BMW has signed a new four-year partnership with the Rugby Football Union as its official vehicle partner from September 2012.

BMW Group UK will invest in various levels of the game including becoming official partner of England Rugby, title sponsors of England’s elite age grade development programme and front of shirt sponsors of the England Under-16, Under-18 and Under-20 squads.

Outside of its commitment to development and support of the England teams, BMW Group UK will also engage rugby supporters and BMW and Mini customers through the RFU’s digital channels and at Twickenham Stadium on international match days.

Tim Abbott, managing director of BMW Group UK, said: “This new partnership is an excellent result for the RFU, BMW, our dealers, customers and, crucially, anyone who plays or follows rugby.

“The game is a perfect brand fit for us and this news comes as a natural extension of the work we have already done to support some of the UK’s leading sports stars.”