Can Mini Spark a Revival in the British Car Industry? Landmark Deal Expected to Secure Thousands of UK Jobs Beyond 2030
In a move that could save the future of Mini production in Britain, a groundbreaking deal is set to be announced by parent company BMW to manufacture a new generation of electric cars. This deal would not only secure thousands of jobs beyond 2030 but also provide a much-needed boost for the UK car sector. The announcement, anticipated to be made by BMW’s CEO Oliver Zipse, will bring an end to months of uncertainty surrounding the fate of the Oxford factory.
The Cowley factory, currently employing 2,000 workers, will likely undergo an extensive revamp for the production of the new electric cars. Estimates suggest that this endeavor could cost hundreds of millions of pounds and would likely receive substantial subsidies from taxpayers.
Currently, the electric Cooper hatchback is produced in China through a joint venture with Great Wall, while the Countryman is manufactured at BMW’s eco-friendly plant in Leipzig, Germany, making it the first German-made Mini.
The significance of this deal to BMW is evident in the fact that the announcement may be made in Oxford, alongside UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak. At the launch of two new all-electric Minis in Munich, BMW’s Stefanie Wurst emphasized the importance of manufacturing these cars in Britain, drawing a parallel with Rolls-Royce. She stated that Mini is seen as Britain’s baby and that Oxford is the heart and soul of the brand. BMW currently produces around 40,000 electric Minis annually in Oxford, with production anticipated to end this year.
The recently unveiled all-electric Mini Cooper and the enlarged Mini Countryman are expected to be part of the production line in Oxford. The Mini Cooper is available in two options, E and SE, with prices starting at £30,000 and a range of up to 250 miles. The new electric Mini Countryman SUV, priced from £41,500, offers a range of 287 miles and is set to be available for sale from February.
This potential agreement marks a promising future for Mini production in the UK, ensuring job security and a significant investment in the British car industry.
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