PRODUCTION of the Rover Mini is to cease at Longbridge in September after 41 years. In its run-out year it is expected to have sold almost 12,000 Classic, Mini7 and Cooper units, more than 85% for export - Japan is the Mini's biggest customer.

BMW, meanwhile, still plans to showcase its own new Mini at the International Motor Show, which runs from October 19-29 at the NEC, Birmingham. The sub-supermini is to due to go on sale in the UK next spring through BMW franchises. And it is in negotiation with Ricardo as its potential engine and transmission partner for the new car. Ricardo says it will employ about 75 staff from Longbridge.

The German manufacturer would not say whether the BMW badge will be used but the Mini name is owned 'in perpetuity' by BMW, which means that if Phoenix or an alliance partner decides to launch its own 'new Mini' it would have to find a new name or face a legal battle. BMW is also adamant it will be building Rolls-Royce cars in Britain from January 2003, when the title transfers from Volkswagen.