Name of the Project
BAIC vehicle manufacturing plant project.
Location
Eastern Cape Industrial Development Zone, South Africa.
Client
The Industrial Development Corporation (IDC) and the Beijing Automotive Group Corporation (BAIC) have signed a deal to develop the vehicle manufacturing plant.
Project Description
The BAIC plans to build a completely knocked-down vehicle manufacturing plant in the 50 000 ha zone, which is linked with the Ngqura deep-water harbor, located not far from Port Elizabeth. It will be the largest greenfield automotive plant to be established in South Africa in 40 years.
The plant will produce passenger, multipurpose and sports utility vehicles, as well as bakkies, and will be rolled out in phases. The plant will have an initial capacity of 50 000 vehicles a year, ramping up to 100 000 units a year.
The car manufacturer plans to export about two-thirds of its production, so access to harbours is critical.
The project consolidates the Eastern Cape as an automotive hub, with companies, such as Volkswagen, Mercedes Benz and General Motors, already major investors in the province.
Value
The investment is valued at R11-billion.
Duration
The BAIC manufacturing plant is expected to begin production by the end of 2017.
Latest Developments
The official sod turning for the project is expected to be held on August 30.
Key Contracts and Suppliers
None stated.
On Budget and on Time?
Not stated.
Contact Details for Project Information
IDC, tel +27 11 269 3000 or fax +27 11 269 3116.
BAIC, tel +86 10 56630185 or email haojinyi@baicintl.com.