BMW is asking fleet operators to place advance orders on cars for delivery in 1998 in the wake of overwhelming demand for its entire model range. The supply situation on the new 5 series has been well publicised, with some customers waiting for almost a year to take delivery, and demand also remains buoyant for other models.

BMW corporate operations manager Alan Waldie said: 'We are operating with a very high level of forward orders running some 45% up on our record performance last year. We are working to try to bring delivery times back to more acceptable timescales, but in the interim I would urge fleet managers to encourage users to place their orders as early as possible.'

BMW's request coincides with a 0.9% price rise on 3 and 5 series models but all derivatives get extra equipment to compensate for the increase. All 3 series models get an upgraded stereo while SE and Touring models get metallic paint as standard. The 5 series gets dual airbags, an on-board computer, SE versions get a multi-function steering wheel with cruise control and the 540i receives traction control as standard.