BMW is looking for a new green brand. Some have speculated that the Triumph badge will be revived as the new green brand while others think expanding the Mini range is the way to go. But Stefan Krause, head of Sales and Marketing at BMW, says there will be no further Mini models after the impending Crossover vehicle because expanding the range might dilute the Mini’s “quirky appeal.”
There are currently no official details on how BMW plans to create a new green brand or what the name might be.Meanwhile, Toyota has already announced plans to launch plug-in hybrids and is considering using Prius as an umbrella brand for more eco-friendly vehicles. GM unveiled its plug-in hybrid which it hopes to manufacture by 2010. Ford, too, has unveiled its new eco-boost engines and has hinted at a more fuel-efficient Explorer.
BMW is interested in a new green car because of fuel-economy targets due to be set in the U.S. and likely in the EU.