What's Happening?
BMW has announced its commitment to continue producing its V-12 engines despite the introduction of stricter emissions standards. Joachim Post, BMW's chief technology officer, stated that the company has taken
measures to ensure its largest engines, including the V-12, comply with the upcoming Euro 7 emissions guidelines. These engines are currently used in luxury brands like Rolls-Royce. Post emphasized that the necessary adjustments, such as optimizing the exhaust system and catalysts, will allow these engines to meet the new standards without significant investment. This decision comes as BMW prepares to launch its Neue Klasse electric vehicles, including the iX3 SUV and i3 sedan, while maintaining a diverse lineup featuring various powertrains, including four-, six-, eight-, and 12-cylinder engines.
Why It's Important?
The decision to continue producing V-12 engines highlights BMW's strategy to balance traditional combustion engines with the transition to electric vehicles. This move is significant for the luxury automotive market, where high-performance engines remain a key selling point. By ensuring compliance with emissions standards, BMW can cater to customers who value powerful engines while also advancing its electric vehicle offerings. This dual approach may strengthen BMW's market position, appealing to a broader range of consumers and potentially increasing its competitive edge against other automakers focusing solely on electric vehicles.
What's Next?
BMW's acquisition of Alpina, a longtime tuning partner, suggests plans to integrate the V-12 engine into ultra-luxury models under the new BMW Alpina sub-brand. This could lead to the development of high-performance cars and SUVs that combine luxury with powerful engines. As the automotive industry continues to evolve, BMW's strategy of offering diverse powertrain options may influence other manufacturers to adopt similar approaches, balancing traditional and electric vehicle technologies to meet consumer demands and regulatory requirements.
