BMW confirms production of the new coupe and roadster models that will be unveiled at the Frankfurt Motor Show
Coupe and new model to be unveiled
In a press release this morning, Dr Norbert Reithofer, Chairman of the Board of Management of BMW, announced that the two new MINI models will be built at MINI Plant Oxford.
One of the vehicles will be based on the MINI Coupé Concept that was revealed last week, fifty years to the day after the first classic Mini went on public view. The second vehicle, referred to as a “second concept”, will likely be a two door roadster version of the Coupé Concept.
It’s also rumored that the production versions of both vehicles will be nearly identical to the concept versions. According to the press release, both vehicles will likely be powered by the 1.6-liter turbocharged MINI John Cooper Works power train.
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Production site
MINI’s two newest models will be produced alongside the current MINI Hatch, MINI Clubman and MINI Convertible at the company’s Plant Oxford.
According to Business Secretary (equivalent to the U.S. Secretary of State) Lord Mandelson “The production of the two new MINI models is very good news for Oxford, and for the UK car industry. It is a demonstration of BMW’s long term commitment to the UK as it celebrates its 50th birthday this year. “British drivers have had a long love affair with the MINI and I’m sure that this will continue for many years to come.”
Dr. Juergen Hedrich, Managing Director of MINI Plant Oxford, said: “The fact that Plant Oxford will be building these exciting new models shows the high level of flexibility of the plant and its associates. The MINI family has a bright future.”
Production start dates for both the MINI Coupe and MINI Roadster will be confirmed in the near future and both will be slated for export to the U.S.
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