BMW has announced a major new investment in its Oxford plant after securing a reported £75m in support from the UK government.
The German car giant said it will invest more than £600m to transform the factory to all-electric production from 2030.
Production of two new electric Mini models is due to begin at the Oxford plant in 2026. The factory has been producing the current Mini Electric since 2019, alongside conventional Mini models.
This multi-million pound investment is expected to secure 4,000 jobs at BMW’s Oxford manufacturing plant and its body-pressing facility in Swindon.
Existing production lines in Oxford will be developed further, including an extension of the current body shop and a new area for battery installation. The car maker will also build additional logistics facilities at both the Oxford and Swindon sites.
“Mini has always been aware of its history — Oxford is and remains the heart of the brand,” said Stefanie Wurst, head of the Mini brand. “I am delighted that the two new, fully electric Mini models — the Mini Cooper and Mini Aceman — are also being produced in Oxford, thereby confirming our path to a fully electric future.”
Prime Minister Rishi Sunak added: “BMW Group’s investment is another shining example of how the UK is the best place to build cars of the future. By backing our car manufacturing industry, we are securing thousands of jobs and growing our economy right across the country.”
