BMW 2011 Annual Report Download - page 17

17 STATEMENT OF THE CHAIRMAN OF THE BOARD OF MANAGEMENT
In 2011 we opened a new production plant for carbon fibres in Moses Lake in the United States together
with the SGL Group. It forms part of our international manufacturing network of ultra-light carbon-fibre
reinforced plastic (CFRP) for the BMW i family. Our years of experience using CFRP parts in automobile con-
struction give us a distinct advantage. Furthermore, we are positioning the BMW Group as a clear innovation
leader in the field of lightweight construction.
We also strengthened our international multi-brand fleet management business with the acquisition of
the ING Car Lease Group. As a result, the BMW Group now ranks among Europe’s top five fleet service
providers. With the expansion of our fleet management business, we are also laying an excellent foundation
for developing modern mobility solutions and mobility services.
Our joint venture with PSA Peugeot Citroën was also successfully launched in 2011 as BMW Peugeot
Citroën Electrification. The joint development of components for electrification and hybridisation will also
make the European automobile industry more competitive in the field of hybridisation.
A major breakthrough in electromobility will depend on further progress in lithium-ion battery technology.
Our planned cooperation with Toyota Motor Corporation will contribute to this through joint research into
battery cell technology.
The right approach to the challenges of our times Business success depends on many different parameters.
We believe that social responsibility and sustainable action are just as significant in this respect as growth,
profitability and efficiency.
The Company’s success is only made possible through the dedication, creativity and team spirit of the
almost 100,000 employees of the BMW Group. On behalf of the Board of Management, I would like to thank
all of our employees around the world for their commitment in 2011. I would also like to thank our entire
retail organisation, our suppliers and business partners.
The BMW Group is considered to be one of the most attractive employers. We recruited a total of 4,000 new
staff in 2011, securing ourselves key competences for the future. We also embrace our responsibility for
training young people. We increased the number of apprentices to 3,899 by the end of 2011.
We are shaping the mobility of today and tomorrow for our customers, and thereby building a stable
foundation for the future of the BMW Group.
As our shareholders, you have continued to show your support and confidence in our abilities to manage
the BMW Group. We strive to ensure that your Company remains an attractive investment and a profitable
enterprise with a strong reputation and high level of credibility for years to come.
Norbert Reithofer
Chairman of the Board of Management