BackBMW to source parts for ‘Mini’ from India
BMW to source parts for ‘Mini’ from India
PremiumGurgaon: German carmaker BMW may have decided in 2008 to scrap plans to bring its premium small car ‘Mini´ to India in 2009, but it is going ahead with sourcing components for the luxury marque from the country.
The company, which is eyeing the top spot in the Indian luxury car segment, on Thursday unveiled its new 3 Series sedan, whose petrol version is priced between Rs26.90 lakh and Rs32.9 lakh (ex-showroom), and the diesel variant between Rs29.5 lakh and Rs30.5 lakh (ex-showroom).
BMW, which set up an international purchasing office (IPO) in India in 2008, has identified a couple of suppliers as it looks to leverage the country’s low cost-high quality auto component industry.
“Going forward we will see more of Made-in-India components in BMW’s global products. The purchasing office will source components not only for BMW cars but also for the Mini, along with bike parts," BMW India Peter Kronschnabl said.
He said the IPO, which has ten people so far, will see an addition of an expatriate, who will look after the sourcing for bike components.
Kronschnabl said the company was looking to source components such as forgings, castings and electronic parts.
“As of now sampling is being done with the vendors who have been identified and we expect to sign contracts in a couple of months," he said.
The company had last year decided against bringing the Mini in India as its study found the market conditions not feasible.
On its new offering 3 Series, he said the company expects the car to play a key role in BMW’s efforts to shore up volumes in India.
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