By John Simpson 12 July 2012
With times quickly ticking away until the opening ceremony of London 2012, the Olympic torch passed through MINI’s production plant in Oxford.
The 47-vehicle convoy which accompanies the Olympic Torch Relay passed through the Oxford production site at 5.17pm on Tuesday 10 July, drenched by the cheers of over 4,000 spectators.
Dr Juergen Hedrich, Managing Director of MINI Plant Oxford, said: “We are extremely proud to welcome the Olympic Flame to the heart of MINI production in Oxford.
“The Olympic Torch Relay is bringing the spirit of the London 2012 Olympic Games to the furthest corners of the country and we are delighted to share the excitement that this tremendous occasion has brought with all of our associates.”
Production was put on hold for two hours to allow all associates to cheer the Olympic Torch on its journey.
Relay fleet
As the official vehicle supplier for the Olympic and Paralympic Games, BMW and MINI was tasked with delivering 3,122 units by London Organising Committee of the Olympic Games.
Twenty five BMW and MINI models comprise the Olympic Torch Relay; a mix of 318d 3 Series Touring, X3 xDrive20d, 320d EfficientDynamics 3 Series Saloon, MINI Cooper D Countryman models.
On occasions, BMW are supporting the torch relay with electric vehicles as part of the convoy – both Active E and MINI E.
The BMW Group UK will also be providing cars to support the Paralympic Torch Relay in late August.
All these vehicles are being used for the Torch Relay specifically dedicated to that purpose and will not play a part in running of the actual games.
Categories: Fleet news , BMW
