On March 11, Zhichepai learned that the BMW Group had announced the acquisition of Alpina, which was originally a modification plant for BMW and has become a recognized car manufacturer since 1983. BMW said that while the deal still needs to meet various conditions and approvals, the two sides have reached an agreement on the matter.
As part of the deal, Alpina will continue to develop, manufacture and sell new models until the final day of 2025. From this perspective, Alpina will not change at this time. In addition, there will be no change to the existing after-sales partnership, but the existing development services business will expand beyond the company's headquarters in Buchloe.
Alpina was founded on January 1, 1965, and became the official car manufacturer in 1983. Last year, Alpina produced nearly 2,000 cars, which makes the brand more unique than many luxury automakers. It is worth mentioning that 2021 is the most successful year in Alpina's history. Unfortunately, the company still faces regulatory challenges, which also make the company sensitive to increasing emissions regulations, requirements for ADAS technology, and other costs that are difficult for small batch manufacturers to afford. BMW has been described by the current leader of Alpina as an ideal partner for the brand.
By the end of 2025, the current Alpina plan will stop production of models, which will have an impact on employees at the plant. BMW has committed to providing new positions within the BMW Group for all Alpina employees who are unable to continue working at the Buchloe plant.