Coronavirus impact: BMW Group India resumes operation at its plant in Chennai

BMW has announced that it has resumed operations at its plant in Chennai with less than 50 per cent workforce. The dealerships are now functional and potential customers can experience the complete range of BMW, MINI and BMW Motorrad products. The company has taken has preventive measures while adhering to the guidelines set by the government as it resumes operation in the post lockdown world.

The company has remodelled the working layout at the plant, dealerships and service stations to ensure the safety of customers and the employees. Standard operating procedures have been implemented to ensure periodic surface sanitisation of the highest level in all working areas. The company has provided individual protective gear, hand sanitiser and regular health check-up for all employees to curb the risk of contracting the COVID-19 virus.

The company will deliver new and serviced vehicles at a location chosen by the customer and all vehicles will be pre-sanitised before delivery. Test drive vehicles are now available and have to be booked at dealerships and all test vehicles are completely sanitised before each drive. Test cars will also have a hand sanitiser placed inside the car for customers. All engineers at the service station will work while wearing protective gear at all times.

BMW Group has also introduced BMW, MINI and BMW Motorrad Hygiene packages at all dealerships. The hygiene packages are a combination of high-quality premium care products that work together. There are three types of hygiene package -  a full car package, an 'Air" package that focuses on cleaning the AC and interior package that ensures complete cleanliness and decontamination of car interiors. The BMW and MINI packages will be available from 15 June 2020 and they will be available at a special introductory price till 31 July 2020. A complimentary BMW Motorrad Care Kit will be provided to those customers who purchase a BMW Motorrad vehicle before July 31, 2020.

Arlindo Teixeira, acting President, BMW Group India, said, "It brings us great JOY to finally restart operations at our dealerships, Plant Chennai and corporate office. Customers and prospects can now explore, test-drive and purchase their favourite vehicles in a safe and sanitised environment at our dealerships. We continue to see increase in demand for BMW 3 Series, BMW X1 and MINI Countryman. BMW Plant Chennai has restarted production and will be instrumental in fulfilling this market demand for our class leading sedans and versatile Sports Activity Vehicles (SAVs). The introduction of industry first hygiene packages for BMW, MINI and BMW Motorrad aims at enabling our customers to care for their favourite vehicles from the comfort of their home. With customer-centric initiatives such as Contactless Experience, Extended Care+ and Hygiene Packages, we will remain resolute in our promise to bring JOY to our customers at all times."