BMW reveals the Long-Wheel-Base 5-Series F10.

[Centurion]

Can someone explain China's obsession with LWB mid-sized sedans? Is it because they don't want to fork over the money for an S-Class or A8 and find a slightly longer version of a 5-Series to be the perfect size?

 

[klier]

They are made in China (I think all, A6/5er/E) don't require special import tax and are overall a helluva lot cheaper than a German built 7er or S class. Still I don't get their obsession with LWB cars. Maybe because when they're wealthy enough to buy such a car in China it's very cheap for them to get a 24/7 chauffeur to be driven everywhere they go; I've lived in Beijing for studies, and driving is hell in that city. One wants to avoid this as much as possible.

 

[Gene]

Can someone explain China's obsession with LWB mid-sized sedans? Is it because they don't want to fork over the money for an S-Class or A8 and find a slightly longer version of a 5-Series to be the perfect size?

The Chinese like to be driven, not drive themselves, hence the introduction of the mid-sized LWB sedans. The reasons they don't go for the higher up models due to a combination of modesty, cost and a few other factors.

I know you're thinking that if you can afford a driver, you must be able to afford a higher-end model, but remember that labour is cheap in China, and the traffic rules are ,'et's say, a bit more 'complex' than in western countries like England and America

Though it should be fairly clear that there is huge demand for them, otherwise the three germans wouldn't offer them.

 

[bmer]

Yeah, it's my perception that no self-respecting Chinese businessman drives his car himself.

 

[Giannis]

It's seems you are right bmer. After all, in China, labour (chauffer) is cheap, while german cars are expensive..