BMW keeps an eye on governments for green-technology direction

BMW Group is embracing a greener future by watching governments for green technology directions. Sustainability will be the key theme for BMW moving forward, whether it is front-drive small cars, electric vehicles or diesels. Ian Robertson, BMW Group’s board member for marketing, confirmed this last Wednesday at the 2011 Automotive News World Congress. They are looking for government cues in forcing standards for automakers to follow, in terms of the desires of the consumer for greener options.

Robertson foresees that electric vehicles will be representing 5 to 7% of all cars around the globe. However, if Chinese companies and research universities are able to make a breakthrough in battery technology, which is currently a nationwide technical agenda, Beijing could trigger a massive shift in of electric vehicle demand.

“Nobody knows which technology will have the most traction. If you don’t have the full gambit, you won’t satisfy regulations or customer desires,” Robertson said.

BMW also exerts effort in making existing fleets more fuel-efficient. That is why BMW will be introducing front-drive small cars in the near future.

“There is a lot of technology allowing capable performance from front-wheel drive,” Robertson said. “Mini has always been front-wheel drive, and is known for handling and dynamics. In producing a front-wheel-drive BMW, all elements that make a BMW will be incorporated.”

“Small cars in the premium segment are going to see growth,” Robertson said. “Small cars will be a substantial part of our business” he added.