BMW UK stops production of electric Minis due to “industry uncertainties”
By Gareth Roberts
BMW is delaying the reintroduction of electric vehicle production to its Oxford Mini plant due to “multiple uncertainties facing the automotive industry”.
The German manufacturer has decided to pause work on the PS600 million upgrade of its factory in Cowley and not accept a related PS60m grant from the Government.
BMW, the owner of Mini, said in a statement: “Plant Oxford is at the heart of Mini production, manufacturing and exporting a range of models, which are sought after in the UK and around the world.
“However, given the multiple uncertainties facing the automotive industry, the BMW Group is currently reviewing the timing for reintroducing battery-electric Mini production in Oxford.”
BMW announced the PS600m investment in the Mini factories in Oxford and Swindon in 2023, to prepare for all-electric production from 2030. The Oxford plant is preparing to produce two all-electric Minis starting in 2026: the three-door Mini Cooper, and the compact cross-over Mini Aceman. A third electric model, the Countryman, was due to be made in Germany.
BMW said much of its investment was still progressing, with construction “well under way to make the plant future-ready”, including a project to build a new “state-of-the-art logistics facility”.
However, the statement added: “We have informed the UK government of our decision to review the timeline for reintroducing battery-electric production in Oxford.
“As part of this discussion, we agreed not to take the previously announced grant, but we remain in close dialogue about our future plans.”
Carmakers have raised concerns over EV targets set out in the Government’s zero emission vehicle (ZEV) mandate. Owners Stellantis blamed it, in part for the closure. The Department for Transport (DfT) said it was listening to concerns and that it recognised the challenges facing car manufacturers. The Department for Transport (DfT), which is responsible for the transport sector, said that it understood the difficulties faced by car manufacturers and listened to their concerns.
