Nelson Mandela and BMW announced that, in honor of the 10th anniversary of the first democratic elections held in South Africa, BMW will produce 10 limited edition 3 series vehicles, or �Democracy Cars,� which have been personally signed by Mandela. The �Democracy Cars� will be used to raise money for the Nelson Mandela Children's Fund, which assists disadvantaged children and youth in South Africa, and informs the public about the social and economic challenges they face.

The limited edition cars will be built through a donation of time, material, and energy on the part of BMW South Africa employees. Many suppliers will provide parts and components at no charge. Mandela will place his signature on a prominent area of the interior trim. A plaque verifying the authenticity of the signature will also be affixed. BMW of North America will auction off two of the vehicles, while the remaining eight cars will be auctioned off in South Africa, Australia, the United Kingdom, New Zealand, and Germany.

"Upon the historic occasion of the 10th anniversary of democratic elections in South Africa, we are proud to announce this special new auction," said Tom Purves, Chairman and CEO of BMW (US) Holding Corp. "Nelson Mandela is a symbol of hope, integrity and courage to millions of people around the world. We are delighted to have his participation in the �Democracy Cars� program, and we cannot think of a better recipient for the proceeds of the auction than the Nelson Mandela Children's Fund."

The pioneering investments undertaken by BMW in South Africa since 1994 have led to an improvement in the lives of many South Africans. BMW South Africa's export program and attainment of international quality standards are iconic achievements, and are frequently cited by South Africa's most influential people, including President Mandela. BMW South Africa's successes reflect the opportunities and accomplishments since 1994 and are part of the overall ongoing achievements in South Africa.

Celebratory events have been taking place in South Africa as well as the rest of the world for the 10th anniversary.

BMW South Africa's ongoing investment in the upgrade of the company's manufacturing facility in Rosslyn is just one way in which BMW has invested in South Africa.

BMW Group's Corporate Social Responsibility Program has also developed partnerships that result in sustainable development and in making a positive difference in the lives of its staff, their families, and the communities in which they live.

BMW Group's Corporate Social Responsibility program (CSR) aims to reaffirm people's sense of worth and dignity, developing individual potential and building capacity, and enabling people to take responsibility for themselves.

The company believes in investing in ways to help communities help themselves as well as other needy communities elsewhere in South Africa.

BMW Group's investment can be categorized into six key areas: The environment, education, science and technology, sport development, local community development, and the arts. Local South African projects include: