BMW Group South Africa achieved another landmark this week as it dispatched almost 2000 proudly South Africa-built BMW X3 vehicles to European markets.
The export, put at an approximate value of R1.5 billion, is the first overseas shipment since Plant Rosslyn resumed operations, in one shift, on 18 May after the national lockdown restrictions were eased, and in response to global demand.
The Sports Activity Vehicles, according to an official stayement, have been ordered for European customers.
BMW Group’s Plant Rosslyn, a state-of-the-art facility with a maximum capacity of 76 000 units a year, has resumed a second shift operation. The ramp up of production is a milestone not only for the premium manufacturer, but for the South African economy as well.
Safe workplace
Recently, Gauteng’s Premier – David Makhura – assessed and endorsed Plant Rosslyn, thanks to its adherence to strict health and safety conditions.
Measures to protect returning staff have been put in place, including mandatory daily screening, the supply of four masks a day, the appointment of dedicated Coronavirus compliance officers and health services personnel.
Healthy supply chain
BMW Group South Africa’s Plant Rosslyn transported the cars to the port of Durban with more than 230 truckloads, as well as by rail network. This bolsters a transport and logistics industry that in turn employs thousands of South Africans.
BMW South Africa is one of the country’s most significant automotive employers, having exported approximately R150bn worth of vehicles in the past 10 years.