Aligning with the 50th-anniversary celebrations of BMW Plant Rosslyn, the automaker has just announced that it will be investing R4,2 billion 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 NEV model. Dr Milan Nedeljković, 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 today, the 28th of June 2023.
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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 R4,2 billion in the site over five years.” – Dr Milan 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 1,6 million vehicles which have been exported and sold to over 40 countries worldwide, including 14 African markets.
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.
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In addition to the major investment, Nedeljković further added that the South African youth would benefit from the BMW Group with a donation of R30 million 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 (STEAM).
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 Sotuh AFrica for the next 50 years” – Nedeljković.
