BMW Group South Africa’s electrifying start of production of the new BMW X3.

Rosslyn. BMW Group South Africa marks the dawn of a new era with the start of production of the next-generation BMW X3. Plant Rosslyn began manufacturing the new model for global export on 1 October 2024, and is the only facility in its global production network to build the BMW X3 as a plug-in hybrid vehicle (PHEV).

On 28 August 2024, BMW Group Plant Rosslyn ended the production of the third-generation BMW X3, totalling the number of BMW X3 cars built to 403,114 units. That milestone marked a graceful conclusion in the organisation’s production history and signified the continuation of the BMW X3 success story in South Africa. Following worldwide demand, the fourth-generation BMW X3 plays a significant role in the BMW Group’s strategic electrification roadmap. Its production comes at a critical time to showcase the South African plant’s capabilities and commitment to delivering on the allocated volume and quality in a three-shift operation. 

A world-class product for the future.

Gearing up BMW Group Plant Rosslyn to manufacture the electrified BMW X3 is a significant step to future-proof the facility in the global BMW Group production network. The plant’s modular production technique, which allows multiple models and drivetrains to be built in a single production line, means that it will be able to manufacture electrified as well as internal combustion engine vehicles on a single line.

The production of the BMW X3 PHEV in Rosslyn is not only securing jobs at BMW Group South Africa but also within its supply chain and retail network across the country. Thus, the new BMW X3 is creating an opportunity for over 50, 000 people in South Africa. With the BMW Group’s R4.2 billion investment in the electrification and digitisation of the production facility, BMW Group South Africa is committed to transformation and skills development. BMW Group Plant Rosslyn implemented a plant-wide training programme to produce the new model.

BMW Group South Africa Plant Director Dr Niklas Fichtmüller commented: “We have finally arrived at the start of production of the next-generation BMW X3. We have eagerly awaited and prepared for this, and I am thrilled that we can begin this next chapter of the successful BMW X3 story here in South Africa. Our teams have worked tirelessly and diligently to meet every milestone to this point. This moment encapsulates their commitment to providing a world-class product from South Africa for world.”

An electrifying era.

The BMW Group follows a technology-open approach and will be systematically pursuing its strategic goals by electrifying its lineup to offer different drive variants flexibly in line with customer demand. Its five-year-long investment into Plant Rosslyn demonstrates its commitment to accelerating the transition to sustainable electric mobility globally. Evidenced by its lead position in electromobility, the BMW Group has already delivered more than two million electrified vehicles to customers globally, including more than one million battery electric vehicles. In South Africa, the market offering has been expanded to include full-electric and plug-in hybrid options across all segments.

ENDS

If you have any questions, please contact:

Corporate Communications

Angela Konert

Head of Business Communications

Phone: +27 71 666 2472

Email: Angela.Konert@bmw.co.za

https://www.press.bmwgroup.com/south-africa

The BMW Group

With its four brands BMW, MINI, Rolls-Royce and BMW Motorrad, the BMW Group is the world’s leading premium manufacturer of automobiles and motorcycles and also provides premium financial and mobility services. The BMW Group production network comprises over 30 production sites worldwide; the company has a global sales network in more than 140 countries.

In 2023, the BMW Group sold over 2.55 million passenger vehicles and more than 209,000 motorcycles worldwide. The profit before tax in the financial year 2023 was € 17.1 billion on revenues amounting to € 155.5 billion. As of 31 December 2023, the BMW Group had a workforce of 154,950 employees.

The success of the BMW Group has always been based on long-term thinking and responsible action. The company set the course for the future at an early stage and consistently makes sustainability and efficient resource management central to its strategic direction, from the supply chain through production to the end of the use phase of all products. 

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