- While production of MPVs in Europe has declined for several years (-35 % between 2005 and 2013 ) in favor of the SUVs, BMW has unveiled its first MPV.

- This new model, called Series 2 Active Tourer is a C -segment vehicle, positioned as Premium. Therefore it competes directly with the B-Class Mercedes (whose first generation has been launched in  2005 and the second in 2011).

- Within the BMW range, the Series 2 Active Tourer belongs to the Series 2 family, based on the platform of Series 1 (segment C). First front-wheel drive of the brand, the MPV will be powered, in its  gasoline version by a 3-cylinder engine (which has been launched on the Mini) and a 4-cylinder, while in its diesel version, only one 4-cylinder engine is announced for the moment.

- The Series 2 Active Tourer is launched as a 5-seater, but will be supported by a 7-seater version with a lengthened body, like a Renault Scenic.

- The model will be produced in the BMW Leipzig plant alongside the coupe and convertible Series 2, and next year could be accompanied by a future sedan series 2 (Gran Coupe) .

- Inovev forecasts a production of around 80,000 units in 2018, for a vehicle designed primarily for Europe.
Asia (including China) and North America are not growing markets for MPV segment C.

  

- The multi-brand strategy of Chinese groups is today questioned by most independent carmakers. The relevance of this strategy was analyzed by Inovev in March 2013, when Chery decided to no longer produce its brands Rely , Riich and Cowin (see analysis "The Chinese groups' multi-brand strategy called into question").

- At take-off of the Chinese automobile market, independent Chinese carmakers had the idea of creating sub-brands to increase sales in a booming market with the hope to reach multiple audiences.

- Actually Chinese brands marketed very similar models at very similar price. The sales figures of these brands have never really taken off. In addition, they cannibalized the parent brands.

- Geely Group, Chery’s competitor, has carried out the same analysis as Chery and decided to act accordingly. The Emgrand , Gleagle and Englon brands that were born in 2009, will disappear by the end of 2014. Geely will focus its attention on a single brand, Geely brand.

- This policy will enable Geely Group to provide a simplified and more consistent range.  The Swedish brand Volvo, owned by Geely, is not affected by this change.