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A Project Report on BMW Super Luxury Cars

BMW- The Ultimate Driving Machine


__________________________________________________
An insight into luxury car brand
__________________________________________________

Prepared By: Group 5


1.
2.
3.
4.
5.

Srilasya G. (11FN-037)
Mudit Gupta (11DM-077)
Vikas Marwaha (11FN-115)
Soumya Ghosh (11DM-156)
Rohit Iyer (11FN-082)
1

A Project Report on BMW Super Luxury Cars


S.No.

Topic

Page No.

1.

Introduction..

2.

Luxury Car Market in India.......

3.

BMW in India.........................................

4.

Product Lineup...

5.

BMW India and Competition Product Mapping......

6.

PESTEL Analysis of BMW .

7.

SWOT Analysis of BMW.

12

8.

Porter five forces analysis

13

9.

Segmentation, Targeting and positioning strategy for BMW in India

15

10.

Marketing Mix..

20

11.

BCG Matrix and PLC for BMW 3 Series in India

29

12.

Survey Questions and Responses.

30

13.

Conclusion ..

32

14.

Recommendation.

32

15.

Exhibit 1: BMW 3 Series monthly sales data

33

16.

Exhibit 2: BMW Advertisement- Joy is life.

34

17.

References......

35

A Project Report on BMW Super Luxury Cars


1. Introduction
BMW is an acronym for Bayerische Motoren Werke AG--or, in English, Bavarian Motor Works.
Whatever you call it, the German-based company is one of the world's most respected
automakers, renowned for crafting luxury cars and SUVs that offer superior levels of driving
enjoyment.
Founded in Munich, the company began in the early 1910s as an aircraft manufacturer. BMW's
current logo, designed to represent white propeller blades against a blue sky, reflects these
origins; its blue-and-white color scheme also references Bavaria's blue-and-white checkered flag.
It wasn't until 1928 that production began on the first BMW automobile, the Dixi. The car
proved tremendously popular, and its success helped the manufacturer weather the Depression.
BMW's best-known pre-World War II vehicle was the Type 328 roadster, a supple two-seater
that racked up over 120 victories on the motorsport circuit between 1936 and 1940. Postwar
BMW cars maintained this tradition, winning several racing, rallying and hill climb victories
The early 1950s saw the launch of the BMW 501, a roomy, voluptuous sedan that was
resplendent with all of the hopefulness of that era. It was soon followed by the 502 which was
powered by the world's first light-alloy V8, foreshadowing BMW's ongoing commitment to
developing new technology. The best-selling BMW of that decade was the Isetta, a petite twoseat "microcar" typically powered by a 12- or 13-horsepower engine. The mid-'50s also saw the
debut of the limited production and breathtakingly beautiful 507 sports car which had an alloy
body and used the 502's V8 for propulsion. In the 1960s, BMW sales strengthened significantly,
thanks in part to the immense popularity of the 1500, a sporty family sedan. By the 1970s, BMW
was establishing itself as a full-fledged car company.
It was a pioneer for many emerging technologies, including turbo charging and advanced vehicle
electronics. This was also the period when BMW of North America was established and
consumers, who coveted both sports and luxury cars, became loyal "Bimmer" owners. The '70s
also saw the birth of BMW's three-tier sport sedan range consisting of the 3 Series, 5 Series and
7 Series cars and the creation of its performance M division. More recently, the company has
been expanding its reach worldwide. It opened its first U.S. manufacturing plant in the latter half

A Project Report on BMW Super Luxury Cars


of the 1990s and has expanded its brand empire to include Mini and Rolls-Royce. BMW also
continues to build motorcycles, something it has done since the 1920s.
The automaker's famous advertising slogan describes each of its vehicles as "the ultimate driving
machine," and it's not mere hyperbole. Over the past couple of decades, BMWs have become the
standard for performance and luxury in most of the "over $30,000" segments. With familyfriendly wagons, crisp sedans, distinctive coupes, nimble sports cars and spacious SUVs offered,
BMW's model roster is diverse. But its luxury vehicles all share a common characteristic: the
ability to make drivers feel gloriously connected to the road.
2. Luxury Car Market in India
A luxury car is a luxuriously styled automobile which is designed to give satisfaction and
comfort to its owner. A luxury car typically has carrying capacity of 6 passengers. The luxury
cars in the Indian market are very expensive, with price tags that start from 20 lakh. Hence,
luxury cars can only be afforded by the people who belong to the high income group and there
are a lot of such takers in the Indian automobile market.
The recent growth in the luxury car market in India is much more than mere market dynamics in
a particular car segment. It is a reflection of the changing lifestyle of the affluent class in
the country. In India, the luxury car segment (Average Price 25-30 Lakh) has been growing at
an average rate of 20% or above during recent years; it seems to be least affected by the
global financial crisis. During worst recession period when world was facing low market
demand trends, Indian luxury car segment grew at 23% to 6,671 vehicles according to the
Society of Indian Automobile Manufacturers (SIAM) despite a 0.5% decline in passenger
car sales,

to

11.04

ended March 2010


lakh

vehicles.

lakh
has

vehicles (April-December
shown

This indicates

growth
optimistic

2008

Report). But financial year

of automotive sector up by 25% to 15.26


sign

of recovery of sector. While the

Indian auto industry is expected to grow at 17% to 19% on an average, sales of luxury
and super-luxury cars are expected to grow exponentially.

A Project Report on BMW Super Luxury Cars

Luxury

car

segment accounts only for 3-4% of total car sales in India. But what lures the

international majors is the fact that this segment is growing at 25%-plus (2009 sales), much
higher than 15-17% growth registered by the small passenger car segment over the past few
years. This growth of luxury car sales is driven majorly by increased wealth-creation within
average Indian population and the desire of individuals to join the millionaire-club by
flaunting their wealth.
2.1 Luxury car majors in India
Mercedes-Benz, BMW and Audi put together have around 85% market share. The German
car brand Mercedes-Benz had first-mover advantage as it had started operations in India in
1995 and there was no direct competition in this category. So, it remained Numero
Uno luxury car brand in India for more than a decade. But, market

dynamics

have

changed significantly after the entry of BMW in 2006 followed by Audi in 2007.

A Project Report on BMW Super Luxury Cars

The overall market share of

luxury

cars

has

been reorganized

due

to

the

new

entrants. This has resulted in new equations being forged amongst the various players, driven
primarily by a rapidly swelling millionaire-club having diversified choices and preferences. In
2006, BMW had 9% market share which has now grown to 42%, catapulting BMW as the
number one luxury brand in terms of sales. Audi which started its operations in 2007 has had the
fastest growth-rate amongst the three and has now captured 20% of the luxury car market. So,
the Indian luxury car market is favorable for new entrants who are capable of grabbing the
untapped opportunities by following the customer-oriented approach and having ability to
induce demand by innovation at each level of marketing mix.

3. BMW in India
BMW entered the Indian car market in the year 2006 with the launch of its first BMW model.
The company established a sales subsidiary in Gurgaon in 2006 to develop its dealer network. In
2007, BMW set up its first state of the art manufacturing unit in Chennai. The company's India
based manufacturing units cater to the local markets. Currently BMW has a network of 25
dealers across the country and plans to increase it up to 40 by the end of 2012 mostly in Tier II
cities. The company imports most of its critical components from its overseas supply base; with
only 10 per cent content sourced from the domestic market, which includes seats, leather and
door-panels.

A Project Report on BMW Super Luxury Cars


4. Product Lineup
The BMW lineup consists of highly elegant and exot
exotic
ic cars including the 1 series, 3 series, 5
series and 7 series to be hybrid cars made exclusively to meet the needs of highly executive
people and officials from very sound professional backgrounds. These cars are simple yet elegant
and have many accessories
ies that make them unique in all terms. In addition to this, there is an
SUV known as the X3. The M series in BMW is made exclusively in sports related to cars. This
product line of BMW is loved by many car lovers for the sporty looks as well as the classic
classi
engine.

Cars from Bmw in India


BMW 3-Series
(Sedan)

BMW 55-Series (Sedan)

BMW
6Series
(Sedan

BMW 7-Series
Series (Sedan)

BMW (SUV)

BMW
3-Series
320i
(Petrol)

BMW
3-Series
320d
(Diesel)

BMW
3-Series
325i
(Petrol)

BMW
5-Series
523i
(Petrol)

BMW
5-Series
Series
525i
(Petrol)

BMW
5-Series
525d
(Diesel)

BMW
5-Series
530i
(Petrol)

BMW
6-Series
V8
(Petrol)

BMW
7-Series
730Ld
(Diesel)

BMW
7-Series
740Li
(Petrol)

BMW
Series
7-Series
750Li
(Petrol)

BMW
7-Series
760Li
(Petrol)

BMW
X-5
(SUV)

BMW
X-5
(Diesel)

A Project Report on BMW Super Luxury Cars


5. BMW India and Competition Product Mapping

6. PESTEL Analysis of BMW:

1. Political:

Land allocation policies: Land-use conversion is time consuming and becoming


complex. It directly affects BMW, which is planning to increase its production capacity
of Chennai plant.

Taxation: The government may reduce taxes on smaller, fuel-efficient cars while raising
them on older, oil-thirsty vehicles. BMW is directly affected because selection of their
vehicles have a high performance petrol engine, which means customers will think twice
when buying one

The consumer protection act: The consumer protection act makes it illegal for BMW to
provide cars in a dangerous form. Therefore BMW needs to make sure that all their cars
are thoroughly checked and awarded that they are safe before the on set of purchase in a
dealer showroom.

Local politics: Local politics plays a big role in land and property acquisition.

A Project Report on BMW Super Luxury Cars


2. Economical:

Inflation: Due to inflation the cost of production increases rapidly due increase in cost
of required raw materials, labor etc, thereby increasing price of cars and decreasing its
demand.

Economic Growth: Due to economic slowdown GDP rate of India is falling and
because of which the purchasing power a countrys people is decreasing and they tend to
save more money. This can affect sales of BMW.

Efficiency of free market: In India the auto sector is open to all, hence it is fiercely
competitive. More and more automobile manufacturers are entering the luxury car
segment. Luxury car manufacturers like BMW find it difficult to capture and maintain a
profitable market share.

Quality of infrastructure: Due to the lack of proper infrastructure like roads, petrol
pumps, distribution ports and commercial property most car manufacturers have to
confine their operations mainly to the urban and metro areas. The above constraints
cause problems for expansion plans and also increase distribution cost.

Interest Rates: A high rate of interest causes difficulty in raising capital for expansion
and growth of business since it is costly to borrow money. This may in turn slow down
the growth of the venture.

Exchange Rates: The exchange rates of a country affect the demand and feasibility of
importing goods and exporting goods

3. Socio-Cultural Factors:

Young Consumer: India being one of the youngest countries in the world has
significant presence of youth. This offer a big opportunity for BMW. These young
people have grown up with internet and are exposed to better living standards. Also,
they start making money at an early age. These young people who consider spending
more money for performance and quality.

Availability of Easy Credit: Presence of car loans has increased the purchasing power
of the customers.

A Project Report on BMW Super Luxury Cars

Growing Urbanization: Growing urbanization is converting the people from net saver
to net spenders.

Awareness level: Due to the rise of social media network tools and other mass
communication tools awareness level is increasing. Because of these, tools offers and
scheme of the BMW can reach the customers very fast.

Aspiration: Due to the westernization of Indian culture, consumer behavior is


changing. Like now consumers are now more interested in stylish products than they
were 10 years ago. Also, it is changing the aspiration value of the customers and
offering an opportunity in front of BMW to catch the opportunity.

Unemployment: This is one of the most important factors that affect economy
adversely. Due to weak global economic conditions, investment banks are recruiting
lesser number of people and firing extra staff. Because of this, the demand for luxury
cars decreases which further decreases demand for producing such goods, as people tend
to save money and cut back on spending.

Increase in no. of working women: Because of increase in the work force of women,
the characteristic and composition of the potential buyers of BMW is changing.

4. Technological Factors:

Supply Chain Management: Over the years supply chain has been strengthened by
incorporating technology. It has made possible high participation of the manufacturer
and dealers in the market flow of cars.

Demand Forecasting: Soft wares are available for demand forecasting, merchandising
and seasonality management which if effectively used can change fortunes.

Data Mining: There has been a great surge in data mining activities for better
understanding of market demand patterns and consumer buying behavior to arm
themselves with the best offerings.

Customer Support Activities: Better customer support and grievance addressing has
been possible due to EDI (Electronic Data Interface), QR (Quick Response) and ECR
(Efficient Consumer Response) systems.

10

A Project Report on BMW Super Luxury Cars

Strategy Building: BMW can incorporate decision making tools at various levels to
build the best strategy by collecting and collating data from various sources.

Going Online: Effective online activities can be used for building customer relations,
advertisement & promotion, customer support and brand building.

5. Environmental Factors:

Customer awareness towards environment: Customers are becoming more aware


towards environment. By demonstrating concern towards environment, BMW can
generate good will.

Environmental policies: Environmental policies are becoming more stringent than


before. By reducing the carbon emission and designing more efficient cars, BMW can
get benefit from government.

Global warming: More and more people and getting aware about the issue of global
warming. BMW can provide superior and eco friendly design like electric cars, cars
using bio fuels to generate goodwill and acceptance.

6. Legal Factors:

Custom Duties: Customs duties are levied on import of parts in India.

Prolonged Judicial Process: For settling property disputes, it consumes lot of time.

Labor Laws: The rigidity in labor laws has led companies to increasingly resort to
outsourcing and contracting of labour. Labor strikes are quite frequent now. Since
BMW plans to expand its existing capacity, rigid labor laws can adversely affect it.

11

A Project Report on BMW Super Luxury Cars


7. SWOT Analysis of BMW:

SWOT Analysis-BMW India


Strengths:

Weakness

Opportunities

Threads

Product
development on
core platforms.
Keeping its brand
intact

Fails to appeal
wider range of
people due to
affordability of car.

Number of
millionaries in India
are increasing
rapidly

Increasing oil prices

BMW in
dependently owned

Maintenance cost is
very high

Leverage brand
Image

Environmental
issues

Focus on Being the


best

Associated with
highly expensive
products. Not able
to atract vast pool
of middle class
people in India

Dealer base
expansion to teir II
cities

Government
policies are
changing

Extensive
Distribution
Channel

Growing Market
Segment can be
exploited with subbrand model

Implemented a
Strategy which
encompassed
supportive
marketting
program

12

A Project Report on BMW Super Luxury Cars


8. Porter five forces analysis
Porter five forces analysis is done for strategy formulation for BMW.

SubstitutionLuxury
Segment.
Low Threat

Supplier PowerControl across


supply chain

CompetitionAudi/
Mercedes

Buyer PowerPower
High
options, Few
purchases

Low Threat

High Threat

Medium Threat

New EntrantsLucrative
market
High Threat

1. Threat of new competition


Luxury car segment is very attractive segment which is growing at high rate even during
economic slowdown. By giving higher returns this segment is attracting new firms like Audi.
Audi has already acquiredd 20 % market share within just past two years. Also, the capital and

13

A Project Report on BMW Super Luxury Cars


expertise needed to setup an auto or parts manufacturing facility will not be a deterrent for world
class auto manufacturer like Audi.
Given India's luxury markets incredible growth forecasts, infrastructure progress (especially new
and better roads), and ever-expanding financing options to residents, the market is attractive.
Thus, the threat of new entrants is high.
2. Threat of substitute products or services
India is famous for its two-wheelers (bikes and mopeds) and three-wheelers. These are very real
and obvious threats to lower segment auto manufacturers. But for car makers in luxury segment,
there will not be significant thread from these products.
3. The bargaining power of buyers/customers
Buyers in India have a wide variety of choice. There are more than 20 foreign manufacturers
selling in India (including ultra high-end such as Lamborghini). Because of plethora of choices,
bargaining power of buyers is increasing. However, since BMW is in the ultra high end segment,
the demand in that segment is generally price inelastic.
4. The amount of rivalry among competitors
Fierce competition among the major car players can be witnessed in the Indian Car industry. The
constant changes in the existing car models with regard to design, innovation, technology, and
colors, have led to a fiercely competitive market. Now that technology and innovation are not
alien concepts for Indian car makers, Indian cars are becoming increasingly sleek, stylish, and
luxurious. Almost all the major luxury car manufacturers are planning to expand in India.
5.

The amount of bargaining power suppliers have

BMW imports most of its parts from Germany and manufactures the remaining parts at its
Chennai manufacturing plant. Because of this the thread from bargaining power of the suppliers
is low for BMW. Apart from it BMW also has an exclusive dealership chain which has helped it
to control the entire supply chain effectively. Thus the thread from suppliers is low for BMW.

14

A Project Report on BMW Super Luxury Cars


9. Segmentation, Targeting and Positioning of BMW in India
9.1 Segmentation strategy for BMW in India:
A. Segmentation of car market

Budget Car Segment


Over 60 % of the market
Preferred price range below Rs. 2.2 lakhs

Compact Car Segment


Around 15 % of the market
Preferred price range: between Rs. 3 lakhs and Rs. 4.5 lakhs

Family Car Segment


Around 10 % of the market
Preferred price range: between Rs. 4 lakhs and Rs. 5 lakhs

Premium Car Segment


Real world-class car and people who are ready to pay for it
Preferred price range: flexible but around Rs. 6 lakhs is acceptable price.

Super Luxury Saloon


A tiny segment
BMW mainly sells this segment of the market.

15

A Project Report on BMW Super Luxury Cars


B. Segmentation of Customers

S.

Base Type

No.
1

Segmentation

Explanation

Segments

Criteria
Geographic

City

Different tier of cities Tier 1, Tier2, Tier3, Metros


have

different

needs,

buying patterns, culture


and other differences. For
example cities with high
income and population
density are more suitable
for luxury car maker like
BMW

Demographic

Age

Different

age

groups

less than 18 years

have requirements from a

18 years to 28 years

car. Pattern of usage and

28 years to 42 years

criteria of selection is
different for different age

42 years to 60 years
more than 60 years

group
Income

and Different income levels

Earning less than 20 lacs

Purchasing

have different spending

20 lacs to 50 lacs

power

capacity.

with

50 lacs to 1 crore

level
luxurious

More than 1 crore

People

lower

income

cannot

buy

cars.

16

A Project Report on BMW Super Luxury Cars


Occupation

Occupation

plays

an Unskilled worker, Skilled

important

role

in worker, Petty traders, Shop

choosing luxury products owners,

Businessmen,

due to time constraints Industrialists, Self employed


and timing variations of
work.
Gender

Buying patterns vary a Male,Female


lot between male and
female. Generally male
are

more

prone

to

purchase sports car


3

Psychographic

Lifestyle

Within the high income Usage

oriented,

Style

bracket, we can further oriented, Outlook oriented,


divide by buying pattern Performance oriented.
of

customers.

customers

Some

use

these

as

status

luxury cars

symbols, some use them


as utility vehicles, and
some use them for long
distance drives.
4

Behavioral

Loyalty Status

People

with

low

or None,

Medium,

Strong,

medium loyalty for other Absolute


luxury cars are more
prone to switch to BMW.

17

A Project Report on BMW Super Luxury Cars


9.2 Targeting

S. No.

Base Type

Segmentation

Segments

Target Segment

Metros, Tier 1

Criteria
1

Geographic

City

Tier 1, Tier2, Tier3, Metros

Demographic

Age

less than 18 years

18 years to 28 years

18 years to 28 years

28 years to 42 years

28 years to 42 years

42 years to 60 years

42 years to 60 years

more than 60 years

Income

and

Less than 20 lacs

20 lacs to 50 lacs

Purchasing

20 lacs to 50 lacs

50 lacs to 1 crore

power

50 lacs to 1 crore

More than 1 crore

More than 1 crore

Occupation

Unskilled

worker,

Skilled Businessmen,

worker, Petty traders, Shop Industrialists,


owners,

Self

Businessmen, employed

Industrialists, Self employed

Psychographic

Gender

Male, Female

Lifestyle

Usage

oriented,

Male
Style Style oriented, Outlook

oriented, Outlook oriented, oriented,


Performance oriented.
4

Behavioral

Loyalty Status None,


for
luxury

Medium,

Performance

oriented.
Strong, None, Medium

other Absolute
car

makers

18

A Project Report on BMW Super Luxury Cars


9.3 Positioning
Taglines used by BMW: Ultimate Driving Machine.
Product

Target Customers

Benefits

Value

Point

Proposition

Parity

of Point of Differentiati
Differen

on Strategy

ce
BMW

Young/Medium

Better

Extensive

luxury

age group male in Quality,

that

product

Distribution,

cars

high income group High

provides the

Placing

Superior

in metros and tier 1 Performa

best

Strategy

Quality

cities

performance

with nce,

performance
style

Superior

and highly

conscious stylish

lifestyle,

product Comparable
prices

, style and
quality

low

loyalty status for


other

cars

and

white collar jobs.

Positioning Statement: To young working male customers in high income group, who are
conscious about style, performance and quality, BMW is the best quality, performance car. With
BMW, you can make driving a fun and luxury a way of living.
Positioning Diagram for BMW:

High Quality
BMW cars

Low Price

High Price

Low Quality
19

A Project Report on BMW Super Luxury Cars


10. Marketing Mix:
Based on the target customer and positioning of the product, marketing mix is decided for the
target customers.
10.1

Product:

BMW provides dynamic, sporty, innovative and aesthetic brand to the target customers. The
product design ensures the superior performance, features and quality. Main features of BMW
cars are:

Features

Special Design Features

Exterior Features

Halogen headlights with complex Superior


surface lenses

Benefits
looks,

Attractive

Design

Luxury trim: alloy & leather on


shifter, wood/woodgrain on doors and
wood/woodgrain on dashboard

Interior Features

Moonroof

Panorama roof

Cargo Cover

Comfort

for

the

Driver,

Cargo Net

Superior ambience inside the

Cup Holders

car

Leather-Wrapped Steering Wheel


Premium Interior Trim
Safety

Brake Assist

Safety of passenger by design

Child Safety Seat Anchors

itself, assistance in emergency

Driver Air Bag

situation.

Engine Immobilizer
Front Fog Lights
Head/Curtain Airbag
Internal Emergency Trunk Release
20

A Project Report on BMW Super Luxury Cars


Passenger Air Bag
Rear Airbag
Stability Control
Tire Pressure Monitoring System
Sound

and Compact Disc MP3 Capable

Entertainment

Compact Disc Player

Makes driving a fun, provides


luxurious environment

iPod Connector
Seats

Leather Seats

Best

quality

seats,

comfort

while driving
Tires and Wheels Alloy Wheels

Robust tires, enables driving on


rough roads.

These all features are designed for target group

10.2 Price
The pricing Strategy for BMW can be understood by determining the price demand sensitivity.
The demand for the luxury cars are generally price insensitive. However, the pricing for various
models of BMW shows that some models of BMW are price sensitive since they cater upper
middle class customers.
BMW X1

Rs. 22,61,879

BMW 3-Series

Rs. 24,63,678

BMW 5-Series

Rs. 37,91,967

BMW X3

Rs. 41,39,233

BMW X5

Rs. 55,25,867

BMW Z4

Rs. 62,51,563

BMW 5-Series GT

Rs. 65,66,659

BMW X6

Rs. 69,69,227
21

A Project Report on BMW Super Luxury Cars


BMW M3

Rs. 76,41,238

BMW 6-Series

Rs. 81,29,834

BMW 7-Series

Rs. 84,17,438

BMW M5

Rs. 1,00,50,178

BMW M6

Rs. 1,22,34,451

Price - demand elasticity for BMW

Price

For Price Range above 40


lacs, demand is mostly in elastice.
Models in this price range: BMW
X3/X5/Z4/BMW 5 series GT/
BMW X6/M3/ M5/M6/ BMW
series 6/ series 7

For Price Range


between 20 lacs to
40 lacs, demand can
be elastic. Models in
this price range:
BMW X1/ BMW 3
series/ 5 series

Demand

Thus from the above curve it is clear that most of the models of BMW lies in the higher price
band (above 40 lacs) and they are mostly in the region of demand inelasticity with price. It is
because of this, BMW always focuses on quality and performance rather than price. It customers
are willing to pay more for superior quality.

22

A Project Report on BMW Super Luxury Cars


10.2.1 The pricing strategy
Premium pricing
Most of the luxury car makers follow Premium pricing strategy in which they keep the price of a
product high in order to encourage favorable perceptions among buyers, based solely on the
price

Competition oriented pricing


However within the lower price band segment they follow competition oriented pricing. For
example: The Volvo S60 D5 price in India is Rs 37 lakhs, BMW 320D is at Rs 35.7 lakhs and
Mercedes C220 CDI price in India is Rs 33.2 lakhs

BMW Financial Services


BMW Financial Services India operates as a Non-Banking Finance Company (NBFC) in India to
offer solutions for Retail Financing for BMW customers and multi make customers, Financing
for Fleet owners and Commercial Financing for BMW Dealerships and multi make dealerships.
BMW Financial Services India offers Insurance solutions to its customers through its
cooperation partner. BMW Financial Services has been successfully operating in India as a part
of BMW India with its three business lines:

Retail finance

Commercial finance for the BMW India Dealerships

Insurance solutions through cooperation partners for BMW customers.

Packages and options for customers


BMW also provide add on feature options for customers. This helps the customers to add the
features based of his/ her price range.

Pricing strategy for BMW X1


With its aggressive price tag, the BMW X1 (22.4 lacs) will not only target customers from
luxury car manufacturers like Mercedes and Audi, but also find buyers in consumers who are
looking to upgrade from a Toyota Fortuner or a Hyundai Santa Fe, which are available at lower
price tags.
23

A Project Report on BMW Super Luxury Cars


10.3 Promotion

Advertisement

The BMW Club


of India

BMW Studio

BMW Art Cars


exhibition

Direct
Marketing

Promotion

Association
with leading
fashion
designers

Collaboration
with e-bay
bayonline
promotion

BMW Golf Cup


Cupengaging
customers/
dealers

Film
AdvertisingBMW short
films

1. Advertisements:
For very many years, BMW branding centered around Drive, and the manufacturer proudly
promoted itself as the Ultimate Driving Machine.
This tagline became synonymous with BMW, but since 2008 it began to shift its emphasis on to
Joy. It provides a behindd the scenes look at the making of the famous

24

A Project Report on BMW Super Luxury Cars


Joy is BMWcommercial

This commercial doesnt aim to promote individual vehicles, instead it tells potential consumers
the story of the whole brand.

The viewer feels as though being part of this community must be a very positive and magical
experience as it appears to make everyone involved extremely happy.

The BMW Club of India


BMW provides facilities and luxurious lifestyle to its customers by providing facilities like
BMW club of India. The BMW Club of India is a not-for-profit organization whose activities are
funded primarily through membership fees. The BMW Club is arranges a wide variety of social,
25

A Project Report on BMW Super Luxury Cars


technical and driving events, including autocross, high-performance driver's education, rallies,
club racing and owner education on topics such as mechanical repair, automotive maintenance
and collecting vintage vehicles.
BMW has already roped in stars like SRK, Gul Panag for promotion of The BMW Club of India

Direct Marketing Strategy


BMW is one prominent user of the direct marketing strategy. It has employed this style of
advertising to boost its brand position.
BMW spends huge some of money on direct marketing which the hope of having a massive
impact on future sales.BMW sponsors online podcasts to get its branding across as well as it
invests in email marketing.
BMW also uses software for Data cleansing to improve the quality of its distribution lists so that
the right people with in-date addresses are targeted.

Collaboration with e-bay


In May 2011, eBay Advertising and BMW announced a new advertising campaign to support the
leading car makers first venture into e-commerce. The campaign employed a variety of different
targeting techniques to provide relevant advertising to users and drive sales conversions for
BMW, including:

Category targeting: High impact brand advertising on the eBay Motors homepage

Keyword targeting: eBay shoppers searching for BMW or relevant searches of automotive
parts and accessories were served BMW branded adverts to direct them to the BMW store

Behavioral targeting: raised the awareness of the BMW store by targeting shoppers who
have already visited the Vehicle Parts & Accessories category on eBay and fit the target
demographics of BMW car owners

Re-targeting: advertisements served to eBay shoppers who had already visited the
BMW.co.uk website and re-engage with users who showed an interest in BMW

Film Advertising
BMW is one of the prominent users of film advertising where they are combining the ideas of
producing a series of short films and using the Internet in an advertising campaign. BMW
26

A Project Report on BMW Super Luxury Cars


assembles a cast of A-list directors and actors, and develops scripts within the basic framework
of having a central character that helps people through difficult circumstances using deft driving
skillsin a BMW. Thus, the car becomes the star.

Other Innovative marketing activities

BMW Golf Cup International organized golf tournament across ten cities Kolkata, Bangalore,
Chennai, Hyderabad, Delhi, Chandigarh, Pune, Mumbai, Ahmedabad and Gurgaon. It invited its
customers, prospects and opinion leaders to take part in this tournament and provided the right
mix for an exclusive social interaction.

Formal dining and wine tasting events at leading BMW dealerships across India.

Communication of the rich heritage of BMW Eras through association with leading fashion
designers and events such as the India Couture Week.

Indulging customers in lifestyle events such as Culinary Workshops and Art Exhibitions at
the BMW Studi.

The BMW Art Cars exhibition that was held at the Jahangir Art Gallery in Mumbai.

Conceptualized the BMW Studio on Janpath as a venue where our customers can indulge with
the brand in an exclusive environment.

10.4 Placement

Chennai
Manufacturing/Assembling
plant

Dealers Across the country

Customers

27

A Project Report on BMW Super Luxury Cars


BMW India uses exclusive distribution strategy which involves limiting distribution to a single
outlet. Since BMW cars are highly priced it requires the dealers to place much detail in its sell.
BMW knows that top down approach doesn't really work in such kind of selling. Also, for
deciding location within a city, they select an area where the buying potential is present like
upcoming areas and established areas. So, based on the perceived demand they set up their
dealers.
BMW does not have company owned dealerships, but retail partners. BMW focuses more on its
core values of manufacturing of premium cars and leave the selling to the retail people who have
a local connect.

Dealership in India
BMW India is the pioneer in bringing luxurious dealerships to India. BMW India has set a
decisive course by setting up BMW dealerships of international standards across the country.
BMW India has also set very high standards in service quality and customer care. BMW knows
the importance of dealership in sales generation. Thats why they select the dealers based on
criteria like:

Dealer location ensures that the potential customers get the best of strategic advantages.

The ambiance and the customer service should be such that the customer feel welcome at
the car dealers place.

Build up the reputation and contribute towards the growth of the company's market share.

Should act as a catalyst to promote the sales

By end of 2012, BMW India will aggressively expand its dealer network by increasing the
number of outlets to 40 across major metropolitan centers and emerging markets in India (from
the present 25 outlets).
Currently, BMW India is present at 19 cities in the Indian market; New Delhi, Mumbai,
Gurgaon, Indore, Chandigarh, Bangalore, Hyderabad, Chennai, Pune, Kolkata, Bhumneshwar,
Ahmadabad, Surat, Kochi, Coimbatore, Jaipur, Raipur, Goa, Ludhiana.

28

A Project Report on BMW Super Luxury Cars


11. BCG Matrix and PLC for BMW 3 Series in India
To plot the PLC for BMW 3 series, monthly sales of BMW 3 series were used.

BMW 3 Series Monthly Sales


350

Number of units sold

300
250
200
150

Series1

100
50

Nov-11

Aug-11

May-11

Feb-11

Nov-10

Aug-10

May-10

Feb-10

Nov-09

Aug-09

May-09

Feb-09

Nov-08

Aug-08

May-08

Feb-08

Nov-07

Aug-07

May-07

Feb-07

From the above curve it can be observed the BMW 3 series is more or less entering the maturity
phase from the growth phase. Based on PLC we can plot the BCG matrix for BMW 3 Series.
Relative Market Share

High

Stars

Question
Mark

Market Growth
Rate

BMW 3 Series

Dogs

Cash Cows
Low
High

Low

29

A Project Report on BMW Super Luxury Cars


12. Survey Questions and Responses
 A total of 8 questions
 4 personal details questions
 4 questions on Buying Preferences
 Sample Size: 44
 Surveying method: Online Form Filling
 Surveying Period:
First Entry 10th Jan12 22:00hrs
Last Entry 14th Jan12 23:55hrs

 About the surveyed:

Gender

Female
43%

Monthly Income

more than
1 crore
39%

Male
57%

20 lacs to
50 lacs
20%

50 lacs to 1
crore
32%
less than
20 lacs
9%

Which Region you belong to?

Age Group you belong to?

More than
60
23%

West
34%

18-28
23%

North
50%
South
16%

42-60
18%

28-42
36%

30

A Project Report on BMW Super Luxury Cars


 About their buying preferences:
Rate of the following attributes that (might
have)enticed you to try the BMW (initially)?

Customer
care
11%

Good Looks
27%

Performance
18%

Best Quality
20%

Compared to other cars that are available, would you


say that BMW is:

About the
same
14%
Much better
38%

Somewhat
better
41%

Driving
experience
24%
Somewhat worse
7%

What concerns you the most when


buying a car?

Speed
22%

Brand
25%

Safety
20%

Are Cars Still Status Symbols?

No
32%

Price
17%

Yes
68%

Warranty
16%

 Analysis of Survey Results


Key points from the survey about the customers:

Majority of Indian Customers still believe cars as a status symbol.\

While purchasing a luxury car, people are more concerned with brands, speed and safety
rather than price and warranty.

Majority of the users of BMW are satisfied from its performance and consider it superior
from other brands.

Before purchasing new car like BMW, majority of people are concerned with good looks and
driving experience.

31

A Project Report on BMW Super Luxury Cars


13. Conclusion
BMW has clearly established strong brand identity and equity, and the series 3 has become a
leader in the mid level luxury performance segment. BMW is associated with premium
performance, high class luxury and unquestionable quality. BMW has now established itself in
the Indian market and it has now ample opportunities to build on its strong brand equity. Indian
luxury car segment is poised to grow at a high rate and BMW is in a good position to leverage
that; however in order to tap that market, BMW shouldnt dilute its brand.
14. Recommendation
 BMW should continue to build on its strong brand as well as prestige of series model.
 The company should continue to produce clever advertisement and place the
advertisements across all mediums, especially on the internet.
 BMW should invest in fuel efficient technologies for their performance lines. Although
their cars are very stylish, there are many cars performing better than them in terms of
fuel efficiency.
 Company should leverage advanced IT tools and technologies in the field of product
promotion, new product development and distribution network.
 BMW should try to capture female customer base as the number of working women in
India is rising rapidly.
 Company should maintain its strong brand and shouldnt dilute its brand by selling sub
standard brands at lower prices.
 BMWs accessories and parts of cars are expensive for maintenance, which can reduce the
desire of people purchasing its cars. Therefore they should try to increase the availability
of its parts at lower prices.

32

A Project Report on BMW Super Luxury Cars


15. Exhibit 1: BMW 3 Series monthly sales data

Month
Feb07
Mar07
Apr07
May07
Jun07
Jul-07
Aug07
Sep-07
Oct-07
Nov07
Dec07
Jan-08
Feb08
Mar08
Apr08
May08
Jun08
Jul-08
Aug08
Sep-08

Number of units
sold Month
12

Oct-08
Nov33
08
Dec76
08
88
80
28
62
93
75
109
87
56

Jan-09
Feb09
Mar09
Apr09
May09
Jun09
Jul-09
Aug09
Sep-09

57

Oct-09
Nov90
09
Dec72
09
80
86
101
114
98

Jan-10
Feb10
Mar10
Apr10
May10

Number of units
sold Month
Jun76
10
52

Number of units
sold
188

Jul-10
Aug10

196

Sep-10

187

Oct-10
Nov116
10
Dec109
10

198

79
99
102

44

229

193
204

Jan-11
Feb11
Mar11
Apr11
May11
Jun11

164

Jul-11
Aug11

126

192 Sep-11

236

234 Oct-11
Nov298
11
Dec176
11

298

64
77
96
88
116
156
189

176
305
240
195
163

203

243
289

165
33

A Project Report on BMW Super Luxury Cars


16. Exhibit 2: BMW Advertisement- Joy is life

34

A Project Report on BMW Super Luxury Cars


17. References

http://www.bmweducation.co.uk/coFacts/view.asp?docID=61

Hespos, T. (2002) BMW Films: The Ultimate Marketing Scheme, retrieved October 3,

2005, from http://www.imediaconnection.com/content/546.asp

Giardina, C. and Lehane, S. (2002) "The Driver Returns," retrieved October 3, 2005, from
http://www.dtvprofessional.com/2002/12_dec/features/bmw_returns.htm
Films,"

retrieved

October

3,

(2002)

2005,

"BMW
from

http://www.pmalink.org/awards/reggie/2002reggiewinners3.asp

www.bmweducation.co.uk/company history

www.bmw.co.uk/models

www.bmw.co.uk/prices www.bmweducation.co.uk/companyfacts.shtm

www.bmweducation.co.uk/statistics \

Kotler, P. and Armstrong, G., (1989) Principles of Marketing, Prentice-Hall International


Edition.

David Jobber, Principles and Practice of Marketing 5th Edition www.just-auto.com


http://www.supercarworld.com/cgi-bin/overview.cgi?BMW

35

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