Tag Archives: invests

Motorsport

2024 Nissan Frontier: A Retro-Looking Truck with the Hardbody Edition Package

While many automakers focus on innovation and electrification in the world of pickup trucks, Nissan is going back in time with the introduction of the 2024 Nissan Frontier Hardbody Edition. This new addition to the Frontier lineup pays homage to the iconic Nissan Hardbody from the 1980s by combining retro aesthetics with modern engineering. It’s a truck that is sure to catch attention both on and off the road.

The original Nissan Hardbody was a rugged and dependable compact pickup truck, and Nissan is bringing back its spirit with a contemporary twist. The 2024 Frontier Hardbody Edition package, which was recently teased, is based on the well-equipped Crew Cab SV 4×4 model. It features heritage-inspired design elements that immediately grab your attention.


BMW

Celebrating 50 years: BMW Group announces electrification of Plant Rosslyn, South Africa

  • South African plant will serve as a model for social, environmental, and economic sustainability
  • BMW Group invests 4.2 billion rand (over 200 million euros) in electrification of Plant Rosslyn
  • Nedeljković: “Starting from 2024, the next-generation BMW X3 will be produced in South Africa as a plug-in hybrid for global export.”
  • 1.5 million euros will be donated to UNICEF to support young people in South Africa

Rosslyn (South Africa). Fifty years ago, the BMW Group established its first foreign facility at Plant Rosslyn. Since then, it has become an integral part of the global production network. To commemorate its 50th anniversary, Milan Nedeljković, BMW AG Board Member for Production, has announced that Plant Rosslyn will be electrified. During an event in South Africa, he stated, “Starting from 2024, we will manufacture the BMW X3 as a plug-in hybrid in South Africa for global export. An investment of 4.2 billion rand (over 200 million euros) will prepare Plant Rosslyn for electromobility.” This investment will also include specialized training for over 300 employees at the plant.

The investment announcement aligns with the BMW Group’s global iFACTORY master plan, which focuses on advancing the development of efficient, digitalized, and resource-friendly production. Plant Rosslyn has already produced over 1.6 million vehicles and exported them to more than 40 countries worldwide, including 14 African nations. Throughout its history, the plant has manufactured various BMW models such as the BMW 1800 SA, BMW 2000 SA, BMW 5 Series, and BMW 7 Series. It has been producing the popular BMW X3 since 2018, marking a significant milestone in BMW’s globalization efforts. Currently, the BMW Group sells vehicles in more than 140 countries and operates manufacturing facilities in 15 locations.

Nedeljković, who is also the Chairman of the Board of Management of BMW South Africa, emphasized that the BMW Group’s impact in the country extends beyond car production: “In South Africa, we haven’t just established a plant that provides employment and contributes to the country’s industrialization; for the past 50 years, we have also demonstrated our commitment to social responsibility.” As part of this commitment, the BMW Group announced a donation of over 1.5 million euros to support a program run by UNICEF. Together with UNICEF, the BMW Group will promote the teaching of science, technology, engineering, arts, and mathematics (STEAM) to thousands of children and young people in South Africa.

The BMW Group also places great importance on resource conservation. Since 2015, Plant Rosslyn has been using energy from a nearby biogas plant (Bio2Watt), significantly reducing its CO2 emissions. The plant also collaborates with various organizations to ensure that its waste is recycled and not disposed of. For instance, in partnership with Envirolite, Plant Rosslyn repurposes scrap polystyrene as a building material, resulting in the construction of more than 650 low-cost houses since the project’s inception two years ago.

Furthermore, South Africa plays a pivotal role as a market for BMW Group’s innovations. In addition to the plant, the company has opened offices in South Africa for its global IT hub, employing around 2,000 staff who provide global IT services. Due to the market’s unique characteristics, South Africa serves as an ideal location for piloting innovations. In 2020, the BMW Group conducted a pilot project for direct sales with trading partners in South Africa, gaining valuable experience and striving to offer the best premium customer experience in the industry.

* UNICEF does not endorse any company, brand, product, or service.