BMW to launch new Z4 roadster in India this November, to invest Rs 390 crore in Chennai plant
BMW is set to add three new models to its product portfolio in India . BMW will launch the new Z4 roadster sports car in November this year and the 3 and another model early next year.
BMW India is also set to spend Rs 390 crore at its Chennai plant for adding a new assembly line, taking the total capacity to 14,000 units a year. With this investment, the German luxury car manufacturer will be able to locally assemble eight products from the current six models.
The company sells 14 models in India and, till last year, it was the market leader in the luxury car segment in the country outselling both its rivals Audi and Mercedes.
When asked about dropping sales volume, Philipp von Sahr, President of  BMW Group India, said: "Our focus is not to sell product at any price. We want to have sales volume but at the same time we cannot compromise on the profitability. Our strategy is to have sustainable growth."
The company has acquired additional land for expansion. Currently, the first line runs in two shifts where 1 Series, 3 Series and compact SUV X1 are produced. The second line will have assembly for new 5 series, 7 series and Mini.
Philipp von Sahr told Auto Monitor: "We will expand our product portfolio by launching a number of products which will include refresh models as well as new introduction. We will add two new products by the next year and also will launch Z4 Roadster in November this year."
[Check our first drive of the BMW Z4 roadster here]