Munich. BMW Group Plant Munich is entering the next phase, as the plant launches production of the first near-series test vehicles for the new BMW i3*. This marks the beginning of the final preparation phase for the start of series production in the second half of 2026.

“Production of pre-series vehicles is an important milestone for our plant,” says Peter Weber, Head of BMW Group Plant Munich. “For the first time, we have built a BMW i3 entirely at our plant – using state-of-the-art manufacturing technology and digitally connected processes. With production now close to series maturity, our logistics and production processes are performing under real-world conditions across all technologies: in our modernised press shop, the new body shop, the state-of-the-art paint shop and the new assembly area, as well as the innovative logistics structures. Over the coming months, we will apply the lessons learned from the ramp-up to further refine the processes for series production and ensure a smooth series launch.”

On the road to series production

Integration of new models begins with pre-series vehicles – a crucial step in gearing up for future series production.

What makes Plant Munich unique is that a team from the facility has so far worked alongside a team from the nearby pilot plant to assemble the first vehicles at the Research and Innovation Centre. With the completion of Plant Munich’s new manufacturing and logistics areas, vehicles now pass through all production steps on site. This means that all logistics processes, manufacturing equipment and operations must already run smoothly. Although quantities are still small, all parts are supplied via the designated material flows and processed on the production line. Every part and every production step is closely scrutinised. A particular focus is on the approval inspection for cutting-edge production equipment and tools, and on how these are digitally integrated with existing systems.

Running system tests for the future vehicle model helps identify further potential for optimisation. In the coming months, efforts will be directed towards refining processes, based on the insights gained.

Employee training – first virtually, then in the real world

During this phase, employees will also undergo intensive training: until recently, using augmented reality and now, on the new installations and machinery. Close cooperation across all areas of production will ensure operations are seamlessly integrated for a smooth and successful series launch.

Munich. BMW Group Plant Munich is ready for the production of the next vehicle generation. The manufacturing equipment has been installed in the new body shop and assembly line, and functional checks have been successfully completed. During this so-called "Common Function Test," every system undergoes dry runs, in which production planners and plant technicians put the machinery through its paces. All production steps are executed without any parts in the system. Cycle by cycle, an invisible vehicle takes shape. Although no actual car is produced, this process provides the certainty that everything operates seamlessly and as planned.

Peter Weber, head of BMW Group Plant Munich, is delighted: “Just in time for the holidays, we have reached an important milestone: All manufacturing technologies and equipment are ready to go, and we are already training our associates for production of the BMW i3. We are taking major strides towards production of first pre-series vehicles, which will then come completely from our plant.”

However, plant employees will have to remain patient a little longer until then. BMW i3 assembly, which has so far been carried out at the nearby Research and Innovation Centre, will be relocating to Plant Munich in January. With this move, all technologies at Plant Munich are then in place to continue rigorous testing of the complete production system. Series production of the new BMW i3 will then ramp up in summer 2026.

Typical iFACTORY: digitally planned and tested

Plant Munich is consistently aligned with the guiding principles of the BMW iFACTORY. Both the new body shop and new assembly line were digitally planned and built from the outset. Existing installations in the press shop and paint shop are also integrated into the BMW Group’s Virtual Factory. This made it possible to conduct functional testing of all technologies for the new vehicle generation virtually and well in advance.

Extensive remodelling completed in just 18 months

In just 18 months, about a third of the plant grounds has undergone extensive remodelling. Old halls were dismantled, and a new assembly, logistics centre and body shop were built – all while still manufacturing up to 1,000 BMW 3 Series and 4 Series vehicles per day. Series production of the new BMW i3 is scheduled to begin in the second half of 2026.

Munich. The BMW Group sees design as a transformative force that contributes to dialogue and enables new forms of cooperation. The motto of this year’s munich creative business week (mcbw) “How to design a vibrant community” reflects this view. In these times of increasing polarisation, design plays a key role in encouraging community and developing innovative solutions. Claudia Fräßdorf, Head of BMW Group Color & Material Design, artist Morag Myerscough, and sociologist Prof. Dr. Armin Nassehi will use the New Modes VI Talk to highlight the role of design in social structures. Since the first mcbw in 2012, the BMW Group has been a dedicated partner of the event, underscoring its ongoing commitment to a sustainable and inclusive future. The 14th edition of mcbw – taking place on 10 – 18 May 2025 – will see creatives, companies and students of design, architecture and business meet up in Munich to share ideas on current issues. “Design brings people together and creates innovative ways for us to interact with one other,” emphasises Adrian van Hooydonk, Head of BMW Group Design. “It opens up a wide variety of perspectives and crafts sustainable solutions.”

New Modes VI / “Me in a bigger We”

BMW Group Design is teaming up with Die Neue Sammlung – The Design Museum to host the sixth New Modes event, which explores the unifying quality of design. The members of this year’s panel for “Me in a bigger We” – Claudia Fräßdorf, Head of BMW Group Colour & Material Design, artist Morag Myerscough and sociologist Prof. Dr. Armin Nassehi – will examine the role of the individual within the collective and the transformative power of design. The event will take place on 18 May 2025 in the X-D-E-P-O-T space at the Pinakothek der Moderne (a contemporary art, architecture and design venue in Munich) and provide a platform for discussing innovative design approaches. The talk will be chaired by Sonja Pham, freelance journalist and Deputy Editor-in-Chief of creative publication Grafikmagazin.

Panel members:

Prof. Dr. Armin Nassehi: The renowned sociologist is Chairman of the Senate at LMU München and Deputy Chairman of the University Council, and has been a Member of the Bavarian Ethics Council since October 2024. His work focuses on analysis of societal transformation processes and the idea of a “society of the present”.

Morag Myerscough: With her boldly colourful installations, the London-based artist creates places where people can meet and feel a sense of belonging. On 26 June, her project FLUX will open up a “third place” in Munich’s Kunstareal cultural hub. Running for five years, FLUX will offer visitors an interactive public space “where your imagination can run wild, filling your heart with joy” – and provide an inviting location for people to gather together.

Claudia Fräßdorf: As Head of BMW Group Colour & Material Design, Claudia Fräßdorf uses a holistic approach to develop tailored design concepts that bring together innovative materials, pioneering technologies and sustainable values. In this way, she shapes the tactile and aesthetic identity of the brand’s models with a keen sense for our constantly changing world.

BMW Group x munich creative business week

mcbw will be staging a multitude of events focusing on the challenges and possibilities of contemporary design. The BMW Group is using this platform to share its vision of a sustainable and inclusive future and to showcase innovative approaches to design.

You can find further information on the event programme and registration at www.mcbw.de/en/.

In the event of enquiries please contact:

BMW Group Corporate Communications

Laura-Marie Kremser, Spokesperson BMW Group Designworks, UI/UX Design

Telephone: +49-89-382-98114

E-mail: laura-marie.kremser@bmwgroup.com

Steven Woerns, Spokesperson BMW Group Design

Telephone: +49 151 601 169 92

E-mail: steven.woerns@bmw.com

Internet: https://newsroom.bmwgroup.com/global/en

E-mail: presse@bmw.de

Munich. A new era is dawning for BMW Group Plant Munich: from 2026, the iconic parent plant will produce the Neue Klasse sedan. Just one year later, the factory will manufacture nothing but all-electric models, making the Munich plant the first location in the BMW Group’s existing production network to have successfully completed the transformation to E-mobility from the end of 2027.

“The Munich plant is an excellent example of our ability to adapt. We are investing € 650 million here and will produce exclusively all-electric vehicles in our parent plant from the end of 2027,” says Milan Nedeljković, Member of the Board of Management of BMW AG, Production. “Last year alone, six all-electric models went into production. At the same time, we also set a production record, proving that we are simultaneously able to both deliver and shape the future in our production network.”

Peter Weber, Director BMW Group Plant Munich, adds: “Munich is the beating heart of BMW. The plant in Munich is innovative and adaptable. As in the 1960s, a Neue Klasse is again laying the foundation, on which our plant is reinventing itself. The fact that this comprehensive transformation is taking place at the same time as roughly 1,000 vehicles per day are currently being manufactured is common practice in Munich and is possible thanks to the outstanding performance of all our employees. We are delighted to be guiding the Munich plant into a fully-electric future – starting with the Neue Klasse sedan.”

Smooth transition to electromobility, as the era of combustion automobiles from Munich ends in 2027

BMW Group Plant Munich is a prime example of the fluent transition to the era of electromobility. In 2015, the first plug-in hybrid models from the BMW 3 Series were manufactured on the same production line as combustion vehicles. In 2021, the BMW i4 became the first all-electric vehicle to be produced on the same production line. Nowadays, every second vehicle that rolls off the production line has an all-electric drive system.

From 2026, production of the Neue Klasse in the Munich plant will initially run parallel to production of current models. A good year later, from the end of 2027, the BMW Group’s parent plant will be the first existing site in the global production network to manufacture exclusively all-electric vehicles, having been transformed accordingly. As such, the era of vehicles with combustion engines in Munich will draw to a close 75 years after the launch of the BMW 501 in 1952.

After the start in the new plant in Debrecen, Hungary, and in Munich, the Neue Klasse vehicles will also be produced in Shenyang, China, and San Luis Potosí in Mexico.

Extensive modifications offer long-term security for location

Over the course of a history stretching back more than 100 years, BMW Group Plant Munich has undergone many changes and repeatedly reinvented itself. Together with the conversion from manufacturing aircraft engines to automobile construction, the successful introduction of the Neue Klasse in the 1960s is a milestone in the list of changes throughout the company’s history.

At the moment, multiple large construction sites are evidence of the turnaround, as they pave the way for the arrival of the Neue Klasse from 2026. The € 650 million of investment comprises four buildings, including a new vehicle assembly line with logistics areas and a new body shop.

In order to create the space within the limited floor space at the plant in the heart of Munich, the traditional engine manufacturing has been moved to Hams-Hall in Great Britain and Steyr in Austria after roughly 70 years at the parent plant. 1,200 employees have been trained for different production strategies in Munich or have taken up employment at other locations in the production network.

As in the 1960s and all other changes since, the current transformation of BMW Group Plant Munich is taking place whilst production is still ongoing. Regardless of the construction work, roughly 1,000 cars roll off the production line every day, including BMW 3 Series and the BMW i4 – all on the same assembly line.

The extensive reorientation of the plant secures a long-term future for the site in Munich, and is also a significant investment in Bavaria as an industrial location.

Digitalisation at the Munich plant in accordance with the principles of BMW iFACTORY

The principles of BMW iFACTORY guarantee the utmost flexibility, excellent processes and outstanding integrability at all sites within the BMW Group – from the completely new plant in Debrecen to the parent plant in Munich, which is over 100 years old and at which the transformation is in full swing. BMW iFACTORY is synonymous with the superb production expertise throughout the entire production network. One important aspect is a comprehensive digitalisation with a holistic approach to the interaction between people, processes and systems. It optimises processes and supports employees with their work. The implementation takes place in three areas: data science, artificial intelligence (AI) and virtualisation.

Munich. At the IAA Mobility 2023 international motor show in Munich, the BMW Group will be presenting the most recent highlights of its ongoing transformation in the key action areas of electrification, digitalisation and circularity. The latest new models with electrified powertrains from the BMW, MINI and BMW Motorrad brands, plus Vision Vehicles and concepts for individual mobility in tomorrow’s world all serve to underline the company’s innovative strength in these fields. As the dawn of a new era in personal mobility approaches, the BMW Group is set to unveil its latest highlight, the BMW Vision Neue Klasse, which brings together the Group’s development expertise in the three crucial disciplines for the future of mobility.

The IAA Mobility show is being staged in Munich for the second time. For the BMW Group and its brands, this provides an excellent opportunity to enter into constructive dialogue on the future of individual mobility with local people, as well as with visitors to the show from outside Munich and other stakeholders. The IAA Mobility Summit at the exhibition centre and the BMW Group’s Open Space at Max-Joseph-Platz in the heart of Munich will be the main arenas where BMW, MINI and BMW Motorrad present their new products on 5 – 10 September 2023. Among the models visitors can acquaint themselves with here alongside the BMW Vision Neue Klasse is the fully electric BMW i5. And they can also experience the world premieres of the new fully electric MINI Cooper, new fully electric MINI Countryman and BMW CE 02 eParkourer.

Electric, digital, circular – the focus areas of the BMW Group.

The BMW Group’s presence at IAA Mobility 2023 revolves around the company’s rigorous focus on electric, digital and circular mobility for the future and the latest progress it has made in these areas. The BMW Vision Neue Klasse is joined by a selection of new models from across the Group’s brands whose electrified powertrains, digital innovations and resource-efficient manufacturing illustrate the ongoing process of change in a variety of ways.

The new products poised for launch by the BMW brand include the plug-in hybrid variants of the new BMW 5 Series. The new BMW i7 Protection – the first ever all-electric protection vehicle in the luxury sedan segment – is also making its debut at IAA Mobility 2023.

MINI is unveiling the members of the brand’s new model family for the first time with the help of two world premieres: the new fully electric MINI Cooper and new fully electric MINI Countryman will both be on show at the Open Space site. A new model with all-electric drive also forms the centrepiece of BMW Motorrad’s line-up at Max-Joseph-Platz. Conceived as a compact eParkourer with a trailblazing design, the new BMW CE 02 injects fresh impetus into the urban mobility scene.

Locally emission-free mobility sets the theme for the models on show.

The IAA Mobility show will be officially opened on 5 September at Munich’s exhibition centre. The BMW Group will be represented at its stand in Hall A2, where the BMW Vision Neue Klasse will be unveiled to kick off the event. The BMW i7 Protection all-electric protection vehicle will also be presented for the first time at the IAA Mobility Summit.

The IAA Mobility Summit is taking place under the banner “Experience Connected Mobility” and is aimed primarily at trade visitors. It will showcase trends and technological innovations for future mobility over the course of numerous talks, presentations and panel discussions. One of the central topics is the use of hydrogen as an energy source for current and future vehicles. BMW is carrying out pioneering work in this field with its development and practical testing of a Sports Activity Vehicle with a hydrogen-powered fuel-cell drive system. The BMW iX5 Hydrogen is also being exhibited at the Summit.

Locally emission-free mobility is also the dominant theme for the models awaiting visitors to the Open Space site. BMW has at least one purely electrically powered representative in all relevant model segments. The brand is presenting its entire line-up to the public, ranging from the BMW iX1 compact Sports Activity Vehicle via the BMW i4 and BMW i5 to the BMW iX and the BMW i7 luxury sedan.

The Open Space at Max-Joseph-Platz can be visited free of charge on 5 – 9 September from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. and on Sunday 10 September from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. In addition, BMW Welt will continue to provide an attractive destination for all automotive enthusiasts during IAA Mobility 2023. The current model portfolios of the BMW, MINI, Rolls-Royce and BMW Motorrad brands are presented here, along with the latest BMW and MINI Lifestyle collections. Plus, starting on 2 September 2023, BMW Lifestyle together with BMW M GmbH will be running a GOODS WITH FREUDE pop-up store in the Hofstatt shopping centre at No. 10 Sendlinger Straße. Located just a few minutes’ walk away from the Open Space, the store will feature both familiar lifestyle articles and the new BMW Lifestyle collection.

World premiere: the BMW Vision Neue Klasse.

At IAA Mobility 2023, the BMW Group is offering visitors a preview of the Neue Klasse – the forthcoming generation of models from BMW. The BMW Vision Neue Klasse brings together innovations from the areas of electrification, digitalisation and circularity in signature BMW style. The Vision Vehicle takes design, control/operation, efficiency and sustainability into a whole new dimension – one that it will be possible to experience on the road before long.

During IAA Mobility 2023, the BMW Vision Neue Klasse will be on show at both the Summit and the Open Space. The new Vision Vehicle incorporates the latest innovations in the BMW Group’s key future-focused fields. It therefore builds on the BMW i Vision Circular and the BMW i Vision Dee – which have already demonstrated the BMW Group’s development expertise in the areas of circular economy and digitalisation – and combines their qualities with further new developments in exterior and interior design, user experience and powertrain and battery technology.

World premiere: the plug-in hybrid variants of the new BMW 5 Series Sedan.

As well as the all-electric BMW i5, the brand is exhibiting two other model variants with electrified powertrains at IAA Mobility 2023. As early as spring 2024, two models featuring state-of-the-art plug-in hybrid technology will be added to the new BMW 5 Series Sedan range. Their six-cylinder and four-cylinder in-line petrol engines from the new modular generation of Efficient Dynamics units will each be combined with the latest BMW eDrive technology for plug-in hybrid systems. This will result in a notable increase in output and much sharper power delivery, while also significantly improving efficiency and electric range compared to the outgoing model generation.

The electric motor purpose-developed for the new plug-in hybrid system is integrated into the eight-speed Steptronic Sport transmission together with its power electronics. The highly integrated drive unit contributes up to 145 kW/197 hp to the maximum combined output of 360 kW/489 hp in the case of the new BMW 550e xDrive Sedan (fuel consumption combined: 1.1 – 0.8 l/100 km [256.8 – 353.1 mpg imp]; electric power consumption combined: 22.5 – 20.1 kWh/100 km; CO₂ emissions combined: 24 – 19 g/km in WLTP cycle, provisional figures) and 220 kW/299 hp for the new BMW 530e Sedan (fuel consumption combined: 0.8 – 0.6 l/100 km [353.1 – 470.8 mpg imp]; electric power consumption combined: 21.4 – 18.9 kWh/100 km; CO₂ emissions combined: 19 – 14 g/km in WLTP cycle, provisional figures).

A BMW-patented innovation has been used to enhance the electric motor’s power delivery in the new plug-in hybrid models: a pre-gearing stage enables the nominal torque of 280 Nm (206 lb-ft) to be increased to effective torque of up to 450 Nm (332 lb-ft) at the transmission input for the motor. The compact electric motor is therefore able to boost torque by an amount that would normally only be possible using a larger unit and makes a clear difference both when accelerating off the line and putting in a rapid burst of speed. Electric range is now up to 79 – 90 kilometres (49 – 56 miles) in the WLTP cycle for the new BMW 550e xDrive Sedan and 87 – 101 kilometres (54 – 63 miles) in the WLTP cycle for the new BMW 530e Sedan.

The lithium-ion high-voltage battery’s space-saving positioning within the vehicle’s underbody has a beneficial effect on both the car’s centre of gravity and the capacity of its luggage compartment, which holds a total of 520 litres in the plug-in hybrid models – meaning it is just as large as that offered by their purely combustion-engined siblings. The usable energy provided by the high-voltage battery has climbed to 19.4 kWh. At the same time, maximum charging capacity has doubled compared to the outdoing models and now stands at 7.4 kW, enabling the high-voltage battery to be fully recharged from empty in 3.0 hours. When hooked up to a conventional domestic power socket, a full vehicle charge is completed in 9.8 hours.

World premiere: the BMW i7 Protection.

BMW is presenting a new generation of protection vehicles in the luxury sedan segment at the IAA Mobility 2023 show. The new BMW i7 Protection (electric power consumption combined in WLTP cycle: 30.0 kWh/100 km, provisional figure) is absolutely unique in this segment, as it is the world’s first ever certified protection sedan with an all-electric drive system. Driven by two powerful electric motors, it meets all the requirements of class VR9 protection without any limitations, as does the new V8-engined BMW 7 Series Protection (fuel consumption combined in WLTP cycle: 14.6 l/100 km [19.3 mpg imp]; CO₂ emissions: 328 g/km, provisional figures).

Both models blend the integrated protection concept channelled into the development of the new BMW 7 Series range with outstanding levels of ride comfort and spaciousness, advanced equipment features and the unbeatable dynamic prowess for which BMW is renowned. The concept centres around the new and unique BMW Protection Core, which forms a self-supporting body structure made from armour steel. This is then combined with features such as additional armouring for the underbody and roof, plus armoured glass. The result is customised protection from attacks with firearms or explosives for at-risk individuals. The glass in the new protection vehicles even meets the requirements for the highest class of civilian protection, VPAM 10.

The all-electric BMW i7 Protection is equipped with one electric motor at the front axle and another at the rear. Together they generate a combined output of 400 kW/544 hp and maximum combined torque of 745 Nm (549 lb-ft), and create an electric all-wheel-drive system. The new BMW i7 Protection sprints to 100 km/h (62 mph) from rest in 9.0 seconds, while top speed is electronically limited to 160 km/h (99 mph). The instantaneous, precisely orchestrated power delivery from the two motors guarantees exceptional traction and directional stability even when the car is being driven hard and performing challenging manoeuvres, such as when escaping from an attack.

Tuned and optimised specifically for this model, the chassis technology also makes allowance for the additional weight of its armouring, resulting in superbly assured performance in any situation. Another unique offering for this segment is the inclusion of Integral Active Steering as standard. This reduces the car’s turning circle, increases agility when cornering at speed and improves driving comfort for rear-seat passengers. The 20-inch light-alloy wheels are a further standout feature. The PAX tyres that also come as standard allow the car to continue its journey at up to 80 km/h (50 mph) even in the event of a total loss of pressure.

The latest generation of BMW iDrive based on BMW Operating System 8.5 is fitted, complete with the BMW Curved Display. The system is intuitive to use and operates in a way familiar to BMW drivers. The special functions relevant to occupant protection are also operated via BMW iDrive. The new protection vehicles can also be tailored precisely to any purpose, with items including a fresh-air supply system, a fire extinguishing system, flashing lights, radio transceivers and flag poles for when the car is on official duty, plus other special customer-specific options.

Trailblazing: the BMW iX5 Hydrogen.

The BMW iX5 Hydrogen presented at IAA Mobility 2023 provides further evidence of the company’s superlative innovative strength in the field of drive technology. A pilot series of the Sports Activity Vehicle with hydrogen fuel-cell drive, developed on the basis of the current BMW X5, has entered service for demonstration and test purposes with various target groups around the world. This allows selected test groups who haven’t been involved in the development process to get behind the wheel of the BMW iX5 Hydrogen and gain a direct impression of its attributes for the first time.

The BMW iX5 Hydrogen is equipped with the latest, fifth generation of BMW eDrive technology. The highly integrated drive unit at the rear axle draws its energy from a high-performance battery with li-ion technology that was specially developed for the hydrogen fuel-cell vehicle and generates maximum output of 295 kW/401 hp. The electric motor also doubles as a generator that feeds energy back into the high-performance battery on the overrun or under braking.

The model’s two 700-bar tanks made from carbon-fibre-reinforced plastic (CFRP) together hold six kilograms of gaseous hydrogen and can be refilled in three to four minutes. A chemical reaction takes place in the fuel cell system between the hydrogen and oxygen from the air, through which the electric power for the electric motor is generated. The BMW iX5 Hydrogen achieves a range of 504 kilometres (313 miles) in the WLTP cycle without having to refill the tanks. The hydrogen-powered SAV completes the 0 to 100 km/h (62 mph) sprint in under six seconds and goes on to reach a top speed in excess of 180 km/h (112 mph).

The BMW iX5 Hydrogen combines long-distance capabilities and short refuelling stops with zero tailpipe emissions and hallmark BMW driving dynamics. Its hydrogen fuel-cell technology has the potential – provided the necessary basic conditions are in place – to serve as an additional pillar in the BMW Group’s future powertrain portfolio. As part of its ongoing transformation, the BMW Group is following an approach that embraces all technologies when it comes to drive systems. The company is therefore readying itself for differing customer requirements, infrastructure standards and political and regulatory frameworks in the various regions of the world. This degree of flexibility puts the BMW Group in a position to react quickly to changing requirements in the markets in any situation and to present as many customers as possible with an appropriate model offering at all times.

Munich. BMW Group Plant Munich has had two busy days, and that despite the fact that not a single car has been built! To mark the 100^th anniversary of the Munich parent plant, the BMW Group invited all employees from the Munich site to the anniversary celebrations along with their friends and family. Over the course of Saturday and Sunday, around 70,000 people came and enjoyed an exciting stage program, spectacular driving events and special insights into production.

“Together we can make history! In the past, it is you who have always kept our home plant firmly on the road to success and it is you who will now lead it into the future together,” said Milan Nedeljković, Member of the Board of Management of BMW AG, Production. Plant Munich is currently undergoing major renovations for the start of production for the Neue Klasse in 2026, including the construction of three new buildings for the body shop and assembly complete with logistics areas. The head of Production made sure to emphasize: “We are quite literally leaving no stone unturned here, and yet you are keeping the plant up and running smoothly. This ambidexterity is exactly what makes the plant so special.”

Clocking up hours worked for charity donations

 Ilka Horstmeier, Member of the Board of Management of BMW AG, People and Real Estate, also took the time to highlight the great dedication of the BMW workforce as she thanked the more than one thousand volunteers from all BMW locations across Munich who ensured the anniversary went off without a hitch and with such a great atmosphere. The hours the employees put in across both days were not remunerated but were instead donated in cash to five Munich charities.

“The dedication shown by our employees is extraordinary. After all, we not only celebrated our plant anniversary, but also gave a helping hand to many Munich residents in need, raising a total of 150,000 euros for social causes. This reaffirms that we are a responsible employer that also takes responsibility for society. That’s just the BMW way,” added Horstmeier. Representatives from the Münchner Tafel, the Arche, Verein Zivilcourage für Alle, Horizont e.V. and the crisis intervention team at ASB München all accepted the donation vouchers in person from Ilka Horstmeier, Plant Manager Peter Weber and Martin Kimmich, Chairman of the General Works Council.

To symbolize the structural and technological transformation of Plant Munich, the Member of the Board for Production, Plant Manager and Works Council Chair filled a time capsule that will be integrated into the construction area of the new body shop. Construction of the new hall is set to begin imminently. “Despite the new work underway, we will continue to produce more than 900 premium quality BMWs every day at Plant Munich. We all have to show great flexibility and commitment to achieve this, but we see this challenge as an opportunity to shape a successful future for our plant. And there’s no doubt in my mind that, with such a motivated and highly qualified team, the plant’s transformation to e-mobility and the iFACTORY can only succeed,” said plant manager Peter Weber.

By employees for employees

 BMW employees not only handled most of the organization of the BMW anniversary celebrations themselves, but they also designed a diverse program over more than 25 different stations. Whether blues, rock, pop, cabaret or classical music – talent from various BMW locations performed on the two event stages. Plant Munich employees also gave tours of the production halls, presented their workplaces, introduced innovations, and informed guests about ongoing structural changes at the plant.

A former Plant Munich employee treated guests to another highlight: comedian and composer Willy Astor, who in his youth completed his training as a toolmaker at the plant, took to the BMW anniversary stage to delight visitors with his latest show.

Also popular were the shows from the “RedBull Driftbrothers”, the children’s motorcycle course and the driving sessions from the BMW Driving Academy. Plus, guests were able to tuck into a variety of culinary delights at around 30 food trucks as well as in the plant’s very own restaurant.

“It’s just incredible what the workforce has put together for these two days,” says Martin Kimmich, Chairman of the BMW General Works Council. “This reflects the one-of-a-kind BMW team spirit as well as our colleagues’ keen interest in social responsibility. As an important employer for the city located right in the heart of Munich, we were delighted to provide an insight into the transformation of our main plant for the future.”

A good neighbor

As a production site right at the heart of the Bavarian state capital of Munich, the plant also plays an important role as a neighbor. Alongside supporting local associations and organizations in the north of Munich, the company places a great deal of value on maintaining personal dialogue with the plant’s immediate neighborhood. Around 80 neighbors accepted the invitation to attend the BMW anniversary celebrations and were given a guided tour of the plant site.

The “BMW Munich – Urban Production” architectural competition, which was successfully completed last year, also serves to promote good relations and a livable environment. The designs from the two winning firms take the plant’s unique location at the heart of the city into account and aim to make the entire complex visibly more accessible and open to the neighborhood. This vision for the future of the Munich production site lays the groundwork for the development of a big-picture plan beyond 2026.

Both the big-picture plan and the structural optimizations already planned to produce the Neue Klasse help align Plant Munich with the principles of the BMW iFactory for the future: “LEAN. GREEN. DIGITAL.” Together, they guarantee maximum flexibility, outstanding processes, and top integration potential over the coming decades for this special location – the BMW Group’s 100-year-old parent plant.

(Editorial note: The BMW anniversary celebrations were actually held in Plant Munich’s 101^st year. When planning started back in 2021, the organizational team were unable to predict whether an event for the originally planned date of fall 2022 would be possible due to potential Covid restrictions.)