Middle East recognised as key growth market by BMW M GmbH President

Press release

Published March 27th, 2011 - 01:18 GMT

Dr. Kay Segler, President of BMW M GmbH

Dr. Kay Segler, President of BMW M GmbH, a subsidiary of the world’s leading premium automotive manufacturer for sports and high performance vehicles, visited Doha this week to hold meetings with Alfardan Automobiles, BMW Group importer in Qatar. The visit marks strong recognition by BMW Group for the positive M sales results achieved across the region in 2010.

BMW Group Middle East increased M sales by 127% over 2009, clearly demonstrating Middle Eastern customers' desire and appreciation for high performance BMW sports cars as well as the importance of the M brand to the region. The top selling M model was the BMW X6M, with a reported 264% increase in sales, followed by the BMW X5M that saw growth of 163%. Globally, BMW M GmbH concluded 2010 with a significant boost in sales with the number of BMW M vehicles sold rising by 14.2% to 16,967 cars.

Commenting on his visit and the importance of the Middle Eastern market to BMW M GmbH, Dr. Segler said: "The excellent results achieved by BMW Group Middle East during 2010 helped contribute to the BMW M brand's impressive global financial results. The region is important for BMW M GmbH because of its distinguished customers who have an appreciation and passion for high performance sports cars. This is a remarkable achievement and is the result of our fantastic M cars and efforts made by all our importers, including Alfardan Automobiles.”

Dr Segler’s trip also included a visit to the 2011 CommercialBank MotoGP of which BMW is the official car sponsor. As Alfardan Automobiles’ special guest, Dr. Segler witnessed firsthand BMW’s continuing support of the premier Grand Prix motorcycling racing event. In addition to providing a fleet of 27 BMW vehicles for drivers, officials and organisers, the latest BMW 1 Series M Coupe, BMW X6M and BMW S 1000 RR Motorrad bike were also provided as safety vehicles.

Mr. Mohamed Kandeel, General Manager of Alfardan Automobiles said: “We are delighted to have Dr. Segler as our guest of honour at the 2011 CommercialBank MotoGP in Qatar. The event is a perfect platform for the M brand as it shares the same core values: sporty; agile and high-performance. With motorsport deeply rooted in BMW’s DNA, the event was a natural fit for the brand.”

Last year, BMW Group celebrated the launch of the BMW M3 GTS, defying the ultimate sports car from M in terms of high performance and technology. The BMW M3 is an icon and internationally synonymous with the highest level of dynamics. The BMW M3 GTS is pure M feeling, embodying the brand values in highly concentrated form.

The current model line-up of M cars in the region include the BMW M3, BMW X5M, and BMW X6M. BMW Group Middle East will also welcome the arrival of the all-new BMW 1 Series M Coupe later this year, as a fascinating entry to the world of BMW M cars. The limited edition model is a modern interpretation of hallmark M characteristics with a high level of agility, efficiency and performance. With its in-line 6-cylinder engine with M TwinPower Turbo and petrol direct injection combined with the lightness of a compact model, the new BMW 1 Series M Coupe creates a whole new dimension of sports style driving.

Background Information

Alfardan Premier Motors

Alfardan Premier Motors has, over the years, set new benchmarks with its diverse roster of world-famous motor vehicle brands. A leader in luxury cars, Alfardan Premier Motors's name has been strongly linked to major happenings in Qatar, a testament to the company's commitment to become a key partner for Qatar.

Alfardan Premier Motors, Land Rover’s and Jaguar exclusive importer in Qatar and market leader among Qatar’s vehicle dealers was established in 1998 and has captured a huge market share of the local market mainly due to its high attention to customer care and satisfaction. With state of art showrooms and a service centre, Alfardan Premier Motors is equipped to handle all requirements of its esteemed customers.

Company Profile

BMW Group

The special fascination of the BMW Group not only lies in its products and technology, but also in the company’s history, written by inventors, pioneers and brilliant designers. Today, the BMW Group, with its 30 production and assembly facilities in 14 countries as well as a global sales network, is the world’s leading manufacturer of premium automobiles and motorcycles, and provider of premium financial and mobility services.