This highly anticipated event provided an exclusive look at the advanced production facility, its operations, and the plant’s growing impact on the local economy. A second media rotation is set to take place from 19–20 February 2025.
Since production commenced in October 2024, the new BMW X3 has seen overwhelming demand in South Africa, with all available stock either sold or on order. Notably, around 10% of total sales are attributed to the plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV) BMW X3 30e xDrive model, reflecting a growing interest in electrified vehicles and reinforcing BMW’s leadership in the ‘New Energy Vehicles’ segment. The BMW X3 30e xDrive has contributed to a remarkable 45% increase in the monthly retail rate of PHEVs, highlighting its strong market reception.
Plant Rosslyn Expands to Meet Demand
In response to the global demand for the new BMW X3, BMW Group Plant Rosslyn has reintroduced a third production shift and expanded its production line to include internal combustion engine (ICE) variants.
“The new BMW X3 embodies our commitment to both innovation and customer choice,” said Ernst Kohlmeyer, General Manager of Quality at BMW Group South Africa. “Producing both PHEV and ICE models on the same line demonstrates the flexibility and adaptability of Plant Rosslyn, enabling us to effectively respond to global market demands.”
With the introduction of a three-shift operation on 8 January 2025, BMW Group Plant Rosslyn is projected to manufacture an average of 110 units per shift. These operational milestones mark a significant achievement for the plant and solidify its role in BMW’s global production network.
Strategic Expansion and Global Impact
Alongside the BMW X3 30e xDrive, Plant Rosslyn began production of the BMW X3 20 petrol and 20d diesel variants in January 2025, with the BMW X3 40d xDrive scheduled to follow in May 2025. Notably, both the BMW X3 30e xDrive and BMW X3 40d xDrive will be exclusively produced at BMW Group Plant Rosslyn for global markets, reinforcing BMW’s ‘technology openness’ philosophy by offering diverse powertrain options.
“This expansion is the result of years of planning and investment in Plant Rosslyn,” said Anuk Maharaj, Project Lead for the new BMW X3 at BMW Group Plant Rosslyn. “We are immensely proud to see the new BMW X3 come to life here, securing jobs and contributing to the South African economy.”
A Commitment to Transformation and Future Growth
This expansion follows a R4.2 billion investment in the electrification and digitisation of the Rosslyn production facility. The investment underscores BMW Group’s commitment to transformation, skills development, and future-proofing the plant within its global production network. To support the transition, a comprehensive plant-wide training programme was implemented to ensure employees were fully equipped to handle the new model’s production.
Beyond BMW Group South Africa, the production of the BMW X3, including both PHEV and ICE variants, secures jobs across the local supply chain and retail network. The success of the new BMW X3 at Plant Rosslyn reaffirms the BMW Group’s confidence in its South African operations and workforce, positioning the plant for continued excellence in the evolving automotive landscape.
As the BMW Group continues to drive innovation and expansion, the new BMW X3 stands as a testament to the company’s dedication to quality, adaptability, and sustainable mobility for the future.
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