BMW i3 and i8 electric and hybrid cars launch in 2013 and 2014 respectively. They are to be the world’s first to sell directly to customers online.
According to Bloomberg, BMW, the world’s largest maker of luxury vehicles, is using the Web to find “an inexpensive way to reach more buyers to recoup spending on its electric models.”
The sales site allows BMW to cut out the middle man and deliver a 5 to 7 percent savings to buyers.
“If all goes well, the online retail project could expand to include models in the brand’s regular line-up,” notes Luxuo.
BMW opened its first i showroom in London where prototypes are being displayed, but when the cars go on sale in late 2013, the ordering process will take place online.
The i3 electric is expected to cost EUR 40,000 (USD 48,500) while the high-end hybrid sportscar i8 will run for EUR 100,000 (USD 122,870).