BMW NZ has record BEV sales

BMW Group New Zealand has recorded growth across the board in the first nine months of 2023, notably in registrations of its fully electric vehicles.

While the total market saw a decline of 6% and the premium segment a drop of 13%, BMW recorded growth of 7% for its overall line-up in the period from January to the end of September, with total vehicle registrations rising from 1275 to 1368.

It was an equally positive story for Mini, with the brand posting 9% growth, recording 705 registrations versus 646 during the same time last year.

Registrations of fully electric BMW models totalled 365 in the period between January and the end of September, which established a new record and marked a 29% increase on the corresponding period in 2022, says the group.

The BMW i4 was a standout performer in the battery electric vehicle (BEV) line-up, with 121 registrations of the sporty Gran Coupe in New Zealand to the end of September.

This was up 169% on 2022 and complemented the global desirability of the model, with the 400kW BMW i4 M50 the highest selling BMW M car worldwide in 2022.

The BMW iX1 xDrive30 has also been a success in spite of only being on sale since March, with 72 vehicles registered.

Early next year, BMW New Zealand will expand its iX1 line-up with launch of the eDrive20 variant. 

The strong results come as a recent survey by the BMW Group determined that 53% of New Zealanders would consider purchasing an EV in the future and that EV ownership is set to surpass conventionally powered vehicle ownership in New Zealand as soon as 2035.

The BMW Group is supporting the EV industry across New Zealand with its destination charging network.

The Generation 3 BMW Wallbox chargers at the sites can be used by both BMW customers and those whose vehicles are compatible with the charging hardware.

Most North Island EV charging sites are running, while further chargers will be deployed in Q4, including in the South Island at the Millbrook Resort near Arrowtown.

This is in addition to BMW New Zealand starting a partnership with EV charge point operator Jolt earlier to assist in the rollout of a free fast charging options across the nation.

BMW Group New Zealand managing director Adam Shaver says the sales growth reflects the company’s push to achieve a customer-centric and future-focused product and business strategy.

“Our diverse product portfolio has adapted quickly to a fast-changing world, and we are delighted to offer compelling solutions across the spectrum that resonate with our customers,” he says.

“However, it is not just about product. These sales results are also testament to the collective efforts of our entire team in New Zealand, including our valued dealer network.”