[Jason]

Via: https://europe.autonews.com/automake...ut-down-plants

BMW to shut down plants

BMW said it is preparing to suspend production at its plants in Europe and Rosslyn, South Africa, until April 19, responding to lower demand and as a way to help reduce the risk of spreading the coronavirus.

The plant shutdowns will start at the end of the week.

BMW abandoned hopes for another record vehicle sales year due to the coronavirus, predicting deliveries will be “significantly below” 2019 levels and profitability the weakest in years.

“We take our responsibility seriously, both when it comes to ensuring the protection and health of our employees and to achieving the best possible balance in terms of profitability,” CEO Oliver Zipse said in a statement on Wednesday.

Reuters contributed to this report.