Kulim, 29th July 2010 – BMW Group Malaysia today introduced the first locally assembled production model of the new BMW 523i at the BMW assembly plant in Kulim, Kedah.
“The BMW 5 Series plays an iconic role in the history and success of the BMW Group. Time and time again, the car has proven itself to be the superior choice in its segment and with the introduction of the all-new BMW 5 Series, we at BMW Group Malaysia are confident that the legacy of the BMW 5 Series will be one that continues to grow from strength to strength in Malaysia.” said Mr. Geoffrey Briscoe, Managing Director of BMW Group Malaysia.
Already attracting impressive international accolades, including a 2010 Auto Bild Award, the Red Dot Design Award as well as being the first BMW to not only receive the maximum five star rating but also a 100 per cent score in the reputed Euro NCAP crash test, the Sixth Generation BMW 5 Series is expected to build upon the iconic legacy of its predecessor and be a key contributor to BMW Group Malaysia’s profitability moving forward.
Equipped with a new smooth-revving 2.5 litre engine with VALVETRONIC that is capable of generating 150kW/204hp and 250 Nm of Torque, an increase of 10kW/14hp from its predecessor and allowing it to reach 0-100km in 8.5 seconds, the BMW 523i has proven to be a successful model in Malaysia, with the first shipment of units generating tremendous interest in the Malaysian automotive industry and being sold out within the first month of its launch to the market in May.
Briscoe further added that the introduction of local assembly for the new BMW 5 Series would lead to significant benefits to Malaysian customers by reducing total cost of ownership, waiting time for complete units and spare parts while maintaining the same premium standards and offering that are expected of a BMW car.
“With an iconic legacy to live up to, the sixth generation BMW 5 Series features all the latest innovations that have set BMW apart as the worlds most valued brand in the automotive segment the world over.” said Briscoe.
Operational since 2008, the BMW Assembly plant in Kulim has been an integral part of BMW’s success in Malaysia with a production run of more than 4900 units to date. With a workforce of over 400 employees and equipped with the latest in manufacturing technologies, the plant generates variants of the BMW 5 Series and BMW 3 Series in Malaysia.
“The BMW assembly line facilities in Kulim are as advanced as any BMW production facility anywhere in the world and has led to the introduction of superior premium quality assembly line technology, practices and standards to Malaysia.” said Mr. Manfred Zink, Production Manager and Plant Representative of BMW Group Malaysia.
The BMW Assembly Plant is operated in partnership with Inokom Corporation, a subsidiary of Sime Darby Berhad at the Inokom factory in Kulim, Kedah. Both BMW and Inokom share factory space but operate separate and independent assembly lines in the facility.
“The BMW 5 Series has a special place in our plant as it was the first BMW production line to begin operations when BMW moved its local assembly line to Kedah, and has been pivotal in seeing key technologies being introduced to the Malaysian automotive industry as well as the creation of over 400 skilled and professional jobs for Malaysians.” said Encik Zainal Osman, Chief Operating Officer of Inokom Corporation Sdn Bhd.
BMW Group Malaysia also confirmed that the organisation will be introducing the much anticipated locally assembled BMW 528i later in the year.
The retail price (on the road, without insurance, with BMW Service Inclusive + Repair) for the locally assembled BMW 523i is:
The New BMW 523i - RM 383, 800