BMW will increase its investment in India to US$40m by the end of 2012 and start assembling the X1 SUV at its local plant by the end of this year, a top official said.

BMW established the plant near Chennai in 2007 with capacity of 5,400 units per year. The plant produces petrol and diesel 3 and 5 series sedans.

By the end of 2010, the plant will also start producing the X1, Andreas Schaaf, the president of India operations, told the Indo Asian News Service. It rolled out its 10,000th unit on Wednesday.

Schaaf said the company aims to maintain its leading position in the Indian market by embarking on a second wave of local strategy.

“We are confident that we will be able to increase sales substantially over the coming years with new products, now produced in India and the ongoing expansion of our dealer network to reach out to more of our potential buyers,” he said.

The company will also increase the number of dealerships to 22 from the current 18 by 2011.

GlobalData Strategic Intelligence

US Tariffs are shifting - will you react or anticipate?

Don’t let policy changes catch you off guard. Stay proactive with real-time data and expert analysis.

By GlobalData

Just Auto Excellence Awards - The Benefits of Entering

Gain the recognition you deserve! The Just Auto Excellence Awards celebrate innovation, leadership, and impact. By entering, you showcase your achievements, elevate your industry profile, and position yourself among top leaders driving automotive industry advancements. Don’t miss your chance to stand out—submit your entry today!

Nominate Now