BMW to build new-tech engines in Britain

BMW has delivered a further boost to the UK motor industry by revealing it is to build a new generation of engines at its Hams Hall plant in Birmingham.

The announcement was made by BMW Board member Ian Robertson at the SMMT 2012 International Automotive Summit in Canary Wharf, London.

Hams Hall will be the only plant building the high-tech three-cylinder petrol engines that are destined for the BMW i8 plug-in hybrid sports car, pictured.

Speaking at the SMMT Summit to leaders from across the automotive industry, Robertson has praised continuing joint government-industry initiatives to re-balance the UK economy, strengthen the manufacturing sector and improve training standards.

He also emphasized the importance of the UK market – BMW’s fourth biggest – to the decision to make further investment.

According to Robertson the Hams Hall engine plant, which last week celebrated production of the three-millionth engine since opening in February 2001, will make an important contribution to the future success of the new BMW i brand and the company’s strategy for achieving sustainable mobility.

“The new 3-cylinder petrol engines will enable our future BMW i8 plug-in hybrid sports car to set new standards for dynamic performance in combination with industry-leading fuel-efficiency and low carbon emission levels,” he adds.

Government Business Secretary Vince Cable has welcome the announcement as more good news for the UK automotive sector underlining its growing competitive strength.

“It is yet another indication that international companies see the UK as one of the best places to develop and manufacture low-emission vehicle technologies,” Cable says.

Words by: Andrew Charman