27 September 2010

If you are currently retailing Minis and Smarts, you’d better start thinking how you can create a little more space in the showroom. It’s not extra space you’ll need for cars, just enough to fit-in a couple of electric scooters.

Rival carmakers, BMW and Mercedes-Benz, will both show-off concept versions of electric scooters at this week’s Paris Motor Show.

Both BMW (with its Mini Scooter E) and Mercedes (with its Smart Escooter) are quick to say they have no immediate plans to put the scooters into production. But, if they are not planning to produce and sell them, why else would both manufacturers choose one of Europe’s most important car shows to unveil them? Wouldn’t a motorcycle show be more appropriate?

Both manufacturers are stressing the scooters’ design elements reflect their 4-wheel counterparts. Mini seemed to go to great lengths last week to emphasise its effort is, indeed, based on the current Mini production car. (I wonder if there is a cup holder.) Both carmakers seem to be using the scooters at the Paris show to promote their forthcoming electric cars. My guess is that the importance being given to these scooters at a car show means the manufacturers will use the same tactic in showrooms. So, scoot along and decide where you will display these 2-wheelers – and how you will sell and service them.

Have a great week, both in and out of the showroom. If you have a story for us, email barry@auto-retail.com
Barry Hook
 

Tags: BMW Group, Mini, Scooters, SMART