BMW could build a second Mini production line at its Regensburg facility in Germany.
German-built Minis are currently being considered ‘in the longer term’ according to Frank-Peter Arndt, head of car production at BMW.
In an interview with the Independent on Sunday, Arndt say that ‘given the strong growth of the Mini brand, we will have to think about a further production site. We could imagine a German factory for the production of Mini-based models.’
It is expected that with the introduction of the new Roadster and Coupe Mini models that Oxford will reach full capacity. It’s thought unlikely that BMW will further expand the Oxford factory.
BMW is planning to contract out the assembly of next year’s Mini R60 Crossover to the Magna plant in Graz, Austria.
However, there is another reason why a Mini production line may be installed in a BMW factory. Reflecting Arndt’s comments about ‘Mini-based models’, recent reports from Germany suggest that BMW is actively considering a new BMW model based on the long wheelbase Mini platform.
The reports suggest that BMW wants to compete directly with Audi’s 2010 front-drive A1 hatchback and Mercedes upcoming A-class replacement. Although it’s unlikely to appear before 2013, BMW looks set to build its first front-drive production car.
Thanks to: Autocar