The German car maker BMW is planning to construct a new car factory in Eastern Europe, and included the Romanian city of  Lugoj among its options, according to Romanian newspaper Ziarul Financiar, quoting local sources. A highway is already under construction in the area, which could help Romania in BMW's decision making process.

The investment in BMW's new plant would likely exceed EUR 1 billion euros and production would be at least 100,000 to 150,000 units.  The lack of infrastructure was one of the main reasons Romania lost to Hungary the Mercedes Benz factory in 2008. This would be another chance for Romania to host a large car maker, joining Ford and Renault, which already produce locally.

BMW (Bayerische Motoren Werke AG) is a well known German manufacturer of luxury and performance cars. The company also produces motorcycles and engines and took over Swedish motorcycle brand Husqvarna. BMW also owns British manufacturer Rolls Royce and produces the iconic Mini. The company is headquartered in the famous four cylinder tower in Munich, Germany.

Ioana Toader, ioana.toader@romania-insider.com

 (photo source: BMW website)