BMW reconsiders UK electric Mini production plans amid industry uncertainties
LONDON (Reuters) - BMW said on Saturday it is reviewing its schedule for producing fully electric Mini vehicles in Britain, citing uncertainties facing the sector.
Mini announced in 2023 that it would invest 600 million pounds ($757.80 million) in the UK to make its Mini brand all-electric by 2030, with production set to begin in Oxford in 2026.
However, BMW Group said on Saturday that it is now reconsidering that plan.
"In light of multiple uncertainties facing the automotive industry, the BMW Group is currently reviewing the timing for introducing battery-electric Mini production back into Oxford," it said in a statement.
Sales of electric vehicles have not grown as quickly as anticipated. The industry is also facing threats of a 25% tariff on all US auto imports by US President Donald Trump.
Volkswagen's Audi has announced plans to increase production in North America, while Mercedes will also boost its US output.
Mini said in its statement that construction in Oxford is progressing well to "future-proof" the plant, but it has informed the UK government of its decision to review the timeline.
"As part of these discussions, we agreed not to accept the previously announced grant, but we remain in close dialogue about our future plans," the statement said.
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