With the Mini brand expected to go fully electric by 2030, BMW's decision is vital to the future of the two UK factories.But last year, the company confirmed production of most of its electric cars would move to China, where the new models have been developed in partnership with Great Wall Motor.
Business and Trade Secretary Kemi Badenoch told the BBC's Radio 4 Today programme that the news was "exciting" and that it would ensure the sector "continues to be buoyant". This is the latest in a series of government-backed investments designed to promote the development of electric vehicles in Britain, ahead of a ban on the sale of new petrol and diesel powered cars due to take effect in 2035.