BMW invests 800 million euros to build electric cars at Mexico plant from 2027
Translated from Spanish, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.
At a glance
- BMW is expanding its San Luis Potosí plant in Mexico with an investment of 800 million euros, aiming to produce electric vehicles starting in 2027.
- The expanded facility will manufacture fully electric models from the Neue Klasse platform and high-voltage batteries.
- This expansion positions BMW as the first luxury automaker in Mexico to produce EVs and batteries at the same industrial complex.
BMW is significantly advancing the expansion of its manufacturing plant in San Luis Potosí, Mexico, as part of a substantial 800 million euro investment announced in 2023. The German automaker plans to commence production of fully electric vehicles at this facility starting in 2027, marking a major step in its electrification strategy.
The expanded plant will be equipped to produce vehicles from BMW's "Neue Klasse" platform, which is dedicated to fully electric models. Additionally, the complex will house the manufacturing of high-voltage batteries, specifically sixth-generation (Gen6) batteries. This integrated approach to EV production involves an investment of over 500 million euros solely for the new High-Voltage Battery Assembly Center, spanning more than 80,000 square meters.
Further enhancements include expansions to the body shop, assembly areas, and logistics facilities. The San Luis Potosí plant is one of four global locations selected to produce Neue Klasse vehicles, alongside facilities in Debrecen, Hungary; Munich, Germany; and Shenyang, China. This strategic decision underscores the plant's importance in BMW's global production network.
Since its inception, the San Luis Potosí plant has attracted nearly $2 billion in investment, employs approximately 3,700 individuals, and has indirectly supported over 32,000 jobs in the region. It has already produced over half a million vehicles, including models like the 3 Series, 2 Series Coupe, and M2, the latter two exclusively manufactured in Mexico. Beginning in 2027, the plant's role will expand to include the iX3 and i3 models from the Neue Klasse lineup, solidifying its position as a key hub for electric mobility.
The expansion coincides with the 10th anniversary of the plant's foundation stone ceremony. BMW celebrated this milestone with state and municipal authorities, employees, suppliers, and academic partners, reflecting on a decade of growth, innovation, talent development, and job creation that has positively impacted the economic and social landscape of San Luis Potosí.
Originally published by El Universal in Spanish. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.