The company says that the lack of demand in EV vehicles has led to this development.
In 2023, BMW Investment was announced, intending to upgrade the Oxford plant to produce the next generation of electric Minis, with 4,500 jobs supported in the process.
However, the announcement now places the future of the Oxford plant under threat.
Uncertainties in the Automotive Industry Impact BMW Investment Plans
“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 German carmaker said in a statement.
The company also confirmed that it would not accept a related £60m grant from the government.
Government's Response to BMW Investment and EV Transition
BMW plans to remain in a “close dialogue” about its future plans.
The company will continue to produce Minis with internal combustion engines for now.
A Department for Transport (DfT) spokesperson said: “We recognise the global challenges car manufacturers face and have listened to their concerns by consulting on reinstating the 2030 EV deadline whilst also protecting jobs – a decision supported by a majority of manufacturers who have been working towards this date, and are on track to meet their ZEV mandate targets.
We’re investing over £2.3bn to support industry and consumers in making the switch, tapping into a multibillion-pound industry that will create high-paid jobs for decades to come, make the UK a clean energy superpower and help deliver our Plan for Change.”
