At the start of the year, BMW records increasing demand for particularly expensive models, despite a decline in a key market.

The company announced on Wednesday that it sold about 595,000 cars in the first quarter, representing an increase of 1.1 percent compared to the previous year. Particularly, fully electric vehicles, as well as cars from the high-powered and luxury segment, contributed to this growth.

The sales of battery electric vehicles (BEVs) increased by almost 28 percent to 82,700 units. Luxury cars recorded an increase of almost 22 percent.

"With different types of propulsion, we can respond to the changing customer desires. That our strategy is taking hold is now evident," explained sales director Jochen Goller.

In Europe, BMW was able to increase demand by 5.5 percent to about 228,000 cars. A slight increase of 1.2 percent to around 91,000 vehicles was also recorded in the USA. However, in China, an important market for BMW, sales figures fell by 3.8 percent to about 187,000 units.

The brand Mini recorded a worldwide decline of 9.4 percent to just under 83,000 vehicles. However, the group emphasizes that preparations for the launch of the new Mini family are in full swing.

For the year 2024, BMW is aiming for a slight increase in deliveries. It is expected that fully electric vehicles and models from the upper premium segment will grow by double digits. Last year, BMW set a new sales record with 2.55 million cars sold.

The financial results for the first quarter will be presented on May 8, followed by the annual general meeting on May 15.