BMW 2013 Annual Report Download - page 16

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We target balanced growth in the three main economic regions of the world. Thanks to our highly flexible
production network, we are able to avoid overdependence on any one region and offset market fluctuations.
The flexibility of our production network allows us to quickly adapt to changing external circumstances.
In 2013, our sales were evenly distributed between the three main economic regions of Europe, Asia
and the Americas. Gains in the Americas and Asia compensated for weak markets in a number of Euro-
pean countries. In 2013, our two largest single markets, China and the US, accounted for around 20 and
19 %, respectively, of total Group sales, followed by our domestic market of Germany with around 13 % of
sales.
When growth markets shift, it is imperative to strengthen our global presence. Since our production follows
the market, we currently produce more than 45 % of our vehicles outside of Germany. At the same time,
more and more countries are recognising the economic importance of a locally based automotive industry as
a driving force for growth and employment. In late 2013, we laid the foundation stone of a new plant in the
growth market of Brazil.
Entering into e-mobility: we deliver on our promises. The BMW Group confirmed its position as the
pacesetter for future mobility in 2013. In late July, the series model of the BMW i3 made its world debut simul-
taneously
in New York, London, Beijing and Munich. This innovative vehicle was specially designed for
electric mobility and has been well-received by the media worldwide. Customer demand is far exceeding our
expectations.
With the BMW i3, we have adopted a totally new approach to automobile manufacturing, employing new
and especially sustainable production processes. This is the first time an entire passenger compartment made
of carbon-fibre-reinforced plastics (CFRP) has been mass-produced. E-mobility is realised throughout our
competence network with locations in Leipzig, Dingolfing, Landshut, Wackersdorf and Moses Lake, USA.
The BMW i3 comes with our comprehensive 360°ELECTRIC service package to ensure that everyday
electric driving is easy and convenient for customers – through recharging at home, for example.
This will be followed in 2014 by the second model from the BMW i family, the BMW i8 plug-in hybrid
sports car.
Step by step towards our vision for 2020. Our vision for the year 2020 is to be the leading provider of
premium products and premium services for individual mobility.
One thing is certain: the Company is already more than just a car manufacturer. Attractive mobility
services
and digital connectivity also play an increasingly important role. With the realignment of its BMW
ConnectedDrive services, BMW is expanding its position as the leading provider of Internet-based in-car
services, focusing on driver assistance systems with comfort and safety functions, as well as infotainment
and mobility services.
For more and more people worldwide, a vehicle is indispensable and desirable at the same time. That is
precisely why it is so essential to adapt individual mobility to present and future demands, as well as different
customer needs. To do this, we think far beyond the car simply as a means of transport.
To us, being the leading premium supplier also means being a leader in the field of sustainability. In every
project, we consider environmental and social factors, as well as economic aspects, in our decision-making