BMW X5 Facelift

Heard about BMW, right? It rules the luxury car segment and is among the top preferences of enthusiasts. India’s go-to-favourite car brand for almost two decades, BMW always matches the expectation of luxury and speed in the society of carmakers. Both Audi and Mercedes are in the same league with this car brand too. That is why people discuss BMWs with a certain reverence. It is not only about the stylish design or the powerful engines. It is about a lifelong dream - one that BMW has been delivering for years. It also has to do with the brand’s commitment to the Indian domestic market. "In 2024, BMW Group India is making great strides in implementing its strategy by achieving new heights in business performance and customer delight," the Economic Times reported BMW India President Vikram Pawah as saying. German Engineering As Its Backbone At the core of BMW Cars is German engineering. It is like having your car built by a master craftsman who has honed his skills over the years. Attention to detail starts right from the tiny bits, including the screws. This attention is given to ensure that your BMW is capable of withstanding the wear and tear of the Indian terrain over time. Engineers at the company go to great lengths to crack the right body design that is aerodynamically efficient and striking to the eye. Materials That Matter BMW does not compromise at all when it comes to the quality of materials used in their cars. Starting from the frame of the car to the the leather used in the cabin, everything is made to the best quality. The new 7 Series sedan, for instance, uses the second-largest volume of carbon fibre in a serial production project across the industry. Carbon fibre is used to reduce weight while maintaining extreme strength of the structure. They incorporate quality material that can easily last long without getting damaged, owing to years of research and development.  Technology That Endures BMW is recognised for its technology-integrated automobiles. From large touchscreen infotainment systems, adaptive cruise control to gesture function to use various functions of the car, BMW cars have it all. But it is not only about having the latest and the greatest gizmos. The xDrive system of BMW is said to face off-road tracks by distributing power between four wheels to have a better grip. Whether it is the engine control system or the intelligent safety systems, rest assured that they will last for many years.  The Driving Experience Given the emission norms getting stricter, it is a big challenge for BMW owners who want to keep their cars for a long time. They are so special that just to drive one makes you feel like a king of the road. No doubt that BMW cars pack a lot when it comes to precision steering, engine performance and luxury features. These are the reasons you are likely to return to drive it over and over again.  There is a wide range of BMW models aimed at satisfying the needs of people of all social classes concerning the price tag. The first vehicle you can choose is the 2 Series Gran Coupe, which is the smallest four-door sedan from BMW and therefore is priced comparatively low at Rs. 51 lakh, ex-showroom. If your budget allows, you can opt for the XM SUV which will require you to spare Rs. 3.01 crore. Yes, it has a sky-high price tag, but don't forget that you aren't just buying a car; you are acquiring a unique experience, prestige and last but not least a loyal friend for a lifetime.  The BMW brand includes the blending of “made in Germany” quality, marvellous solutions, and the joy of riding, the tough-to-find-describe drive-in combination. Consequently, these characteristics make the vehicles stay relevant and gain the reputation of preferred luxury cars in India considering their high durability. Read Also: Top 10 Most Expensive Cars in India and Their Features

The Automobile industry is one of the most esteemed ventures across the globe, where many companies compete for leadership in innovation, sales, and market presence. The companies are mostly judged by various metrics consisting of valuations and sales. Valuations represent what the companies stand worth based on their market capitalization.  On the other hand, sales represent the volumes of vehicles produced across the globe.  In this blog, we shed some light on the top 10 automobile companies using these 2 metrics. This will not only provide an insight into their respective market positions but also bring forward the unique characteristics of each company. The Top Automobile Companies Based on Valuation World Rank   Automaker Market Cap in USD   Market Cap in INR (Approx)   1 Tesla $737.53 billion Rs. 61,743.30 Crore 2 Toyota $277.96 Billion Rs. 23,292.31 Crore 3 BYD $92.47 Billion Rs. 7,742.46 Crore 4 Mercedes Benz $75.05 Billion Rs. 6,278.07 Crore 5 Ferrari $74.49 Billion Rs. 6,243.79 Crore 6 Porsche $67.88 Billion Rs. 6,070.77 Crore 7 BMW $60.60 Billion Rs. 5,070.77 Crore 8 Volkswagen $59.24 Billion Rs. 4,978.19 Crore 9 Stellantis $58.83 Billion Rs. 4,918.27 Crore 10 General Motors  $53.54 Billion Rs. 4,484.16 Crore 1. Tesla Tesla, an American company, was founded by Elon Musk. Expanding on a new approach to the automotive industry, this company basically majors in electric motor vehicle manufacturing. It was founded in 2003, after which Tesla has become synonymous with electric vehicle technology and innovation. Its lineup includes the Model S, Model 3, Model X, and Model Y, each of which is hailed for its impressive range, performance, and modern technology. Tesla's valuation went skyward because it leads in the electric vehicle market and has developed self-driving technology. The stock price has been highly volatile but stays among the highest in the sector, reflecting huge potential growth and investor confidence.  2. Toyota Toyota is a Japanese car maker known for making reliable, fuel-efficient cars. Having been established in 1937, Toyota became one of the major leaders in car manufacturing globally for a long. Among the famous models are the Corolla, the Camry, and the Prius, which were the ones that famously brought in hybrid technology. But the really good market presence, plus a wide range of vehicles, from cheaper small cars to the luxury segment under the Lexus brand. This is what made this company so highly capitalised. Not having rested there, continuous innovation in hybrid and hydrogen fuel cell technology positions Toyota at the top. Read Also: Why Are Toyota Cars So Reliable? Top 9 Reasons 3. BYD Build Your Dreams is a Chinese company that has worked its way to becoming among the world's most extensive hyper-manufacturers of electric vehicles. Founded in 1995, BYD initially started with batteries but soon changed its target to automobile manufacturing. It has grown to take its position in the league of the world's largest makers of electric vehicles, with the leading sales models being the Tang SUV and Han sedan. The company's valuation is a testimony to this dramatic growth and its stranglehold over the EV segment within a rather fast-growing market in China, the biggest market in the world for EVs. 4. Mercedes Benz Mercedes-Benz  is part of the mighty German company Daimler AG, revered for its luxury and high-tech vehicles. Founded in 1926, the name Mercedes-Benz represents quality automobiles, from the S-Class and E-Class to the GLE SUV. The brand has become synonymous with performance, luxury, and innovation, thanks to cars like its MBUX revolutionary infotainment system. Brand power and continual investment in electric and autonomous vehicle technologies are the ingredients of Mercedes-Benz's valuation and are part of the company's undeniable position as a luxury car manufacturer. Read Also: Top 5 Best Mercedes Cars Of 2024 In India 5. Ferrari Founded by Enzo Ferrari in 1939, Ferrari is an Italian automaker that is most renowned for its high-performance sports cars and luxury vehicles. This marque is related to terms like speed, exclusiveness, and fashion style, which the Ferrari 488 and the Ferrari LaFerrari have overseen. With a small market of operation, yet being rich and a high price tag, Ferrari is one of the bumper valuations. This business model, along with the model that focuses on limited production and absolutely no mass-market vehicles, means that the brand can remain extremely prestigious within the automotive world.  6. Porsche Another German luxury car maker is Porsche, recognizable for making sports cars and high-performance vehicles. Founded in 1931, it has the iconic 911 and Macan SUVs in its product line. Porsche is hailed for its engineering excellence and driving dynamics. Strong brand loyalty and overall good results for high-performance and luxury car valuations are associated with it as well. It is also working on investing in a line of electric vehicles to go with its conventional sports car offerings, one of which is the Taycan. Read Also: Why Are Porsche Cars So Expensive? Explained 7. BMW Bayerische Motoren Werke, or simply put, BMW, is a German carmaker that focuses on sporty and premium cars. Created in 1916, under the BMW brand are such models, popular these days on the roads, as the 3 and 5 Series and X5 SUVs. A significant accent on this brand falls on the great pleasure of driving and engineering excellence, which helped create the good name. The high valuation of BMW speaks to its successful mixing of luxury, performance, and innovation. It is also pushing into electric mobility with its iSeries, which includes the i4 and the iX. Read Also: What Makes BMW Different From Other Cars? 8. Volkswagen Founded in 1937, Volkswagen is a leading German car manufacturer. Its range includes budget models to very expensive luxury cars. Some of its best-selling models are the Golf, Passat, and Tiguan. A diversified product range and worldwide presence are some of the takeaways that flow into the valuation of Volkswagen. It is also heavily investing in electric vehicles, with ID.3 and ID.4 marking its commitment to a secure mobility future. Its broad brand portfolio, including Audi and Porsche, further enhances Volkswagen's market position. Read Also: Discover the Legacy: What Are Volkswagen Cars Known For? 9. Stellantis Stellantis is a multinational automotive company born in 2021 from the merger of FCA with the PSA Group. The group has under its umbrella some of the more diversified brands like Jeep, Dodge, Peugeot, and Citroen. The valuation of Stellantis reflects the scale and scope of its operations, covering all different segments from luxury to economy car manufacturers. The company is working toward brand integration and innovations regarding electric and autonomous vehicles. 10. General Motors General Motors is an American automaker headquartered in Detroit. It was established in 1908 in America, and this straddles the very large heritage of vehicle production. Brands under GM include Chevrolet, Cadillac, GMC, and Buick. General Motors is already well-supported by its broad lineup and global presence. GM is investing heavily in electric and driverless technologies, the Chevrolet Bolt EV and an electric Hummer are in the pipeline. GM's effective market presence and innovation keep it among the top companies by the value of its equity. The Top Automobile Companies Based on Sales World Rank Automaker Sales 1 Toyota 10,307,395     2 Volkswagen 9,239,575 3 Hyundai Kia 7,302,451 4 Stellantis 6,392,600 5 General Motors     6,188,476 6 Ford 4,413,545 7 Honda 4,188,039 8 Nissan 3,374,271 9 BMW 2,555,341 10 Changan 2,553,052 1. Toyota Toyota has been reported to lead in the global automotive market due to its huge sales. Credibility in terms of reliability as well as fuel efficiency, along with their diversified product line, assures a spot in the global listing among customers for Toyota. The Corolla and Camry remain on the list of top-selling cars in the brand's fleet. The global networks of manufacturing, supply, and market share, such as a vehicle brand, command the lead in the sales chart. 2. Volkswagen Volkswagen ranks among the top sellers owing to its massive automobile portfolio and huge geographic area of sales. Its strong models, such as the Golf and Tiguan, give attention to the needs of the masses. Quality, innovation, and being widespread in major markets help the company's sales volume. Additionally, investments in electric cars helped boost sales somewhat. 3. Hyundai and Kia Hyundai and Kia have become successful and among the fastest-growing brands in the current markets for several reasons. Ranging from competitive pricing, strong warranties, and lately, a good number of their products and quality. Championships in this case include the Hyundai Elantra and Kia Sportage, among other models, driving its sales volume. These companies maintain a strong position in the world market through the development of their model lines and the enhancement of technologies. Read Also: How Reliable Are Hyundai Cars? 4. Stellantis The company has a diversified brand portfolio, which drives its good sales volume as well. Its brand targets different segments of markets, including Jeep, Dodge, and Peugeot. Stellantis has a widely spread brand portfolio that nearly comprises all the market segments and a global presence to support huge sales. Such integration of brands and innovation in the automobile segment is the reason behind its heavy sales volume. 5. General Motors General Motors has very good worldwide sales, which is supported by a large brand bouquet with the inclusion of Chevrolet, Cadillac, and GMC. High-volume sales are derived from popular models like the Chevrolet Silverado and the GMC Sierra. This company is very focused on new technologies as well as developing and guaranteeing a new offering in vehicles sold, which continues to have a good market presence and sales performance. 6. Ford Ford is an American auto manufacturing company that has been in business for over one hundred years. It offers some of the most popular automobile models, like the F-150 truck and the Mustang sports car, in its product line. With strong product branding, a wide range of cars in virtually every category, and vast distribution, its sales volume remains high. Its focus on developing innovations such as electric and autonomous vehicle technologies contributes to ensuring a high level of sales. 7. Honda Honda is also known for making some of the most reliable gas guzzlers around - the Civic and the Accord. The strong sales are evidenced and revealed by the brand's strict adherence to quality and innovation. Global existence and diversification of its vehicles. Honda is among the top vehicle suppliers, thereby ranking very high on the list of sales. 8. Nissan Nissan has a great depth of products, ranging from the Altima to the Rogue, to ensure sufficient diversity to help generate volume. In addition, its commitment to quality and value saw it through in the market. Not to mention the continuous innovations it carries, especially in electric vehicles with the Leaf, which help prop their sales performance. 9. BMW The brand image of BMW, with its luxury and sportiness, has contributed to its high sales volumes. Models such as the 3 Series and X5 bring the company a stable customer base. BMW maintains its leading position in the global sales rankings due to its quality standards and driving dynamics.  10. Changan A Chinese automobile manufacturer named Changan has already been increasing its presence and expanding sales in the global market. The concentration on the production of low-priced and reliable vehicles allows this company to have an ability for high volumes of products. Hence, Changan has grown inside its domestic market of China and also stepped up the international effort that helped the brand make it to the top sellers. Conclusion Different companies shine in different areas since the automotive industry is diverse and competitive in general. Tesla ranks first in valuation for electric innovations and technological advancement, while Toyota takes the top-selling position due to the vast diversity covered and all popular and reliable models being produced in great volume. Each company on these lists is strong in different aspects, whether in innovation, market presence, or sales volume. It will be exciting in many ways to keep up with how, through the development of electric and autonomous vehicles, these top companies will continue reshaping the future of mobility. Read Also: CNG Car Vs Petrol Car: Which Car is Better to Buy

BMW India has launched the new M340i xDrive in the Indian market. Priced at Rs 74.90 lakh (ex-showroom), the latest version of the sedan will be assembled locally at the Chennai-based BMW plant. BMW M340i xDrive: Main Highlights The M340i xDrive sedan looks quite sporty due to its wide and aggressive stance. Upfront, it boasts the mesh-style BWM kidney grille, LED headlights with blue accents, and the M Lights Shadowline on the headlights. The latest sedan runs on the 19-inch Jet Black alloy wheels. The rear profile of the car highlights slim but darkened L-shaped LED taillights and the body-colored M spoiler. As for the color choices, the new M340i xDrive is available with a range of metallic paint schemes including Arctic Race Blue, Dravit Grey, Fire Red Metallic, and Black Saphhire. Interior Features The interior of the luxury sedan gets sporty seats with leather Vernasca upholstery and newly designed steering wheel. In terms of features, it offers a new digital BMW curved display for infotainment and instrumentation, Harman Kardon Surround Sound system with 16 loudspeakers, 40:20:40 split backrest, automatic three-zone AC, and more. Specifications Under the hood, it takes power from the 2998 cc straight-six petrol engine. Paired with an 8-speed Steptronic Sport automatic transmission. This unit can generate 371 bhp and 500 Nm of torque. It can accelerate from 0-100 kmph in just 4.4 seconds. Also Read: Maruti Suzuki e Vitara Specs Compared With Tata Curvv EV

BMW CEO Oliver Zipse has urged the European Union to reconsider its petrol and diesel cars' ban plan by 2035. He stated that by allowing alternative technologies, Europe can reduce its dependency on China for EV batteries. The EU’s plans “are no longer realistic” and that subsidies for electric vehicles are “unsustainable”, he added. Zipse made these comments at the Paris Motor Show 2024, emphasising the need for flexibility in the types of vehicles allowed, including those powered by e-fuels, biofuels and hydrogen.  Zipse's main concern is that Europe might fall behind in the global auto market if it sticks strictly to EVs. China is currently a leader in battery production and relying too much on them could hurt Europe's automotive industry. This is why BMW, along with other carmakers like Volkswagen and Renault, is asking for more time and options, instead of being forced to switch completely to electric cars by 2035. EV sales in Europe have not been as strong as expected, with high prices and a lack of charging infrastructure being major challenges. In countries like Germany, subsidies for EV buyers have been reduced, which has also slowed down the shift to electric cars. Why it matters for India? Zipse’s call for flexibility is also relevant to India. While India is making strides in electric vehicles, the market is still heavily reliant on petrol and diesel cars. The shift to EVs here is slower due to high costs, limited infrastructure and battery supply challenges. India, like Europe, depends heavily on China for batteries, so diversifying the types of clean vehicles, like hydrogen or biofuel-powered cars, could offer a solution.  The discovery of 5.9 million tonnes of lithium reserves in Jammu and Kashmir is a game-changer for India's clean energy ambitions. Lithium is a critical component in electric vehicle batteries, and having domestic reserves will reduce India’s reliance on imports. This is vital for achieving the country’s EV goals and net-zero emissions target by 2070. However, challenges such as refining capacity, environmental concerns, and the sensitive political landscape in the region must be addressed. If managed well, these reserves could position India as a major player in the global green energy market while boosting the local economy. In conclusion, BMW’s plea to rethink the petrol engine ban isn’t just about Europe; it reflects broader global concerns about the future of the automotive industry. As India navigates its journey toward cleaner transportation, these decisions could impact the direction the country takes. Also, read Toyota ‘mini Fortuner’ to get multiple powertrains