Mini scraps plans to build EVs in Britain next year

BMW has postponed plans to build electric Mini models in Oxford, highlighting broader challenges in EV adoption and government policies.

Mar 10, 2025 - 01:24

Mini scraps plans to build EVs in Britain next year

BMW has postponed plans to build electric Mini models at its Oxford plant, citing uncertainty in the automotive industry. Originally set to begin in 2026, the production delay reflects broader challenges facing EV adoption and manufacturing.

BMW rethinks its UK investment

BMW had committed over $750 million to upgrade Mini’s Oxford facility, aiming to make it an all-electric production hub by 2030. The site was set to manufacture the electric Mini Cooper and the new Mini Aceman, however, the company now says it is reviewing its timeline.

“Plant Oxford is at the heart of Mini production, manufacturing and exporting a range of models, which are sought after in the UK and around the world,” BMW said in a statement. “However, given the multiple uncertainties facing the automotive industry, the BMW Group is currently reviewing the timing for reintroducing battery-electric Mini production in Oxford.”

As part of this decision, BMW has also walked away from a $76 million grant offered by the British government to support its EV production plans. Despite this, BMW maintains that it remains in discussions with the government about its future in the UK.

Challenges facing EV manufacturing

The delay comes amid several challenges impacting the EV market. While global EV sales continue to grow, demand has not met the expectations of many automakers. Slower-than-expected adoption rates and shifting government policies have forced manufacturers to reconsider their strategies.

In the UK, the government’s Zero Emission Vehicle (ZEV) mandate, which sets ambitious EV sales targets, has been a point of contention. Automakers, including BMW, have expressed concerns that these targets may not align with current market conditions. Additionally, potential tariffs on imported vehicles — such as those proposed by U.S. President Donald Trump — add another layer of uncertainty for global automakers.

The future of Mini’s Oxford plant

Despite the delay, BMW insists that investments to modernize the Oxford plant are still moving forward. The company has stated that construction is "well underway" for a new logistics facility that will support future production needs.

Employees next to Mini Cooper S cars on the production line at BMW AG's Mini final assembly plant in Cowley near Oxford, UK, on Monday, Sept. 11, 2023.
Bloomberg/Getty Images

However, BMW has not provided a revised timeline for when EV production will resume at the Oxford plant. With industry dynamics constantly shifting, it remains unclear how soon Mini’s electric future in the UK will take shape.

A sign of industry-wide adjustments

BMW’s decision mirrors broader trends in the automotive sector, where manufacturers are recalibrating their EV strategies. Other companies, including Volkswagen and Mercedes-Benz, have also considered shifting production to the U.S. to mitigate potential trade barriers and reduce costs.

Final thoughts

BMW’s decision to delay electric Mini production in Oxford is just one example of the auto industry’s evolving approach to EVs. While the transition to electrification is still in motion, shifting market demand, regulatory uncertainty, and economic factors are forcing automakers to reassess their strategies.

For now, the world will have to wait a little longer before seeing electric Minis roll off the production lines in the UK. Whether BMW’s hesitation is a temporary setback or a sign of deeper industry struggles remains to be seen.

Love reading Autoblog? Sign up for our weekly newsletter to get exclusive articles, insider insights, and the latest updates delivered right to your inbox. Click here to sign up now!