Both revenue and unit sales hit an all-time
record in 2005, BMW announced today. Sales volume in cars grew nearly 10 percent year-over-year, and strong sales
across the BMW Group more than offset unfavorable exchange rates and rising material costs.
BMW AG chairman
Helmut Panke (at right) sees continued success in 2006, saying, “Our aim is to increase sales volume yet again and
once again set a new record.”
Today’s news from Hyundai and BMW, at opposite ends of the economy-luxury
car spectrum, highlights the tough job facing Ford, GM and Chrysler in the U.S. market. It’s no longer a question of
whether the U.S. automakers can design and build competitive cars – they can – it’s whether or not they can turn
themselves around quickly enough to retain competitive market share.
[Source: BMW Press]