Sustainability is key for Matt Collins as BMW prioritises electric models at CCIA

BMW Group UK’s newly appointed general manager – corporate sales Matt Collins is putting sustainability at the core of his fleet strategy, mirroring the philosophy across the entire business.

Speaking at the Fleet News driving event Company Car in Action (CCIA), Collins said: “Sustainability is a key focus for us, and not just within specific models - it's embedded across our business. We understand that fleets are focused on CO2 emissions and their overall environmental impact. We’re committed to supporting them further in monitoring these factors going forward and with a decade of experience in selling EVs, starting with the i3, BMW is well-equipped to understand and meet the evolving needs of our customers.”

BMW had its latest electric models available to drive at CCIA, including a hydrogen fuel cell version of the X5, the iX5 Hydrogen which is undergoing pilot trials in the UK.

Meanwhile, the full electric version of the 5 Series, the i5, was a popular driving option for fleet decision-makers at the show.

“We're encouraged by the positive feedback from residual value setters, and we are looking forward to the first customer handovers when the model launches in October,” Collins said.

"With the introduction of the i5, our range now boasts three fully-electric saloons, complementing our three robust battery-electric SAV models – meaning we can now offer customers a pure-electric model in every major segment.”

This includes the luxury i7, which has received “an overwhelmingly positive response from customers since its introduction”, according to Collins.

He added: “Its innovative technology has exceeded expectations and our partnerships with hotels, diplomatic services and chauffeur businesses have gone from strength to strength.”