BMW On Verge Of Vehicle Production Revolution

BMW boss Norbert Reithofer says the firm is “on the verge of revolutionising vehicle production” with its forthcoming Megacity electric car project.

Speaking at the firm’s annual accounts meeting, Reithofer confirmed that the Megacity will be launched in 2013 as a BMW sub-brand. He also stated that it will be built in Leipzig in Germany, although Wackersdorf and Landshut will also be involved.

“We keep investing in Germany as a production location - particularly in the field of future-orientated hi-tech,” said Reithofer. “That is BMW.”

BMW has recently agreed to invest £68m in a joint venture with SGL Carbon to build a carbonfibre manufacturing plant in Moses Lake, Washington, in the United States. The site is believed to have been particularly attractive to BMW because of the ready availability of hydro-electric power in the region.

“The assignment we have given ourselves from the very beginning is to develop a Megacity vehicle that will be a zero-emission vehicle,” said Reithofer. “And it will be sustainable throughout its entire lifecycle. Simply put, we are on the verge of revolutionising vehicle production.

“We will apply carbon and carbon-reinforced materials at a scope unprecedented in series vehicle production,” he added.

“Just name one competitor who tackles the topics of future mobility and sustainability so comprehensively.”

The Megacity will be a five-seat Golf-size family car - but the brand is likely to grow and include a range of models, including sports cars.

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