Earlier, we reported that the next generation line-up of Mini will receive a revamped interior featuring a new BMW iDrive-based infotainment system in the center stack where the classic speedometer used to reside.
While that is undoubtedly a significant departure in Mini design, it looks like BMW has even grander plans for its sub-brand. Today, BMW announced that it will invest more than $380 million to fund Mini operations within the UK. Spread amongst Mini's Oxford manufacturing facility, its Swindon steel body pressing plant, and finally the Birmingham engine facility, BMW is making sure that Mini will be well positioned to play its role in BMW's global growth strategy.
Already offering the Mini Cooper, JCW, Convertible, Roadster, Coupe, Clubman, and the Countryman, Mini will be adding the Paceman and Clubvan into the model range as well. All in all, the extra capital will allow Mini to reach higher production volumes as it prepares to release up to 10 new models in the coming future. If BMW were to continue this rate of Mini expansion, it will only be a matter of time before additional production requirements will be necessary. When the Oxford plant exceeds its maximum production capacity, sources from Mini suggested that the brand may contract with satellite manufacturing facilities for assistance. The $386.9 million investment is expected to spread over a period spanning until 2015.
According to Board of Management BMW Group member Harald Kreuger, "A year ago we announced a further investment of £500m in our UK production network by 2014 and today we are announcing an additional £250m, taking us through to 2015. This brings the total to £1.75 billion since 2000. Over the last eleven years, MINI has been a unique global success and the BMW Group has even greater plans for the future development of the brand. Plant Oxford has played a major role in this with cars being exported to over 100 countries around the world. This additional investment is great news for all our employees in the UK and shows the BMW Group's commitment to Britain as a vital manufacturing base for us."
