BMW sold a total of 1,880 electric vehicles in the first quarter of this year. Among premium brands classified in the domestic imported car market, BMW sold the most electric vehicles compared to Mercedes-Benz, Audi, Porsche, and Lexus. BMW Korea plans to expand its electric vehicle models and charging infrastructure to continue its popularity.
BMW sold a total of 6,353 units last year, surpassing competitors such as Mercedes-Benz and Audi. This means that the sales trend continues from last year into the first quarter of this year, and BMW Korea believes it is because it has enhanced consumer convenience and satisfaction.
Starting this year, BMW Korea has launched the industry's first electric vehicle test drive membership program, 'BMW BEV (Battery Electric Vehicle) Membership,' to celebrate its 30th anniversary in Korea. This project involves deploying a total of 230 electric vehicles. It is a program that offers customers who purchase a new BMW the opportunity to test drive its electric vehicles.
BMW Korea also introduced a proactive vehicle management service, BMW Proactive Care, last year, which is currently in operation. This program monitors the battery status in real time and allows for checking the current charge level and maximum performance metrics to prevent safety accidents caused by overcharging, undercharging, and overheating.
In the event of a problem, the response method varies depending on the severity. If it is an issue the driver can solve, a message is sent via applications. In case of an emergency, dedicated consulting personnel will directly call to respond. Coordinating follow-up actions such as emergency dispatch and service center intake is key.
Additionally, BMW Korea will participate in a pilot project for monitoring electric vehicle battery abnormalities and fire reporting. This is the first of its kind among imported car manufacturers. The project will be conducted in collaboration with the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure and Transport, the Korea Transport Safety Authority, and the Fire Agency. The core of the project is to establish a monitoring and reporting system for rapid reporting when a situation suspected of a fire occurs.
Furthermore, BMW Korea plans to add 600 new electric vehicle charging facilities this year, bringing the total number of charging facilities in the country to 3,000. BMW Korea announced a charging infrastructure expansion plan, the Charging Next project, in 2023 and has installed a total of 2,400 facilities by the end of last year.
A representative from BMW Korea noted, 'BMW Korea will prioritize customer trust and safety in all processes of vehicle management even in the electric vehicle era, and will steadily fulfill its responsibilities and values as an electric vehicle brand through continuous technological advancements.'