BMW South Africa plans to add China to the export destinations for its locally-built 3 series models later this year.
The development follows clearance from Chinese authorities which granted a quality certification to the Rosslyn plant.
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BMW South Africa managing director Bodo Donauer told local reporters the export permit was “a great vote of confidence in our plant and our people”.
Over ZAR2.2bn (US$270m) has been invested in Rosslyn since 2009 and production of the latest 3 series began there last March. Capacity will eventually double to over 90,000 units a year, said Donauer.
The plant builds both right and left hand drive models. Rosslyn currently exports around 50% of total production with the US its biggest market. China is expected to account for around 10% of total exports, Donauer added.
BMW, through its joint venture with Brilliance, has, since 2003, assembled the 3 and 5 series in China. Production capacity was increased earlier this year while further expansion is planned and more models, such as the X1 SUV, are being added to local output.
Special, locally developed long wheelbase models, unique to China, for the chauffeur drive market are also produced there.
