Moses Lake plant plays key role in BMW's new plans

MOSES LAKE -- BMW is set to deliver its all-new electric vehicle and it's all thanks to an important part built in Eastern Washington.

The I3 is the first mass-produced car to use lightweight, carbon-reinforced plastic. Those carbon fibers come from BMW's plant in Moses Lake. The plant opened in 2011, thanks to lobbying by former Gov. Chris Gregoire and $2 million in state tax credits.

According to the Seattle Times, BMW is now considering using carbon fibers in other models and that could mean more work for the Moses Lake plant.

First deliveries of the I3 in Europe will happen next week. Meantime, the first deliveries in America are scheduled for April.