BMW has dethroned Mercedes from its top notch position in India. While BMW sold 466 cars in the last two months, Mercedes sold only 371 in April-May 2009. Audi trails the race with figures of only 233 units in the same period. BMW and Mercedes, both German luxury car makers, have been pitching for the top position in the luxury car segment and BMW has managed to hold its position for a few months now.
Mercedes has denied these claims stating that the sales are only illusions gained by offering heavy discounts and pushing the dealers to increase inventory. It stated that since BMW launched new models, it offered older models with heavy discounts which have led to an increase in sales figures. It also added that it does not believe in pushing the dealers to pile up inventory. It intends to maintain healthy relationship between dealers and manufacturers.
BMW spokesperson refuted these charges, stating that the company is well geared up to face any challenges. It has robust strategies in place which includes investing more in the brand and reach up to its customers to the ground level. "We are bullish about the luxury car segment and expect a growth of 15-20% this year," said a senior BMW official. BMW has launched 4 new models this year and will expand its dealer network to 20 dealers by the end of this year.
