BMW will accelerate its shift toward autonomous and electrified vehicles by opening a self-driving test center in Germany and developing flexible platforms for conventional, plug-hybrid and all-electric cars.
BMW is now entering Phase 2 of its electrification strategy after launching its i sub-brand for battery powered and plug-in vehicles three years ago.
The automaker expects to sell 100,000 plug-in hybrid and electric vehicles next year, Kruger said. The volume would represent the same quantity of electrified vehicles BMW has sold in the past three years.
BMW Group sold 2.25 million cars last year and the 2017 target is consistent with the automaker’s goal to increase electrified vehicle sales to between 15% and 25% of its worldwide volume by 2025.
BMW will continue to invest in the i sub-brand. The automaker has faced criticism that the i unit has not made an impact in the market despite huge investments. The sub-brand currently sells two models – the i3 battery powered compact city car and i8 plug-in hybrid sports car.
