Uncertainty still hovers over supplies of vital Japanese gearbox components for the Cowley-built Mini — a week after it was revealed the plant had only “seven to ten days” left before stocks ran out.
On Thursday last week Tim Abbott, UK managing director of Mini’s parent company BMW, said supplies of semi-conductors had been hit by the earthquake and subsequent tsunami and radiation scare.
He said that, along with other car makers, the company was looking for alternative suppliers, notably in the United States.
Mini spokesman Sarah Heaney said: “Production at the Mini plant remains as normal but our logistics team is monitoring the situation constantly.”
Many car makers have already put UK workers on short time due to supply chain problems from Japan, including Honda in Swindon.
Mr Abbott said BMW has repatriated 50 expatriate employees and their families from Japan.The company has also donated one million Euros (£866,000) to victims of the Japanese disaster.
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