BMW is reassessing its timeline for manufacturing all-electric Mini vehicles in Britain, citing uncertainties facing the automotive industry, the German automaker said on Saturday.
The company had announced in 2023 that it would invest 600 million pounds ($757.8 million) to transition its Mini brand to an all-electric lineup by 2030, with production set to begin in Oxford in 2026. However, BMW Group said it is now reviewing that schedule.
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“Given the multiple uncertainties facing the automotive industry, the BMW Group is currently reviewing the timing for reintroducing battery-electric Mini production in Oxford,” the company said in a statement.
Sales of electric vehicles (EVs) have fallen short of expectations, while automakers also face potential new trade barriers, including a proposed 25% tariff on U.S. auto imports if former President Donald Trump returns to office. In response, rivals such as Volkswagen’s Audi and Mercedes-Benz have announced plans to expand production in North America.
See also: Mini Delays Launch of Electric Models in North America Amid Tariff Challenges
Mini said that construction work in Oxford remains on track to prepare the plant for future production but confirmed that it had informed the UK government of its decision to reassess the timeline.
“As part of this discussion, we agreed not to take the previously announced grant, but we remain in close dialogue about our future plans,” Mini stated.
Source: Reuters