The BMW Group Plant Leipzig recently celebrated a significant milestone with the production of the first fourth-generation BMW 1 Series. The premium compact car, a BMW 120 in Alpine White, was manufactured exclusively at the plant in Saxony, Germany. With a daily output capacity of up to 500 vehicles, the Plant Leipzig also produces the BMW 2 Series Gran Coupe, BMW 2 Series Active Tourer, and MINI Countryman, bringing the total daily output to 1,300 vehicles. The new BMW 1 Series is set to hit the market in October 2024, marking a new chapter in BMW’s compact segment success story.
Since the production of the first three-door BMW 1 Series at Plant Leipzig in 2007, the plant has manufactured over 1.3 million units in various variants. As of June 2024, nearly 443,000 third-generation BMW 1 Series have been delivered to customers. The plant director, Petra Peterhänsel, expressed confidence in the new BMW 1 Series as a key factor in maintaining high capacity utilization at Plant Leipzig.
To meet the increasing demand, BMW Group Plant Leipzig underwent systematic upgrades since 2018, increasing its production capacity to 350,000 units per year. The plant now manufactures four models with three different types of drive from two different brands on the same production line. The addition of the MINI Countryman in November 2023 further boosted production, with plans to increase daily output to 500 units in addition to the 800 BMW vehicles produced daily.
The expansion in production volumes not only secures existing jobs but also creates new opportunities. By the end of 2024, Plant Leipzig is expected to employ around 7,000 people, with an additional 900 joining the vehicle production team alone. The plant’s commitment to innovation and growth underscores its position as a key player in BMW’s global production network.
The new BMW 1 Series features a dynamic design with a completely revised drive portfolio and improved chassis technology, emphasizing its position as the sportiest vehicle in its class. The front end boasts a strikingly flat design, with a wide, forward-leaning radiator grille and standard LED headlights. The rear apron, two-part rear lights, and black diffusor-style insert contribute to the car’s powerful appearance.
Inside, the BMW 1 Series offers a leather-free interior as standard, with the option for the BMW Curved Display and M Sport Package for a more dynamic look. The availability of the contrast roof in high-gloss black is a first for the BMW 1 Series, adding a touch of individuality to the vehicle’s design.
The new BMW 1 Series is scheduled for market launch on October 5th, with strong demand expected in key markets such as Germany, Europe, the UK, and Italy. The model’s performance, consumption, and emissions values are in line with the latest WLTP standards, providing customers with a sustainable and efficient driving experience. For more information on the BMW 120 and its specifications, customers can visit the official BMW website for detailed information on fuel consumption, CO2 emissions, and technical specifications.