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BMW Teases Plans for China

German manufacturer BMW got a visit last week from the Vice-Premier of the State Council of the People’s Republic of China, Li Keqiang. A visit which, for all intents and purposes, was the perfect opportunity for the car maker Chinese customers fell in love with to outline its plans for the local market.

As with any long-term commitment these days in the automotive industry, BMW's approach when it comes to the future of its business in the country is spelled electric. And it all starts with BMW launching a locally-built electric vehicle in 2013, manufactured together with local partner Brilliance.

“Close and long-standing ties exist between China and the BMW Group,” said Norbert Reithofer, BMW chairman of the board. “The BMW Group and its partner, Brilliance, are making a joint contribution to sustainable mobility in China.”

What’s more interesting is that the car maker confirmed the rumors which surfaced at the end of last year which said that the ActiveE might get a Chinese version as well. The model will hit Chinese roads later this year, to be tested by local customers.

In addition, MINI E fleet trial will also be extended to China, with the model to be deployed in two cities, Beijing and Shenzhen starting 2011.

China, BMW's third largest market, will see an increase in production in the year to come, with BMW announcing ever since 2009 the construction of a second production plant in the country. With assembly of the BMW X1 and several other models at local plants will allow the Germans to reach a target of 150,000 vehicles made in China each year, starting 2012.
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About the author: Daniel Patrascu
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Daniel loves writing (or so he claims), and he uses this skill to offer readers a "behind the scenes" look at the automotive industry. He also enjoys talking about space exploration and robots, because in his view the only way forward for humanity is away from this planet, in metal bodies.
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