BMW (ETR:BMW) will make the new electric model of the Mini in the Cowley plant near Oxford, in a boost to the future of the plant whilst also giving a vote of confidence to the UK following Brexit.
Approximately 360,000 Minis are made in the Oxford plant despite the continued expansion of the BMW base in The Netherlands. The new electric Mini will go into production in 2019.
“BMW Group plants Dingolfing and Landshut play a leading role within our global production network as the company’s global competence centre for electric mobility.” said Oliver Zipse, BMW AG management board member for production.
“Our adaptable production system is innovative and able to react rapidly to changing customer demand. If required, we can increase production of electric drivetrain motor components quickly and efficiently, in line with market developments.”
BMW has shown confidence in the Oxford plant, investing £750 million upgrading manufacturing sites in Oxford, Hams Hall and Swindon.
“If Mini became a fully electric brand in the long run, and Oxford only knew how to build combustion-engine variants, the plant would lose its relevance.” one source told the BBC.
Much will depend however on Brexit negotiations, which remains important for the future of the company.
“Much will depend on how Brexit is ultimately negotiated,” the company said.
“Our production network offers us flexibility,” said Krueger. “Mini models are also built at VDL Nedcar in Born in the Netherlands. Now China, our new engine plant, the fourth worldwide, began operations in 2016. Our two auto plants in Tiexi and Dadong already produce five models.”
“The electric MINI’s electric drivetrain will be built at the BMW Group’s e-mobility centre at Plants Dingolfing and Landshut in Bavaria before being integrated into the car at Plant Oxford, which is the main production location for the MINI 3 door model,” said the car manufacturer in a statement.