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      07-29-2020, 10:37 PM   #20
chris719
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Drives: '08 M Roadster
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Quote:
Originally Posted by mkoesel View Post
If you look at the products the are releasing, including everything from economy cars to high end vehicles, its obvious they are not going for best in class performance. They don't have an engine making more than 400-ish horspower, and have no apparent plans to update the Tau V8 (such as be turbocharging it for example) to make it competitive. Furthermore, their turbocharged V6 and I4 engines are middle of the road (although some vehicles that use them are very competitive within their segment and price bracket).

That said, they are obviously all in when it comes to EVs. No, they haven't yet released their first EV built on a dedicated platform, but that is coming in the next few years. What they have done is created electric versions of multiple existing products, and they have some of the most efficient electric drivetrains in the business.

So, I see the the Korean trio becoming a powerhouse, including in high performance vehicle segments, as we round the turn more toward the end of the decade and EVs begin to become more compelling as replacements for gasoline counterparts. They are going to have a lead on the laggards - you know who you are - and they are going to be a significant player. Not every automaker will survive the transition. The Koreans will not just survive, they'll thrive.
As someone who sold most of their BMW stock, I am appalled at their EV strategy. Surely their execs have all driven a Tesla Model 3 and could see the proverbial writing on the wall?

I used to think BMW was a forward thinking automotive company, and maybe they are not the worst here, but I no longer have confidence BMW will maintain their position and value of their brand over the next 20 years.

The downfall of Sony and rise of Samsung and LG in the consumer electronics industry show that a sterling reputation and technology leadership can be squandered completely. Samsung largely changed their brand perception from cheap junk to premium; I don't see what is stopping Hyundai from eventually doing the same. They might never be Porsche, but BMW should be worried.
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