BMW Group looks to future mobility for next 100 years

Grand ceremony for the BMW Group’s Vision Next 100 concept car unveiled as BMW Group celebrated its centenary in Munich on March 7, 100  years after the company was registered.PHOTO PROVIDED TO CHINA DAILY

Adaptability, innovation, social responsibility set group apart

BMW Group celebrated its centenary in 2016 under the slogan "the Next 100 Years". The group's concept car presented its interpretation of future premium mobility at its world premiere in Munich.

A multimedia show on March 7 took about 2,000 audience members in the Munich Olympic Hall through the key moments in the luxury carmaker's history. The celebrations focused primarily on what lies ahead and explored how individual mobility might develop over the coming decades.

Harald Krueger, chairman of the board of management of BMW AG, said at the event: "In the BMW Group, we are always on a quest for the best solution. It's part of our DNA.

"It's also the spirit of our collaborations, a recurring theme that permeates our corporate and leadership culture."

The Munich-based group believes three qualities set it apart: the capacity to learn and adapt, technological innovation and a sense of social responsibility.

Harald Krueger, chairman of the board of management of BMW AG, poses for a photo in the Vision Next 100 concept car. PHOTO PROVIDED TO CHINA DAILY

Throughout its history, the company's image has been defined by a future focus and pioneering action - all made possible by its extraordinary team of employees, who share a fascination for mobility which is integral to people's lives.

Krueger said, "We have demonstrated on many occasions throughout our history that we are capable of learning fast and taking bold steps.

"The company has constantly developed and sometimes even reinvented itself. As we move into the future, that's not going to change."

The BMW Group aims to present a holistic view for the next two to three decades, based on well-regarded studies from various sources as well as the opinions of renowned futurologists.

It decided to concentrate on key questions and megatrends that would impact not only on individual mobility but also day-to-day and business lives.

The world is on the verge of realizing automated driving and, in the not-too-distant future, the majority of cars will probably be completely auto-driven and travel the streets of cities inhabited by far more people than today.

In the future, one thing will be in ever shorter supply - time. Connectivity will become increasingly commonplace, and technologies will learn to learn from people.

The BMW Group has generated a futuristic scenario with a clear vision: premium mobility will be completely effortless, comprehensively available and tailored to every customer's individual preferences.

"Future mobility will connect every area of people's lives. And that's where we see new opportunities for premium mobility," Krueger said.

The BMW Group primarily focuses on key areas of potential: Automated data capture and analysis, such as digital plant surveys and simulations, to enhance process security. The latest 3D plant data make precise planning possible so new digital systems and structures can be integrated into existing landscapes. This, in turn, takes flexibility to a new level.

The continued enhancement of the BMW, BMW Motorrad, MINI and Rolls-Royce brands has allowed the BMW Group to secure a strong position in the premium segment.

Executives of BMW unveil the new concept car. PHOTO PROVIDED TO CHINA DAILY

Commitment to society

The group is well aware of its social responsibilities, and has been since 1973. Back then, BMW was the first automotive producer in the world to employ an environmental officer.

By 2020, the BMW Group plans to cut its consumption of energy, water and solvents, and waste produced by 45 percent for each vehicle manufactured. In the long term, the group has set the target of a completely neutral cycle, from material procurement and production to product use and recycling.

The company is enhancing its commitment to social responsibility by increasing the BMW Foundation Herbert Quandt by 50 million euros ($56 million) to a total of 100 million euros.

In addition, annual donations will be made to support project work. In 2016, this financing will amount to another 5 million euros. Further financing will be provided by major shareholders Stefan Quandt and Susanne Klatten, who will support project work with an additional 30 million euros.

Following the event in Munich, many branches around the world are running their own events throughout the year to mark the centenary. A special publication will also provide detailed information about the key future directions.