BMW has begun the process of harmonising its car prices across the Eurozone with the new 7-series.

The luxury car will have the same basic pre-tax price in each of the 12 member states that have joined the Euro. Currency fluctuations mean the UK falls outside the pre-tax price consistency. BMW's Eurozone commitment means that any variation in retail list prices will be down to local VAT rates and vehicle registration taxes.

The initiative should bring a halt to independent dealers and private car buyers in mainland Europe exploiting cross-border pricing differentials by buying a car tax-free in one country and exporting it to another. There will, however, be some slight price variations in gross price due to levels of specification.

BMW group says it will continue to consistently harmonise prices within Euroland in the future.