(autoinsidernews) - As the U.S. market becomes more accepting of diesel power, automakers are looking at expanding diesel offerings or just beginning to offer in the States. With new low-sulfur content diesel fuel available in the U.S., diesel sales are expected to increase, reports Trend.
BMW has announced that it will begin selling its performance-oriented and efficient diesel-powered vehicles in the States starting in 2008. BMW has been selling diesel vehicles in Europe since 1983 and today, 67% of its sales in Europe are diesel models.
BMW's decision to offer its diesel-powered vehicles in the U.S. is the beginning of a long-term commitment, and are an integral part of the EfficientDynamics corporate strategy, integrating a combination of short-, mid- and long-term measures for the continued reduction of fuel consumption and emissions while enhancing performance and driving characteristics. The company has developed technologies to minimize exhaust gas emissions, and meet the strict emission standards in effect in California and other states. This makes it possible to simultaneously introduce these new cleaner Advanced Diesels as so-called 50 States (Bin5) models.
BMW's first diesels in the States will likely be the 535d sedan and touring models. The type designations and specifications of the BMW diesel vehicles for the U.S. will be announced at a later point in time.