BMW South Africa secures approval for 3 Series exports to China
BMW’s Rosslyn plant has gained Chinese certification, clearing the way for exports of the new 3 Series from South Africa to China starting in 2012.
BMW South Africa has received the green light to export vehicles to China, following the award of a China Quality Certification permit for its Rosslyn manufacturing facility. The approval allows the plant, located near Pretoria, to begin shipping the new BMW 3 Series saloon to the Chinese market in 2012.
The Rosslyn facility underwent a R2.2 billion investment and upgrade programme between 2009 and 2012, culminating in the launch of the latest-generation 3 Series earlier this year. The plant’s quality management and production systems were audited by Chinese authorities, who confirmed that they met international standards required for export to China.
China’s growing appetite for premium cars
BMW’s decision to add South African-built 3 Series models to its Chinese export mix comes as the company continues to expand its presence in the world’s largest car market. Company data at the time showed BMW’s sales in China growing by around 40 percent annually, with demand for premium saloons outpacing the Rosslyn plant’s previous export destinations.
Initially, exports from South Africa to China will be limited, with BMW South Africa targeting around 3,900 units for shipment in 2012. The company plans for China to eventually account for about 10 percent of Rosslyn’s total export volume. The Rosslyn plant’s annual capacity is set at 90,000 units, positioning it as a key supplier for BMW’s global 3 Series demand.
Implications for South African manufacturing
Securing access to the Chinese market is a boost for South Africa’s automotive sector, which has sought to diversify export destinations beyond Europe and North America. The Rosslyn plant’s certification signals confidence in South African manufacturing standards and supports local employment tied to BMW’s production and supply chain.
Rosslyn’s role in BMW’s global network
The Rosslyn plant has produced BMW vehicles since 1973 and was the first BMW production site outside Germany. With the addition of China as an export market, Rosslyn’s output will now reach buyers in more than a dozen countries, underpinning its status within BMW’s global manufacturing footprint.
