Mini Adventure for VBRA Members

A total of 24 VBRA members visited the mini assembly plant in Oxfordshire in early December to witness this iconic car being built and to gain a greater understanding of the techniques and technologies employed.

Commenting on the day, John Morecroft, the VBRA's Area & Corporate Development Manager said, "One of the most striking things was the very small workforce now needed within the plant thanks to the high degree of automation. I know from past experience that some 30,000 employees were originally deployed on the site. Just a few thousand staff now produce more vehicles in an area around half the size of the original one which is very impressive." Remarking on the running of the lines he added, "It was impressive to witness the varied number of models all manufactured on the same line and to learn that some 80% of the total production is destined for export to the USA."

Reflecting on his experience, VBRA Area Manager Eddie Lambert said, "First it should be acknowledged that the VBRA did a sterling job to arrange the visit on behalf of the membership. The plant receives over 65,000 requests for visits each year and we were one of the few allowed." Remarking on the information gained during the tour he added, "As our members have to repair these vehicles as part of their daily activities, the main purpose of the visit of course was to witness first hand the ways in which the mini is constructed and gain a greater understanding of how such techniques were developed and introduced. I think it accurate to say that everyone learned a great deal and picked up several useful tips and information that can be incorporated into the methodologies we employ when repairing damage."

Summing up the day, Malcolm Tagg the VBRA's Director General said, "From all the feedback received I think we can claim that this was a very successful mini-adventure indeed and one that allowed members who undertook the tour to add to their knowledge base regarding how this particular vehicle is assembled whilst simultaneously gaining a greater understanding of the optimum way to effect repairs to the highest possible standards."