JOHANNESBURG - German carmaker BMW is investing R4.2 billion in its South African operations to make electric cars.
From the second half of next year, BMW will add plug-in hybrid versions of the X3 sports utility vehicle to its existing petrol and diesel versions.
The investment secures the future of the Rosslyn factory which turns 50 this year.
It's good news for the livelihood of more than 20,000 workers.
Unlike the petrol-powered X3 currently being made at the plant, the hybrid will be destined solely for the export market and not sold in South Africa.