BMW Hybrid Engines To Be Built In UK

BMW have announced that the new generation of 3-cylinder petrol engines for the forthcoming BMW i8 plug-in hybrid sports car will be produced exclusively at the BMW engine plant near Birmingham.

The BMW i8 Concept (pictured) is a sports car hotwired with an innovative eDrive plug-in hybrid concept.

Combining an electric drive system with a high performance three cylinder TwinPower Turbo engine, it produces 349hp and can achieve 0-62mph in less than five seconds.

Despite this, though, fuel consumption stands at an incredible 78mpg.

Said BMW’s Ian Robertson: “Our Hams Hall engine plant, which last week celebrated production of the three-millionth engine since the plant was opened in February 2001, will make an important contribution to the future success of the new BMW i brand and the company’s strategy for achieving sustainable mobility.

“The new 3-cylinder petrol engines will enable our future BMW i8 plug-in hybrid sports car to set new standards for dynamic performance in combination with industry-leading fuel-efficiency and low carbon emission levels.”

It’s not yet been revealed whether this production will create any more jobs, but we can dream, can’t we?