BMW's sales in RI exceed target

The Jakarta Post, Jakarta

PT BMW Indonesia, the subsidiary of giant global car maker BMW AG German, has sold 2,122 BMW cars in the country until November, a figure that exceeded the company's whole year's target, the company's president director Jesus Cordoba said on Thursday.

Based on the numbers, BMW has established itself as the front runner seller in premium cars in the country with a 40 percent market share, said Cordoba.

"Year 2002 has been an exciting year for BMW Indonesia and even though we have not closed our books, we have already exceeded 2002 sales expectations," said Cordoba, in a statement available to The Jakarta Post.

Cordoba did not provide precise details over this year sale target.

In his press statement, Cordoba encouraged BMW enthusiasts to purchase a new model BMW car this year, before the price goes up next year.

As of Jan. 1, next year, the price will increase by 1.5 percent thanks to "technical adjustment", he said, without elaborating.

The price increase would also be compounded by the annual police car registration costs which would be around 1.5 percent, he further said.

According to Cordoba, there is no difference the 2003 registered cars and those produced in 2002 in terms of design and engine.

"Therefore, purchasing (BMW cars) before Dec. 31 this year will provide cost benefit for those thinking about buying a car," he said.

Meanwhile, in another statement, the company voiced confidence that it would enjoyed a 17 percent hike in sales worldwide this year.

From January to November this year, the company sold 976,300 cars, compared 831,900 in the same period of last year.