R60

BMW has shelved the X7 – a larger version of the X5 – and in it ‘s place put more resources on the forthcoming BMW X1 and MINI Crossover. This according to this week ‘s Automotive News. Here ‘s an excerpt ”

>BMW is reacting to the sagging economy and rising fuel prices with two small crossovers, the BMW X1 and Mini Crossover Concept, says CEO Norbert Reithofer. He said the old product plan, which included the now discontinued X7 SUV, would not have generated sufficient growth through 2013.

>The X1, based on the 1-series car, is expected to go on sale in the United States by 2010 or 2011. Reithofer said the X1 will be a volume vehicle rather than a niche car such as the larger X6 crossover.

Also in the article is a small but relatively interesting insight into BMW ‘s “Project i ” small city car. Again here ‘s another excerpt from the article:

>BMW is also working on Project i, what Reithofer calls a “mega city car. ” The company has not approved production of the car, possibly an electric. Also uncertain is the car ‘s brand.

>Reithofer said the first fruits of Project i will be 500 electric Mini cars to be given to “special customers ” at the end of 2008 and beginning of 2009 in New York, New Jersey and California for a one-year trial.

+ BMW to Work on Two Small Crossovers / Automotive News