Think of BMW's new UKL platform this way: it will be used on over 10 models from both BMW and MINI line-ups. Don't think of it as the first FWD modular platform from Bavaria. It will give you nightmares.
Now, this platform will spawn at least 3 models at MINI. Those models will probably be very good sellers, as they are currently being developed to replace not so popular cars (the Coupe and Roadster for example).
The Countryman might also be rethought in the future, boosting its sales (that are currently at around 100,000 units). The BMW models will step in too. The 1 Series GT and the 7-seater derived from this model might become very popular in certain demographics.
Since MINI is already selling 300,000 units per year, the new models might add 100,000 easily. Add the BMW models (using the UKL platform) to that and you're getting close to a million.
That went through the minds of the Management team over at BMW, for sure. That's why the UKL platform was developed: it will allow the German company build all these cars, the only problem remaining being selling them (which, with clever marketing campaigns like NOT NORMAL will be dealt with easily).
Furthermore, using the B38 engine might prove to be quite important too, but about that, on another time.
The Countryman might also be rethought in the future, boosting its sales (that are currently at around 100,000 units). The BMW models will step in too. The 1 Series GT and the 7-seater derived from this model might become very popular in certain demographics.
Since MINI is already selling 300,000 units per year, the new models might add 100,000 easily. Add the BMW models (using the UKL platform) to that and you're getting close to a million.
That went through the minds of the Management team over at BMW, for sure. That's why the UKL platform was developed: it will allow the German company build all these cars, the only problem remaining being selling them (which, with clever marketing campaigns like NOT NORMAL will be dealt with easily).
Furthermore, using the B38 engine might prove to be quite important too, but about that, on another time.