* Growth markets will increasingly be found further east. One of our business principles is that production follows the market. In November 2009, we announced our strong commitment to China as a production location. We are going to expand our capacities in Shenyang from a little over 41,000 to 100,000 units. Together with our partner, we will invest a total of almost 600 million Euros. As a result, we will be able to produce up to 300,000 cars at the Shenyang plant in the long term. In January and February 2010 alone, we doubled our sales volume in China compared to the previous year. Customer focus is the core of our basic principles at the BMW Group. Chinese BMW owners mostly ride with a chauffeur. This is why, as early as this year, we will present a long version of the new BMW 5 Series exclusively developed for the Chinese market.

We took the right actions to steer the company successfully through a challenging year. You are already familiar with the key data:

* In 2009, we posted positive pre-tax Group earnings of
* 413 million Euros, up 17.7 percent from the previous year.
* All in all, we sold close to 1.29 million cars. And it should be noted that national incentives such as the scrappage program in Germany only had a marginal effect on sales.
* We stood our ground as the world's leading manufacturer of premium cars and further increased our market share in the premium segment.
* Our sales volume increased significantly in January and February 2010. Due to various model changes, March will be weaker than the previous months.
* A few remarks about BMW Motorrad: In 2009, we delivered a total of 87,300 BMW motorcycles to customers, down 14 percent from 2008. Current sales figures show an upward trend in sales – with an increase of almost 25 percent from February 2009.

Our shareholders and investors have remained loyal to us despite the difficult and volatile situation and we believe shareholders should share in our company's performance. The Board of Management and the Supervisory Board will propose a dividend for the same amount as 2008 at the Annual General Meeting.

The positive development of BMW ordinary shares, which were traded 47 percent higher at year-end than in the beginning of 2009, demonstrates the confidence the capital market has in the company's future. In 2009, we have once again showed that BMW stock is a sound, long-term investment.

Moving onto the second topic:

Why is the BMW Group on the right track for future success?

We are really putting the pedal to the metal this year when it comes to new products. From October 2009 to December 2010, we will launch 17 new
or updated BMW, MINI and Rolls-Royce models:

* The BMW 3 Series Coupe and the 3 Series Convertible, as well as the BMW X5 have been updated.
* Starting this spring, customers will be able to purchase the BMW brand's CO2 champion: the BMW 320d EfficientDynamics Edition. This car uses only 4.1 liters per 100 kilometers and emits only 109 grams of CO2 per kilometer. In addition, it is a truly athletic car with 163 Horse Power. No other premium car company can offer customers more performance with fewer emissions without ever compromising on sheer driving pleasure.
* The Countryman, due out in September, will be the next addition to the MINI family and the first MINI with four-wheel drive.
* And Rolls-Royce will provide new customer segments with the Ghost.

The new BMW 5 Series Sedan is the start of a new era for the BMW Group.

The 5 Series is not only an image driver, but also a strong contributor to Group sales and revenue. It is with this new model that we were able to harness all the newly gained efficiencies in our production process and modular system.

The new 520d is a technological masterpiece: This car's four-cylinder engine needs only 5 liters of diesel per 100 kilometers and emits only 132 grams CO2 per kilometer, while offering the typical BMW performance with 184 horse power – making the 520d the world's most efficient luxury sedan.

Next year, the 5 Series will also be available as a full hybrid. Those who prefer not to wait can buy the first BMW hybrid models as early as April of this year, namely: the BMW ActiveHybrid X6 and the BMW ActiveHybrid 7 Series. They represent the state-of-the-art BMW ActiveHybrid technology. In the future, we will select the optimal hybrid solution for each model from a modular system.

Developing innovations is part of our DNA, and this is not going to change. Our innovative strength helps us tap new growth potential for the company. Again and again, we present our customers with new offerings.

Two examples:

* When we launched the BMW X5 about 10 years ago, it was the first premium SAV. As an example of its success, both the X5 and X6 outsold all competitors combined in 2009.
* And with MINI, we have successfully established a premium brand in the small car segment.

MINI is not a miniature version of another model series. MINI is and will remain the Original – with a signature face, a unique tradition and over 1.5 million fans around the world.

In the future, we will generate growth both in the large model segments and in the compact and sub-compact model segments. We will launch more MINI and BMW models and variants – also in the small car segment. This segment is expected to grow further. And we will take advantage of this opportunity. We are exploring the possibility of developing a joint architecture for the front and four-wheel drive systems of these cars. In other words: There will be front-wheel drive BMWs in the smaller vehicle classes in the future. We all know that the cost structure in the small car segment is different from that of the larger model classes. We intend to grow profitably in this segment as well.

Because there is one element that applies to the entire process chain: We will increasingly apply modular manufacturing kits to various models and brands. This approach enables us to cut costs further – without compromising on top quality.

Ladies and Gentlemen,

Premium is also defined through sustainability. As we see it, there are three components to this: an economic, an ecological, and a social factor.

Without financial success, we are not able to invest in eco-friendly technologies. Our products need to be profitable in order for us to create new technologies like e-mobility.

Customers are currently testing the MINI E for us. Some drivers have told me that they would love to keep their MINI E. Our annual report actually includes a section on customers and their experiences with the MINI E. BMW will follow suit in 2011 with a customer test fleet based on the concept study "BMW Concept ActiveE". This test fleet will be built at the Leipzig plant.

Thanks to Efficient Dynamics, we have accomplished much more than our competitors. In other words: Efficient Dynamics represents Sheer Driving Pleasure 2.0.The average emission of our European new-car fleet is only 150 grams per kilometer, equaling a fuel consumption of 5.9 liters per 100 kilometers. And what's even more amazing is the performance our cars achieve with these low emissions: 170 Horse Power or 125 kW.

And we plan to reduce our fleet's CO2-emissions worldwide by at least another 25 percent between 2008 and 2020.

However, ecological responsibility as an automaker is only met if we maintain a sustainable production system as well. 2009 marked the fifth consecutive year that the BMW Group was named the world's most sustainable automaker by the Dow Jones Sustainability Index.

In the superior discipline of yacht racing, the team "BMW ORACLE Racing" won the world's oldest sports trophy – the America's Cup.

We are also involved in the Olympic Games:

* BMW will be the automotive partner of the 2012 Olympic Summer Games in London. Thanks to Efficient Dynamics and our sustainability approach, the Sustainability Club chose the BMW Group as the fleet supplier for the next games in London.
* As a National Supporter, we are also assisting the Cities of Munich and Garmisch-Partenkirchen in their bid for the 2018 Winter Games. As a sustainable company, the BMW Group wants to have its share in making the games sustainable.

BMW will continue to be a sport-inspired brand. We at the BMW Group continue to deliver maximum performance, tackle new challenges and sharpen our competitive edge.

Premium constitutes a special obligation to assume responsibility as a good Corporate Citizen.

* In 2009, we hired a total of almost 300 new staff worldwide.
* More than 1,000 young people started their apprenticeship with
* BMW AG.
* This year, we will recruit about 500 university graduates, primarily experts in the new technologies such as hybrid or e-mobility as well as experts in sales and financial services.
* We have set up a junior executive program to ensure our future supply of talented managers. The program's focus is on international experiences, social leadership competences and a solid understanding of economic and social aspects.
* At the same time, we support teenagers who have not been able to find an apprenticeship position. The BMW Group offers these teenagers pre-vocational training.
* An important aspect of our strategy Number ONE is defining our leadership approach. I am convinced that outstanding leadership is the decisive factor that separates a good company from a great one. Simply put: Today, we at the BMW Group are a much stronger and more focused management team.

Ladies and Gentlemen,

Growth will pick up in key automotive markets such as the US and China this year. Nevertheless, the effects of the crisis will persist and continue to define our business for quite some time. Although the competition will remain fierce, we at the BMW Group are all motivated and ready to rise to the challenge.

We have two priorities in 2010: Profitability and shaping our future.

Here is a perfect example: The BMW Vision Efficient Dynamics:

* This is sheer driving pleasure at 3.76 liters per 100 kilometers and 356 Horse Power.
* This is the sophisticated combination of different drive systems.
* This is future-oriented design and can only be made by BMW.

And you can be sure: Our Megacity Vehicle will also be fascinating.

This innovative car will be built at our Leipzig plant, our future Center for E-Mobility Production. Two Bavarian locations are also involved in this project:

* Wackersdorf will manufacture carbon fiber in a joint venture with the SGL Group.
* The carbon fiber will then be sent to the Landshut plant to be turned into CFK parts – from reinforced carbon fiber – for the Megacity Vehicle.

We consider carbon fiber a cutting-edge material for the auto industry. Our efforts will make sustainable mobility possible in urban environments. In line with our corporate philosophy, the energy demand for producing carbon fiber will come from hydropower. We are currently looking for a suitable location in North America to set up our joint venture plant.

We believe that a company's global footprint and its ethical principles will play an increasingly important role in the way people do business. Acting sustainably now will pay off in the future. The BMW Group is clearly leading the way.

In early March, the BMW Group was ranked by Fortune Magazine as the most admired automotive company in the world. This distinction was given to us because we are not only the leading premium automaker with regard to sales volume, but we also managed to use our resources efficiently and reduce our fleet emissions significantly in a very short period of time.

You can be certain: We have a clear path forward.

We will remain an independent company that takes a long-term approach and acts in the best interest of all stakeholders. This year marks the turning point toward long-term profitability as we remain focused on achieving our 2012 targets.

Thank you very much!

SV Concepts II · 03-17-2010, 03:59 PM

The end is nigh.

mathu.bala · 03-17-2010, 04:00 PM

lol...maybe folks with lots of snow will be happy

JIM E92 · 03-17-2010, 04:12 PM

Whats even more disappointing is that by the looks of the drive shafts the engine will be a transverse mounted engine well ahead of the wheel axis. This will create a very unfavorable weight balance. They are not counteracting this with suspension design either. It's a standard MacPherson strut. So, by design it will understeer and torque steer. You can do better BMW. Even VW has FWD models with longitudinal mounted engines and 5 link front suspensions.

SCA · 03-17-2010, 04:18 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Cal@Jlevi SW

The end is nigh.

It began with with SAVs, then Motorsport SAVs, and now FWD.

TheRox · 03-17-2010, 04:19 PM

takes away from any small exclusivity BMW has...so what, there is gonna be a 25 K bimmer now?

Every second person is going to be driving a car with the BMW badge...as if easy liquidity and low interest rates haven't done that already!

jeremyc74 · 03-17-2010, 04:27 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by JIM E92

. Even VW has FWD models with longitudinal mounted engines and 5 link front suspensions.

They do?

JIM E92 · 03-17-2010, 04:42 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by jeremyc74

They do?

Yes. They have had them since the B5 platform.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Volkswa...B-based_models

Tari · 03-17-2010, 04:44 PM

WTF big time BMW fail

markinva · 03-17-2010, 04:47 PM

is a fwd V6 BMW in the future?

MidwestBimmerFan · 03-17-2010, 04:48 PM

The end of BMW as we no it. There is no way they would be that stupid. That would dilute the entire brand.

noro · 03-17-2010, 04:48 PM

It's funny but the best car to get in the near future is probably going to be one from the past. I personally no longer really see "progress" in the automotive industry, watering down models to get more people to buy them is really hurting brand uniqueness.

BVios · 03-17-2010, 04:55 PM

I don't see it as a problem sence it doesn't effect the models that intrest me. It's not like theres gonna be a fwd M5 or anything.

arhim22 · 03-17-2010, 04:57 PM

OH NO! what has the world come to!

jeremyc74 · 03-17-2010, 05:02 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by JIM E92

Yes. They have had them since the B5 platform.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Volkswa...B-based_models

Oh, ok, Volkswagon group. I was just thinking the VW brand.

Still, by doing that, you loose the major efficiency advantage to FWD, and that defeats the whole purpose.

The major driving force behind this move to FWD is because of the tougher mileage and emissions requirements. If you're still going to turn the power 90 degrees, you're using the same geartrain as a RWD, but with a shorter driveshaft.

From what I've read these Audis still have severe understeer problems, so I'm not really sure there's any point for BMW to do that.

JIM E92 · 03-17-2010, 05:04 PM

BMW is further narrowing it's distinctive position in the market by platform sharing. In their efforts to lower their CO2 emissions they are making too many compromises. The decisions that are being made at the executive corporate level is sending the company down a slippery slope. I hope they realize this. I loath the day when a Toyota owner asks me what is the difference between our cars and the best response I can come-up with is that mine costs more.

F32Fleet · 03-17-2010, 05:05 PM

I doubt they'll be sold in the US afterall that's what MINI is for. With interior space being a premium, FWD is really the only viable option.

Manboy · 03-17-2010, 05:07 PM

Even tho it wont have any effect on the 3 or 5 series It kinda ruins the coolness of the brand imo..

But i guess it already is ruined by the lights of Heavy M cars with turbos.

I miss the good ol days of the M3 csl and "ultimate driving machine" slogan..

03-17-2010, 03:42 PM	#23
SCA Brigadier General 574 Rep 3,742 Posts Drives: Multiple BMWs Join Date: Apr 2005 Location: 🇺🇸 iTrader: (0)	BMW confirms plans for front-wheel-drive models http://www.autoblog.com/2010/03/17/b...-drive-models/
	Appreciate 0 Quote

03-17-2010, 03:45 PM	#24
kooper Private First Class 45 Rep 109 Posts Drives: E36 M3 (I wish) Join Date: Dec 2006 Location: Somewhere iTrader: (0)	I'm honestly fine with BMW making an entry-level FWD car, as long as the FWD layout is limited to that one model and variations of that one model only. There was mention not too long ago of BMW apparently deciding whether or not the 1 Series should go FWD (not the one to be released, but the one thereafter). Now THAT worries me a bit. If FWD starts to filter upwards to the 1 Series, what's to stop it from becoming a feature on the 3, then the 5, then the 7 etc.?
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03-17-2010, 03:49 PM	#25
BHairsto Lieutenant 136 Rep 497 Posts Drives: 2016 BMW M2 Join Date: Sep 2006 Location: Woodbridge, VA iTrader: (2) Garage List 2016 BMW X5 35d [0.00]	Forgive me, but I don't get all of the hysteria over BMW introducing FWD cars. So long as BMW continues to offer other cars that meet your performance criteria, who cares? I see no indication that BMW intends to abandon the RWD architecture. It seems like some people may be getting a little too caught up in brand image as opposed to driving experience - those who truly appreciate the latter will continue buying BMWs performance-oriented RWD cars rather than languishing over BMW diluting the brand image. Besides, in the long run, this may be a good thing for BMW's RWD cars--once the FWD fans get a taste of the brand, they may be more easily converted to RWD enthusiasts and grow the brand even further.
	Appreciate 0 Quote

03-17-2010, 03:57 PM	#26
Javier Major 89 Rep 1,109 Posts Drives: 335i E92 Join Date: Nov 2006 Location: Puerto Rico iTrader: (0)	If there's one thing that's certain in this crazy world, it's that Ultimate Driving Machines are driven by their rear wheels. Sure, there's an occasional all-wheel-drive model thrown in for good measure, but even those revert to the tried-and-true RWD when extra traction from the front two contact patches isn't deemed necessary or desirable. Well, alert the media (oh, wait...): BMW has confirmed the rumors that it will build front-wheel-drive automobiles. At the Annual Accounts Press Conference for 2010, Dr. Norbert Reithofer, Chairman of the Board of Management of BMW, had this to say: [The small car] segment is expected to grow further. And we will take advantage of this opportunity. We are exploring the possibility of developing a joint architecture for the front and four-wheel drive systems of these cars. In other words: There will be front-wheel drive BMWs in the smaller vehicle classes in the future. Heresy, BMW fans? We wouldn't worry too much – there seems little chance that BMW will make a wholesale switch from powering the rear wheels to the fronts, especially for its mainstream models like the 3 Series, 5 Series and 7 Series – but the addition of a FWD chassis will make it easier for the automaker to share platforms with other companies and to "reduce [its] fleet's carbon-emissions worldwide by at least another 25 percent between 2008 and 2020." In fact, take it from Reithofer himself: BMW will continue to be a sport-inspired brand. We at the BMW Group continue to deliver maximum performance, tackle new challenges and sharpen our competitive edge. __________________ 2007 328i Crimson Red SOLD 2010 335i MSport AW E92
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03-17-2010, 03:58 PM	#27
Javier Major 89 Rep 1,109 Posts Drives: 335i E92 Join Date: Nov 2006 Location: Puerto Rico iTrader: (0)	Statement and Charts by Dr. Norbert Reithofer, Chairman of the Board of Management of BMW AG, Annual Accounts Press Conference 2010 Ladies and Gentlemen, As you can see here: we are creating the future. And, we are on a path to profitable growth. * In line with our strategy Number ONE, we moved the company's strategic realignment forward during the 2009 economic crisis. * We have sharpened our profile as a sustainable company. * We have launched attractive new models. * We have invested – in our sites, in new engine technologies and in future projects. * We have cut costs significantly. Today, we are a leaner and more powerful company than ever before. * We have created a new and emotional design language for our cars. * Our technology package, Efficient Dynamics, is the best in the industry, combining maximum performance with minimum fuel consumption. All these points demonstrate that we have approached the economic crisis as an opportunity and have capitalized on it. In 2007, we set in motion our strategy Number ONE with a clear vision: In 2020, we will be the leading provider of premium products and premium services for individual mobility. An important milestone in this effort is meeting our profitability targets for 2012. In the current business year 2010, we will take an important step in reaching this milestone: * We plan to post Group earnings significantly above the 2009 level. * We expect growth in the solid one-digit percentage range by selling over 1.3 million cars. Today I would like to highlight the following: 1.) What did we do to succeed in 2009? 2.) Why is the BMW Group on the right track towards future growth? When we met here last year I told you that 2009 would be a transition year with two priorities: crisis management in the short term, and investing in our future success in the long term. Today our fixed costs are lower than in 2005. We also managed to cut material costs dramatically, thanks to our ability to increase scalability efficiencies in our processes. These changes have been implemented in collaboration with our suppliers and partners. We have always made continuous quality improvement a priority. From our perspective, quality is a key aspect of our customer focus. As a premium car company, we constantly strive to improve standards. Despite the economic crisis, we continued to invest in our future. First off, we invested in new technologies such as hybrid- and electric-motors as well as Efficient Dynamics, an area in which we managed to extend our lead further. We also have invested in our production plants: * In 2009 and 2010, more than one billion Euros is being invested in our German plants. * We will have invested around 750 million US-Dollars in our Spartanburg plant from 2008 through 2010. * Growth markets will increasingly be found further east. One of our business principles is that production follows the market. In November 2009, we announced our strong commitment to China as a production location. We are going to expand our capacities in Shenyang from a little over 41,000 to 100,000 units. Together with our partner, we will invest a total of almost 600 million Euros. As a result, we will be able to produce up to 300,000 cars at the Shenyang plant in the long term. In January and February 2010 alone, we doubled our sales volume in China compared to the previous year. Customer focus is the core of our basic principles at the BMW Group. Chinese BMW owners mostly ride with a chauffeur. This is why, as early as this year, we will present a long version of the new BMW 5 Series exclusively developed for the Chinese market. We took the right actions to steer the company successfully through a challenging year. You are already familiar with the key data: * In 2009, we posted positive pre-tax Group earnings of * 413 million Euros, up 17.7 percent from the previous year. * All in all, we sold close to 1.29 million cars. And it should be noted that national incentives such as the scrappage program in Germany only had a marginal effect on sales. * We stood our ground as the world's leading manufacturer of premium cars and further increased our market share in the premium segment. * Our sales volume increased significantly in January and February 2010. Due to various model changes, March will be weaker than the previous months. * A few remarks about BMW Motorrad: In 2009, we delivered a total of 87,300 BMW motorcycles to customers, down 14 percent from 2008. Current sales figures show an upward trend in sales – with an increase of almost 25 percent from February 2009. Our shareholders and investors have remained loyal to us despite the difficult and volatile situation and we believe shareholders should share in our company's performance. The Board of Management and the Supervisory Board will propose a dividend for the same amount as 2008 at the Annual General Meeting. The positive development of BMW ordinary shares, which were traded 47 percent higher at year-end than in the beginning of 2009, demonstrates the confidence the capital market has in the company's future. In 2009, we have once again showed that BMW stock is a sound, long-term investment. Moving onto the second topic: Why is the BMW Group on the right track for future success? We are really putting the pedal to the metal this year when it comes to new products. From October 2009 to December 2010, we will launch 17 new or updated BMW, MINI and Rolls-Royce models: * The BMW 3 Series Coupe and the 3 Series Convertible, as well as the BMW X5 have been updated. * Starting this spring, customers will be able to purchase the BMW brand's CO2 champion: the BMW 320d EfficientDynamics Edition. This car uses only 4.1 liters per 100 kilometers and emits only 109 grams of CO2 per kilometer. In addition, it is a truly athletic car with 163 Horse Power. No other premium car company can offer customers more performance with fewer emissions without ever compromising on sheer driving pleasure. * The Countryman, due out in September, will be the next addition to the MINI family and the first MINI with four-wheel drive. * And Rolls-Royce will provide new customer segments with the Ghost. The new BMW 5 Series Sedan is the start of a new era for the BMW Group. The 5 Series is not only an image driver, but also a strong contributor to Group sales and revenue. It is with this new model that we were able to harness all the newly gained efficiencies in our production process and modular system. The new 520d is a technological masterpiece: This car's four-cylinder engine needs only 5 liters of diesel per 100 kilometers and emits only 132 grams CO2 per kilometer, while offering the typical BMW performance with 184 horse power – making the 520d the world's most efficient luxury sedan. Next year, the 5 Series will also be available as a full hybrid. Those who prefer not to wait can buy the first BMW hybrid models as early as April of this year, namely: the BMW ActiveHybrid X6 and the BMW ActiveHybrid 7 Series. They represent the state-of-the-art BMW ActiveHybrid technology. In the future, we will select the optimal hybrid solution for each model from a modular system. Developing innovations is part of our DNA, and this is not going to change. Our innovative strength helps us tap new growth potential for the company. Again and again, we present our customers with new offerings. Two examples: * When we launched the BMW X5 about 10 years ago, it was the first premium SAV. As an example of its success, both the X5 and X6 outsold all competitors combined in 2009. * And with MINI, we have successfully established a premium brand in the small car segment. MINI is not a miniature version of another model series. MINI is and will remain the Original – with a signature face, a unique tradition and over 1.5 million fans around the world. In the future, we will generate growth both in the large model segments and in the compact and sub-compact model segments. We will launch more MINI and BMW models and variants – also in the small car segment. This segment is expected to grow further. And we will take advantage of this opportunity. We are exploring the possibility of developing a joint architecture for the front and four-wheel drive systems of these cars. In other words: There will be front-wheel drive BMWs in the smaller vehicle classes in the future. We all know that the cost structure in the small car segment is different from that of the larger model classes. We intend to grow profitably in this segment as well. Because there is one element that applies to the entire process chain: We will increasingly apply modular manufacturing kits to various models and brands. This approach enables us to cut costs further – without compromising on top quality. Ladies and Gentlemen, Premium is also defined through sustainability. As we see it, there are three components to this: an economic, an ecological, and a social factor. Without financial success, we are not able to invest in eco-friendly technologies. Our products need to be profitable in order for us to create new technologies like e-mobility. Customers are currently testing the MINI E for us. Some drivers have told me that they would love to keep their MINI E. Our annual report actually includes a section on customers and their experiences with the MINI E. BMW will follow suit in 2011 with a customer test fleet based on the concept study "BMW Concept ActiveE". This test fleet will be built at the Leipzig plant. Thanks to Efficient Dynamics, we have accomplished much more than our competitors. In other words: Efficient Dynamics represents Sheer Driving Pleasure 2.0.The average emission of our European new-car fleet is only 150 grams per kilometer, equaling a fuel consumption of 5.9 liters per 100 kilometers. And what's even more amazing is the performance our cars achieve with these low emissions: 170 Horse Power or 125 kW. And we plan to reduce our fleet's CO2-emissions worldwide by at least another 25 percent between 2008 and 2020. However, ecological responsibility as an automaker is only met if we maintain a sustainable production system as well. 2009 marked the fifth consecutive year that the BMW Group was named the world's most sustainable automaker by the Dow Jones Sustainability Index. In the superior discipline of yacht racing, the team "BMW ORACLE Racing" won the world's oldest sports trophy – the America's Cup. We are also involved in the Olympic Games: * BMW will be the automotive partner of the 2012 Olympic Summer Games in London. Thanks to Efficient Dynamics and our sustainability approach, the Sustainability Club chose the BMW Group as the fleet supplier for the next games in London. * As a National Supporter, we are also assisting the Cities of Munich and Garmisch-Partenkirchen in their bid for the 2018 Winter Games. As a sustainable company, the BMW Group wants to have its share in making the games sustainable. BMW will continue to be a sport-inspired brand. We at the BMW Group continue to deliver maximum performance, tackle new challenges and sharpen our competitive edge. Premium constitutes a special obligation to assume responsibility as a good Corporate Citizen. * In 2009, we hired a total of almost 300 new staff worldwide. * More than 1,000 young people started their apprenticeship with * BMW AG. * This year, we will recruit about 500 university graduates, primarily experts in the new technologies such as hybrid or e-mobility as well as experts in sales and financial services. * We have set up a junior executive program to ensure our future supply of talented managers. The program's focus is on international experiences, social leadership competences and a solid understanding of economic and social aspects. * At the same time, we support teenagers who have not been able to find an apprenticeship position. The BMW Group offers these teenagers pre-vocational training. * An important aspect of our strategy Number ONE is defining our leadership approach. I am convinced that outstanding leadership is the decisive factor that separates a good company from a great one. Simply put: Today, we at the BMW Group are a much stronger and more focused management team. Ladies and Gentlemen, Growth will pick up in key automotive markets such as the US and China this year. Nevertheless, the effects of the crisis will persist and continue to define our business for quite some time. Although the competition will remain fierce, we at the BMW Group are all motivated and ready to rise to the challenge. We have two priorities in 2010: Profitability and shaping our future. Here is a perfect example: The BMW Vision Efficient Dynamics: * This is sheer driving pleasure at 3.76 liters per 100 kilometers and 356 Horse Power. * This is the sophisticated combination of different drive systems. * This is future-oriented design and can only be made by BMW. And you can be sure: Our Megacity Vehicle will also be fascinating. This innovative car will be built at our Leipzig plant, our future Center for E-Mobility Production. Two Bavarian locations are also involved in this project: * Wackersdorf will manufacture carbon fiber in a joint venture with the SGL Group. * The carbon fiber will then be sent to the Landshut plant to be turned into CFK parts – from reinforced carbon fiber – for the Megacity Vehicle. We consider carbon fiber a cutting-edge material for the auto industry. Our efforts will make sustainable mobility possible in urban environments. In line with our corporate philosophy, the energy demand for producing carbon fiber will come from hydropower. We are currently looking for a suitable location in North America to set up our joint venture plant. We believe that a company's global footprint and its ethical principles will play an increasingly important role in the way people do business. Acting sustainably now will pay off in the future. The BMW Group is clearly leading the way. In early March, the BMW Group was ranked by Fortune Magazine as the most admired automotive company in the world. This distinction was given to us because we are not only the leading premium automaker with regard to sales volume, but we also managed to use our resources efficiently and reduce our fleet emissions significantly in a very short period of time. You can be certain: We have a clear path forward. We will remain an independent company that takes a long-term approach and acts in the best interest of all stakeholders. This year marks the turning point toward long-term profitability as we remain focused on achieving our 2012 targets. Thank you very much! __________________ 2007 328i Crimson Red SOLD 2010 335i MSport AW E92
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03-17-2010, 03:59 PM	#28
SV Concepts II 273 Rep 6,093 Posts Drives: E90 M3 Join Date: Dec 2008 Location: 1460 White Oaks Rd. Suite F Campbell, CA 95008 iTrader: (7)	The end is nigh.
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03-17-2010, 04:00 PM	#29
mathu.bala First Lieutenant 24 Rep 329 Posts Drives: 2009 323i/6mt Join Date: Aug 2009 Location: Kirkland, WA iTrader: (0) Garage List 2009 LCI 323i [0.00]	lol...maybe folks with lots of snow will be happy __________________ 2009 323i Titanium Silver Metallic: Premium Pkg(Heated SW, Bluetooth, Sunroof), USB MFD Scoop,SWS-8,JL M6450
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03-17-2010, 04:12 PM	#30
JIM E92 Lieutenant 15 Rep 410 Posts Drives: 2007 328 Coupe Join Date: Sep 2008 Location: Sandy Eggo iTrader: (0)	Whats even more disappointing is that by the looks of the drive shafts the engine will be a transverse mounted engine well ahead of the wheel axis. This will create a very unfavorable weight balance. They are not counteracting this with suspension design either. It's a standard MacPherson strut. So, by design it will understeer and torque steer. You can do better BMW. Even VW has FWD models with longitudinal mounted engines and 5 link front suspensions.
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03-17-2010, 04:19 PM	#32
TheRox Colonel 127 Rep 2,312 Posts Drives: 6mt Join Date: Oct 2009 Location: Here and there iTrader: (2)	takes away from any small exclusivity BMW has...so what, there is gonna be a 25 K bimmer now? Every second person is going to be driving a car with the BMW badge...as if easy liquidity and low interest rates haven't done that already!
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03-17-2010, 04:44 PM	#35
Tari Captain 67 Rep 643 Posts Drives: MG M4 Join Date: Dec 2009 Location: NY iTrader: (0)	WTF big time BMW fail
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03-17-2010, 04:47 PM	#36
markinva Lieutenant 20 Rep 402 Posts Drives: 2021 M4 G82 Join Date: Nov 2008 Location: NOVA iTrader: (0)	is a fwd V6 BMW in the future?
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03-17-2010, 04:48 PM	#37
MidwestBimmerFan Private First Class 14 Rep 148 Posts Drives: E92 M3, 1995 E36 M3, 1976 2002 Join Date: Aug 2008 Location: Willowbrook, IL iTrader: (0)	The end of BMW as we no it. There is no way they would be that stupid. That would dilute the entire brand.
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03-17-2010, 04:48 PM	#38
noro Colonel 90 Rep 2,707 Posts Drives: '91 M3, '04 E46 ZHP, '72 2002 Join Date: Aug 2006 Location: Boston iTrader: (0)	It's funny but the best car to get in the near future is probably going to be one from the past. I personally no longer really see "progress" in the automotive industry, watering down models to get more people to buy them is really hurting brand uniqueness. __________________ zhpregistry.net - ZHP stats and free classifieds.
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03-17-2010, 04:55 PM	#39
BVios Registered 0 Rep 1 Posts Drives: Volvo 142 Join Date: Jul 2006 Location: Swe iTrader: (0)	I don't see it as a problem sence it doesn't effect the models that intrest me. It's not like theres gonna be a fwd M5 or anything.
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03-17-2010, 04:57 PM	#40
arhim22 Lieutenant 42 Rep 538 Posts Drives: 2008 M6, 2004 Lamborghini G Join Date: Sep 2009 Location: Orlando FL/UCF iTrader: (0)	OH NO! what has the world come to!
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03-17-2010, 05:04 PM	#42
JIM E92 Lieutenant 15 Rep 410 Posts Drives: 2007 328 Coupe Join Date: Sep 2008 Location: Sandy Eggo iTrader: (0)	BMW is further narrowing it's distinctive position in the market by platform sharing. In their efforts to lower their CO2 emissions they are making too many compromises. The decisions that are being made at the executive corporate level is sending the company down a slippery slope. I hope they realize this. I loath the day when a Toyota owner asks me what is the difference between our cars and the best response I can come-up with is that mine costs more.
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03-17-2010, 05:05 PM	#43
F32Fleet Lieutenant General 3908 Rep 10,606 Posts Drives: 2015 435i Join Date: May 2005 Location: Southeastern US iTrader: (0)	I doubt they'll be sold in the US afterall that's what MINI is for. With interior space being a premium, FWD is really the only viable option.
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03-17-2010, 05:07 PM	#44
Manboy Captain 467 Rep 861 Posts Drives: 2020 M135i Misano Blue Join Date: Aug 2008 Location: Sweden iTrader: (0)	Even tho it wont have any effect on the 3 or 5 series It kinda ruins the coolness of the brand imo.. But i guess it already is ruined by the lights of Heavy M cars with turbos. I miss the good ol days of the M3 csl and "ultimate driving machine" slogan..
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