BMW to launch 20 new premium models to boost sales 40 per cent by 2008

Speaking at an exclusive VIP pre-Middle East International Motor Show gathering, held at Mina A'Salam in Dubai and attended by BMW importers from across the region, Bailey-McEwan said the planned investment in new models and engines would lift BMW Group to a totally new level.

"BMW's success is in the keyword 'premium', said Bailey-McEwan. "We are proud to bring you premium products - products characterised by emotion, uncompromising engineering, innovative technology and supreme quality.

"BMW Group is the world's only luxury car manufacturer which pursues a clear-cut premium brand strategy. Through the MINI brand, we have established the premium philosophy in the small car segment, proving that premium is not a question of size. Through the BMW brand, we occupy the midrange and luxury performance segments. And through the Rolls-Royce brand, we have been represented since the beginning of this year in the absolute high-end segment."

In 2004 new highlights from the Group's BMW brand will include two completely new model series - 6 Series and X3, and the revamped X5 Series - all of which will be seen in the Middle East, for the first time, at the Seventh Middle East International Motor Show, to be held at the Dubai International Exhibition Centre, from December 11-15.

In addition 2004 will see the Middle East launch of the exciting BMW 645Ci Convertible. This 2+2 dream car will make its world debut at the Detroit Motor Show in the USA.

Under its 'Is it Love?' theme and true to its unique and fun personality, the MIN brand will stage a spirited show at the 2003 Middle East International Motor Show, presenting its 'Fab Four' models of which the new 'MINI Cooper Club Sport' will make its debut in the region. New colours and features will be presented on the MINI Cooper, MINI Cooper S and MINI Cooper S Works.

"This is an exciting motor show for us, packed with new models and new innovations. For the first time, visitors to this motor show will enjoy BMW Group being represented by its three premium brands: BMW, MINI and Rolls-Royce," said Bailey-McEwan.

Paying tribute to BMW Group's Middle East importers Bailey-McEwan said their commitment and investment in state-of-the-art facilities had made a major contribution to the continued success of the company, in the region, in 2003. "Our vision for 2004 remains the same - to maintain our position as the fastest growing luxury performance car manufacturer in the region," he said.

BMW Group's VIP guests and its regional partners were treated to a stunning show which culminated with a reminder of BMW's aviation heritage when a life-size BMW 730Li flew across the ballroom, over the heads of the astonished guests.

Earlier, the event highlighted the unique history of BMW Group's three premium brands and the current line-up of MINI, BMW and Rolls-Royce vehicles. It also provided everyone present with an opportunity to see first hand, BMW's new 6 Series and X3 models as they emerged from a Moonscape set.