BMW SA to kick off electric car production in 2024

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.

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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.