From Blackout- News

BMW has decided to suspend the originally planned production of the all-electric E-Mini models at its British plant in Oxford for the time being. Instead, these models will be manufactured in Leipzig and China in the future. The decision is a setback for the British automotive industry, which relies heavily on investments in electromobility (automobilwoche: 24.02.25).

Original plan: E-Mini from Oxford from 2026

BMW had originally planned to start production of two all-electric Mini models in Oxford from 2026. In the long term, the plant should produce only electric vehicles from 2030.

For this conversion, the company had announced an investment of 600 million pounds (about 724 million euros) in 2023.

Reasons for the production stop

BMW cites the uncertainties in the automotive industry and lower demand for electric vehicles than expected as the main reasons for the stop. The timeline for the introduction of E-mini production is therefore currently being revised. In addition to market conditions, possible trade barriers and tariffs after Brexit also play a role. According to reports, there were discussions between BMW and the British government regarding the future competitiveness of the Oxford site.

Production of combustion models continues

The Mini plant in Oxford will continue to produce models with combustion engines for the time being. However, BMW emphasizes that the plant will continue to play a central role for the Mini brand in the future. In addition, the company is in close contact with the British government to find possible solutions for the subsequent production of electric vehicles in the UK.

Impact on the automotive industry

BMW’s decision shows that the automotive industry is in a phase of uncertainty. Several manufacturers are adjusting their strategies due to weakening demand for electric vehicles, and experts believe that further adjustments in the production plans of various companies could follow. Whether BMW will still produce the E-Mini in Oxford at a later date remains open for the time being.