Some electric Mini production is to move from Oxford to China, according to reports.

Parent company BMW has insisted Oxford will "remain at the heart of Mini production" despite it moving the manufacture of some of its electric models.

BMW said its electric hatchback and small SUV Minis will start being built in China.

Its electric Countryman model will be built in Leipzig, Germany.

A spokesperson said there will be no impact on jobs in Oxford.

BMW said workers at Cowley will build the Mini Cooper three-door and five-door Hatch models.

The Mini Convertible will also be built at Plant Oxford from 2025.

"This is one of our most important cars and a global best-seller, and further signals our commitment to the future. Plant Oxford will remain at the heart of Mini production," a BMW spokesperson told the BBC.

"Oxford plays an important role in the BMW Group's production strategy, with its high degree of flexibility, competitiveness and expertise - also in the area of electromobility. There is no impact on jobs," they added.

BMW makes 40,000 electric Minis per year at its Cowley factory.

Councillor Susan Brown, Leader of Oxford City Council, said: “Like many local residents of Oxford I was disturbed to see reports in today’s media about the future of the BMW Mini plant in Oxford.

“Mini Plant Oxford sits at the heart of Oxford’s strong manufacturing heritage.

"I have today sought reassurance from BMW and understand that while BMW is looking to rebalance the production of its Mini range globally as it moves towards being all-electric by 2030, there is an ongoing commitment to the city, building on significant recent investments in the Cowley plant.

“Oxford City Council is proud of its partnership with BMW Mini and our shared commitment to deliver a zero-carbon Oxford by 2040.

"We look forward to continuing to work with them to support future investments across of range of their current and new product lines, and maintain jobs for the people of Oxford and Oxfordshire.”

 

 

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