Key Points:
- BMW Korea unveiled 18 models, including the iX2 and Vision Neue Klasse, at the Busan International Mobility Show 2024.
- Presented new models like the MINI Countryman JCW and MINI Cooper EV. Consistently attended the Busan auto show since 2001, except for 2010.
- BMW Driving Center celebrated its 10th anniversary with over 1.5 million visitors and extensive driving programs.
- BMW Korea Plans to expand its EV charging network from 1,300 to 2,100 chargers by the end of the year.
BMW Korea unveiled its newest electric vehicles (EVs) at the Busan International Mobility Show 2024, underscoring the significance of its fifth-largest global market. The event, which began on Friday and runs until Sunday, features BMW showcasing 18 models, including the all-new iX2, an EV sport activity coupe. The lineup includes the facelifted M4 and the Vision Neue Klasse, a concept model that embodies BMW’s ambitions for future mobility.
MINI, a BMW brand, also participated, presenting models such as the new MINI Countryman JCW and the new MINI Cooper EV. BMW’s consistent presence at the Busan auto show, which it has attended every year since 2001 (except for 2010), highlights its commitment to engaging with future consumers and fostering communication. BMW was the sole foreign car manufacturer at this year’s show.
BMW Group’s investment in Korea is substantial. This month marks the 10th anniversary of the BMW Driving Center on Yeongjong Island in Incheon. This auto-cultural complex, the first in Asia and the third globally, allows visitors to drive and experience BMW vehicles.
With an investment of 90 billion won ($65 million), the center has attracted over 1.5 million visitors as of May. Over 240,000 visitors have participated in the center’s driving programs, using 1,343 BMW and MINI vehicles. “The total distance driven by our visitors to the center now amounts to over 7.37 million kilometers,” a BMW Korea official stated.
BMW Group has also been expanding its facilities in Korea. In April, the R&D Center Korea relocated from inside the driving center at Yeongjong Island to Cheongna International City, enhancing its research capabilities. The company is also advancing its Charging Next project to expand its network of EV charging stations nationwide. By the end of this year, BMW plans to increase the number of chargers from 1,300 to 2,100.
Additionally, BMW has invested in promoting the brand to golf enthusiasts in Korea by hosting an annual LPGA tournament. In October, the BMW Ladies Championship will occur at the Seowon Valley Country Club in Paju, Gyeonggi Province. Previous tournaments were held in Busan, Wonju, and Gangwon Province.
