tiny has verified that the third-generation Countryman will make its debut in 2023. When it arrives, it’ll be offered with a option of petrol, diesel as well as pure-electric powertrains, which will enable it to contend with the likes of the Kia Niro as well as Hyundai Kona.
However, to support the crossover’s shift to electric drive, BMW will step production of the Countryman to its production facility in Leipzig, Germany. The brand just recently finalised a €300 million (£270 million) investment in the plant to upgrade its assembly lines as well as paint shops, in addition to supply the logistical platform for BMW’s most current electric powertrains.
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BMW is likewise planning a additionally €100 million (£89 million) 10,000 square-metre add-on for the Leipzig facility, which might open as soon as 2021. The facility will be extremely automated, piecing together model-specific battery packs for both BMW as well as MINI’s upcoming electric vehicles, before they’re shipped off to the production line as well as bolted into the body shells on site.
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BMW’s Leipzig plant opened in 2005 as well as has undergone a series of upgrades over the past 15 years. Currently, the facility acts as the pilot plant for BMW’s new front-wheel-drive design as well as has a production capability of around 350,000 units per year, managing assembly of the 2 series active Tourer as well as the 1 series hatchback.
Hans-Peter Kemser, manager of BMW’s Leipzig plant said: “Over the last few years, we have worked constantly to lead our plant into a successful future. This contract to create the successor to the tiny Countryman provides us one more major milestone to work towards.”
Now inspect out our listing of the very best pure-electric vehicles currently on sale…