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BMW AG will announce plans to build its next-generation electric Mini in Oxford after securing a UK government funding package.
The Munich, Germany-headquartered manufacturer’s multi-million pound investment to transform its existing plant will secure 4,000 high-quality jobs, according to UK government ministers.
Government sources declined to set out the level of taxpayer support being offered to BMW, but did not dispute the previously reported figure of £75 million.
Sky News had first reported the funding talks back in March.
UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak said the government was securing jobs and growing the economy ‘by backing our car manufacturing industry’.
‘BMW’s investment is another shining example of how the UK is the best place to build cars of the future,’ Sunak added.
The announcement is the latest boost for the British car industry, with figures last month suggesting production increased by almost a third last month compared to a year ago.
The Society of Motor Manufacturers & Traders said it showed carmakers continued their recovery from recent difficulties, including global chip shortages.
Last week electric vehicle production also began at the Stellantis NV’s factory in Ellesmere Port after an £100 million investment, following doubts due to post-Brexit trading arrangements.
Vans such as the Vauxhall Combo Electric, Opel Combo Electric, Peugeot e-Partner, Citroen e-Berlingo and Fiat E-Doblo will be made at the Cheshire site.
UK Chancellor Jeremy Hunt said BMW’s investment was a ‘huge vote of confidence in this country as a global leader in electric vehicles’.
By Sam Blewett, PA Deputy Political Editor
source: PA
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