For those in the automotive industry, particularly within the BMW family, understanding the perks and privileges is crucial. A frequently asked question revolves around the BMW employee car program. This isn’t just about a simple discount; it’s a tiered system designed to reward different categories of BMW affiliates with unique vehicle benefits. Let’s delve into the specifics of the BMW employee car program and what it entails.
BMW actually provides several distinct lease programs tailored for its workforce, each with its own set of criteria and advantages. It’s important to first clarify that these programs are specifically for employees of BMW. Contractors, while valuable to the company, do not fall under the same umbrella and access a different, often less advantageous, discount structure.
The core employee car programs offered by BMW are categorized into three main types:
Decoding the BMW Employee Lease Programs
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Job Assigned/Lease Program (JA/L): This program is specifically designed for BMW Corporate employees whose roles necessitate the use of a company vehicle. This typically includes positions like area managers, dealer auditors, and upper management. The JA/L program is geared towards employees who are on the road frequently as part of their job responsibilities.
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All Employee Lease (AEL): As the name suggests, the All Employee Lease program is available to all BMW Corporate employees. This is a broader program, offering a significant perk to everyone working directly for BMW corporate, regardless of their specific role or need for a vehicle for their job.
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Center Employee Lease (CEL): The Center Employee Lease program is tailored for individuals working at BMW dealerships. This program recognizes the vital role dealership employees play in the BMW customer experience and provides them with access to attractive lease options.
JA/L and AEL Program Advantages: More Than Just a Lease
The JA/L and AEL programs are particularly noteworthy due to their comprehensive nature. Historically, these programs have included insurance coverage within the lease agreement, simplifying the process and adding substantial value. Furthermore, they often come without mileage limitations, allowing for worry-free driving. An appealing aspect, especially for car enthusiasts, is the opportunity to upgrade to a new vehicle relatively frequently, with change-outs occurring around every 9,000 to 11,000 miles (though specific terms can vary and it’s always best to confirm current program details).
To illustrate the potential cost savings, consider some past examples. Under the JA/L program, a high-end model like a BMW 750 X DRIVE might have leased for around $550 per month, including insurance. Moreover, employees at higher pay grades could receive additional monthly discounts, potentially ranging from $210 to $550, further reducing the cost. Sportier models like the BMW M550 were reportedly available for around $500 under JA/L, and even performance SUVs like the BMW X6 M could be had for approximately $775 per month.
The AEL program, while slightly less generous than JA/L, still offered substantial benefits. For instance, a BMW M550 might have been around $650 per month, an X6 M at $999, and even the innovative BMW i8 at $999 – all figures potentially inclusive of insurance. Again, it’s critical to remember these are examples and current pricing and program details should always be verified.
CEL Program: Dealer Employee Specifics
The CEL program operates more akin to a traditional lease but incorporates a significant pre-negotiated discount. Anecdotal evidence from past dealership employees suggests the potential for very attractive deals, especially on models with typically lower discounts and higher residual values, such as BMW M cars. For example, leasing an M3 for under $600 per month with minimal upfront costs (“sign and drive”) was reportedly achievable under the CEL program in the past.
Contractor Discounts: A Different Landscape
It’s worth noting that the discounts available to contractors are generally less substantial compared to the dedicated employee lease programs. While contractor discounts exist, they may be comparable to, or even less favorable than, what a skilled car broker could negotiate. In today’s market, with increased transparency and competition among brokers, the contractor discount might not be as compelling as it once was. Some might find that pursuing deals through brokers or leveraging supplier discounts could yield similar or better financial outcomes.
Navigating Your BMW Car Program Options
In conclusion, the BMW employee car program is not a singular entity but a spectrum of benefits tailored to different segments of the BMW workforce. From the highly advantageous JA/L and AEL programs for corporate employees to the CEL program for dealership staff, BMW recognizes and rewards its team with valuable vehicle programs. While contractor discounts are available, they exist in a different tier of benefits. For anyone eligible for a BMW employee car program, particularly the JA/L or AEL, exploring these options is highly recommended as they often represent significant savings and unique perks compared to standard consumer car leasing.
