BMW to build first plug-in hybrid vehicles in SA from 2024
BMW Plant Rosslyn receives a R4.2b investment for South Africa's first plug-in hybrid production of the next-gen X3.
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Aligning with the 50th-anniversary celebrations of BMW Plant Rosslyn, the automaker has announced that it will be investing R4.2b into the facility to become the first producer of plug-in hybrids in South Africa with the next-generation X3.
The next generation of the X3 will be produced with a plug-in hybrid derivative from 2024 on and the firm intends on ensuring Rosslyn, the first production plant established outside of Germany remains with the evolving times and becomes a contributor to growing demand for the new energy vehicles model. Dr Milan Nedeljković, a member of the board of management of BMW AG who also chairs the board of management for BMW Group South Africa, announced this momentous stride for the local automotive sector, yesterday.
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“From 2024, we will produce the X3 in South Africa as a plug-in hybrid and export it to the world. To this end, the BMW Group is investing R4.2b in the site over five years,” said Nedeljković.
Related: BMW 50 Years Icon celebrations kick off in Rosslyn
The plant is of significance to the South African automotive sphere, employing more than 20 000 people directly and indirectly. In its 50-year history, Plant Rosslyn has the locally produced stamp indelibly imprinted on over 1.6m vehicles which have been exported and sold to over 40 countries worldwide, including 14 African markets.
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This includes the long history comprising the BMW 1800 SA, 2000 SA, 3 Series, 5 Series and 7 Series before it evolved as a key producer of the X3 which contributes as the backbone of sales for the Bavarian brand.
Related: Special Edition a possibility for Plant Rosslyn anniversary
In addition to the major investment, Nedeljković added that the South African youth would benefit from the BMW Group with a donation of R30m towards the United Nations Children’s Fund (Unicef). This project will target thousands of primary and secondary school learners locally and improve their knowledge in science, technology, engineering, arts and mathematics.
Related: Take a peek inside BMW’s Plant Rosslyn production facility
“For 50 years, BMW Group South Africa has been practising sustainable development through social investment, particularly in education. We are honoured to have Unicef’s support as we in spite and mould a new generation of leaders that will continue the BMW Group;s success story in South Africa for the next 50 years,” said Nedeljković.
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