BMW rolls out '3 series' car from TN plant

Chennai, Mar 29 (UNI) After completing the construction activities in a record 12 months, German luxury carmaker BMW today rolled out its first BMW '3 series' car from its new assembly plant at Mahindra World Park, about 50 km from here.

Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M Karunanidhi formally launched the car at the plant premises and signed on it, along with Dr Norbert Reithofer, Chairman of the Board of Management, BMW.

This would be followed with the launch of the BMW 5 series in two months time.

With a capacity to produce 1,700 units a year on a single shift, BMW was planning to sell 1,200 units this year with a product mix of 50:50 and reach 1,500 vehicles by next year.

The price range of 3 series would be 27.5 lakh and the 5 series range would vary from Rs 37 lakh to Rs 42 lakh.

The plant was set up at a sprawling 89,000 sqm area, including 13,000 sqm of production area, with an investment of 20 million Euros.

Speaking to reporters, Dr Reithofer said if it found to be viable, BMW would consider bringing its ''Mini'' brand to India. ''At prsent we are undertaking a feasibility study. If the study suggested that the product would be vilable, then it can be launched in 2009''.

(ED: PICK UP SUITABLY FROM EARLIER SERIES).

UNI