BMW chief executive Helmut Panke has warned that mergers and alliances such as a possible General Motors-Renault-Nissan link only provide short-term benefits at best.
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“In the integration process, the brand’s profile gets lost,” Panke told Reuters.
“A lot of people ask us what the key to success is. BMW goes its own way. We are (so) profitable because we are independent.”
The news agency noted that BMW has focused on a clear strategy of offering only premium products under the BMW, Mini and Rolls-Royce brands.
Instead of alliances, Panke reportedly recommended achieving synergies in development and production by teaming up with partners on a project-by-project basis.
BMW outsources production of its X3 mid-size SUV to Magna Steyr, co-operates with PSA on Mini engines [for the next-generatrion model due out this year] and has joined GM and DaimlerChrysler to develop two-mode next-generation hybrid powertrains, the report also noted.
Panke added that any further weakening of the US dollar would not endanger the BMW group’s 2006 target of earning EUR4bn ($US5.1bn) before tax, Reuters added.
