FRANKFURT: German carmaker BMW  is to invest 250 million pounds by the end of 2015 expanding capacity at British manufacturing plants where it makes its Mini car.

The world’s largest luxury carmaker said on Monday the funds would support its international growth strategy for the Mini, which will be expanded to include up to 10 different versions in the model range in the mid term.

BMW board member Harald Krueger said the latest investment showed the company's “commitment to Britain as a vital manufacturing base”.

BMW has invested 1.75 billion pounds in Britain since 2000.