München. Starting in October 2026, the BMW Group will introduce BMW Maps with driver assistance¹ for BMW vehicles equipped with the BMW Operating System X. The feature combines route guidance, the vehicle’s surroundings, and driver assistance information into a single 3D view on the central display. This allows drivers to see not only the next navigation step, but also how the vehicle perceives its surroundings and which assistance functions are supporting the driving task.

The display shows the driver's own vehicle precisely within its lane and at the correct road level. This helps with navigation on highways, at intersections, and in city traffic. At the same time, it makes assisted and semi-automated driving even easier to understand in the context of the current driving situation.

This integration is particularly relevant when driver-assistance systems support driving over long distances or in complex traffic situations. For example, the Highway Assistant 2 enables hands-free driving on highways at speeds of up to 130 km/h. The system controls both longitudinal and lateral movement and supports automated lane changes after the driver confirms with a glance. With active route guidance via BMW Maps, the system provides support from the highway on-ramp all the way to the exit.

In urban areas, the interplay between navigation and driver assistance is becoming increasingly important. Starting in 2027, BMW models equipped with the BMW Operating System X will begin rolling out navigation-guided, semi-automated driving in urban areas, initially in Germany.

“An important step toward highly automated driving is the intelligent interaction between navigation and driver assistance. BMW Maps with Driver Assistance¹ shows drivers how route guidance, environmental perception, and assistance functions work together. This provides better orientation when driver assistance is active—developed by the BMW Group in collaboration with Mapbox,” says Stephan Durach, Senior Vice President of Digital Services, Infotainment, and Connected Company at the BMW Group.

“We’re thrilled to partner with the BMW Group to be the first to bring this next-generation navigation experience to market. Drivers can see exactly which lane they need to be in and everything happening around the vehicle. All of this is brought together in a seamless view—making every trip easier so drivers can enjoy the ride and never miss a turn again,” says Peter Sirota, CEO of Mapbox.

The integrated display in BMW Maps is based on the new generation of driver assistance systems working in conjunction with the BMW Operating System X. BMW Maps with Driver Assistance¹ is developed in-house by the BMW Group and utilizes navigation data and map technology from its partner, Mapbox. The combination of navigation, 3D map display, and driver assistance makes BMW Maps a key differentiator in intelligent vehicle guidance across international markets.

1) The BMW Maps feature with driver assistance is available only in combination with Highway Assistant or Highway & City Assistant in select countries, cities, and on select roads. Rollout is occurring in phases.

2) The availability, scope of functions, and system limitations of Highway Assistant and Highway & City Assistant may vary by country.

BMW Maps with Driver Assistance | Summary

• Everything in a single 3D view: Starting in October 2026, BMW Maps will combine navigation, the vehicle’s surroundings, and driver assistance information into a single 3D view for BMW vehicles equipped with Operating System X.
• More intuitive driver assistance: The integrated display shows how the vehicle perceives its surroundings and whether assistance functions are supporting the driver, from complex situations in city traffic to hands-free assisted driving on the highway.
• Intelligent integration of navigation and driver assistance: This feature, developed by the BMW Group, combines precise map information, vehicle sensors, and artificial intelligence. BMW Maps uses navigation data and mapping technology from Mapbox.

Munich. The new BMW iX5 Hydrogen has reached the next development phase on the road to series production: Current prototypes are undergoing a comprehensive testing programme; in parallel, the third-generation fuel cell system is entering a new assembly phase at the Hydrogen Competence Centre in Munich. At the same time, preparations for industrialisation and future series production of the hydrogen fuel cell system are underway at the engine facility in Steyr, Austria.

With these steps, the BMW Group is systematically driving the development of its first hydrogen production vehicle. The primary focus is on further validation of the overall system, preparations for industrialisation and the integration of fuel cell technology into a vehicle concept with typical BMW driving dynamics.

“Our ambition for the BMW iX5 Hydrogen is clear: a true BMW – with Sheer Driving Pleasure. A perfectly coordinated overall system is crucial for this. Current testing demonstrates how the fuel cell system, high-voltage battery and electric drive train are already successfully integrated and how systematically we are developing the technology towards series production,” says Josef Hochreiter, head of Hydrogen Vehicles at the BMW Group.

Focus on systems integration, efficiency and driving dynamics 

Current testing is focused on validation of the overall system under demanding environmental and operating conditions. The development teams validate the functionality of all components within the integrated vehicle system and optimise the complex control of the systems, even under high loads. The aim is to ensure the full performance capabilities of the drive train at all times, while further optimising BMW's hallmark driving dynamics in the fuel cell electric vehicle.

Current testing confirms the coordinated interaction between the fuel cell system, electric motor, high-voltage battery, BMW Hydrogen Flat Storage and Energy Master. The innovative high-voltage battery and the Energy Master, as the high-voltage system’s central control unit, enable higher recuperation performance and therefore increase overall system efficiency. At the same time, development aims to achieve driving performance on a par with the BMW iX5, including a target acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h in less than five seconds.

Fuel cell system enters next phase of construction

Alongside vehicle testing, the next prototype assembly phase for the third-generation fuel cell system is getting underway at the Hydrogen Competence Centre in Munich. The focus is on finalising and validating the testing methodology, as well as further preparations for industrialisation.

The previous prototype phase centred on component buildability and basic qualification of suppliers.

The upcoming process steps establish the necessary conditions for robust and efficient manufacturing processes, making a significant contribution to future series production. Series production of fuel cell systems will take place at BMW Group Plant Steyr in the future.

“Prototype assembly is about much more than manufacturing individual components. Each phase helps us optimise processes, gain experience and systematically share this knowledge with the teams in Steyr. In this way, we are laying the foundation for the next steps on the road to industrialisation,” says Claudia Stephan, head of Technology Development and Fuel Cell Prototype Assembly at the BMW Group.

Industrialisation: Close cooperation between development in Munich and series production in Steyr

With the start of this new assembly phase, the project has reached another important development step on the road to industrialisation. For this purpose, the first test benches and manufacturing equipment have already been set up at BMW Group Plant Steyr, with employees being trained in stages. The insights gained in this way form the basis for further industrialisation steps and the subsequent production ramp-up.

Hydrogen as additional electrical drive train option

With the BMW iX5 Hydrogen, the BMW Group continues to pursue its technology-open approach. Hydrogen can supplement battery-electric vehicles where high range, short refuelling times and high versatility are required.

With a targeted range of up to 750 kilometres* (WLTP), refuelling in less than five minutes and fully-electric driving, fuel cell technology opens up additional possibilities for locally emission-free individual mobility.z

Under the “HyPowerDrive” project, the German Federal Ministry of Transport (BMV) is funding the development of the powertrain and tank system for the BMW iX5 Hydrogen as part of IPCEI Hy2Move. The federal government is providing funding of 191 million euros. The project is also being (co-)financed by the state of Bavaria with a total of 82 million euros. The funding is administered by Projektträger Jülich (PtJ) and coordinated by NOW GmbH.

Questions and answers

How is BMW integrating hydrogen into its product line-up?

Following successful global testing of the pilot fleet, the BMW iX5 Hydrogen will be the first hydrogen-powered BMW Group production model released onto the market. Going forward, the new BMW X5 will offer customers the choice between a battery-electric drive train, plug-in hybrid, petrol, diesel or hydrogen fuel cell technology.

What is currently being tested in the BMW iX5 Hydrogen?

The focus of the current testing is on the interaction of all drive system components. This includes the fuel cell system, high-voltage battery, electric motor, hydrogen tanks and the overall system control unit. Efficiency, driving performance and driving dynamics will also be examined under different operating conditions.

How does the fuel cell system work?

Inside the fuel cell, hydrogen from the tanks reacts with oxygen from the ambient air in an electrochemical reaction. This generates the electric current that drives the electric motor and powers the vehicle. The BMW iX5 Hydrogen uses the third-generation fuel cell system co-developed by the BMW Group and Toyota Motor Corporation.

Where will the fuel cell system be produced going forward?

The BMW Group is preparing for future series production of the fuel cell system at BMW Group Plant Steyr. At the same time, the competence centres in Munich and Steyr are developing and assembling prototypes, while gaining experience for industrialisation. Additional system components are being manufactured at the BMW Group facility in Landshut.

What are the advantages of hydrogen fuel cell technology?

Hydrogen fuel cell vehicles offer locally emission-free driving, combining electric propulsion with short refuelling times. For the BMW Group, fuel cell technology supplements battery-electric vehicles primarily where high range and high versatility are required.

Munich. The launch of the Neue Klasse marks the first time BMW will offer an expanded portfolio of active safety assistance systems as standard across multiple model series. Among them is an exit warning function with active door opening delay, helping to prevent so-called dooring accidents. The BMW iX3 was the first Neue Klasse production model to feature these technologies, with further models including the BMW i3, BMW X5 and BMW 7 Series to follow.

"The broad rollout of our new active safety functions as standard is based on our 'Smart, Symbiotic, Safe' philosophy. We bring drivers and assistance systems together into a cooperative system that works in harmony. At BMW, active safety functions operate as quiet, intelligent companions in the background, discreet yet highly effective when it matters most in critical situations,” says Dr. Mihiar Ayoubi, Senior Vice President Driving Experience Development at the BMW Group.

Active safety assistance systems support drivers in critical driving, parking and exit scenarios. Analysis of customer-consented data from BMW’s intelligently connected vehicle fleet demonstrates that these functions contribute to greater road safety. In the last month alone, the fleet analysed* in Europe covered 1.6 billion kilometres. Customers were alerted to potential collisions around 8 million times through visual and acoustic warnings. In 243,977 cases, active steering and braking interventions by assistance systems helped prevent a potential collision.

BMW Symbiotic Drive takes driver assistance in BMW’s new vehicle generation to a new level by creating an intuitive partnership between driver and vehicle. The system understands the driver’s intentions through steering inputs and line of sight, enabling assistance functions to intervene only when necessary. As a result, functions such as the Lane Keeping Assistant only provide warnings or steering interventions when the vehicle detects an unintended lane departure or an imminent collision. When a manoeuvre is initiated deliberately by the driver, the system does not intervene, provided there is no foreseeable risk of a collision or the vehicle leaving the roadway. Indicators of driver intent include activating the turn signal, making an active steering input or performing a shoulder check.

The new BMW iX3 received the top rating of five stars in the latest safety test conducted by the independent testing organization Euro NCAP, significantly exceeding the required scores. The BMW iX3 was one of the first vehicles to be evaluated according to the test protocols that were fundamentally revised in 2026. The NCAP result confirms BMW’s holistic approach to safety.

New Exit Warning can prevent “dooring accidents” more effectively.

Dooring accidents occur when the door of a parked vehicle unexpectedly opens into the traffic lane. This is particularly dangerous for cyclists. According to the German Insurance Association, 8% of all bicycle accidents in Berlin in 2024 were related to dooring**. The exit warning has been standard equipment on many BMW models for years and alerts drivers to potential hazards with both audible and visual signals. With the launch of the Neue Klasse, this feature is being expanded as standard to include active door opening delay. Using side radars, the system continuously monitors the traffic area around the parked vehicle and detects approaching vehicles, bicycles, or other road users. If a risk of collision is detected, the electronic door lock specifically delays the opening of the door until the danger has passed.

New and enhanced features highlight BMW's expertise in safety. 

In addition to the cooperative Lane Keeping Assistant and the improved exit warning, numerous innovations and enhancements demonstrate BMW’s extensive expertise in active safety technologies. These systems are designed to provide reliable support when needed, while remaining discreet and non-intrusive in everyday driving. They include, among others: 

• For the first time, the emergency steering intervention automatically steer the vehicle around an obstacle while keeping it within its own lane – for example, if a person steps onto the road between two vehicles after a breakdown, or if a cyclist is overlooked in low-light conditions. This feature is currently unique among competitors.
• In situations with a risk of a side-impact collision, the emergency steering intervention also helps prevent accidents – for example, when another vehicle is getting dangerously close. A brief, active steering intervention gently steers the vehicle away from the object within its own lane, given  sufficient space to maneuver has been detected.
• The Emergency Brake Assistant with evasive steering support helps prevent imminent head-on collisions. It can automatically apply the brakes up to full deceleration. Thanks to improved sensor technology, the feature can also assist in situations involving animals on the road and wildlife crossings.
• The Road Priority Warning now assists drivers even more effectively by displaying recognized traffic signs in the BMW Panoramic Vision display directly in the driver's field of view. In addition to red traffic lights, yield signs, stop signs, and no-entry signs, this now also includes warnings at crosswalks.
• The Attentiveness Assistant with emergency stop can provide support in medical emergencies. If the driver camera detects that the driver is no longer fit to drive, the system temporarily takes control of the vehicle. It brings the vehicle to a controlled stop. In doing so, it automatically activates the hazard lights and triggers an eCall. The driver can override the system at any time.

More safety features parking and maneuvering. 

Enhanced and further refined safety assistance systems can also help prevent collisions during parking and manoeuvring.

• Active Park Distance Control can prevent collisions using ultrasonic sensors and surround-view cameras. The feature applies the brakes at the rear – and, for the first time, on the sides as well – to bring the vehicle to a stop when it detects stationary or moving objects.
• When backing out of a parking space onto busy streets – a maneuver that often offers limited visibility – the emergency braking function for cross-traffic can prevent serious accidents involving cyclists and other road users. The rear side radars scan the surrounding area. The rearview camera and the bird’s-eye-view display on the Central Display provide additional visibility.
• The standard start monitoring detects potential pedal misapplications. A typical example is confusing the accelerator with the brake. If the system detects an obstacle less than one meter away at speeds of up to 2 km/h and, at the same time, an unusually rapid and forceful depression of the accelerator pedal, it intervenes. The vehicle then brakes in a controlled manner, either forward or backward, until it comes to a stop.

BMW Panoramic iDrive provides clarity for the driver.

With the new generation of sensors and the improved Assisted View display in the BMW Operating System X, the current driving situation is presented with precision and in great detail. The visualizations are shown on the Central Display, the Panoramic Vision, or optionally on the 3D Head-Up Display. They help the driver intuitively grasp traffic conditions and detected objects and provide additional clarity regarding the currently active driver assistance systems and their interventions.

New high-performance computer integrates all driver-assistance functions.

With the new BMW iX3 and subsequent models, BMW is laying the technical foundation for the next generation of intelligent, symbiotic, and safe driver-assistance systems. All new active safety, automated driving, and automated parking functions are managed by the central “Superbrain of Automated Driving.” This water-cooled high-performance computer has approximately 20 times the computing power of the previous system.

New test site in Sokolov is paying off.

The “Future Mobility Development Center” (FMDC) test facility in Sokolov, Czech Republic, which opened in 2023, has made a significant contribution to the development of new active safety systems and driver-assistance features.

“The Future Mobility Development Center in Sokolov is much more than a proving ground for us. It is a central component of our development strategy enabling us to bring innovations in advanced driving assistance systems to series production quickly, safely and with a clear customer focus. This unique testing environment allows us to recreate real-world driving scenarios under highly demanding and reproducible conditions. As a result, we are reinforcing the BMW Group’s technological leadership for the long term.,” says Dr. Martin Sautter, Senior Vice President Vehicle Certification at the BMW Group.

At around 600 hectares, the BMW Group’s largest proving ground worldwide offers approximately 25 kilometres of test tracks for validating realistic driving and traffic scenarios under reproducible conditions. These range from urban traffic and motorway driving to automated parking manoeuvres. The state-of-the-art facility complements virtual driving simulations and millions of kilometres of testing on public roads in extreme heat, snow and ice across Europe, North America, South Africa and China.

* 1.3 million BMW vehicles equipped with the previous generation of driver-assistance technology, whose owners have given their active consent to data collection.
** According to the German Insurance Association (GDV), there were 392 "dooring" accidents in Berlin alone in 2024, accounting for just under 8 percent of all bicycle accidents in Berlin.

Q&A: Short Answers to the Most Important Questions

What is new in terms of active safety with the Neue Klasse?

With its new generation of driver-assistance systems, BMW is offering even more active safety features as standard across all model lines. These systems support driving, parking, and exiting the vehicle safely. They provide reliable support when needed, while remaining discreet and non-intrusive in the background in everyday driving.

What makes BMW's new exit warning special?

The new exit warning can detect approaching road users and actively delay the opening of the door if there is a risk of collision. This helps prevent dangerous “dooring” accidents, which occur when a car door is unexpectedly opened into the traffic lane. This is particularly dangerous for cyclists.

What does BMW Symbiotic Drive mean?

BMW Symbiotic Drive enables intuitive interaction between the driver and the driver assistance systems. All systems provide targeted support when a potential hazard is detected, while remaining quiet, intelligent companions in the background when no intervention is required.

What makes active safety assistance systems with BMW Symbiotic Drive special?

The system understands the driver’s intentions through steering inputs and line of sight, enabling assistance functions to intervene only when necessary. As a result, functions such as the Lane Keeping Assistant only provide warnings or steering interventions when the vehicle detects an unintended lane departure or an imminent collision.

What role does the new proving ground in Sokolov play?

BMW tests real-world driving and traffic scenarios there under reproducible conditions. This supports the development and robust validation of new assistance systems.

Munich. Series production of the new BMW i3 gets underway today at BMW Group Plant Munich. The BMW i3 has been available for order since mid-June, with high demand leading to a steep ramp-up curve at the plant. “The models of the Neue Klasse are proving to be very popular. The second Neue Klasse model, the BMW i3, is already seeing strong demand since orders opened ahead of its launch,“ said Jochen Goller, member of the Board of Management of BMW AG responsible for Customer, Brands, Sales.

Following four years of intensive transformation – including the construction of a new body shop and a new assembly hall with logistics areas – the BMW i3 sounds the starting signal for the next chapter in the success story of BMW Group Plant Munich. “The start of production of the BMW i3 heralds a new era for our main plant. With the fully-electric BMW i3, we are bringing together what belongs together: The 3 Series embodies BMW more than almost any other model – and Plant Munich represents our brand more than almost any other production site,” said Raymond Wittmann, member of the Board of Management of BMW AG responsible for Production. “The unique combination of headquarters, development and production at our main plant in Munich is a key driving force for our global production network: Every one of our plants benefits from the experience and knowledge gained from the launch of the Neue Klasse in Munich.”

Further efficiency gains in Munich: manufacturing costs down by 10%
“With the start of production of the BMW i3, we are lowering manufacturing costs at Plant Munich by another 10%,” said Peter Weber, head of BMW Group Plant Munich. The foundations for this have been laid through forward planning and close cooperation with development departments and suppliers, as well as through modern production technology within the new structures. In addition to optimised production processes and targeted automation and digitalisation, the Neue Klasse’s new vehicle architecture will also deliver further efficiencies.

Plant Munich positioned for the future
Starting in 2027, Plant Munich will exclusively produce fully-electric vehicles. Further Neue Klasse models will soon follow, securing the plant’s future viability for the coming decades. For Weber, it is clear that this journey will not be shaped by new systems and technologies alone: “The future viability of our plant will be ensured, above all, by the people who drive change and innovation with enthusiasm. Together, we challenge ourselves every day, harnessing digitalisation and automation, and gradually making Plant Munich even more efficient – without compromising our high quality standards.”

Highly efficient production at historic location
Munich has been closely tied to the BMW 3 Series since 1975. More than nine million BMW 3 Series have since rolled off the main plant's production line. The site has been fundamentally remodelled for the Neue Klasse, during ongoing production of up to 1,000 vehicles per day. Across an area covering about a third of the plant site, a new body shop and a cutting-edge vehicle assembly, including logistics areas, have been built. The most recent addition was the delivery hall, which is currently still in the commissioning phase. This is where vehicles undergo final customer inspections before being handed over to the sales department. The result of this transformation is a plant that is now even more efficient, flexible and digital, and therefore optimally equipped for the requirements of electromobility and the Neue Klasse.

A vision for all technologies: the BMW iFACTORY
The BMW iFACTORY is a vision for the production of the future, focusing on efficiency, sustainability and digitalisation. Within this framework, the company's plants are implementing site-specific solutions globally to strengthen the BMW Group's resilience and enhance its ability to deliver reliably worldwide at all times. This vision has now also been realised consistently across all technologies at BMW Group Plant Munich.

Global network, regional value creation: high-voltage batteries and e-drives
With the newly built BMW Group Plant Irlbach-Straßkirchen (Lower Bavaria, Germany), located around 90 minutes from Munich, the BMW Group is significantly boosting value creation across the Bavarian region. In line with its “local for local” approach, the plant will supply Plant Munich and other sites in Germany with sixth-generation high-voltage batteries. In this way, the new plant in Irlbach-Straßkirchen will make a vital contribution to the production of models for the Neue Klasse, such as the BMW i3. The production of high-voltage batteries combines a consistent zero-defect approach with state-of-the-art manufacturing technologies developed at the Bavarian pilot plants. Through continuous inline quality control, digital twins and the systematic use of artificial intelligence, the BMW Group is setting new standards in battery production.

The Gen6 electric motor for the BMW i3 will be produced at BMW Group Plant Steyr in Austria, a site that has been manufacturing drive systems for over 40 years. Now, with the first electric motor in its portfolio, the plant is further strengthening its role as a perfect example of technology openness. All core components for the highly integrated e-drive – from the rotor and stator to the power converter and transmission – will be produced on site. New production lines and cutting-edge cleanroom environments have been established for this purpose. The aluminium foundry at BMW Group Plant Landshut supplies the electric motor housing to Plant Steyr.

Overview of quotes

Jochen Goller, member of the Board of Management of BMW AG responsible for Customer, Brands, Sales:
“The models of the Neue Klasse are proving to be very popular. The second Neue Klasse model, the BMW i3, is already seeing strong demand since orders opened ahead of its launch.“

Raymond Wittmann, member of the Board of Management of BMW AG responsible for Production:
“The start of production of the BMW i3 heralds a new era for our main plant. With the fully-electric BMW i3, we are bringing together what belongs together: The 3 Series embodies BMW more than almost any other model – and Plant Munich represents our brand more than almost any other production site. The unique combination of headquarters, development and production at our main plant in Munich is a key driving force for our global production network: Every one of our plants benefits from the experience and knowledge gained from the launch of the Neue Klasse in Munich.”

Peter Weber, head of BMW Group Plant Munich: 
“With the start of production of the BMW i3, we are lowering manufacturing costs by another 10%.”

“The future viability of our plant will be ensured, above all, by the people who drive change and innovation with enthusiasm. Together, we challenge ourselves every day, harnessing digitalisation and automation, and gradually making Plant Munich even more efficient – without compromising our high quality standards.”

Questions and answers

When will the BMW i3 enter series production?
The series-production BMW i3 will start coming off the assembly line at Plant Munich in August.

How has Plant Munich prepared for the Neue Klasse?
Plant Munich has been fundamentally remodelled during ongoing production. Across about a third of the plant site, a new body shop and a state-of-the-art vehicle assembly, including logistics areas, have been built, alongside completely modernised production structures.

Is Plant Munich more efficient now than before the refurbishment?
New systems, digital processes, targeted automation and more integrated logistics have made the plant more efficient, flexible and transparent. The start of production of the BMW i3 is lowering manufacturing costs at Plant Munich by a further 10%.

Key data at a glance

Debrecen, Hungary. BMW Group Plant Debrecen has produced the 50,000th BMW iX3. Just a few months after the start of series production, the plant has thus reached an important milestone in the ramp-up of the first series-production model of the Neue Klasse.

“The 50,000th BMW iX3 underscores the capabilities of our plant in Debrecen: Never before have we built so many vehicles so quickly at a new plant. This milestone is the result of an outstanding team effort,” said Raymond Wittmann, Member of the Board of Management of BMW AG, responsible for Production.

The rapid ramp-up was significantly accelerated by the introduction of the second shift, which started in February 2026 – well ahead of schedule. This was the BMW Group’s response to the high demand the BMW iX3 has been experiencing since its market launch. Supported by strong customer orders, the company is on track to soon reach the next important milestone of 100,000 incoming orders.

New model, new architecture, new plant

As the first series-production vehicle of the Neue Klasse, the BMW iX3 also marks the start of a new vehicle architecture – in a completely newly built plant. The plant thus plays a key role in the further scaling of the Neue Klasse across the BMW Group’s production network.

“The production of the 50,000th BMW iX3 reflects the dedication and expertise of our team. As the home of the first series-produced Neue Klasse model, Plant Debrecen is helping shape the future of the BMW Group’s global production network,” highlighted Hans-Peter Kemser, President and CEO of BMW Group Plant Debrecen.

Plant Debrecen’s pioneering role – other plants benefit from its experience

The pioneering experiences from the launch of the first Neue Klasse model provide Plant Debrecen and the other BMW Group plants worldwide with valuable insights for the upcoming launches.

“Each of our plants benefits from launch experiences we have made at Plant Debrecen. By the end of 2027, we will launch 40 new or updated models. Efficiency, speed, and quality are crucial for the successful launch of all vehicles. Knowledge transfer between our production sites worldwide is a key lever,” said Wittmann.

To achieve this, the BMW Group relies on close collaboration among its production sites. Insights from one plant flow directly into the global network and support the ramp-up of further models. This enables potential quality deviations, for example, to be identified and avoided at an early stage – before they recur at another location. Digital tools and a shared database provide the foundation for this.

At a glance: Questions and answers regarding the production of the BMW iX3 at BMW Group Plant Debrecen

What is special about the 50,000th BMW iX3 produced in Debrecen?
The 50,000th BMW iX3 marks the fastest ramp-up of a new BMW Group plant and an important milestone for BMW Group Plant Debrecen. Reached just a few months after the start of series production, the milestone shows that the new plant can build the first series-production model of the Neue Klasse reliably, quickly and at high volumes.

Is the production ramp-up at BMW Group Plant Debrecen the fastest ramp-up of a new BMW Group plant?
Yes. With 50,000 BMW iX3 vehicles produced just a few months after the start of series production, BMW Group Plant Debrecen achieved the fastest ramp-up of a new BMW Group plant to date. The milestone underlines the plant’s performance, the strength of the Debrecen team and the effectiveness of collaboration across the BMW Group production network.

Why is BMW Group Plant Debrecen important for the Neue Klasse?
BMW Group Plant Debrecen is the first BMW Group plant to produce a series-production model of the Neue Klasse. As the launch plant for the BMW iX3, Debrecen plays a pioneering role in industrializing and scaling the Neue Klasse across the BMW Group’s global production network.

Why is the BMW iX3 important for the BMW Group?
The BMW iX3 is the first series-production vehicle of the Neue Klasse and a key starting point for the BMW Group’s next generation of models. By the end of 2027, the BMW Group plans to launch 40 new or updated models that will incorporate technologies and the design language of the Neue Klasse.

How fast did BMW Group Plant Debrecen ramp up BMW iX3 production?
BMW Group Plant Debrecen produced 50,000 BMW iX3 vehicles within just a few months of the start of series production. The rapid production ramp-up was accelerated by the early introduction of a second shift in February 2026, well ahead of schedule.

How strong is demand for the BMW iX3?
Demand for the BMW iX3 has been strong since its market launch. Supported by high customer orders, the BMW Group is on track to soon reach the next major milestone of 100,000 incoming orders for the first series-production model of the Neue Klasse.

How do other BMW Group plants benefit from Plant Debrecen?
Other BMW Group plants benefit from the launch experience gained at Plant Debrecen through direct knowledge transfer across the global production network. Insights from the BMW iX3 ramp-up, digital data, quality analyses and process improvements support future vehicle launches at other BMW Group locations.

Woodruff, South Carolina, USA. In December, the new BMW Group Plant Woodruff will begin series production of high-voltage batteries for the new fully-electric BMW iX5. As part of the vehicle’s world premiere, the company offered a first glimpse of its state-of-the-art manufacturing facilities. With AI-supported production processes, digital twins and virtual reality applications, the new plant is setting industry standards for the assembly of high-voltage batteries.

Site strengthens electromobility in the US and footprint in South Carolina

“Plant Woodruff plays a key role in the ramp-up of electromobility in the US,” said Raymond Wittman, member of the Board of Management of BMW AG responsible for Production. “With our Gen6 high-voltage battery, we’re not only taking a major technological leap – we are also setting new standards in production. In Woodruff, we are combining cutting-edge processes, artificial intelligence and the expertise of our employees to create a production facility designed for the highest quality.”

“With Plant Woodruff, we are further expanding our footprint in South Carolina and strengthening the close integration of battery and vehicle production,” said Robert Engelhorn, President and CEO of BMW Manufacturing Co., LLC. “This creates the ideal foundation for the next generation of fully electric BMW X models assembled at Plant Spartanburg.”

Intelligent production for maximum quality

The BMW Group has established state-of-the-art, intelligent and efficient production processes for its in-house developed sixth-generation (Gen6) high-voltage battery. The new cylindrical round cells are integrated directly into the high-voltage battery, based on the “cell-to-pack” principle. All production steps are continuously monitored inline and comprehensively documented in real time. In-house developed AI assistants and agents analyse this data and, together with more than 300 employees and 250 robots at Plant Woodruff, ensure the zero-defect battery production. At the same time, the extensive use of artificial intelligence enhances Overall Equipment Effectiveness (OEE) in production. Well before commissioning, digital twins of production and virtual reality applications support planning and employee training.

Training in a virtual factory

All production staff at Plant Woodruff complete a VR training program developed on site. Within a virtual factory, they can practice real manufacturing operations under realistic conditions. This virtual environment replicates the plant’s production lines in meticulous detail, requiring only a set of VR goggles and a PC. The training helps employees develop an understanding of relevant processes and builds confidence in operating the equipment before using the actual manufacturing systems for the first time.

Just three years from start of construction to series production

Following the official groundbreaking in June 2023, construction of the new plant began in September 2023. In September 2024, while construction was still under way, installation of the manufacturing equipment commenced. Preparations for production started in summer 2025, and the first test and pre-series batteries have been rolling off the assembly line since then. The series launch is scheduled for December 2026. “Plant Woodruff demonstrates how quickly we can scale a new battery concept to industrial production,” said Rich Everly, Vice President of Production at BMW Group Plant Woodruff. “The key factor is the synergy between a skilled and dedicated team and the continuous exchange of experience within the production network.”

Gen6 battery cells with reduced carbon footprint

The Gen6 battery cells used in the BMW iX5’s high-voltage battery include a high proportion of secondary materials in the cobalt, lithium and nickel content. Renewable energy is also used in the production of anode and cathode materials, as well as in cell manufacturing. Compared with the Gen5 cell used in the BMW iX, CO₂e emissions have been reduced by around 28 percent per watt-hour. Plant Woodruff does not use any fossil fuels during normal operations, while the site’s industrial trucks are powered by hydrogen.

Global production strategy: local for local

Installation of the Gen6 high-voltage batteries takes place at five new production facilities, which the BMW Group is building close to its vehicle plants, in line with its “local for local” principle. In addition to Woodruff, state-of-the-art high-voltage battery assembly plants are also being built in Irlbach-Straßkirchen (Lower Bavaria), Shenyang (China) and San Luis Potosí (Mexico). The latest generation of high-voltage batteries has been in series production in Debrecen, Hungary, since October 2025. This “local for local” approach strengthens regional infrastructure and existing facilities and helps secure jobs. The global production network for high-voltage batteries benefits from close collaboration between the German pilot plants and series production facilities worldwide.

How the BMW Group assembles its Gen6 high-voltage batteries

The BMW Group sources battery cells for its high-voltage batteries from leading cell manufacturers. The highest technical standards apply. Upon receipt of goods, additional measurements – such as voltage checks – are carried out. Next comes so-called cell clustering, where the battery cells are connected to coolers. This step ensures optimal insulation and cooling of the cells. The cell clusters and cell contact system are then laser-cleaned and welded with pinpoint precision. The inline inspection continuously monitors each weld seam in real time. An innovative foaming process follows, ensuring that all elements are protected as a mechanical unit. The hardened foam guarantees the safety, stability and durability of the high-voltage battery. The housing is then closed, sealed and riveted. In the final assembly step, the Energy Master – the central control unit – is installed onto the high-voltage battery. A permanently elastic sealing adhesive is applied to ensure a reliable seal. Finally, each high-voltage battery undergoes a 100% end-of-line inspection. From Woodruff, the high-voltage batteries are transported to Plant Spartanburg, located just 15 miles away.

The BMW iX5's high-voltage battery: 800-volt, with high energy content

The first battery-electric BMW iX5 is based on sixth-generation BMW eDrive technology, featuring round cells and 800-volt technology. With an available energy content of 144 kWh in the US and 141 kWh in the EU (net), the BMW iX5 60 xDrive boasts the largest high-voltage battery of any fully-electric BMW model to date. Propulsion is provided by e-drives on both the front and rear axles, and by the electric BMW xDrive all-wheel drive.

Landshut. The BMW Group is expanding its expertise in the field of physical AI, with BMW Group Plant Landshut taking on central software development tasks for AI-supported robotics in component production. The focus is on open software platforms, the generation, provision and processing of training data, simulation and motion planning, as well as the training of robotic systems. These activities complement the pilot projects already underway exploring the use of humanoid robotics at Plants Leipzig and Spartanburg.

Landshut is leveraging its role as a centre of expertise for in-house component production. The wide range of products and manufacturing processes provides ideal conditions for developing and evaluating new approaches using AI-supported robotics under real-world production conditions. At the heart of these activities is the question of which tasks will be suited to humanoid robotic systems in the future – particularly where flexibility, fine motor skills and an understanding of the working environment are required. For this purpose, Plant Landshut is developing software that enables robots to perceive their environment, evaluate situations and derive appropriate actions independently.

“At BMW Group Plant Landshut, we are combining software expertise with industrial practice in our component production. This allows us to test new technologies at an early stage and carefully evaluate their benefits for production,” says Dr Wolfgang Bluemlhuber, head of Driving Dynamics and In-house Component Manufacturing.

Technological foundations for AI-supported robotic systems
The starting point is further development of the software architecture. At its Landshut facility, the BMW Group relies on open platforms that enable the flexible and scalable training of robots by combining traditional (deterministic) programming with modern AI models (Vision-Language-Action (VLA) models), integrating visual information, language comprehension and robot actions. The goal is a modular robotics ecosystem in which diverse systems work together. This creates a technical basis for new functionality and a wide variety of industrial applications.

This requires reliable data. At Plant Landshut, the project team captures data from real production environments and test setups, and integrates it into robot simulations, in which movement patterns and motion planning are modelled virtually. This enables processes to be tested in advance and learning processes to be accelerated. New approaches are initially trialled outside of ongoing production, implemented in pilot projects and then scaled up in stages.

In parallel, humanoid robotic systems acquire new skill sets through demonstration-based learning. In this process, movement patterns and work sequences are first demonstrated by the project team. The data generated in this way is collected by camera systems, motion capture suits and data gloves. It is then converted into generalisable behavioural models – known as policies – that can be applied to different tasks and use cases.

“For us, it is crucial to develop the technology in very close alignment with real-world requirements. We are not just testing what is technically possible, but also where humanoid robotics can truly deliver reliable benefits in component production. This gradually creates a clear picture of which applications are suitable for industrial use,” says Christoph Jagoda, the Physical AI project manager at BMW Group Plant Landshut. 

Potential uses in component production
On this basis, Plant Landshut is working on applications for humanoid robotics in component production. The focus is on tasks requiring a high degree of flexibility, fine-motor skills and a good understanding of objects and working environments. This includes recognising and interpreting environments, determining position and status, planning efficient movements, and precisely gripping and moving components.

To refine the basic technology, the BMW Group is working closely at its Landshut site with partners from industry and academia. This includes, in particular, direct cooperation with Athenyx Robotics, a startup founded specifically for this field of technology that originated at the Laboratory for Machine Tools and Production Engineering (WZL) at RWTH Aachen University and is located in close proximity to BMW Group Plant Landshut.

The tech company is developing AI-based software for intelligent robotic systems in conjunction with BMW Group specialists. The primary focus is on creating a so-called “intelligence stack” that integrates perception, learning, simulation and decision-making. The aim is to enable humanoid robots to perform complex tasks in industrial environments independently. This requires the systems to be able to perceive their environment, evaluate situations and derive appropriate actions accordingly. The platform-based approach means that acquired skills can be transferred across different robotic systems and use cases in the future.

In addition, Plant Landshut is collaborating with specialists the University of Applied Sciences Landshut – for example, on data generation, simulation and the development and testing of specific use cases.

-BMW Group, Toyota Motor Europe, Repsol and Bosch are launching a pilot in Spain to demonstrate under real-world conditions how existing vehicles can operate exclusively on 100% renewable gasoline.

-The six-month initiative, which began in July 2026, will deploy Toyota and BMW vehicles powered by Repsol’s Nexa 95 100% renewable gasoline, supported by Bosch’s digital fuel tracking system.

-The pilot will provide real-world evidence that renewable fuels can be deployed at scale today using existing vehicles, refuelling infrastructure and digital certification technologies.

Munich, 15 July 2026 – The BMW Group, in collaboration with Toyota Motor Europe (TME), Bosch and Repsol, today announces the launch of a pioneering six-month pilot project in Spain. The pilot, which started in early July, will demonstrate the real-world potential of Vehicles running Exclusively on Eligible Fuels (VEEF)*.

The initiative will deploy a fleet of around 20 Toyota and BMW vehicles, powered by Repsol’s 100% renewable gasoline (Nexa 95), and supported by Bosch’s advanced digital fuel tracking technology.

This pilot aims to provide tangible, real-world evidence that Vehicles Exclusively running on Eligible Fuels can be effectively deployed at scale, supporting Europe’s transition to decarbonise mobility through a complementary, technology-neutral approach while leaving no one behind.

"Technology openness is a key pillar of the BMW Group strategy – at the same time our goal is always to have more environmentally friendly and efficient vehicles on the road. Our vehicles as a part of this future oriented pilot, will help to gain valuable data helping us to offer our global customer the best and most efficient powertrain also in the future.” says Dr. Stefan Heller, Head of Development of the VEEF programme at BMW Group.

The pilot will focus on three key objectives:
-Availability of renewable gasoline in the market – leveraging Repsol’s infrastructure, currently the only provider of 100% renewable gasoline at public fuel stations in Spain
-Readiness of digital tracking and certification technologies – enabled by Bosch’s “Digital Fuel Twin” system, which certifies renewable fuel usage across the full lifecycle
-Operational deployment of VEEF fleets – demonstrating that existing vehicles can run today on 100% renewable fuels using existing infrastructure

Bosch’s system will collect and validate refuelling data from multiple sources, including vehicle data, fuel stations and fuel card transactions, ensuring robust, transparent tracking of renewable fuel usage.

“With our 'Digital Fuel Twin,' Bosch is bringing full digital transparency to the entire fuel value chain to reliably track and verify the renewable fuels from the moment they enter the market right down to the end consumer. By precisely monitoring fuel usage on individual vehicles in real-time, we are building the foundation of trust and regulatory compliance needed for higher acceptance of renewable fuels in the mobility and transport sector”, says Dr Marko Babic, Head of Product Area at Bosch– in charge of the Digital Fuel Twin.

A scalable solution using existing vehicles and infrastructure
Unlike solutions that require new vehicle technologies or infrastructure investments, the pilot uses existing Toyota and Lexus passenger cars provided by Toyota España (TES), and BMW Group fleet vehicles.

It highlights the immediate scalability of renewable fuels as a drop-in solution for decarbonising road transport. Repsol’s Nexa 95 renewable gasoline is produced from RED-compliant feedstocks, offering significant greenhouse gas reductions compared to fossil fuels, while remaining fully compatible with today’s gasoline engines and infrastructure.

Spain has been selected as the optimal location for this demonstration due to the availability of renewable gasoline, strong partner collaboration, and Toyota España’s operational support.

“At Repsol, we believe every emissions-reduction solution has a role to play in decarbonizing transport. This project underscores how renewable fuels can expand consumer choice, offering another way to reduce carbon footprints using existing vehicles and infrastructure. As the only company currently supplying 100% renewable gasoline at public service stations in Spain, Repsol is proud to contribute its expertise and infrastructure alongside Toyota, BMW, and Bosch. The project’s real-world data will demonstrate the value of a technology-neutral approach to Europe’s mobility transition”. – Estíbaliz Pombo, Deputy Director of Energy Products at Repsol

Strengthening the case for technology neutrality in Europe The pilot is designed to generate robust data and insights that will support ongoing European policy discussions on decarbonising the automotive sector.

With EU policy currently focused predominantly on electrification, the project aims to demonstrate that renewable fuels can play a complementary and scalable role in reducing CO₂ emissions. Data and intermediate findings from the pilot will be shared with EU policymakers, industry stakeholders and media audiences, contributing to discussions around technology neutrality and the potential inclusion of VEEF vehicles within future regulatory frameworks.

“We believe renewable fuels can play a key role alongside electrification in reducing CO₂ emissions. As the transition progresses, it is becoming clear that there is a growing risk that 100% zero-emission vehicles by 2035 may not be fully achieved. In such a scenario, renewable fuels can help bridge the gap to deliver carbon neutrality, especially when combined with hybrid and plug-in hybrid technologies. This pilot aims to demonstrate how renewable fuels can make a meaningful and sustainable contribution to decarbonisation today, for both new and existing vehicles.” — Pascal Ruch, Vice President Corporate & Governmental Affairs, Toyota Motor Europe

Driving measurable impact
A key success factor of the project will be promoting the effective use of renewable fuel across the fleet, supporting emissions reductions and advocacy impact. The pilot will also provide valuable insights for R&D validation and monitoring methods, the scalability of existing approaches for tracking physical fueling, and fuel operator’s ability to link fuel consumption to individual vehicles.

* Eligible fuels: Refers to renewable and low-carbon fuels that comply with EU sustainability criteria under the Renewable Energy Directive (RED) and deliver significant greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions reductions on a well-to-wheel basis compared to fossil fuels. This includes sustainably produced biofuels and renewable fuels derived from waste, residues or renewable energy sources, as recognised in ACEA and FuelsEurope positions supporting the deployment of Vehicles Exclusively running on Eligible Fuels (VEEF).

Spartanburg, South Carolina. The BMW Group announced today the completion of a $1.7 billion investment in its South Carolina operations. The company celebrated the milestone at the "Home of X" event at BMW Group Plant Spartanburg, reaffirming its longstanding commitment in the United States through continued investment and innovation leadership. With this milestone, BMW Group has completed the expansion of Plant Spartanburg and the construction of Plant Woodruff, establishing the foundation for the assembly of fully electric BMW vehicles in South Carolina. The United States remains one of BMW Group’s most important markets and business ecosystems worldwide.

The event also marked the world premiere of the new, fifth-generation BMW X5. BMW confirmed that the BMW iX5 will be the first fully electric BMW assembled in the United States, starting in late 2026.

"When we announced our investment plans for South Carolina in 2022, we made a clear commitment to the future of the BMW Group in the United States," said Milan Nedeljković, Chairman of the Board of Management, BMW AG. "Today, we are delivering on that commitment. The completion of our investments in Plant Spartanburg and Plant Woodruff demonstrates our confidence in the United States and reinforces South Carolina’s role at the center of BMW Group’s global operations."

Together, Plant Spartanburg and Plant Woodruff form a highly integrated network supporting the future of BMW X model assembly and electrification in the United States.

Home of X.

Home of X recognizes the significant role the United States plays in BMW Group’s global operations. South Carolina is the home of BMW Group’s largest plant worldwide. For more than 50 years, BMW has maintained a strong commitment in the United States, growing its presence to nearly 30 locations across 12 states. Today, BMW Group’s business activities in the U.S. support more than 120,000 jobs nationwide and contribute more than $43.3 billion annually to the U.S. economy.

Established more than three decades ago, BMW Group Plant Spartanburg is the global center of competence for BMW X models. Since 1994, more than 7.3 million BMW vehicles have been assembled in South Carolina for customers in the United States and around the world. In 2025, 412,799 BMW X models were assembled at Plant Spartanburg – this marked the seventh time the plant has exceeded 400,000 units.

Approximately half of the plant's current production is exported to nearly 120 countries, helping to make BMW the leading automotive exporter in the United States by value. To date, nearly 3 million BMWs have been exported from the United States, valued at over $113 billion.

The completion of BMW Group’s $1.7 billion investment in South Carolina represents the latest chapter in the company’s longstanding commitment in the United States. Together, Plant Spartanburg and Plant Woodruff will enable the assembly of the next generation of BMW X vehicles, including fully electric models, while strengthening BMW Group’s ability to serve customers around the world.

With two plants, over 400 suppliers, and many longstanding strategic partners across the country, the United States remains central to BMW Group’s global strategy. This foundation supports future growth, innovation, electrification, and customer choice for decades to come.

New BMW X5 Available in Five Drivetrains.

A centerpiece of the Home of X celebration was the world premiere of the new BMW X5. The X5 established the premium Sports Utility Vehicle segment and became one of the most successful products in BMW history. Since 1999, over 3 million BMW X5 models have been sold around the world, a third of which were sold in the U.S.

Assembled at Plant Spartanburg for over 25 years, the new BMW X5 becomes the first vehicle offered with five drivetrain technologies. The options span internal combustion, battery electric, plug-in hybrid electric, diesel and, soon, fuel cell electric powered by hydrogen. This breadth reflects BMW Group's technology-open approach and commitment to customer choice.

"Our strategic course remains unchanged. We will continue to pursue the same technology-open strategy that has made BMW successful and will continue to make us successful in the future," continued Nedeljković.

Plant Spartanburg will be the first plant in the BMW Group’s global production network capable of assembling a single vehicle with five different drivetrain technologies on one assembly line, demonstrating the technology-open strategy at the highest level.

By offering a broad range of drivetrain technologies, BMW enables customers to select the vehicle that best suits their needs, driving habits, and preferences. This flexibility reflects BMW Group’s conviction that multiple technologies will play an important role in the transition to sustainable mobility.

"The new BMW X5 demonstrates our belief that innovation and customer choice go hand in hand," said Sebastian Mackensen, President & CEO, BMW of North America. "Our customers both in the U.S. and around the world will love the new BMW X5 – and our technology-open approach puts them in the driver’s seat to enjoy the performance and premium experience that define BMW, regardless of which drivetrain they choose."

BMW Group also confirmed that the BMW iX5 will be the first fully electric BMW vehicle assembled in the United States. Assembly is scheduled to begin at Plant Spartanburg before the end of 2026.

The announcement represents another important milestone in BMW Group’s electrification strategy. It fulfills a key commitment made as part of the company’s 2022 investment announcement. By 2030, BMW Group will assemble at least six fully electric BMW models in the United States, supported by locally assembled high-voltage batteries from Plant Woodruff.

"The future of BMW X models will continue to be shaped in South Carolina," said Dr. Robert Engelhorn, President & CEO, BMW Manufacturing Co. "From highly efficient combustion engines and plug-in hybrid systems to battery-electric and future hydrogen-powered vehicles, Plant Spartanburg will be able to assemble a broad range of drivetrain technologies for customers in the U.S. and around the world. This flexibility of Plant Spartanburg and our global production network strengthens our resilience, supports customer choice, and enables us to meet customer demand at any level."

Digitalization and AI in Production: Key Principles of BMW iFACTORY are implemented in Plants Spartanburg and Woodruff.

The BMW iFACTORY concept defines the BMW Group’s strategic vision for the future of its global production network, driven by efficiency, sustainability, and digitalization. At both Plant Spartanburg and Plant Woodruff, the guiding principles of the BMW iFACTORY are already a reality.

Smart automation, end-to-end data integration, and virtual planning form a highly connected production system — with a highly skilled workforce at its core. Digital twins allow processes in both plants to be optimized long before the first component reaches the assembly line. 3D virtual simulations enable seamless implementation, reduce complexity, and enhance workflows and ergonomics for associates.

Artificial intelligence is deeply anchored in the assembly of both plants. AI-supported applications, including self-correcting robotics and vision-based quality controls, help ensure consistently high standards in a dynamic manufacturing environment. At both plants, AIQX (Artificial Intelligence Quality Next), an in-house IT platform at the BMW Group, is being applied. AIQX uses sensors and camera systems along the production line to automate quality processes. AI evaluates the data and provides real-time feedback to employees on the line.

At the same time, Plant Spartanburg is advancing the next stage of innovation through physical AI. By utilizing humanoid robots from Figure AI, Plant Spartanburg has become a pioneer of BMW’s Physical AI Initiative. These applications support associates in physically demanding and repetitive tasks, enabling greater focus on precision, craftsmanship, and quality that define every BMW vehicle.

At Plant Woodruff, the BMW Group is deploying intelligent, next-generation manufacturing powered by cutting-edge technologies — first proven in virtual environments. Guided by the BMW iFACTORY principles, the new plant also reduces complexity and sets new standards in high-voltage battery assembly. Following the “Cell-to-Pack” principle, the cells are assembled directly into the housing without the former processes of cell coating and cell module production.

All in all, innovative technologies at both plants support and protect people. In doing so, digitalization enhances production performance, resilience, and the flexibility and adaptability needed to meet the mobility demands of today and tomorrow.

Munich/Spartanburg, USA. BMW Group intensifies the usage of digitalization and the use of artificial intelligence (AI) in production. With so-called Physical AI, which connects digital AI with real machines and robots, intelligent systems such as humanoid robots can be integrated into real production processes. Following a successful deployment with the humanoid robot Figure 02 at BMW Group Plant Spartanburg in the USA, the further-developed successor, Figure 03, will now start at Spartanburg, working on complex sequencing applications in logistics.

“Plant Spartanburg is the birthplace of humanoid robotics in BMW Manufacturing’s operational day-to-day activities. Having already successfully completed a pilot with Figure 02 in our body shop, we are now looking forward to deploying Figure 03 for a sequencing use case in logistics,” says Ulrich Wieland, Vice President of Production Control and Logistics, BMW Manufacturing.

“Our 11-month deployment of Figure 02 proved that humanoids are no longer lab experiments - they can be a valuable asset in establishing a flexible, reliable manufacturing workforce,” says Brett Adcock, Founder & CEO of Figure AI. “We are excited to continue our work in Spartanburg as Figure tackles the complexity of the assembly and logistics hall.”

The BMW Group already gained important experience with humanoid robotics at Plant Spartanburg in 2025. In collaboration with the technology company Figure AI, the Figure 02 robot supported the production of more than 30,000 BMW X3 vehicles over ten months. In the body shop, the robot inserted sheet-metal parts for the welding process - a task that demands high speed and accuracy and can be physically demanding.

The collaboration demonstrated that humanoid robots can safely perform precise, repeatable work steps under real production conditions.

Next step with the next-generation Figure 03 robot

The findings gained from this project form the basis for the next step with the successor model, Figure 03. “The robot introduces several new features for expanded applications. These include soft components designed for enhanced safety, wireless charging designed for higher availability and audio functions for speech-to-speech communication, along with improved hands with tactile sensors and palm cameras designed to increase precision and dexterity,” explains Adcock.    

In the new sequencing use case application, delivered components initially arrive in larger containers, unsorted. Figure 03 will pick them up and sort them into a sequencing trolley. The trolley will then be taken to a defined collection point for onward transport. An automated tugger train or a Smart Transport Robot will then transport the parts to the installation location, where they will be provided to assembly employees “just in sequence”. This use case occurs frequently in automotive production logistics and offers potential for further development and scalability.

The use of humanoid robots is part of the BMW Group’s broader strategy to expand its automation portfolio with Physical AI. Humanoid robotics is a value-adding complement to existing automation. Its potential lies particularly in monotonous, ergonomically demanding, or safety-critical activities. The aim is to protect and most effectively utilize employees while further improving workplaces.

BMW iFACTORY applications in Plant Spartanburg Assembly Hall 

The new project is closely linked to the digital transformation of production at Plant Spartanburg. Hall 52, where variants of the BMW X3 and, in the future, the electrified BMW iX5 will be assembled, has been extensively expanded and updated. Digital applications were already used during planning and continue to be implemented in the BMW iFACTORY approach in daily production operations. Before components arrive at the production line, virtual 3D simulations help optimize processes and enable error-free implementation from the outset.

The BMW Virtual Factory makes complexity manageable and supports employees by simulating human movement sequences. This tool refines manual processes from planning through to the production line. A key objective is to optimize employee ergonomics.

Artificial Intelligence is also being used in quality assurance. With AIQX (Artificial Intelligence Quality Next), Plant Spartanburg uses AIQX for visual and acoustic quality inspection to ensure consistent quality in a dynamic production environment. BMW has established AIQX as a standard and is assessing options to make the system available to suppliers as well. It uses camera systems and sensors during line operations and provides line employees with immediate feedback via smart devices.

Munich / Paris.  The BMW Group and Mistral AI are partnering to advance the use of AI in crash simulation. The aim is to improve quality, accuracy and speed in complex engineering tasks. The collaboration marks a first step towards scaling domain-specific AI across further areas of vehicle development and the BMW Group value chain.   

Munich/Dresden. BMW and SOLARWATT are further expanding their collaboration in the field of smart energy and home charging solutions.

With the launch of the first models in the Neue Klasse, the BMW iX3 and the BMW i3, BMW is beginning the rollout of its bidirectional charging technology.

Following Germany’s first commercial Vehicle-to-Grid (V2G) offering - available since March 2026 - the next logical step for Vehicle-to-Home (V2H) is now being taken: BMW iX3 and BMW i3 customers can now make even more extensive use of this new technology in their vehicles.

With the increasing electrification of mobility and customer households, new opportunities are emerging for holistic energy optimization and the integration of both ecosystems.

As part of this, BMW and SOLARWATT are optimizing the integration of the electric vehicle into the customer’s household. To this end, the SOLARWATT Manager home energy management system (HEMS) will serve as the link between both ecosystems in the future.

The SOLARWATT HEMS handles the central and intelligent control and optimization of energy flows in the household via coordinated and communicating components. This efficiently optimizes the generation, storage, and consumption of energy.

The electric vehicle is seamlessly integrated into the interaction between the photovoltaic system (PV system), home storage, and consumers in the home as an additional storage unit.

This home network integration is made possible by combining BMW Neue Klasse models with the bidirectional BMW Wallbox Professional, which not only charges the vehicle but can also feed energy back into the home when needed.

The market launch for the integration of bidirectional BMW vehicles into SOLARWATT’s new HEMS for Vehicle-to-Home (V2H) applications is planned for late 2026 in Germany, Austria and the Netherlands.

BMW and SOLARWATT have been collaborating in the field of electromobility since 2013. In 2021, the two partners also launched a home storage system featuring a battery module that incorporates components also used in the BMW Group’s electric vehicles. Since 2025, the successor model, SOLARWATT Battery vision, has been available, with its housing and design created by BMW Designworks USA.

Smart Connectivity: Energy Management and Home Network Integration in perfect harmony

Since the launch of the Neue Klasse, BMW has relied on Vehicle-to-Home (V2H) technology as a gateway to bidirectional charging, the use of solar energy, and the reduction of energy costs.

The offering is now being expanded to include home network integration for optimal energy management. This marks a significant advancement for V2H applications. The intelligent interaction of all components (BMW electric vehicle, BMW Wallbox Professional, HEMS from SOLARWATT, home storage, and other consumers) creates a holistic system that not only optimizes self-consumption but also takes the flexibility and efficiency of the home energy supply to a new level.

Homeowners control their settings via the My BMW App and the SOLARWATT Home app. With the V2H option, the electric car serves as additional storage for surplus solar power generated by the PV system. In addition to optimizing the interaction of all components, the SOLARWATT Manager allows for the integration of dynamic electricity rates and the incorporation of solar forecasts to further optimize charging and discharging processes, further reduce energy costs, and increase self-sufficiency.

The SOLARWATT Manager is designed to be open: In addition to SOLARWATT's product range, home storage systems from other brands can also be integrated. This creates a flexible home energy system that can be expanded in stages.

Overall Optimization: Electric Car Complements Home Battery Storage

“Drivers of a Neue Klasse electric car like the BMW iX3 can use the additional storage to make even more efficient use of self-generated solar power, increase self-consumption, and thus reduce their reliance on expensive grid electricity. For many homeowners, the prospect of expanding an existing home battery storage system with an electric car is highly attractive. This significantly increases the benefits of one’s own PV system, lowers electricity costs, and makes the home even less dependent on purchasing electricity from the grid,” says SOLARWATT CPO Peter Bachmann.

“At the same time, bidirectional charging holds enormous potential for the energy transition, as the batteries of electric vehicles collectively form a massive storage reserve. If this flexibility is intelligently integrated into energy markets and households, it can help relieve the strain on power grids, better integrate renewable energy, and make additional storage capacity available quickly and cost-effectively,” says Marcus Krieg, Vice President New Business at the BMW Group.

Market Launch and Future Strategic Direction

Following the next public milestone at Intersolar (The Smarter E), the focus is on the phased implementation of the next project milestones leading up to the market launch at the end of this year.

BMW and SOLARWATT consistently place the customer and their entire ecosystem at the center of their efforts. The partners aim to enable seamless and reliable interaction between all components in the home and in the vehicle. In doing so, they create a consistent, integrated customer experience and strengthen their position as leading companies in the field of connected vehicle and home usage.

Munich/Dingolfing. One out of two million: A BMW i5 M60 xDrive sedan in Tansanit Blue assembled at Plant Dingolfing is the two-millionth all-electric vehicle produced by the BMW Group. The anniversary vehicle is going to a customer in Spain.

BMW Group Plant Dingolfing: home to the most all-electric models

Plant Dingolfing began series production of all-electric automobiles in 2021 with the BMW iX. Today, it builds the widest range of BEV models within the BMW Group: the BMW iX, the BMW i5 sedan and touring, and the BMW i7. Since 2021, more than 320,000 all-electric vehicles have already been built at the Lower Bavarian site. This means that almost every sixth of the BMW Group’s total of two million BEVs comes from Dingolfing. In 2025, more than a quarter of the vehicles produced at Plant Dingolfing were all-electric.

Clear strategy with maximum flexibility

As part of the BMW iFACTORY, the BMW Group continues to pursue a technology-open approach in its plants: vehicles with different powertrains are flexibly produced in a mixed build on a single production line. For several years now, at least one all-electric model has been rolling off the line at every German BMW Group plant - e-mobility has become the new normal across the company’s production network. In doing so, the BMW Group is making a significant contribution to Germany being the world’s second-largest production location for electric cars today.

Munich. The BMW Group is adopting a new and innovative hydrogen tank technology for the BMW iX5 Hydrogen. The new arrangement and size of the tanks enables a higher range of up to 750 km (up to 385 miles)*. The new BMW Hydrogen Flat Storage system offers the added advantage of making exceptionally efficient use of the space it occupies in the vehicle and is compatible with the Gen6 high-voltage battery, meaning that no room is lost inside the cabin. Models with fuel cell technology can therefore be built on the same production line as those with other drive system types. The 700 bar high-pressure hydrogen tanks additionally benefit from the mechanical protection provided by the vehicle structure, further increasing safety.

“Our new storage concept allows us to fit the hydrogen drive system into the new X5 precisely and in a way that saves space,” says Dr Joachim Post, Member of the Board of Management of BMW AG responsible for Development. “Think of it as installation Tetris: every customer gets the drive system best suited to their needs and a true BMW X5 with no compromises. This is technology openness and the art of engineering just the way we developers love them!”

Smart storage, more range.
The new flat tank system consists of seven high-pressure tanks made of carbon-fibre reinforced composite, which are connected with one another in parallel and integrated into a robust metal frame. What makes the design special is that, instead of individual pressure vessels, there are several chambers connected to form an enclosed unit. This unit is controlled by a central main valve. In this way, the optimised storage concept enables the BMW iX5 Hydrogen to achieve a greater range. This development alone accounts for several patent applications filed by the BMW Group. The system is able to store at least seven kilograms of hydrogen in total and can be filled from empty in under five minutes. As is customary for BMW hydrogen models, refuelling is safe, clean and fast. 

Experience hallmark BMW driving pleasure, refuel faster, drive further.
The BMW Hydrogen Flat Storage technology forms part of the powertrain. It combines with the fuel cell system and an innovative high-voltage battery to deliver the driving pleasure for which BMW is renowned. Here, the new BMW iX5 Hydrogen also benefits from the new Heart of Joy drivetrain and chassis control software, as well as BMW Dynamic Performance Control. It is also equipped with latest-generation Gen3 fuel cell technology, which is more efficient and powerful than any preceding generation. 

Flexible production to meet customer requirements. 
Thanks to the smart and highly flexible architecture of the new BMW X5, five different drive system variants of the model can be built to suit customer requirements: from battery-electric systems and plug-in hybrids through highly efficient conventional drive systems to hydrogen fuel cell technology.
Synergies in production are optimised. Uniform geometrical specifications for energy storage systems and drive components reduce technical complexity and lower production costs. At the same time, the flexible platform increases manufacturing robustness, facilitates the integration of new technologies and maximises scalability. It paves the way for widespread introduction of the BMW iX5 Hydrogen into the BMW Group’s production network in 2028.

BMW Hydrogen strategy 
A technology-open approach and a diverse product portfolio continue to be key success factors for the BMW Group. By integrating fuel cell technology into the new BMW X5 series, the company is strategically expanding its production line-up and making the advantages of hydrogen available to its customers. Hydrogen enables electric driving with a long range and fast refuelling, diversifies energy sources and reduces dependence on a single infrastructure or chain of raw materials.

Through the "HyPowerDrive" project the development of the powertrain and the tank system of the BMW iX5 Hydrogen is funded by the Federal Ministry of Transport (BMV) within the framework of the IPCEI Hy2Move. The federal government is providing funding of EUR 191 million. In addition, the project is (co-)financed by the state of Bavaria with a total of EUR 82 million. The funding is implemented by the Project Management Jülich (PtJ) and coordinated by NOW GmbH.

Richmond Hill, ON.  BMW Group Canada today announced a major expansion of public charging access and simplicity for BMW and MINI electric vehicle drivers, unveiling the availability of Shell Recharge within the My BMW and MINI apps across Canada, alongside compatibility and availability of charging on the North American Charging Standard (NACS) Tesla Supercharger network. Together, these enhancements dramatically improve day-to-day convenience, streamline trip planning and payment, and leverage North America’s most extensive fast-charging infrastructure - reflecting BMW’s commitment to making EV ownership as effortless as possible.

One account, more stations, simpler charging.

Shell Recharge is now integrated into the My BMW and MINI apps, aggregating many of Canada’s leading Charge Point Operators (CPOs) under a single account. With Shell Recharge, drivers can locate, activate, stop, and pay for charging sessions right in the app - no juggling multiple cards or apps. As of March 2026, Shell Recharge supports charging with major Canadian networks including Shell Recharge, FLO, ChargePoint, Circuit électrique, BC Hydro, EV Connect Canada, and more, with compatible Tesla Superchargers being added today. Access across the United States is also supported.

eRoute trip planning in the My BMW and MINI apps recommends compatible stations along the route and enables drivers to send the itinerary directly to the vehicle for seamless navigation and charging stops.

Expanding access with Tesla Superchargers and NACS.

Starting in 2026, all-new BMW models in Canada, such as the upcoming iX3 and i3, will be factory-equipped with a built-in NACS port, enabling direct access to Tesla Superchargers.

Existing BMW and MINI models with CCS ports must only use the approved Lectron Vortex Plus NACS-to-CCS DC adapter to charge at NACS stations. Once the availability of the adapter is added in-app (Charging > Adapters > Add Adapter > “NACS (DC)”), compatible NACS locations will be unlocked and appear in search results and routing.

Integration with Shell Recharge allows BMW and MINI drivers to start a Supercharger session through the My BMW/MINI app. Drivers will see in-app which stations are compatible, whether an adapter is required, and where Magic Dock Superchargers (with CCS) are available.

Built for confidence: speed, coverage, and clarity.

Superchargers commonly provide 250–325 kW DC fast charging (station and vehicle dependent). BMW vehicles automatically manage charging speed for optimal performance based on state of charge and temperature. Pricing, including any site-specific fees, is handled seamlessly via Shell Recharge and appears in the app’s Charge History.

BMW Remote Software Upgrades (RSU) will enable NACS compatibility features across most current BMW and MINI BEVs. With the exception of the original BMW i3 (I01) and MINI Cooper SE (F56), all BEV models will be Supercharger-compatible once software prerequisites are met. The NACS RSU will roll out by model; customers will be notified in the app and vehicle as updates become available.

How it works: effortless charging in a few steps.

• Set up Shell Recharge in the My BMW or MINI app: open the Charging tile, select More…, then choose Shell Recharge under Services, accept terms, add payment, and you’re ready.
• Start a charge on site: open the Charging tile and tap “Charge here” - the app uses GPS to identify the station, you select the plug, agree and begin charging, and can stop the session from the app as well.
• Enable Plug & Charge where supported: enroll in Shell Recharge; after enrollment, a Plug & Charge contract is sent to the vehicle (up to 24 hours). In iDrive: Apps > Charging > Plug & Charge > toggle ON. The Goodbye screen will indicate when a Plug & Charge station is detected.
• Using a NACS adapter (for CCS vehicles): attach the adapter firmly to the connector, plug into the vehicle, and wait for charging to initiate (up to 1 minute). The vehicle’s indicator will flash blue once charging begins. To disconnect, stop the session in-app or at the vehicle, then press the adapter release buttons to remove.

BMW: a trusted legacy, now supercharged for the EV era.
For over a century, BMW has engineered premium vehicles that deliver joy in every journey. Today, that same commitment powers our approach to electrification: connecting customers to the best infrastructure with the most intuitive digital experience. By unifying a broad network of Canadian and U.S. charging providers through Shell Recharge - and by enabling access to NACS Superchargers - BMW is making public charging more available, more transparent, and more convenient than ever before.

Availability.

Shell Recharge integration in the My BMW and MINI apps was introduced across Canada in March 2026.

From today, Supercharger access is now available via Shell Recharge and Plug & Charge, as vehicles receive their necessary software updates. The My BMW and MINI apps, as well as in-vehicle notifications, will inform customers when access is ready for their specific model.

The approved Lectron Vortex Plus adapter can be purchased via the manufacturer, also listed in the My BMW and MINI apps. Warranty is provided by Lectron.

For more information, visit www.bmw.ca.

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BMW Group in Canada

BMW Group Canada, based in Richmond Hill, Ontario, is a wholly owned subsidiary of BMW AG and is responsible for the distribution of BMW luxury performance automobiles, Sports Activity Vehicles, Motorcycles, and MINI.  BMW Group Financial Services Canada is a division of BMW Group Canada and offers retail financing and leasing programs and protection products on new and pre-owned BMW and MINI automobiles, as well as retail financing for new and pre-owned BMW Motorcycles. A total network of 51 BMW automobile retail centres, 26 BMW motorcycle retailers, and 31 MINI retailers represents the BMW Group across the country.

For more information, please contact: 

Marc Belcourt
Director, Corporate Communications
BMW Group Canada
marc.belcourt@bmwgroup.ca 

Jean-Francois Taylor
Product and Technology Manager, Corporate Communications
BMW Group Canada
jean-francois.taylor@bmwgroup.ca

Munich / Zagreb. The BMW Group is cooperating with Rimac Technology (Croatia) on the new all-electric BMW i7.

The aim of the joint project is to bring the Gen6 technology developed by BMW for an innovative high-voltage storage system for more range and higher charging speed to the new all-electric BMW 7 Series Sedan.

The sixth generation of BMW eDrive technology (Gen6) is finding its way into the BMW brand's top-of-the-range all-electric model in the form of its 4695 lithium-ion cylindrical cell. The cell is characterised, among other things, by a 20 percent higher volumetric energy density compared to the prismatic cells of the Gen5.

The high-voltage battery, which combines Gen6 cell technology with the established Gen5 module design, enables the new BMW i7 to achieve a significantly increased range.

BMW i7 customers can also charge much faster thanks to the newly developed technology. The charging capacity is increased and the charging time reduced accordingly.

The new BMW i7 will celebrate its world premiere on April 22^nd  at Auto China 2026 in Beijing.

"We are quickly rolling out the technologies of the Neue Klasse across our entire model portfolio - including, of course, in our all-electric luxury sedan. The teams of both companies have developed a tailor-made solution for the new BMW i7," says Dr. Thomas Engelhardt, Senior VP Development High-Voltage Storage and Charging at the BMW Group. "The excellent collaboration with Rimac Technology is a good example of European innovative strength."

The high-voltage battery is manufactured on state-of-the-art equipment at Rimac Technology in Croatia and delivered ready for assembly at BMW Group Plant Dingolfing, the world's only production facility for the BMW 7 Series.

Mate Rimac, Founder and President of Rimac Group, CEO and CTO Bugatti Rimac says: “BMW has always been known for pushing engineering to the highest level, which made this collaboration especially exciting for us.
Together, we developed a high-voltage battery system that unlocks the full potential of the new cylindrical cells in record time, delivering significant improvements in energy, range, and charging performance.
We are proud to now see this system being produced at scale at our new Rimac Campus.”

Rimac Technology is a Tier 1 supplier belonging to the Rimac Group that specialises in electrification in the automotive sector with innovative products. The portfolio is defined by high-voltage battery systems, e-axles as well as electronics and software solutions that are developed and produced in-house. This makes it possible to offer solutions that combine advanced technology with a high degree of customisation. The long-term partnership with the BMW Group demonstrates the company's transformation from a niche supplier for super sports cars to a Tier 1 supplier for high-volume vehicle projects.

Munich. BMW Group Plant Munich is approaching the biggest milestone in the transformation process: series production of the BMW i3, the second model in the Neue Klasse range, gets underway here in August. This marks the start of the rollout of the Neue Klasse within the BMW Group’s global production network.

“We have been making rigorous preparations. With the BMW iFACTORY we have devised a consistent, strategic framework for our production,” explains Milan Nedeljković, Member of the Board of Management of BMW AG, Production. “We have paved the way for the upcoming start-ups in all our plants and have invested heavily in technologies, digitalisation and AI.”

BMW Group Plant Munich has undergone extensive modernisation in recent years. The result is a plant that now works even more efficiently, flexibly and digitally, and is optimally positioned for the requirements of electric mobility and the Neue Klasse.

But that’s not all: as of 2027, the Munich plant will exclusively produce all‑electric vehicles and thereby achieve a further boost in efficiency. This is assisted by proactive planning, close collaboration with development teams and suppliers, as well as modern production technology in the new structures. “We have considerably reduced production costs over recent years. With the start of production of the BMW i3, we will reduce overall production costs at the Munich plant by a further 10 per cent, bringing them below the level of the current vehicle generation,” says Peter Weber, Head of BMW Group Plant Munich. In addition to optimised production processes and targeted automation and digitalisation, the new vehicle architecture of the Neue Klasse also ensures efficiency.

Plant Munich is investing around 650 million euros in its transformation into a fully electric production site.

Highly efficient production at historic site

Plant Munich has been consistently reinventing itself for more than 100 years – from a location outside the city to today’s site surrounded by it. The facility has undergone a fundamental process of redevelopment for the Neue Klasse – with production of up to 1,000 vehicles a day continuing during this period. A new body shop and state-of-the-art vehicle assembly including new logistics areas were set up on an area spanning around a third of the plant’s footprint. Extensive updates have also been made to existing technologies.

Plant manager Peter Weber highlights what the workforce has achieved: “The people at the factory played an essential role in making this transformation a success. With their high level of expertise, enthusiasm and tremendous dedication, our employees have shown that world-class industrial production is possible even under the toughest conditions. The BMW i3 is just the beginning – several Neue Klasse models will be manufactured in Munich in the future, including the BMW i3 Touring.”

A vision for all technologies: the BMW iFACTORY

The BMW iFACTORY focuses on the areas of efficiency, sustainability and digitalisation. Within this framework, the company’s plants around the world are implementing site-specific solutions and, in so doing, strengthening the company’s resilience as well as its ability to deliver reliably at any time and worldwide. This vision has now also been consistently implemented across all technologies at BMW Group Plant Munich.

“We have rethought the entire value stream from supplier to finished customer vehicle. We have looked at every single process in detail and made optimisations. Now our plant is even more efficient, more flexible and even more digitised than ever before. We are thereby safeguarding the future viability of the plant,” adds Peter Weber.

In the press shop, steel and aluminium boards are turned into tens of thousands of components on highly automated press lines daily. Uniform press and tool standards across the global production network result in efficiencies on many levels: installation and integration of the systems are standardised, tools for the presses can be swapped within the network, and employees can work at various locations and help each other. An AI-assisted camera system supports quality control before an underground transport system moves the parts to the body shop. Output has increased significantly compared with previous structures. Cuts of steel and aluminium are collected, sorted and then used to manufacture new steel or aluminium coils.

Plant Munich has set up a new body shop for the Neue Klasse featuring systems planned and realised using a virtual twin. A total of 800 new industrial robots take care of the joining processes here; decreasing the number of joining processes to five reduces process complexity. With an automation rate of around 98 per cent, robots perform the majority of standardised processes. Automated surface inspection (ASI) assists with quality assurance.

In the paint shop at Plant Munich, digital and AI-assisted systems control central quality processes. Automated surface inspection (ASI) uses cameras and artificial intelligence to detect even the most minor deviations on the surface and documents them digitally. Automated surface processing (ASP) works on the variations detected directly during the running process. To purify the exhaust air, the paint shop uses the energy-efficient, electrically powered eRTO process. This is complemented by heat and energy recovery as well as water-saving cycles.

What once was the home of engine manufacturing at BMW Group Plant Munich has become a new assembly area for the Neue Klasse. The assembly area is set up for end-to-end digital processes: vehicles, systems and tools are interconnected and digital live tracking and automated inline quality checks support employees in the assembly line process. During assembly already, the BMW i3 digitally transmits the status of up to 20,000 features to the production system. Ergonomic workstations, height-adjustable systems and simplified processes lighten the load for employees, while targeted training supports new digital fields.

Aspart of the transformation, logistics at BMW Group Plant Munich has focused squarely on efficiency and direct integration of production. The logistics department at the Munich plant moves around 2.5 million parts every day; in future around 70 per cent of these parts will be delivered directly to the assembly workstations. This will reduce internal transport distances, save space and accelerate supply to the production lines. This is made possible by a multi-storey building structure developed specially for the plant’s city location. Delivery is at ground level and then conveyor technology transports the parts to the right levels, where they are distributed directly to the assembly workstations. This enables the principle of direct delivery to be applied systematically even in a multi-storey plant. At the same time, the level of automation in logistics has been significantly increased. Automated supply systems, smart transport robots and driverless transport systems will handle around 60 per cent of supply tasks in the future. A digital logistics control station manages all processes centrally, ensuring transparency and data-driven optimisation.

Unique to Plant Munich is the in-house seat manufacturing facility. It is a “plant inside a plant” and takes on a central role for quality assurance and expert evaluation within the production network. The seats for all versions of the models produced in Munich are manufactured here and delivered to vehicle assembly directly and “just in sequence”. The in‑house seat manufacturing facility is regarded as the benchmark for quality assurance across the BMW Group. Modern, largely automated processes ensure seamless quality control. This is complemented by fully automated end-of-line checks, including for safety-relevant components. The seat manufacturing facility also systematically strengthens the BMW Group’s in-house expertise. It serves as a competence centre and innovation hub, tests new materials, technologies and manufacturing concepts, and supports the evaluation of costs, quality and production processes – making an impact far beyond the Munich location.

Global network, regional value creation: high-voltage batteries and e-drive

With the new assembly plant for high-voltage batteries in Irlbach‑Straßkirchen (Lower Bavaria, Germany) around 90 minutes away, the BMW Group is significantly boosting value creation in the Bavaria region. In keeping with the “local for local” approach, Irlbach-Straßkirchen will deliver high-voltage Gen6 batteries to the Munich plant as well as other German locations. Here, the batteries will be installed in the BMW i3. Manufacture of the high-voltage batteries combines a rigorous zero-defect approach with the latest production technologies, which were developed at Bavarian pilot plants. With seamless inline quality controls, digital twins and the systematic use of artificial intelligence, the BMW Group is setting new standards in battery production.

The Gen6 e-motor for the BMW i3 is produced at BMW Group Plant Steyr in Austria – a location that has been manufacturing drivetrains for over 40 years. With the first e-motor in the portfolio, the plant is developing its role as a prime example of technology openness. All core components of the highly integrated e-drive – from the rotor and stator to the inverter and transmission – are produced on-site. New production lines and state‑of‑the‑art clean room environments have been set up for this. The aluminium foundry at BMW Group Plant Landshut supplies the e-motor housing for Plant Steyr.

Munich/Wackersdorf. The BMW Group is relocating its Recycling and Dismantling Centre (RDC) from Unterschleißheim to the company’s Wackersdorf site, with a significant expansion. At the new location, a technologically state-of-the-art competence centre for circularity is being built, advancing vehicle dismantling and recycling expertise for the future. Commissioning is scheduled for early 2029.

“The circular economy is a key element of the BMW Group’s corporate strategy,” says Jörg Lederbauer, Vice-President Circular Economy, Spare Parts Supply High Voltage Battery and Electric Powertrain at the BMW Group. “Our new competence centre in Wackersdorf will be a core component of our circular value chain and will help make the mobility of the future more resource efficient. We want to find the best way to keep materials in the cycle, ensuring that resources retain their value for further use in the long term. This will also reduce our dependence on primary raw materials. At the same time, the use of high-quality secondary materials will continue to significantly lower our vehicles’ carbon footprint.”

For more than 30 years, at its current location in Unterschleißheim, near Munich, the BMW Group Recycling and Dismantling Centre (RDC) has developed methods aimed at achieving significant advances in the recycling of parts and the recovery of materials, and has tested them in practice. The insights gained by the RDC into the recyclability of components and materials, in line with Design for Circularity principles, are already incorporated into product development at the BMW Group. These insights also feed into the cooperation with PreZero, which the BMW Group recently entered into in order to leverage the strategic and economic potential of the circular economy in end‑of‑life vehicle recycling. 

The recycling industry’s global network also benefits from the work of the RDC. Around 3,000 businesses in 32 countries rely on a shared recycling database for information on how recyclable components can be disassembled cost-effectively and valuable materials efficiently recovered.

At the future site, process, material and technology development will be even more closely integrated with vehicle recycling operations. The new scope of activities at the Competence Centre Circularity includes the recycling of hydrogen vehicles, automation of dismantling processes and development of expertise in innovative shredding and sorting technologies.

The BMW Group sees Wackersdorf as the ideal new location for the Competence Centre Circularity, with BMW Group Plant Wackersdorf having embodied flexibility for decades: Housing cockpit production, the Rolls-Royce door and flap production centre, parts supply for overseas plants and the battery testing centre, the site has wide-ranging expertise and is firmly established within the BMW Group network.

“In recent years, the company has set a decisive course for the future of the Wackersdorf location. Throughout this process, the entire plant team has consistently demonstrated flexibility. Building the competence centre for circularity here provides our site with a broader foundation. In this way, we are tapping into an attractive, future-oriented area of activity,” says Stefan Betz, head of BMW Group Plant Wackersdorf.

“The company is systematically continuing its successful transformation. Establishing the new Competence Centre Circularity here represents an important strategic decision by the company in favour of the Wackersdorf location – and, above all, its employees. As employee representatives, we also supported this,” says André Mandl, Works Council Chairman for BMW Group Plants Regensburg and Wackersdorf.

“In Wackersdorf, BMW has been a strong partner by our side for many decades. We are delighted that the BMW Group is reaffirming its commitment to the location with this move. It sends a clear signal for our site and for sustainable future technologies,” says Thomas Falter, Mayor of Wackersdorf.

“The cutting-edge Competence Centre Circularity will make a major contribution to regional value creation and further development of the circular economy,” adds Thomas Ebeling, District Administrator of Schwandorf District. “In combination with the trechnology transfer centre planned for Wackersdorf by the Regensburg University of Applied Sciences and the University of Applied Sciences Amberg Weiden, close integration of business and academia on the circular economy will now also be possible. In this way, we are strengthening the region.”

Following the location decision, the detailed planning phase for the Competence Centre Circularity at the new site can now begin. The existing RDC in Unterschleißheim will remain fully operational until the relocation. The BMW Group will provide further information on the next steps in due course.

From the management summary of the study: "The transformation of the entire transport sector towards fossil-free energy sources is a challenge that cannot be met by the electrification of drive systems alone.

It is therefore essential to realise the CO2 reduction potential of all energy sources.

In addition to hydrogen, for example, the focus here is primarily on liquid fuels that can be integrated into the supply infrastructure without technical modifications.

Renewable fuels - so-called Carbon Neutral Fuels, CNF for short - is a collective term that includes all fuels that have a lower CO2 value compared to fossil fuels. This study analyses the substitution potential of advanced, renewable fuels from biological feedstocks compared to fossil fuels in all sectors of the EU.

Based on current scientific literature and various scenarios, this study analyses the availability of advanced feedstocks, the conversion to renewable fuels and the development of fuel demand in road transport in the European Union for the target years 2030, 2035 and 2040."

The full study can be found as a pdf attached to this press release.

Munich / Oberschleißheim. The BMW Group Additive Manufacturing Campus (AMC) is setting the course for the next stage of industrialization. Under the new leadership of Timo Göbel, additive manufacturing will be further integrated across all phases of the vehicle life cycle, with open-material and highly automated systems and a clear focus on quality.

Additive Manufacturing at the BMW Group

Additive Manufacturing (AM) is firmly embedded throughout the entire product life cycle of the BMW Group. From conceptual ideas and prototype production to series production and aftersales applications, additive manufacturing components are used across all stages. The technology is also an integral part of the BMW Group production system.

AM components are now used in series production vehicles across all BMW Group brands – from MINI to BMW and Rolls‑Royce all the way to BMW Motorrad.

Five Questions for Timo Göbel, Head of Additive Manufacturing, BMW Group

In this interview, Timo Göbel explains how the Additive Manufacturing Campus is driving the scaling of the technology, expanding the component portfolio and process integration, and how the BMW Group is strategically positioning itself in the field of Additive Manufacturing.

Mr. Göbel, which experiences have shaped your view of Additive Manufacturing?

My professional background is rooted in materials engineering and application-oriented development, particularly from my time at Rolls-Royce. Early on, I saw how powerful additive manufacturing processes can be when applied correctly. This experience continues to shape my perspective today. I already advocated strongly for the technology back then and am now very much looking forward to shaping the next stages of development for the BMW Group.

How is Additive Manufacturing evolving at the BMW Group? What strategy are you pursuing?

Additive Manufacturing is now fully integrated across all phases of the product life cycle. 3D-printed components are used from early development and prototype production all the way to series production and to support the global production network.

In prototype construction, additive methods continue to evolve steadily. Today, we can meet functional requirements that would not have been feasible just a few years ago. As a result, AM is becoming an increasingly important tool for fast, flexible, and technically advanced development processes, making a decisive contribution to shortening development cycles. For example, AM supports the development and validation of vehicles of the Neue Klasse. 3D-printed components were also used in the development of the latest generation of electric drive technology.

Within the production system, AM is present in every BMW Group plant worldwide. The technology supports our colleagues across the production network, enabling them to quickly and easily manufacture additive components that optimize work steps and production processes. This area is currently experiencing particularly dynamic growth.

For end‑customer components, such as individual and edition parts, series components, and aftersales parts, the technology offers both technical and economic advantages and creates unique customer experiences.

As we observe strong growth and broader fields of application across all phases of the product life cycle, we are continuing our investment strategy in this key technology.

How do you plan to further scale Additive Manufacturing within the BMW Group, and what concrete steps are you taking?

The major pre-development projects, IDAM and POLYLINE were important enablers for scaling AM applications. In these projects, the BMW Group actively helped shape the foundations for scaling additive manufacturing in the automotive sector by defining requirements, developing solutions and piloting system-integrated structures.

A key pillar of our scaling strategy is the use of automated, digitally networked process chains, open-material systems and open interfaces, all of which allow seamless integration into our existing production structures. We are therefore investing in an expanded technology portfolio built around these exact requirements, as well as in systems with larger build volumes.

In the polymer segment, we rely wherever possible on fully series-ready systems. Where the market does not yet offer such solutions, we procure equipment custom-designed to our specific requirements. Systems that reliably meet the high performance standards of our plants will increasingly be deployed in the future.

In the metals segment, we have already integrated central subprocesses from the IDAM project into our campus infrastructure. The next step is the introduction of an entirely new generation of metal 3D printers, followed by the integration of new manufacturing technologies such as Wire Arc Additive Manufacturing (WAAM) into the BMW Group production network.

In addition, we conduct intensive technology scouting at the campus and test new technologies, materials, and processes, which we gradually transfer into the BMW Group production network.

Another decisive factor is the training and qualification of our development and production employees worldwide. By embedding AM expertise broadly across the organization, we create the foundation for sustainable scaling throughout the entire company.

Where is this heading? Which components are the focus?

Through scaling, we will be able to manufacture larger components with significantly improved properties across the entire product development process – and with substantially shorter lead times. For many applications, we will no longer need tooling, which greatly increases flexibility and speed.

In development, additive processes already enable highly functional components that can be used in dynamic functional tests and even crash tests, achieving quality levels that previously required prototype tooling. The new generation of highly productive, automated systems at the AM Campus enables much faster and more efficient production. Larger build volumes allow the manufacturing of large, single‑piece, highly functional components. This opens up many more applications in prototype construction and increases the use of the technology.

In series production, we expect highly productive systems to produce larger components in higher quantities over the coming years. WAAM significantly accelerates the production of large‑format components and integrates optimally into our existing systems.

Within the production system itself, fast, robust, and user‑friendly equipment ensures our plants worldwide can independently produce additive production aids quickly and locally. This increases efficiency across the entire development and production network.

Your outlook: What happens next?

In the short term, we are focusing on integrating the new generation of equipment. This puts us clearly on track toward the broad industrialization of additive manufacturing. Technologically, we are in the process of fully transferring WAAM into series production. In prototype development, the process is already firmly established; vehicle testing has been underway since 2025, and from 2027 onward, we will begin series production of the first components.

With this, the BMW Group is actively shaping the transition of additive manufacturing into a fully integrated and widely established production technology – both technologically and organizationally.

Milestones at the AMC

• 1990/1991: The BMW Group’s Rapid Technologies Center commissions its first equipment development in the field of Additive Manufacturing and produces initial prototype parts.
• 2012: With the start of production of the Rolls‑Royce Phantom, polymer brackets for various vehicle applications are produced in series.
• 2017: With the start of production of the BMW i8 Roadster, metal components are produced in series for the first time.
• 2017:  MINI Yours Customized enables customers for the first time to design and order selected aftersales components with their own individual designs.
• 2020: The BMW Group consolidates the production of prototype and series components, technology research, and qualification under one roof at the Additive Manufacturing Campus.
• 2022: Within IDAM (Industrialization and Digitalization of Additive Manufacturing), fully automated, digitally networked lines for metallic 3D printing are established for the first time.
• 2024: The AMC develops Wire Arc Additive Manufacturing (WAAM) for large‑volume structural components.

About the BMW Group Additive Manufacturing Campus

Opened in 2020, the Additive Manufacturing Campus in Oberschleißheim brings production, research, and training together under one roof, accelerating the integration of additive processes into development and series production. Since production began at the AMC, more than 1.6 million components have been manufactured and used across all BMW Group brands. In addition, more than 100,000 components are produced decentralized each year at vehicle plants worldwide.

Munich. The BMW Group is consistently advancing the digitalisation and use of artificial intelligence in production. A key element in this effort is “Physical AI”, which combines digital artificial intelligence (AI) with real machines and robots. This enables intelligent systems such as humanoid robots to be integrated into real-world production processes.

For the first time, the BMW Group is now bringing Physical AI to Europe and launching a pilot project with humanoid robots at the Leipzig plant. The project aims to integrate humanoid robotics into existing series production of cars and to explore further applications in the production of batteries and components.

“Digitalisation improves the competitiveness of our production – here in Europe and worldwide. The symbiosis of engineering expertise and artificial intelligence opens up entirely new possibilities in production,” said Milan Nedeljković, Member of the Board of Management of BMW AG, Production.

Last year, the BMW Group successfully implemented a pilot project with humanoid robots at its Spartanburg plant in the United States. The insights gained from this project are being leveraged to further develop and scale Physical AI applications.

Unified IT and data model in the production system

Artificial intelligence is already an integral part of the BMW Group’s production system. From the virtual factory with digital twins and AI‑enabled quality controls to intralogistics with autonomous transport solutions, intelligent systems are used in almost all production steps.

A prerequisite for the effective use of artificial intelligence in production is a unified IT and data model across the entire production system. The BMW Group has consistently transformed isolated data silos into a unified data platform in its production system meaning that all data is consistent, standardised, and available at all times. This enables digital AI agents to take on increasingly challenging tasks autonomously and in complex environments while continuously learning and becoming available for additional areas of application. The introduction of intelligent and autonomous decision‑making agents marks a paradigm shift in production. In combination with robots, these digital AI agents are what make up Physical AI.

“Our aim is to be a technology leader and to integrate new technologies into production at an early stage. Pilot projects help us to test and further develop the use of Physical AI – that is, AI‑enabled robots capable of learning – under real-world industrial conditions,” said Michael Nikolaides, Senior Vice President Production Network, Supply Chain Management at BMW Group.

Digitalisation and artificial intelligence are core elements of BMW iFACTORY and are the foundation for future‑proof, flexible, and competitive production.

Humanoid robotics complements existing automation

The BMW Group is strategically expanding its automation portfolio to include Physical AI and humanoid robotics. Humanoid robots are viewed as a value‑adding complement to existing automation. Particularly, they demonstrate potential in monotonous, ergonomically demanding, or safety‑critical tasks. The goal is to relieve employees and further improve working conditions.

Center of Competence for Physical AI in Production consolidates expertise

Its consistent data platform in production makes the BMW Group an attractive partner for technology companies seeking to test the possibilities of Physical AI – particularly humanoid robotics – in an industrial environment under real-world conditions. By setting up the new “Center of Competence for Physical AI in Production”, the BMW Group is taking the next step in consolidating its expertise and ensuring that the full range of knowledge can be leveraged across the organisation.

The BMW Group is following a clearly structured approach. Technology partners are evaluated according to defined maturity and industrialisation criteria and tested in pilot projects under real-world production conditions. Following a theoretical assessment, an evaluation is carried out at the manufacturer’s site in the laboratory using real use cases from the BMW production system to test integration capability. If this phase is successful, it is followed by an initial test deployment under real-world production conditions at a BMW Group plant and subsequently the actual pilot phase.

First pilot project with humanoid robots in Europe

In collaboration with Hexagon, a long‑standing, established partner of the BMW Group in the field of sensor technology and software, the first pilot project in Europe is now underway. Hexagon’s organisational unit located in Zürich, Hexagon Robotics, specialises in Physical AI and presented its first humanoid robot, AEON, in June 2025. Following an initial theoretical evaluation phase and successful laboratory tests, there was an initial test deployment at BMW Group Plant Leipzig in December 2025. A further test deployment is planned from April 2026 to ensure full integration for the actual pilot phase starting in summer 2026.

The deployment in Leipzig is focusing on testing a multifunctional application of the robot. It is based on AEON’s design, whose human‑like body allows a wide range of hand and gripper elements or scanning tools to be flexibly attached and enables dynamic use on wheels. During testing and later in the pilot phase, the robot will be used in the assembly of high‑voltage batteries and in component manufacturing.

Successful pilot at BMW Group Plant Spartanburg provides key insights for use of humanoid robots in production

The world’s first deployment of humanoid robots at a BMW Group plant took place at the Spartanburg plant in the United States in 2025, in collaboration with the technology company Figure AI. The results demonstrated that Physical AI can deliver measurable added value under real-world conditions. Within ten months, the robot Figure 02 supported the production of more than 30,000 BMW X3, working ten-hour shifts daily from Monday to Friday. Figure 02 handled the precise removal and positioning of sheet metal parts for the welding process – a task that is particularly demanding in terms of speed and accuracy while also being physically exhausting. In total, it moved more than 90,000 components and covered approximately 1.2 million steps in around 1,250 operating hours.

The pilot confirmed that humanoid robots can safely perform precise, repetitive work steps – such as positioning components with millimetre precision – and provided important insights for the further deployment of Physical AI in production.

During the initial test phases with Figure 02, it was essential to involve all areas of the production IT infrastructure, occupational safety, production process management, and shop floor logistics at an early stage.

One key finding was that the transition from the laboratory to the actual production environment was faster than expected. Motion sequences trained in the laboratory could be quickly transferred into stable shift operation. To ensure smooth coexistence with existing systems, integration into the BMW Smart Robotics ecosystem was implemented via standardised interfaces.

The body shop was deliberately selected for the test phase in Spartanburg, as it already has a high degree of automation. BMW Group employees in this area have extensive experience in integrating new technologies and processes. For example, material supply on the line is already carried out almost exclusively via automated smart transport robots (STR). The project team’s early communication ensured transparency from the outset and promoted acceptance. The deployment of humanoid robots was met with great interest among employees and quickly became a natural part of everyday work during the course of the project.

The BMW Group and Figure are currently evaluating additional use cases for deploying the Figure 03 robot.

Additional quotes for use:

Michael Nikolaides, Senior Vice President Production Network, Supply Chain Management at BMW Group:

“Our aim is to be a technology leader and to integrate new technologies into production at an early stage. Pilot projects help us to test and further develop the use of Physical AI – that is, AI‑enabled robots capable of learning – under real-world industrial conditions. The successful first deployment of humanoid robots at our BMW Group plant in Spartanburg in the USA proves that a humanoid robot can function not only under controlled laboratory conditions but also in an existing automotive manufacturing environment.”

Michael Ströbel, Head of Process Management and Digitalisation, Order to Delivery at BMW Group:

“We are delighted to deploy a humanoid robot for the first time in a pilot project at a plant in Germany. Following evaluation by our Center of Competence for Physical AI in Production, tests were carried out in the laboratory and at Plant Leipzig at the end of last year. This year, our focus is on step‑by‑step integration into our production system to explore a wide range of applications. The emphasis is on researching multifunctional use of the robot in various production areas such as battery manufacturing for energy modules and component production for exterior parts. With Hexagon, we have found a proven long‑standing partner with a highly innovative approach to humanoid robotics for this project.”

Felix Haeckel, Team Lead CoC Physical AI for Production:

“At our new Center of Competence for Physical AI in Production, we are pooling our expertise to make knowledge on AI and robotics widely usable within the company. In recent years, we have built up an international team of experts that, in addition to in‑house research and programming, is dedicated to the gradual integration of AI into the existing production system. At the same time, our team in Munich is driving its own robotics research to set up, support, and further develop pilot projects in the field of Physical AI at our plants.”

Arnaud Robert, President of Hexagon Robotics:

“We are very pleased to be working with the BMW Group to advance the use of humanoid robots in real‑world environments.”

Munich. With the Neue Klasse, BMW is taking bidirectional charging to the next level, making Vehicle-to-Home (V2H), Vehicle-to-Load (V2L) and Vehicle-to-Grid (V2G) accessible to all customers. V2G is launching now: The BMW Group and E.ON are continuing their long-standing strategic partnership and are taking the next step following the successful announcement of Germany’s first commercial Vehicle‑to‑Grid offer at IAA Mobility in September 2025. As of today, private customers can order the complete product package, consisting of the BMW Wallbox Professional, the V2G electricity tariff from E.ON (E.ON ÖkoStrom Home & Drive V2G together with the E.ON V2G Plus feed-in contract), and – if not already installed – an intelligent metering system (smart meter).

V2G for the Neue Klasse: Plug in and secure a 720 Euro bonus and charge up to 14,000 kilometres for free* - additional discount of 700 Euros on the BMW Wallbox Professional** for the first customers.

This offer enables BMW electric vehicles of the Neue Klasse equipped with the 6th generation BMW eDrive technology, starting with the new BMW iX3, to actively interact with the power grid by feeding energy from the vehicle’s high‑voltage battery back into the grid.

Automatic charging and discharging is managed by a jointly developed BMW E.ON algorithm. Customers benefit from every hour their vehicle is plugged in, receiving an annual bonus of up to 720 Euros. This allows BMW iX3 drivers to cover up to 14,000 kilometers per year at no charging cost**, while also contributing to the future of sustainable energy.

The My BMW App provides simple and transparent control. Customers maintain full oversight of current and target charge levels and can check their real-time bonus status with E.ON directly in the app. Intelligent protection functions ensure the high-voltage battery always remains within an optimal operating range.

Promotion: 700 Euro wallbox discount on the first orders**

The first 100 BMW iX3 customers who choose an E.ON V2G electricity tariff will receive a 700 Euro discount on the BMW Wallbox Professional.** With 11 kW charging power, it is one of the first bidirectional wallboxes on the market and offers additional intelligent charging modes.

V2G at a Glance

Tariff & Compensation model: The E.ON ÖkoStrom Home & Drive V2G tariff offers full price certainty thanks to a fixed energy price per kilowatt-hour and a fixed base fee for both household and charging electricity. Through the V2G feed-in contract, the customer’s bonus account accumulates up to 720 Euro annually** for every hour the vehicle is connected to the bidirectional wallbox and V2G is activated—regardless of whether energy is charged or discharged. Each kilowatt-hour discharged back to the grid is compensated at 40 Euro-Cent per kWh.

Customer-focused: Drivers maintain full control and can set their charging targets in the My BMW App to ensure mobility needs are always met. The bonus account with E.ON is linked to the app and can be viewed transparently at any time.

Battery protection: Intelligent safeguards ensure the high-voltage battery always operates within an optimal range.

Contribution to the Energy Future: Vehicle batteries help stabilize the energy system during periods of surplus electricity or increased demand. V2G supports the optimal use of renewable energy and reduces long-term energy-system costs.

Filip Thon, CEO of E.ON Germany: “The first commercial V2G offer in Germany marks a groundbreaking milestone, linking electromobility with the energy transition—and enabling private customers for the first time to tap into the potential of electric vehicles as flexible power storage for tomorrow’s energy world.”

Marcus Krieg, Head of New Business Models at BMW Group: “With the Neue Klasse, BMW vehicles become an active part of the energy ecosystem for the first time. Their technology enables intelligent storage and return of energy to the grid, reducing customer costs while strengthening the use of renewable energy.”

New: Alternative entry into energy‑market integration – cost‑optimized charging for all BMW and MINI electric drivers, incl. attractive E.ON tariff with charging bonus

The BMW Group now offers a solution for all customers wishing to charge their fully or partially electric BMW/MINI intelligently while reducing home‑charging costs.

The vehicle charges automatically at selected locations when electricity prices are especially low—taking planned departure times and target charge levels into account. This function is available for all electrified BMW and MINI models across all drive generations and can be used with the BMW/MINI Wallbox Plus, the Multifunction Charger (MFC), and any other AC‑charging device.

Customers only need an electricity tariff that supports BMW’s remote charging‑control functionality. Many compatible electricity providers offer this, including E.ON.

In this exclusive partnership offer, BMW and MINI customers in Germany using the E.ON ÖkoStrom Home & Drive tariff can save up to 240 Euros*** annually and receive an additional 50 Euros*** bonus on top of the existing new‑customer bonus.

Customer Benefits

•      Significant reduction in home charging costs

•      Consideration of individual mobility needs

•      Protection of vehicle components

•      Additional E.ON bonus of 50 Euros on top of the new‑customer bonus

More information:

www.eon.de/de/pk/landingpage/kooperationen/bmw-mini

List of compatible electricity providers:
Elektromobilität | BMW FAQ

More on V2G and the offer:
https://www.bmw.de/de/elektroauto/home-charging.html

https://www.eon.de/de/pk/e-mobility/bidi-laden-bmw-ix3.html

Bidirectional and flexible charging are key topics E.ON is showcasing at E‑World, Europe’s largest energy trade fair, taking place from February 10–12 in Essen.

*  With the E.ON V2G electricity tariff, customers receive a bonus based purely on the connection time of the BMW iX3 or other compatible BMW models to the BMW Wallbox Professional, provided that Vehicle-to-Grid (V2G) is activated as an application (regardless of actual charging/discharging processes).

The bonus amounts to 24 Euro cents per hour, with a maximum of 60 Euros per month/720 Euros per year possible, based on 250 hours of connection per month. Based on an average working price of 32.97 Euro cents/kWh, the bonus covers up to 2,184 kWh charged per year. Depending on the vehicle configuration of the  BMW iX3 50 xDrive, this covers approximately 12,000 km – approximately 14,000 km of annual mileage (WLTP)

– with driving consumption depending on configuration between 15.1 kWh/100 km – 17.9 kWh/100 km according to WLTP BMW iX3 50 xDrive. In addition to the bonus, there is a feed-in tariff for every kilowatt hour fed back  into the grid. The combination of V2G with a photovoltaic system is currently only supported for full feed-in systems.

** The promotion is valid for the BMW Wallbox Professional in conjunction with the E.ON ÖkoStrom Home & Drive V2G electricity tariff and the E.ON V2G Plus supplementary contract from our cooperation partner E.ON Energie Deutschland GmbH. There is no entitlement to the voucher if the electricity contract is revoked within the statutory period. After signing the contract and successful verification of the information, you will receive a voucher worth 700 Euros including VAT by post from E.ON Energie Deutschland GmbH on behalf of BMW AG. This can only be applied to the purchase price of the BMW Wallbox Professional in the e-mobilio GmbH web shop ( bmwgroup.e-mobilio.de ) and is redeemable until December 31, 2026. The promotion is only valid for private customers. Only valid while stocks last.

***The potential annual savings of up to 290 Euros result from a night-time charging bonus of 240 Euros (120 Euros each for app registration and night-time charging) and an additional new customer bonus of 50 Euros, which is exclusively available to BMW customers and is paid out with the annual statement.

Hams Hall, UK. BMW Group’s Hams Hall plant, located in the UK, has reached a major milestone: For exactly 25 years, the plant near Birmingham has produced highly efficient internal combustion engines for a variety of BMW Group vehicle models. More than 7.6 million engines have shipped from Hams Hall since 2001. The facility supplies numerous production sites worldwide with highly efficient petrol engines for the BMW, MINI and Rolls-Royce brands, including drive trains for plug-in hybrid models – making the plant an integral part of the BMW Group’s technology-open approach. Today, Plant Hams Hall produces three and four-cylinder petrol engines to high performance V8 engines, powering vehicles across both BMW and MINI. Separately, the V12 engine is produced at Plant Hams Hall exclusively for Rolls-Royce Motor Cars. Its assembly follows a distinct, bespoke production process, carried out by specially trained engineers and technicians, before final delivery to the Home of Rolls-Royce at Goodwood.

Plant Hams Hall – an integral part of the global production network

"This anniversary is a special milestone for our site," says Dirk Dreher, Head of the BMW Group's Hams Hall plant. "We are a competitive plant and there’s always been a real passion among our workforce to continually improve our manufacturing processes and site. Building on our strong foundation, we are looking forward to remaining a successful plant in the future."

“The Hams Hall plant is an integral part of our global production network,” explains Harald Gottsche, Head of Engine Production at BMW AG. “The site combines technological expertise with high flexibility. It reliably supplies our vehicle plants with efficient, powerful engines of premium quality. This includes the V12 engine – a masterpiece from Hams Hall!”

61% reduction in energy use per engine built since the start of full production

The British engine plant is systematically implementing the principles of the BMW iFACTORY. The strategic vision of the BMW iFACTORY focusses on sustainability, electrification, digitalisation and profitability. From the first concept of the plant to the present day, the Hams Hall team has made sustainability a key consideration. Since the first full year of production, the plant has made a 61% reduction in energy required per engine built, meaning the overall energy to operate the site has remained level even though there has been a considerable increase in production. The plant purchases 100% of its external electricity from renewable energy sources today. It has also worked to reduce its consumption of natural gas.

SpOTTO robotic dog scans and monitors manufacturing equipment

A four-legged autonomous robot named “SpOTTO” joined the Hams Hall team in 2024. The autonomous robotic dog scans the plant, supports maintenance and ensures production processes run smoothly. Equipped with visual, thermal and acoustic sensors, SpOTTO collects valuable data for the plant’s digital twin. It also serves as a watchdog, monitoring the maintenance of production facilities. SpOTTO was developed by Boston Dynamics under the product name “Spot”, an agile robot capable of climbing stairs and traversing rough terrain with ease. At Hams Hall, “Spot” was fondly renamed SpOTTO, paying tribute to the engine plant’s proud heritage: Gustav Otto, one of the founders of BMW, was the son of Nicolaus Otto, inventor of the four-stroke engine.

Fully connected digital twin: Big data on three levels

At the core of the Hams Hall plant’s digital transformation is the fully connected digital twin, which consists of three levels: On the first level, 3D representations of the entire plant are generated. The second level comprises a large data layer, continuously updated with all relevant information from the SpOTTO robotic dog, the plant’s manufacturing equipment and its IT systems. On the third level – the application level – dedicated programmes organise the collected data into comprehensible units. Using special apps, experts at Plant Hams Hall can leverage this information for tasks such as production planning and quality assurance.

A history of continuous growth

Over the past 25 years, BMW Group Plant Hams Hall has continuously evolved, establishing itself as a key pillar of the company’s production network. Relying on state-of-the-art manufacturing technologies, it provides drive trains for numerous BMW, MINI and Rolls-Royce models.

Selected historic milestones:

• 2001: Plant Hams Hall launches series production with new four-cylinder engines, using innovative Valvetronic technology in large-scale manufacturing for the first time.
• 2006: An additional engine family is introduced; Plant Hams Hall produces engines for the MINI brand for the first time.
• 2013: Plant Hams Hall becomes the exclusive manufacturer of the award-winning three-cylinder engine for the iconic BMW i8 plug-in hybrid sports car. The plant also integrates additional production lines for three- and four-cylinder petrol engines. At the same time, the processing hall for crankshafts, crankcases and cylinder heads is expanded.
• 2022: The plant takes over production of V8 and V12 engines. With this step the plant generates even greater business value for the company.
• 2026: Plant Hams Hall celebrates 25 years of production.

The BMW Group’s drive train production network

The BMW Group’s engine production network comprises several plants alongside Hams Hall: Its largest engine facility is in Steyr, Austria, where diesel and petrol engines, as well as sixth-generation electric motors, are developed and produced. The fifth generation of electric motors is produced in Dingolfing. Plant Munich handles mechanical production of V8 and V12 engine components, while Plant Landshut manufactures special engines. The Chinese joint venture BMW Brilliance builds engines for the local market in Shenyang. Collectively, these locations support the BMW Group's technology-open powertrain strategy.

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. Last year, the BMW Group once again produced more than one million vehicles at its German plants. This means that one in four vehicles built in Germany comes from a BMW Group plant. According to the German Association of the Automotive Industry (VDA), a total of 4.15 million vehicles were manufactured in Germany during the same period.

“Our plants provide impressive proof of how competitive German industry is. Producing more than one million vehicles in 2025 is a strong testament to Germany’s innovative strength. To achieve this, we are systematically leveraging innovation and digitalisation. Going forward, policymakers must ensure competitive framework conditions for Germany as an industrial location,” explains Milan Nedeljković, member of the Board of Management of BMW AG responsible for Production.

The German automotive industry possesses unique expertise, extensive knowledge and a passionate car culture that few locations worldwide can match. The BMW Group vehicle plants in Dingolfing, Leipzig, Munich and Regensburg represent strong pillars of the company’s international production network. The foundation for this is a clear strategic direction aligned with the BMW iFACTORY, with streamlined structures, efficient processes and maximum flexibility at all plants. The BMW iFACTORY offers a vision for manufacturing across all locations in the global production network.

At all German plants, vehicles with internal combustion engines, plug-in hybrids and fully-electric drive trains are produced on a single line. With this flexible structure, BMW Group production can respond in an agile manner to fluctuations in demand and changing market conditions. It is therefore an important pillar supporting the company’s cross-functional resilience and a key competitive advantage in a dynamically evolving industry.

Vehicles from the German plants are primarily destined for the European market, in line with the principle of globally distributed value added. In the Americas and China, production volumes also roughly correspond to the number of vehicles sold in those regions.

Overview of BMW Group production in Germany

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Detailed BMW Group production figures for 2025 will be released with the Integrated BMW Group Report in March 2026.

Munich. The new BMW iX3 is in the spotlight at CES 2026. For the first time, the enhanced, AI-powered BMW Intelligent Personal Assistant with Alexa+ technology will be presented to the public. As the debut model for the Neue Klasse, the BMW iX3 showcases groundbreaking innovations that will shape the entire model range of the brand in the future. By 2027, the technologies of the Neue Klasse will be integrated into a total of 40 new models and model updates from BMW.

BMW Intelligent Personal Assistant expanded with Amazon Alexa+.
One year after the world premiere of the new BMW Panoramic iDrive with BMW Operating System X at CES 2025, visitors to this year’s CES can experience the revolutionary user-interaction concept firsthand in the BMW iX3. With a balanced combination of digital functions and physical elements, it elevates intuitive operation according to BMW’s guiding principle ‘Hands on the Wheel, Eyes on the Road’ to a new level of driver orientation. Built on the technological foundation of a software-defined vehicle, the customer experience in the BMW iX3 continues to evolve. For the first time, BMW presents the next generation AI-powered BMW Intelligent Personal Assistant. BMW is the first manufacturer to expand its voice assistant with the AI assistant Amazon Alexa+. This enables intuitive and intelligent interaction between passengers and the vehicle in a natural dialogue. The interaction includes the operation of vehicle functions as well as access to information and knowledge beyond the vehicle. For the first time, passengers can ask multiple questions in a single sentence—covering both your vehicle’s features and e.g. general knowledge topics.

The integration of Amazon Alexa+ into the BMW Intelligent Personal Assistant represents a technological leap forward that focuses on added value for the customer. The AI technology used in the BMW Intelligent Personal Assistant is a Large Language Model (LLM), a generative AI that understands language and is capable of formulating its own responses. Starting in the second half of 2026 at the latest, this further development will be gradually rolled out in Germany and the USA across all BMW models equipped with BMW Operating System 9 and X.

BMW iX3 transforms waiting time into entertainment: stream a movie, play a video game or make a video call.^[1]
The BMW booth at CES also focuses on the wide range of entertainment options in BMW Operating System X. It offers an extensive selection of apps, videos, and games. In addition to the popular streaming service Disney+, customers in the BMW iX3 have access to the Video App (powered by TiVo™). This app enables video streaming on the central display when the vehicle is stationary, with a continuously growing selection of content such as news, live, and on-demand streaming. The portfolio of the video streaming platform will continue to evolve.

The BMW ConnectedDrive Store will also soon include the YouTube Music app for the first time, joining the more than 85 apps worldwide in categories such as Music & Audio, Entertainment, Gaming, News, Travel & Local. YouTube Music gives customers access to an extensive catalog with over 300 million tracks, including the official studio recordings, remixes, live performances, and hard-to-find covers. Zoom now allows video calls on the iX3’s central display for the first time when the vehicle is stationary. As soon as the vehicle starts moving, the video transmission stops, and the conversation seamlessly continues via audio.

In-car gaming via AirConsole, as introduced for the first time with the BMW Operating System 8.5, is also available in the new BMW iX3, featuring world-renowned titles like UNO^®️ Car Party!
A new highlight in AirConsole’s extensive game library is Hot Wheels: Xtreme Overdrive™️ from Mattel, available exclusively to BMW customers. AirConsole allows users to use their own smartphones as controllers, so all passengers can play together or compete against each other. Additional games and apps for in-car entertainment can be accessed through the BMW ConnectedDrive Store. Selected games in the BMW iX3 can also be controlled using Bluetooth controllers from conventional gaming consoles.

Sixth-generation BMW eDrive technology: higher efficiency, more range, faster charging.
The sixth-generation BMW eDrive technology developed for the Neue Klasse comprises highly efficient electric motors, fundamentally new high-voltage batteries with cylindrical cells, and 800V technology. The BMW iX3 50 xDrive is powered by two electric motors, which together generate output of 345 kW/469 hp and 645 Nm (475 lb-ft) of torque. It accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h (62 mph) in 4.9 seconds and reaches a top speed of 210 km/h (130 mph). Its electric all-wheel-drive configuration consists of an extensively upgraded electrically excited synchronous motor (EESM) with particularly high levels of efficiency at the rear axle and, at the front axle, a new asynchronous motor (ASM) distinguished by its compact design and high cost efficiency. The combination of EESM and ASM is evidence of the BMW Group’s commitment to technological neutrality within electric mobility as well. The drive technology developed for the Neue Klasse reduces energy losses by 40 per cent compared to fifth-generation BMW eDrive technology, weight by 10 per cent and manufacturing costs by 20 per cent.

The new high-voltage battery concept with cylindrical cells for the Neue Klasse also achieves significant advances. The energy density on a cell level is 20 per cent higher than with fifth-generation BMW eDrive technology, and the new concept also paves the way for a 30 per cent increase in charging speed. The cylindrical cells are integrated directly into the high-voltage battery (“cell to pack”), which benefits energy density and cost efficiency. Added to which, the high-voltage battery is integrated into the vehicle architecture as a structural component to minimise weight (“pack to open body”). The high-voltage battery in the BMW iX3 50 xDrive has a usable energy content of 108.7 kWh, enabling a range of up to 805 kilometres (500 miles) in the WLTP cycle.

BMW Charging: short charging times, premiere for bidirectional charging.
The advances brought by sixth-generation BMW eDrive technology have a significant influence on the charging experience, too. A maximum charging rate of 400 kW enables users to fill their new BMW iX3 with enough energy at an 800V direct current (DC) rapid charging station to add up to 372 kilometres (231 miles) ^[2] of range in just ten minutes. The high-voltage battery can charge from 10 to 80 per cent capacity in 21 minutes. Thanks to the battery management tech with integrated switching matrix developed completely in-house by the BMW Group, the new BMW iX3 can also be charged from 400V DC stations. Upgrades to the battery preparation also help to shorten charging times. The new BMW iX3 50 xDrive can top up on alternating current (AC) at 11 kW as standard or 22 kW ^[3] as an option.

Extensive bidirectional charging functions ^[3] are also available for the new BMW iX3, meaning that it can be used as an energy supply source for a variety of applications. The Vehicle-to-Load (V2L) function turns the new BMW iX3 into a mobile powerbank, which can supply electric devices with power while on the move. Vehicle-to-Home (V2H) hands it the role of storage unit for solar energy generated by home-fitted photovoltaic systems. And customers can also hook their car up to the energy market via the Vehicle-to-Grid (V2G) application and earn some money in the process.

The selection of standard-fitted and optional charging accessories has been significantly expanded. For flexible charging during a journey, customers can make use of the new Multifunction Charger, which comes with several adapters for charging and discharging the high-voltage battery. The new BMW Wallbox Professional (DC) enables bidirectional charging at home or work. And BMW Charging offers the option of cost-optimised /solar-power-optimised home charging.

In order to give owners the best possible charging experience, the new BMW iX3 will be fitted as standard with an NACS (North American Charging Standard) compatible charging port. This will provide iX3 owners access to the vast Supercharger network, while a standard CCS (Combined Charging System) adapter will preserve access to other providers from coast to coast, thus ensuring that iX3 owners are never far from a provider no matter where the journey is taking them.

Heart of Joy: The Ultimate Driving Machine reaches a new level.
One of four superbrains in the electronics architecture of the Neue Klasse, the Heart of Joy looks after drivetrain and driving dynamics management. This high-performance control unit is responsible for the drivetrain, brakes, energy recuperation, and steering functions, and processes information up to ten times faster than conventional control units. In this way, the potential of electric mobility in terms of instantaneous power delivery, smooth power transfer, agility, stability, and efficiency is fully realized.

Together with the BMW Dynamic Performance Control software stack developed fully in-house, the Heart of Joy calculates all the driving dynamics parameters with a new level of speed and precision. The driver and passengers in the new BMW iX3 experience a uniquely harmonious and BMW-typical driving sensation whatever the situation. Every movement of the accelerator, brake pedal, and steering is executed directly and with assurance and precision. Supreme traction and – thanks to the unique Soft Stop function – the smoothest stopping process ever achieved by a BMW are among its other attributes. In addition, the efficiency of the new BMW iX3 is optimized by the integrated management of drivetrain, braking system, and energy recuperation. In everyday driving, 98% of braking maneuvers are carried out using recuperation only, without application of the friction brakes. The only occasions these are called upon are under emergency braking and during extremely sporty driving.

“Superbrain of automated driving” for the driver assistance systems with of the next technology generation.
Another high-performance computer brings together all the automated driving and parking functions in the BMW iX3. With 20 times greater processing power than in the previous vehicle generation, the watercooled “superbrain of automated driving” enables a significant technological advance with the Neue Klasse in this area as well.

BMW Symbiotic Drive provides seamless support.
The BMW iX3 uses its Symbiotic Drive capability combined with driver assistance to create a completely new driving experience. Whenever the driver wants to accelerate, brake or steer, their inputs merge seamlessly and intuitively with AI-enabled software.The result is a whole new form of Sheer Driving Pleasure. For example, the automatic cruise control system is not deactivated with only a light press of the brake pedal; instead, it is only switched off when the driver brakes harder. In the same way, the lane control assistance remains active even after light steering inputs by the driver.

With the optional BMW Highway / Motorway Assistant ^[4], drivers can take their hands off the steering wheel permanently at speeds of up to 85 mph / 130 km/h, while remaining attentive and ready to intervene. The system assists with vehicle guidance within the lane and can also perform automated lane changes when needed – a simple glance confirmation by the driver is sufficient. With active BMW Maps route guidance, the system proactively suggests lane changes at highway interchanges and exits, which can be confirmed with a quick glance in the wing mirror. The Highway Assistant remains active while passing through interchanges and until the end of highway exits. This allows BMW iX3 drivers to enjoy Level 2 driver assistance without touching the steering wheel in even more situations.

The new Highway and City Assistant ^[4] also offers innovative functions for urban environments, such as stopping and automatically restarting at traffic lights. Additional driver assistance features for complex urban driving situations will be rolled out later via over-the-air software updates.

[1] Availability of individual apps and content depends on the country. Download and use of the apps require connectivity via BMW Digital Premium or a connection to a WiFi network or mobile smartphone hotspot. App-specific subscriptions are not included in BMW Digital Premium.
[2] The range added after 10 minutes of high-power charging was determined according to ISO12906 in the WLTP cycle. This figure, as well as charging performance, depends on vehicle equipment, charging and battery aging condition, battery temperature, individual driving profile, use of auxiliary consumers, ambient temperature, and the charging power provided at the charging station.
[3] Available from production period 3/2026.
[4] Availability depends on the country.

+++ Over 18 million BMW 3 Series built worldwide +++ Manufactured at 18 plants in 13 countries since 1975 +++ A driving force for the production network and a trailblazer for the BMW iFACTORY +++

Munich. Built on four continents, the BMW 3 Series has been one of the most important products in the BMW Group’s international production network for 50 years. Since manufacturing began in 1975, the BMW 3 Series has rolled off the assembly line more than 18 million times at 18 plants across 13 countries. Core themes of the BMW iFACTORY – such as efficiency, flexibility, digitalisation and resource-efficient production – thread consistently throughout the production history of the BMW 3 Series.

BMW Group Plant Munich: Origins and role as a technology pioneer

The main plant in Munich has been the centre of BMW 3 Series production since 1975. From an early stage, the BMW Group committed to flexible manufacturing at the site, enabled by modern technologies, such as overhead conveyor systems and freely programmable welding machines. A fully-automated body shop was introduced in Munich in 1982 for the second generation of the BMW 3 Series. Through the use of industrial robots, it was possible to achieve an automation rate of more than 90 percent for this technology. Supplemented by flexible shift systems and modified work-time models, capacity increased significantly. Continuous modernisation, from powder coating technologies to computer-controlled engine production, ensured that the facility always remained state-of-the-art. Today, the plant deploys numerous digitalisation applications and AI-supported quality systems. In this way, the BMW 3 Series has consistently been a major driving force for the technological development of BMW Group production.

BMW 3 Series as a driver of growth and internationalisation

Volume growth at the plants was also influenced by the BMW 3 Series. In 1980, 3 Series production expanded from the main plant in Munich to Plant Dingolfing, and later to Plant Regensburg in 1986. The BMW 3 Series also provided the momentum for the internationalisation of BMW production. In the 1980s, additional production lines were established at other sites, including Rosslyn, South Africa (from 1984) and Spartanburg in the United States (from 1994). These locations enabled local supply for their respective markets and laid the foundations for the company’s global distribution of value creation – today, a key feature of the BMW Group production network.

The BMW 3 Series – an enabler for new plants

Since the opening of the Regensburg plant, the BMW 3 Series has served as the enabler for all new BMW plants – with the exception of the facility in Debrecen. The plants in Spartanburg, Leipzig and San Luis Potosí, as well as the BBA joint venture in China, all initially ramped up with the BMW 3 Series. Over the decades, various 3 Series derivatives – ranging from sedans and convertibles to Touring and M versions – have been produced at nearly all BMW Group plants with maximum flexibility. Multiple derivatives and different drive technologies – vehicles with internal combustion engines, plug-in hybrids and fully-electric drive trains – all come off the same assembly line.

Today, the seventh generation of the BMW 3 Series is produced in Munich, Shenyang (China), San Luis Potosí (Mexico) and at the company's own regional plants in Chennai (India), Rayong (Thailand) and Araquari (Brazil), as well as at partner plants in further countries.

Preparations for the eighth generation of the successful model series are proceeding in parallel: A fully-electric version of the BMW 3 Series will ramp up at Plant Munich from the second half of 2026 as the next vehicle of the NEUE KLASSE, with subsequent production in China and Mexico. A return of the BMW 3 Series to Plant Dingolfing is also planned.

Seven generations of the BMW 3 Series across the production network (full plants)

If you have any questions, please contact:

Corporate Communications

Sandra Schillmöller, Head of Communications Production Network BMW Group

Cell phone: +49-151-601-12225

Email: Sandra.Schillmoeller@bmwgroup.com

Martina Hatzel, Communications Production Network BMW Group

Cell phone: +49-151-601-11966

Email: Martina.Hatzel@bmwgroup.com

Media website: https://newsroom.bmwgroup.com/global/en

The BMW Group

With its four brands, BMW, MINI, Rolls-Royce and BMW Motorrad, the BMW Group is the world’s leading premium manufacturer of automobiles and motorcycles and also provides premium financial services. The BMW Group production network comprises over 30 production sites worldwide; the company has a global sales network in more than 140 countries.

In 2024, the BMW Group sold 2.45 million passenger vehicles and more than 210,000 motorcycles worldwide. The profit before tax in the financial year 2024 was € 11.0 billion on revenues amounting to € 142.4 billion. As of 31 December 2024, the BMW Group had a workforce of 159,104 employees.

The success of the BMW Group has always been based on long-term thinking and responsible action. Sustainability is a key component of the BMW Group’s corporate strategy – from the supply chain through production to the end of the use phase of all products. 

www.bmwgroup.com 

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Leipzig. BMW Group Plant Leipzig is planning a hydrogen pipeline link – paving the way for it to become the first car plant in the world to receive hydrogen via a pipeline. Contracts have now been signed with MITNETZ GAS GmbH and ONTRAS Gastransport GmbH. The approx. 2-kilometre-long link will be constructed by MITNETZ GAS and incorporate a gas pressure and measurement system, eventually connecting the plant to the future core hydrogen network. BMW and ONTRAS are in the process of agreeing the appropriate connection to the hydrogen grid. The link is expected to start delivering hydrogen to the plant in mid-2027.

Once the pipeline is in place, Plant Leipzig will no longer need hydrogen deliveries by truck, in cylinders. “With supplies coming in via the pipeline, we will be able to use hydrogen in completely new ways – especially for our most energy-intensive processes, such as our curing ovens in the paintshop,” says Petra Peterhänsel, Director of BMW Group Plant Leipzig.

In October 2022 Plant Leipzig took a fuel-flexible burner on stream in its paintshop – another world first in automotive production. Today, it operates a total of eleven such bivalent burners, powered flexibly by gas or hydrogen.

In 2013 Leipzig also introduced hydrogen fuel cell-powered forklifts and tug trains and now operates an intralogistics fleet comprising more than 230 vehicles of this kind – the largest in Europe. They refuel at nine hydrogen refuelling stations located within the plant’s halls.

The core hydrogen network is a nationwide infrastructure project that will consist of approx. 9,000 kilometres of hydrogen pipes. It will go on stream in stages, reaching full operation by 2032 and connecting Germany to the transregional hydrogen network.

If you have any questions, please contact:

Jochen Müller, Communications BMW Group Plant Leipzig

Mobile: +49-(0)151-60743152

Email: Jochen.Mueller@bmw.de

Kai Lichte, Head of Communications BMW Group Plants Leipzig, Berlin, Eisenach

Telephone: +49-(0)341-445-38000

Mobile: +49-(0)176-601-51240

Email: Kai.Lichte@bmwgroup.com

Debrecen. The BMW Group has entered the final phase before the first Neue Klasse model rolls off the assembly line. Series production of the new BMW iX3 will get underway in late October at the BMW Group plant in Debrecen, Hungary, as the newest, most innovative manufacturing facility in the company’s global production network officially begins work.

“The start of series production for the BMW iX3 signals a new era of automotive manufacturing. Our new plant in Debrecen has been designed and built fully in line with our strategic vision of the iFACTORY. Digital from the very beginning, the plant will offer a new dimension in efficient production without fossil fuels,” says Milan Nedeljković, member of the Board of Management of BMW AG responsible for Production.

The BMW iFACTORY represents a strategic vision of production, built on streamlined, efficient structures, responsible resource management, economical use of cutting-edge digital innovations and a strong focus on employees. The BMW Group has also registered new patents for a large number of innovative systems and processes at Plant Debrecen.

“We have taken on the challenge of building a completely new vehicle as the first job at an entirely new plant – and doing so in the leanest, most efficient way possible. We have simplified processes, reduced complexity, digitally validated each individual operation and systematically leveraged expertise across our global network. The result is this plant, with its efficient production, innovative processes and the flexibility to integrate additional models,” says Hans-Peter Kemser, head of BMW Group Plant Debrecen.

As with any new model, capacity for the new BMW iX3 will be gradually ramped up in stages after the start of production. Spearheading the arrival of the Neue Klasse, the iX3 showcases the latest design and technology innovations that will define the brand's entire model range in the future. Between now and 2027, the technologies in the Neue Klasse will be integrated into 40 new models and model updates.

From virtual factory to reality

The guiding principles of the BMW iFACTORY have been fully implemented in the technologies employed at the new BMW Group plant in Debrecen. For example, Plant Debrecen was planned and built digitally from the outset, and celebrated its virtual start of production back in March 2023 in the BMW Group’s Virtual Factory. This approach allowed every operation to be tested virtually in advance, enabling production lines to be installed in the buildings exactly as in the digital twin.

Optimal processes for all plant technologies

With an optimised value stream and efficient systems, the press shop guarantees a high level of productivity. The BMW Group continues to follow its proven strategy of using the same tools and presses throughout its global network. This optimises capacity utilisation within the network by allowing press tools to be deployed at multiple locations and enabling staff to be trained in-network.

The body shop, in particular, benefits from prior digital planning and validation. Every process detail was digitally simulated in advance to determine the ideal value stream and ensure that each of the nearly 1,000 robots was optimally positioned. From the outset, close collaboration between development and production teams led to high production efficiency and maximum customer benefit. For example, the number of joining methods was significantly reduced, lowering overall complexity. Design features integrated early in development are also evident in the details of the Neue Klasse, such as the invisible door seal. This creates a visual connection between the window and the door, resulting in a unique look. In addition, maximising the space available for the battery in the body structure – and thus the size and performance of the battery – directly benefits the customer.

At BMW Group Plant Debrecen, the paint shop plays a critical role in significantly reducing the CO₂e footprint of the BMW iX3. Production of the new BMW iX3 will generate a total of about 80 kg CO₂e (scope 1/2 emissions). This figure covers CO₂e emissions from Plant Debrecen, as well as in-house parts production at other BMW Group facilities, including components manufactured in Landshut, for example. This represents a reduction of approx. two-thirds compared to production of existing BMW derivatives. For Plant Debrecen alone, this approach will reduce CO₂e emissions from the manufacture of a vehicle, including its high-voltage battery, by around 90% – to about 34 kg CO₂e (when operating at full capacity, compared with other BMW Group facilities).

Paint shops typically rely on gas to reach the high temperatures (up to 180 degrees Celsius) required. Plant Debrecen will be the BMW Group's first car plant supplied exclusively with electricity from renewable energy sources during normal operation, i.e. without using fossil fuels such as oil or gas. Because of its high energy demands, the paint shop is the most important factor in significantly lowering Plant Debrecen’s CO₂e emissions. In the paint shop alone, using electricity from renewable sources reduces annual CO₂e emissions by up to 12,000 tonnes. About a quarter of the plant's annual power needs will be supplied by the 50‑hectare on-site photovoltaic system. Surplus solar energy, such as that generated on non‑working days, is stored in a 1,800 m³ thermal storage system with a capacity of 130 MWh.

The paint shop also uses an energy recovery system. A heat grid was successfully implemented in the design of the new paint shop, delivering additional energy savings of up to 10%. This innovative concept combines multiple measures for efficient energy recovery from the compressed air supply, drying ovens and cooling systems. The recovered waste heat is then used to preheat the water circuit.

In addition, a thermal storage system – holding 1,800 m³ of water, with a capacity of 130 MWh – stores surplus energy from the photovoltaic system during off-peak periods and supplies it as heat during peak demand.

Full digitalisation of production processes further boosts assembly efficiency. The AIQX (Artificial Intelligence Quality Next) IT platform developed in-house at the BMW Group is a key component of the BMW iFACTORY. AIQX uses sensors and camera systems along the production line to automate quality processes. AI evaluates the data and provides real-time feedback to employees on the line. Looking ahead, vehicles on the line will also become active, connected participants in the industrial IoT (Internet of Things) ecosystem. They will conduct self-analysis, interact with plant employees in real time and automatically share and document relevant messages, using tools such as on-board cameras and IT systems. The equipment, tools, components and every BMW in the assembly halls are already digitally connected to the BMW production system.

The building's “finger structure” – an optimised version of the design employed at BMW Group Plant Leipzig – allows 80% of parts to be delivered directly to the correct point of assembly on the line. All-electric in-house logistics also benefit from autonomous tugger trains, which transport high-voltage batteries directly from production to installation points, as well as Smart Transport Robots that autonomously deliver smaller components to the assembly line. By linking all internal and external databases, the entire logistics process achieves unprecedented digital depth, automating many previously manual, interconnected analysis tasks. Well-structured information is therefore available at any time and can be analysed instantly “at the push of a button”.

The BMW Group has created highly intelligent production processes for its new high-voltage batteries developed in-house. Plant Debrecen will be the first of five plants worldwide to begin series production of Gen6 high-voltage batteries. The production processes were initially developed and tested at pilot plants. Artificial intelligence, data analytics and constant knowledge sharing within the production network also play a key role in the ramp-up of production. Digital twins of production and comprehensive AI databases ensure optimisation of processes and employee training. A consistent zero-defect approach enables seamless in-line quality inspections and 100% end‑of-line monitoring. In line keeping with the “local for local” principle, high‑voltage battery assembly takes place directly on site, allowing the production teams to take advantage of infrastructure efficiencies and short distances.

Best of the best:
Plant Debrecen benefits from expertise at all production sites worldwide

BMW Group Plant Debrecen is the first production site in the company's network not tied to a specific primary plant. Instead, it serves as a network plant, combining best practices from various locations worldwide. A major advantage of this approach is that the plant’s current workforce of more than 2,000 employees can be trained within the network, allowing employee know-how from different locations, such as China, South Africa, Mexico, the US and, of course, Germany, to be shared. At the same time, employees throughout the global network gain the opportunity to share their technology insights in Debrecen and bring expertise in production of the Neue Klasse models back to their own location – creating a win-win situation for all the plants.

A long version with further details on all technologies is available as a PDF file in the downloads section.

Munich. BMW Group Plant Steyr is getting ready for series production of fuel cell systems. The third generation of the BMW Group’s hydrogen drive system will be manufactured in Steyr from 2028, and the company’s competence centres in Munich and Steyr are already building the first prototypes. Further drive system components will come from the technology hub in Landshut.

“The launch of the first-ever fuel cell production model from BMW in 2028 will add another exceptionally efficient high-performance drive system with zero emissions to our technology-open product portfolio,” says Joachim Post, Member of the Board of Management of BMW AG, Development. “The choice of Steyr as the production location clearly demonstrates our commitment to a European innovation footprint. The BMW competence centres in Munich and Steyr have a key role to play in the development of pioneering fuel cell systems.”  

The third-generation BMW fuel cell system: more compact, more powerful, more efficient 

The first generation of the fuel cell drive system was supplied entirely by the Toyota Motor Corporation (Toyota) and was fitted in the BMW 535iA back in 2014. The second generation made its debut in the current BMW iX5 Hydrogen pilot fleet. This time, BMW developed the overall fuel cell system itself, while the individual fuel cells came from Toyota. 

For the new generation, the BMW Group and the Toyota Motor Corporation jointly develop the powertrain system for passenger vehicles, with the core fuel cell technology creating synergies for both commercial and passenger vehicle applications. This close collaboration enables both companies to leverage synergies in development and procurement while creating brand-specific models.

The third generation of fuel cell technology brings some major improvements:

• Compact design: The space taken up by the fuel cell system has been reduced by around 25%. A considerable increase in power density has enabled a much more compact construction compared to the preceding generation.  
• High degree of integration: The third generation can be seamlessly integrated into future vehicle architectures. This paves the way for a technology-open approach that will make it possible to offer customers a variety of drive system variants in future. 
• Optimised components and increased efficiency: The system is set to be substantially more efficient than its predecessor. This is being achieved by upgrading individual component parts that are based on the drive technology jointly developed with Toyota and by improved operating strategies. These advances result in increased range and output combined with lower energy consumption, which represents a significant improvement over the second generation. 

Technological expertise at the BMW Group in Munich

The BMW Group is making prototypes of the highly efficient fuel cell systems at the company’s competence centre for hydrogen in Munich. An electrochemical reaction takes place in the fuel cell, which involves hydrogen from the tanks reacting with oxygen from the air. This reaction produces electricity that powers the electric motor and thereby supplies the vehicle with energy. 

The fuel cell system comprises not only the fuel cells themselves, but also all the components and systems needed for their efficient operation. These include the cooling system and hydrogen- and air subsystems. The compact layout ensures the entire drivetrain delivers the levels of performance and safety for which BMW is renowned. 

Prototype production is currently focused on development and validation of the assembly and testing processes, with particular attention paid to industrialisation, quality assurance and scalability in the longer term. In parallel to this, the prototypes are being used to develop operating strategy and for validation on both a system and vehicle level. These steps are crucial in preparing fuel cell technology for series production. 

Series production at BMW Group Plant Steyr

Production of the fuel cell systems is due to get underway in 2028 at BMW Group Plant Steyr, which can call on decades of development and production expertise covering all drive system types across the BMW Group model range. New test rigs and production facilities are now being built and buildings modified to incorporate the new drive technology and constantly refine it. 

“We are proud to be producing another innovative drive technology at Plant Steyr in future alongside the latest generation of electric motors and combustion engines,” says Klaus von Moltke, Senior Vice President Engine Production at BMW AG and Director of BMW Group Plant Steyr. “This, together with the development expertise we have available on-site, makes our plant a prime example of the BMW Group’s technology-open approach.” 

Component manufacture at BMW Group Plant Landshut

BMW Group Plant Landshut is responsible for manufacturing key components for the fuel cell vehicles. Construction of new hardware and equipment for series production of the hydrogen-specific BMW Energy Master will start there in late May 2026. The BMW Energy Master controls the supply of power in the vehicle across a range from 400 – 800V. It also acts as the interface for data from the high-voltage battery. This control unit is supplemented by various components that are specifically required for the fuel cell application. Production of the first prototypes of the hydrogen-specific Energy Master will begin in mid-2026 just a few miles away at BMW Group Plant Dingolfing, where the prototypes of the BMW Energy Master for the Neue Klasse models were also made.  

As with the BMW iX5 Hydrogen pilot fleet, Plant Landshut will once again manufacture the housing and pressure plate for the next model generation. 

Munich/Steyr (Austria). The BMW Group Plant Steyr today began series production of the e-engine for the Neue Klasse. “Today, we are laying the foundations for the future of the BMW Group,” explained Milan Nedeljković, member of the Board of Management of BMW AG responsible for Production. “As the first production site for the Gen6 electric engine, Plant Steyr is central to the Neue Klasse and the continued development of our global production network.” The electric engine for the sixth generation of BMW eDrive (Gen6) is the first fully-electric drive train to be produced at the Steyr location in Austria. From there, it will be shipped throughout the production network, providing the drive train for the Neue Klasse. “Three years ago, we announced that we would build this electric engine in Steyr. Today, we are proud to deliver it,” said Klaus von Moltke, SVP of Engine Production for BMW AG and plant director of the Steyr facility. “What we are launching here today is more than just a production ramp-up. It is a firm commitment to Europe, to technology and to the future.”

Technology openness: Plant Steyr as centre of drive train expertise

Between the project launch in 2022 and 2030, the BMW Group is investing over one billion euros in expanding development and production expertise for e-drives at the Steyr location. This capacity expansion will ensure the plant remains the BMW Group's leading location for drive trains. For over 40 years, the plant has developed and manufactured internal combustion engines for the BMW and MINI brands. This extensive experience and wealth of expertise in drive trains make the engine plant the ideal facility to produce the Gen6 electric engines. The site will continue to manufacture diesel and petrol engines in parallel. “Technology openness is our strength – it gives us the necessary flexibility to secure long-term jobs,” said von Moltke. Around 1,000 employees will work in the new electric engine assembly. Depending on global demand, half of the Steyr location’s total workforce could be employed in e-mobility by 2030. von Moltke: “Steyr will remain the heart of our drive train expertise – both for combustion engines and electromobility.”

Powertrain components produced in Steyr, aluminium housings from Landshut

Rotor, stator, transmission and inverter – all core components of the innovative, highly integrated e-drive – will be manufactured at Plant Steyr. The housing for the electric engine will be cast at Plant Landshut's aluminium foundry and further processed in Steyr. The inverter will be produced in a new in-house clean-room environment, marking the Austrian engine manufacturer’s entry into the field of electrical engineering. E-drive components from Steyr will be assembled on two new lines. The overall production concept for the Gen6 e-drive follows the principle of a modular system, making it possible to produce different highly flexible electric drive train derivatives for the entire range of Neue Klasse models. The modular concept generates positive economies of scale and cost savings in both development and production. It also improves the scalability of production volumes and keeps production, supply networks and procurement highly flexible.

Comprehensive improvements to electric engine

The electric engine has undergone significant further development for Gen6: The rotor, stator and inverter have all been holistically designed for the Gen6 technology’s new 800-volt architecture, maximising performance capabilities and the efficiency of the drive system. In the inverter, 800-volt technology and silicon carbide (SiC) semiconductor technology are now being used to boost efficiency. Fully integrated into the electric engine housing, the inverter converts direct current from the high-voltage battery into alternating current for the electric engine.

Lower weight, costs and energy loss lead to greater vehicle efficiency

Overall, the intelligent use of new technologies in the e-drive and systematic further development of existing systems produce remarkable results. Comparing the future BMW iX3 50 xDrive with a Gen5 xDrive model shows the following improvements in the electric engine: “Energy loss is reduced by 40 percent, costs by 20 percent and weight by 10 percent. All this makes a significant contribution to the approximately 20-percent increase in overall vehicle efficiency”, explains Martin Kaufmann, SVP of global Powertrain Development at BMW AG. The efficient design of the powertrain together with the high energy content of the high-voltage battery, enable a range of up to 800 km (WLTP) in the BMW iX3 50 xDrive, the first model of the Neue Klasse.

If you have any questions, please contact:

Corporate Communications

Christian Marxt
Spokesperson Production Network Powertrain and High-Voltage Batteries
Cell phone: +49-151-601-79158
Email: Christian.Marxt@bmwgroup.com

Sandra Schillmöller
Head of Communications Production Network BMW Group
Cell phone: +49-151-601-12225
Email: Sandra.Schillmoeller@bmwgroup.com

Media website: https://newsroom.bmwgroup.com/global/en
Email: presse@bmwgroup.com

Rosslyn, Tshwane. BMW Group South Africa marked a notable milestone, hosting key national leadership, including the President of the Republic of South Africa, Cyril Ramaphosa, accompanied by the Premier of Gauteng Province, Panyaza Lesufi, at BMW Group Plant Rosslyn on Thursday, 24 July.

The landmark visit, which saw the participation of Milan Nedeljković, Chairman of BMW South Africa and Member of the Board of Management of BMW AG, responsible for Production, and Ilka Horstmeier, Labour Relations Director and Member of the Board of Management of BMW AG, responsible for People and Real Estate, as part of their broader engagements in South Africa, highlighted the strong and active partnership between the BMW Group and the South African government in advancing industrial growth and economic empowerment.

“The achievements at BMW Group Plant Rosslyn, especially its path towards record production volumes and its crucial role in our global BMW X3 production, are a source of great pride”, comments Milan Nedeljković. “Our significant investment in electrification here demonstrates our long-term belief in South Africa as a key manufacturing hub within our global network, driving innovation, skills and sustainable growth for the region.”

Showcasing local excellence and commitment. 

The visit provided a valuable opportunity to spotlight BMW Group South Africa’s recent successes and plans. BMW Group Plant Rosslyn is set to achieve its highest annual production volume in 52 years, reflecting strong global demand and the BMW Group’s confidence in local manufacturing capabilities. This performance is underpinned by continuous investment, notably the R4.2 billion allocated for the electrification of BMW Group Plant Rosslyn. The locally produced BMW X3 recently earned critical acclaim, winning the Old Mutual Insure 2025 South African Car of the Year and the Premium category awards, highlighting its strength and market appeal. BMW Group South Africa’s strong Q2 performance indicates its leadership in the premium segment, with customer demand and its electrification strategy continuing to drive production of the new BMW X3 at BMW Group Plant Rosslyn. To date, Plant Rosslyn is the only plant that produces the BMW X3 plug-in hybrid (PHEV) for the entire world; a fact that the team of BMW Group Plant Rosslyn takes pride in.

Advancing South Africa’s automotive sector, together.

The engagement at BMW Group Plant Rosslyn served as a pivotal platform to reinforce the company’s position as a trusted corporate citizen and contributor to national progress. During the visit, President Ramaphosa interacted with the plant assembly staff on the production line, gaining firsthand insight into daily operations, and later addressed several hundred production staff, acknowledging their dedication. Discussions during the visit highlighted BMW Group South Africa’s industry leadership, showcasing its role as a premium automotive manufacturer through innovative and sustainable practices, and emphasising its substantial investment in South Africa’s economic development.

The dialogue focused on the tangible benefits of BMW Group Plant Rosslyn, specifically its role in advancing job creation, driving essential skills development, and facilitating technology transfer within the local market. A reflection of its ongoing dedication to national transformation, BMW Group South Africa  and BMW Group Financial Services South Africa both achieved Level 1 B-BBEE status in the 2024 audit, highlighting the companies’ drive towards an inclusive and equitable workplace, and reflecting continuous, focused efforts and collaboration. Crucially, the visit has strengthened public and private sector relations, deepening BMW Group South Africa’s partnership with the local government and aligning its strategic goals with the President’s vision for industrial growth, economic empowerment and sustainable mobility.

“This engagement at Plant Rosslyn reaffirms the great partnership between the BMW Group and South Africa”, states Daniel Bester, Director of BMW Group Plant Rosslyn. “Our plant continues to be a beacon of manufacturing excellence, setting new production records and driving innovation. We remain committed to contributing to South Africa’s economic growth, actively working towards a shared, prosperous future.”

Beyond manufacturing, BMW Group South Africa’s partnership with the Youth Employment Services (YES) programme continues to create meaningful work opportunities for young South Africans, equipping them with practical experience. The company has generated over 3,500 youth work experiences since 2022. The 2025 cohort at BMW South Africa includes 86 talented individuals gaining invaluable experience across the four business entities.

Creating confidence for a shared future.

The successful gathering at BMW Group Plant Rosslyn solidifies BMW Group South Africa’s industrial leadership and its function as an integral collaborator in South Africa’s economic growth and enduring prosperity. A key pillar supporting this confidence is the company’s highly adaptive and capable manufacturing workforce. The advanced requirements for producing the new BMW X3 at BMW Group Plant Rosslyn have driven significant advancements in employee technical skills and expertise. This continuous development of local capabilities not only upholds manufacturing excellence but also reinforces South Africa’s strategic importance within the global automotive industry.

Munich. The BMW Group is now offering customers even broader scope for personalising analysis of their driving stats in the My BMW App and MINI App. The latest update allows drivers to view their personal carbon footprint for the first time.

“Our usage research shows: The information in My Trips is one of the most popular features in the app,” says Dirk Wiedmann, Senior Vice President Sales Steering and Strategy, Digitalization. “We are now expanding this successful function with carbon footprint calculation, giving our customers simple and straightforward access to sustainability-related information via a popular and widely used channel.”

Emissions from vehicle production and use: two sets of figures make up the driver’s personal footprint. 
The personal carbon footprint function has been designed with a technology-open approach and is available for vehicles with combustion engines, as well as plug-in hybrid and fully electric models. At launch, this feature will be rolled out across selected models in various European countries*. Calculation of the personal footprint is based on two central sets of figures.

• Emissions from vehicle use: My Trips analyses the routes the driver has completed and uses the energy consumed in the process to work out the CO₂ emitted. To this end, CO₂ equivalents are calculated using data from the International Energy Agency (IEA). For vehicles with combustion engines, the app calculates the amount of CO₂ emitted based on the fuel consumed. For battery-electric vehicles, it shows the emissions generated when using the average national energy mix – and also tells the driver how high emissions would be by comparison if green energy was used.
• Emissions from vehicle production: These are emissions generated during the manufacturing process. Emissions are recorded from the processing of raw materials, procurement of materials, transport logistics and the production of the model at hand. The BMW Group already sets out the emissions figures for numerous models in the form of Vehicle Footprint Reports. These are calculated according to recognised standards for life cycle assessments and certified by the TÜV Rheinland agency. They can also be downloaded from the BMW Group website.

Ready for electric mobility: My BMW App helps with the transition.

The My BMW App also includes the Electric Vehicle Analysis introduced last summer. This function allows customers whose BMW is powered by a combustion engine to simulate how well a fully electric BMW fits their personal driving profile. Here, the customer selects an electric BMW model as an alternative vehicle in the app. Once the combustion-engined model has made at least 200 journeys and covered a distance of 2,000 kilometres (over 1,240 miles), the analysis shows the journeys the user could have completed on a single charge with the electric vehicle selected, and also flags up charging stations close to frequently visited destinations. More than 100,000 customers had used this analysis by May 2025.

Over 14 million customers around the world use the My BMW App and MINI App. The My Trips function is available in more than 90 countries and is actively used by 1.9 million users.

* The new function is available to users of vehicles for which a TÜV-certified carbon footprint has been calculated. The feature will launch in Germany, Austria, Belgium, France, Luxemburg and Switzerland, and be available in the BMW 1 Series (code 81GE), BMW 2 Series (31GH), BMW X2 (71GM, 21GM), BMW X3 (11GR, 31GP, 65GP), BMW 5 Series (31FK, 11JF, 71FJ), BMW 5 Series Touring (11HH, 11GW, 21GV), BMW M5 (81FK) and BMW iX (41CF) and MINI Cooper (11GC), MINI Cooper C (11GD), MINI Aceman (31GC) and MINI Countryman (41GA, 11GA).

In the event of enquiries please contact:                                                                   

Corporate Communications

Wieland Brúch
BMW Product Communications
Electromobility and Sustainability
Phone: +49-176-601-72652
E-mail: Wieland.Bruch@bmw.de  

Martin Tholund
Spokesperson BMW Digital Car, Electronics and Software, Technology Partnerships, Digital Products and Services
Phone: +49-151-601-77126
E-Mail: Martin.Tholund@bmwgroup.com  

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

E-mail: presse@bmw.de



The BMW Group

With its four brands BMW, MINI, Rolls-Royce and BMW Motorrad, the BMW Group is the world’s leading premium manufacturer of automobiles and motorcycles and also provides premium financial services. The BMW Group production network comprises over 30 production sites worldwide; the company has a global sales network in more than 140 countries.

In 2024, the BMW Group sold 2.45 million passenger vehicles and more than 210,000 motorcycles worldwide. The profit before tax in the financial year 2024 was € 11.0 billion on revenues amounting to € 142.4 billion. As of 31 December 2024, the BMW Group had a workforce of 159,104 employees.

The economic success of the BMW Group has always been based on long-term thinking and responsible action. Sustainability is a key element of the BMW Group’s corporate strategy and covers all products from the supply chain and production to the end of their useful life. 

www.bmwgroup.com

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Munich. The BMW Group uses plastic wire (filament) and granulate from waste 3D printing powder and used parts to produce new components using the 3D printing technology. Waste powder generated from production of thousands of components each year and previously been disposed of, along with shredded used parts, is now processed into new filament. The filament is rolled onto spools like wire, which can then be used to print new items, such as auxiliary production devices and tools. This filament is used at the Additive Manufacturing Campus in Oberschleißheim, as well as at various sites across the BMW Group's global production network. In addition to recycled filament for the Fused Filament Fabrication (FFF) process, the Campus also provides recycled granulate for use in Fused Granulate Fabrication (FGF) technology, thus enabling manufacturing of large tools.

“I’ve been involved with this project from the very beginning and I’m thrilled to see how far we’ve come – from our initial ideas and attempts at startup level to now being able to produce large quantities of highly robust components from recycled filament at any BMW Group production location. It’s incredibly exciting to continuously develop and test new processes. The use of waste powder and discarded 3D printing components is a key element of a functional and efficient circular economy,” says Paul Victor Osswald, project manager for Predevelopment Non-Metals, who has worked on this development since 2018.

First steps taken in 2018 with innovative “bottleUP” project
The foundation for today’s 3D printing loop at the BMW Group was first established in 2018. As part of the BMW Start-up Accelerator programme, the innovative “bottleUP” project focused on obtaining 3D printing material for various applications by recycling PET bottles. Just one year later, the first industrial waste was being used to produce recycled filament on a pilot basis. By 2021, Osswald’s team successfully printed the first holders and auxiliary production devices using their own recycled filament. Today, various locations across the BMW Group’s global production network are supplied with 3D-printed components from the Additive Manufacturing Campus in Oberschleißheim, where the company has consolidated its production, research and training activities in additive manufacturing under one roof. Each year, up to 12 tonnes of waste powder can be recycled into filament and granulate and can then be reused for the manufacture of auxiliary production devices in the plants and for pre-development projects at the Additive Manufacturing Campus. The use of these components reduces costs, enhances process efficiency and product quality, and improves ergonomics for employees at the plants.

Additive Manufacturing Campus supports production sites with comprehensive package of recycled filament, printing parameters and expertise
As part of the BMW Group’s centre of competence concept, the Additive Manufacturing Campus facilitates the ongoing rollout of its in-house developed recycling filament. It enables locations by sharing expertise and providing comprehensive solutions. In collaboration with established and experienced 3D printing facilities at BMW Group production plants, suitable 3D printers are tested, and optimised printing parameters for the recycled filament are developed and validated for the respective models. This package – consisting of printer recommendations, recycled filament and validated parameter settings – is then made available to other plants. This ensures that locations are efficiently enabled and can quickly achieve high-quality printing results on site. The Campus provides further support by building know-how at the plants through relevant skills development and training opportunities. This includes foundational courses in 3D printing, advanced training on the topic of design for additive manufacturing and application-focused sessions on integrating 3D printing into the production environment. A strong and constantly evolving network has developed across the sites, benefiting from knowledge-sharing and mutual support. The next 3D printing facility, which is currently under construction at Plant Debrecen in Hungary, will benefit from the network’s experience and will support the new production plant for the Neue Klasse going forward.

3D printing at BMW Group production sites: proven driver of success
Installation and operation of 3D printers throughout the BMW Group's production network will ensure the successful implementation and continuous rollout of 3D printing technology. Thanks to rapid on-site response times, components can be available within just a few days – or even hours, in some cases. This enables short iteration loops and swift optimisations, helping prevent assembly line downtimes. The flexibility and design freedom of 3D printing spark creative ideas and solutions that can be developed and implemented directly by employees on the ground. Collaboration between the 3D printing facilities at the plants and the Additive Manufacturing Campus continuously drives further development of 3D printing and consistently leads to new applications and optimisations within the BMW Group’s production system.

Printed components for diverse applications
The use of 3D printing at the BMW Group’s production plants continues to expand. Today, every BMW Group plant is equipped with a 3D printer, enabling local production of several hundred thousand components each year. The areas of application are highly diverse – ranging from ergonomic and occupational safety solutions for employees to scratch protection, fitting aids and special manufacturing equipment, up to and including gauges, templates, special tools and tool organisation. Mould cavities, pre-assembly mounts and even entire grippers can be produced with the help of 3D printing.

A wide variety of components are now being printed with recycled filament.

For instance, at BMW Group Plant Munich, a specific component used in the marriage of chassis and body is now being 3D-printed. This component temporarily secures the steering rod in a defined position, allowing it to be guided through the opening in the body without risk of collision. The reusable component is installed in the vehicle shortly before the marriage and then removed again afterwards.

At the BMW Motorrad plant in Berlin, 3D-printed support pedestals are used in applying decor to the motorcycles’ trim panel. The pedestals, which are customised to fit the trim panel components precisely, also feature locking mechanisms. This ensures the components are held securely in place, preventing them from slipping while the decor is applied.

Solutions to optimise operations are often developed in response to acute workplace needs. For example, employees at BMW Group Plant Dingolfing have developed their own fitting aids to prevent screws from being lost during their assembly in the vehicles. Using 3D printing, a holder for magnetic screw attachment on various cordless screwdrivers has been developed which enables the screws to be carried safely.


If you have any questions, please contact:

Corporate Communications
Benedikt Torka
BMW Group, Communication Production Network
Cell phone: +49-151-601-32455
Email: Benedikt.Torka@bmwgroup.com

Sandra Schillmöller
Head of Communications Production Network BMW Group
Cell phone: +49-151-601-12225
Email: Sandra.Schillmoeller@bmwgroup.com

Media website: https://newsroom.bmwgroup.com/global/en
Email: presse@bmwgroup.com

Munich/Parsdorf. With the Neue Klasse, the BMW Group is ushering in a new era of pure electric driving, starting series production end of 2025. The high-voltage battery is a key component in any electric vehicle. Before large-scale series production can begin, manufacturing processes must be developed and pre-series batteries put through their paces. This takes place at the BMW Group’s pilot plants for high-voltage batteries in Parsdorf and Hallbergmoos and at the Research and Innovation Centre (FIZ) in Munich. “Our pilot plants for high-voltage batteries are strengthening Germany’s capacity for innovation,” says Milan Nedeljković, Member of the Board of Management of BMW AG responsible for Production. “They are laying the groundwork for the new series plants worldwide, ensuring a smooth ramp-up of high-voltage battery production.” To produce high-voltage batteries for the sixth generation of BMW eDrive (Gen6), the company is establishing five assembly sites across three continents: in Irlbach-Straßkirchen (Lower Bavaria), Debrecen (Hungary), Shenyang (China), San Luis Potosí (Mexico) and Woodruff (USA).

Quality is key: Consistent zero-defect approach
For the in-house developed Gen6 high-voltage battery, the BMW Group is implementing intelligent, state-of-the-art production processes using the latest technologies. “For production of our high-voltage batteries, we are pursuing a consistent zero-defect approach,” explains Markus Fallböhmer, head of Battery Production at BMW AG. “Highly intelligent, AI-supported quality checks are integrated into the production process to help us achieve this.” Because quality is key: In bodies for the Neue Klasse, the high-voltage battery serves as a structural component (“pack to open body”). The new cylindrical round cells are integrated directly into the high-voltage battery (“cell to pack”). With its innovative production processes, BMW Group’s pilot and series plants are setting new industry standards for battery production. Examples include, among the consistent zero-defect approach, the use of digital production twins for tasks such as employee training, as well as leveraging expanded AI databases to optimise supply and production logistics. All production steps undergo seamless in-line monitoring with comprehensive data storage, enabling maximum process stability and continuous data-based optimisation.

Pilot plants up close: Parsdorf, Hallbergmoos and Munich (FIZ)
The largest pilot plant for Gen6 high-voltage batteries is located in Parsdorf, where over 350 employees have been building initial prototypes since 2023. Since mid-2024, some of the high-voltage batteries produced there have already been delivered to the vehicle plant in Debrecen, Hungary, where they are installed in test vehicles for the Neue Klasse. A pre-series plant for high-voltage batteries is also located near Munich Airport. Since summer 2024, the site in Hallbergmoos has been developing manufacturing technologies for high-voltage battery assembly. Around 200 employees are working at this small-scale battery factory. The Hallbergmoos site serves as a model for the series production at Plant Woodruff near Spartanburg, South Carolina, US. At the Munich Research and Innovation Centre (FIZ), another 200 employees are manufacturing and testing prototypes and smaller module variants of the high-voltage battery. Several floors of the recently opened Aeroacoustics and E-drive Centre (AEZ) are dedicated to this work.

Series launch of five battery plants in under two years
The systems and processes developed at the Bavarian pilot plants will be rolled out to the series plants worldwide. Within less than two years, series production will ramp up at five locations across three continents. In line with its "local-for-local" principle, the BMW Group has positioned its Gen6 high-voltage battery assembly sites as close as possible to its vehicle plants. This approach safeguards production, even in the event of unforeseen political and economic developments. It will also strengthen existing production sites, while preserving and creating jobs. Series production of the BMW iX3, the first model of the Neue Klasse, will get underway at Plant Debrecen late this year, alongside high-voltage battery manufacturing at the same site. The launch in Debrecen will be followed by the battery assembly plants in Shenyang, Irlbach-Straßkirchen, Woodruff and San Luis Potosí.

How the BMW Group builds Gen6 high-voltage batteries
The BMW Group sources battery cells for its high-voltage batteries from leading cell manufacturers, who produce the cells to the company's specifications. The highest technical standards apply. Upon receipt of goods, additional measurements – such as voltage checks – are carried out. Next comes cell clustering, where the battery cells are connected to coolants. This step ensures optimal insulation and cooling of the cells. The cell clusters and cell contact system are then laser-cleaned and welded with pinpoint precision. The in-line inspection continuously monitors each weld seam in real time. An innovative foaming process follows, ensuring that all elements are protected as a mechanical unit. The foam thus guarantees the safety, stability and durability of the high-voltage battery. The housing is then closed, sealed and riveted. In the final assembly step, the Energy Master – the central control unit – is installed onto the high-voltage battery. A permanently elastic sealing adhesive is applied to ensure a reliable seal. Finally, each high-voltage battery undergoes a 100% end-of-line inspection to ensure quality, safety and function.


If you have any questions, please contact:

Corporate Communications

Christian Marxt
Press spokesperson, Production Network, Powertrain and High-Voltage Batteries
Cell phone: +49-151-601-79158
Email: Christian.Marxt@bmwgroup.com

Sandra Schillmöller
Head of Communications Production Network BMW Group
Cell phone: +49-151-601-12225
Email: Sandra.Schillmoeller@bmwgroup.com

Media website: https://newsroom.bmwgroup.com/global/en
Email: presse@bmwgroup.com

Munich. Whenever vehicle production equipment fails at a BMW Group plant, every minute counts. The maintenance team must work quickly to identify and resolve the cause of the fault. Now, employees can ask the new digital AI assistant, “Factory Genius”, for help: It can suggest solutions for the specific system problem within seconds, reducing the time required for error diagnosis to a minimum.

“AI applications have become an integral part of modern production systems and are a key element of the BMW Group’s digital transformation. Factory Genius is an example of how generative AI, in particular, can streamline operations for everyone involved and enhance economic efficiency,” says Michael Ströbel, head of Process Management and Digitalisation, Order to Delivery at the BMW Group. But how exactly does the digital assistant, recently launched in its initial development phase, support maintenance staff?

Knowledge discovery tool

The tool essentially works like a search engine, quickly filtering relevant answers to specific user queries from a vast amount of data and user reports. However, this search function does not draw content and information from the internet, but from equipment manuals, quality data, internal fault reports and planning documents it was previously trained on. To keep the data management system up to date, it is regularly fed with new knowledge – for example, in the form of daily-updated shift-log data.

By integrating a Large Language Model, similar to those used in chatbots like ChatGPT and Gemini, Factory Genius is also able to understand language: The software can search data for relevant content within the appropriate linguistic context, providing more accurate results than a conventional search engine. In addition to displaying the top matches with links to sources, the assistant can also summarise the maintenance instructions found through contextual search in just a few sentences, if preferred. The user can then ask questions in a chat.

Collaborative in-house development

A pilot project in the body shop at BMW Group Plant Dingolfing laid the groundwork for this in-house development. Alongside the tool developed in Dingolfing in spring 2024, other BMW Group locations, including the plants in Spartanburg, USA, and Rosslyn, South Africa, were working at the same time on similar solutions through a transparent process. All were pursuing the same goal: improving access to information when faults occur or during scheduled training and maintenance. AI experts at the company’s Munich headquarters consolidated this expertise, integrating the plants’ diverse requirements to create a company-wide “best of” application. This can now be used globally in its initial development phase through an internal platform.

In addition to search and chat functionality, Factory Genius also features a translation function, enabling it to switch languages at any time to overcome language barriers. This functionality has proven extremely useful while building the new plant in Debrecen, Hungary, for example, since manuals are often not available in Hungarian.

Transferable methodology

The technology behind Factory Genius has the potential to be applied to other production use cases as well. The general approach enables integration of a wide range of documents and development of assistants tailored to different user groups. Thanks to its cloud functionality, the tool will also be rapidly available worldwide.

If you have any questions, please contact:

Julian Friedrich, BMW Group Plant Dingolfing, Head of Communications
Telephone: +49 8731 76 22020, Email: Julian.Friedrich@bmw.de

Benedikt Torka, BMW Group, Communications Production Network
Telephone: +49 89 382 32455, Email: Benedikt.Torka@bmwgroup.com

The BMW Group is bringing large-format, pure ASSB cells from Solid Power to its test vehicle, a BMW i7, which is being operated in the Munich area. The potential benefits of ASSB technology: higher energy density in a very compact storage system compared to current technologies.

Since 2022, the BMW Group and Solid Power, Inc. (Nasdaq: SLDP) have intensified their activities for the development of all-solid-state battery (ASSB) technology through their technology transfer agreement.

The BMW Group and Solid Power believe in the potential of genuine ASSB technology. With a higher energy density compared to current battery technologies, ASSB batteries have the potential to achieve longer ranges in vehicles without the disadvantages with regard to the weight of the overall storage system.

“Solid Power is extremely proud that our partnership with BMW has resulted in the first demonstration of truly all-solid-state battery cells in a vehicle,” said John Van Scoter, President and Chief Executive Officer of Solid Power.  “We believe in the promise of ASSB’s and continue to drive innovation of our sulfide electrolyte in support of that future for EV’s.”

Martin Schuster, Vice President Battery Cell and Cell Module at the BMW Group, says: “Our BMW i7 ASSB test vehicle on the road is a perfect example of the BMW Group's technology-open mindset. We are continuously advancing the development of new battery cell technologies and are constantly expanding our know-how with valuable partners such as Solid Power. ”

The concept battery integrated in the BMW i7 test vehicle combines proven Gen5 construction principles (prismatic cells in modules) with new, innovative module concepts for integrating ASSB cells from Solid Power.

The management of cell expansion will be investigated here. In addition: How is the operating pressure controlled and how to adjust the temperature conditions.

The use of solid power cells with sulfide-based electrolytes and their complete integration into a battery pack will provide the BMW Group with further important findings in the test program over the coming months.

The innovative cells were developed and manufactured by Solid Power in collaboration with experts from the BMW Group. Further development steps are required to implement ASSB technology in a competitive overall storage system.

The BMW Group and Solid Power have been cooperating since 2016 through an extended “Joint Development Agreement”, which was supported by BMW Group's investment in Solid Power in May 2021 as part of a financing round.

At the end of 2022, BMW and Solid Power agreed to further deepen their partnership. BMW will operate a solid cell prototype line at the CMCC (Cell Manufacturing Competence Center) in Parsdorf on the basis of a research and development license and using the experience and expertise of Solid Power.

Since 2008, the BMW Group has been steadily expanding its expertise in the area of battery cell technology. Since 2019, this know-how has been bundled at the BMW Group's Battery Cell Competence Center (BCCC) in Munich. The BCCC covers the entire value chain, from research and development to battery cell design and production capability.

In order to be able to implement innovations in battery cell technology quickly and efficiently, the BMW Group cooperates in a network of around 300 partners, including established companies, start-ups and universities.

The cooperation with Solid Power underlines the BMW Group's battery strategy -to further develop innovative battery technologies on equal footing with leading partners in the industry. This strategically strong position in the value chain ensures the BMW Group access to all new and innovative battery cell research worldwide.

+++ Pilot project “GenAI4Q” at BMW Group Plant Regensburg: AI system developed for tailored quality checks in vehicle assembly +++ Learning-based analysis tool enables customised quality inspections in any situation +++

Regensburg. Can artificial intelligence (AI) make quality control in vehicle production more efficient, faster and more reliable? A software solution developed at BMW Group Plant Regensburg as part of the “GenAI4Q” pilot project is making this a reality. At its core is an AI that delivers tailored inspection recommendations for the approximately 1,400 vehicles manufactured each day.

“The use of artificial intelligence supports the digital transformation of BMW Group production towards an intelligently connected factory – for example, we are using AI for quality control in vehicle assembly. In this way, we are optimizing our production processes and creating added value for our products and, ultimately, for our customers” says Armin Ebner, head of BMW Group Plant Regensburg.

BMW vehicles meet the highest standards of product quality. To ensure this, Plant Regensburg conducts numerous quality tests throughout the production process. Shortly before leaving the plant, vehicles undergo a final inspection: Trained specialists examine each finished vehicle once more to ensure it meets premium quality standards.

A new vehicle rolls off the Regensburg assembly line every 57 seconds. Each vehicle is built to individual customer specifications for the global market. Different types of drive trains are flexibly manufactured on one production line – ranging from vehicles with internal combustion engines to plug-in hybrids and fully-electric models, as well as countless model and equipment variants. Virtually no two vehicles are alike. “Our AI tool generates an individual inspection catalogue for each specific customer vehicle,” explains Rüdiger Römich, responsible for Test Floor and Finish in Regensburg’s vehicle assembly.

The AI analyses vast amounts of data to create these custom specifications. This includes not only vehicle data, such as model and equipment variant, but also real-time production data for each specific vehicle. By recognising patterns and correlations, the AI system quickly and automatically determines the scope of the inspection and organises it intelligently, in the right order, within a smartphone app. Römich: “Intuitive usability makes it easy to record findings. Employees can also access additional functions when needed – for example, a microphone icon in the app activates voice recording.” The AI also manages speech recognition and transcription using standardised coding.

AI-based quality inspection was developed at BMW Group Plant Regensburg in collaboration with Munich startup Datagon AI.

If you have any questions, please contact:

Christian Dürrschmidt, Communications Regensburg
Cell phone: +49 151 6060 5194, Email: Christian.Duerrschmidt@bmw.de 

Saskia Graser, head of Communications Regensburg and Wackersdorf

Cell phone: +49 151 6060 2014, Email: Saskia.Graser@bmw.de

Media website: https://newsroom.bmwgroup.com/global/en

Email: presse@bmw.de

BMW Group Plants Regensburg and Wackersdorf
The BMW Group vehicle plant in Regensburg has been in operation since 1986 and is one of more than 30 BMW Group production locations worldwide. Every workday, around 1,400 vehicles of the BMW X1 and BMW X2 models roll off the production line at Plant Regensburg, destined for customers around the globe. Different types of drive trains are flexibly manufactured on a single production line – ranging from vehicles with internal combustion engines to plug-in hybrids and fully-electric models.

BMW Group Plant Regensburg was recognised as “FACTORY OF THE YEAR” 2024 in the category “excellent large-series assembly” of the prestigious industrial competition. As it implements the so-called BMW iFACTORY, the BMW Group is focused on digitalisation of the Regensburg plant site to create a digital and intelligently connected factory. It is already possible to experience in virtual form what the factory will look like a few years from now. Production of models for the NEUE KLASSE, BMW’s next generation of vehicles, will ramp up in Regensburg in the second half of the decade.
The BMW Group plant in Wackersdorf is home to cockpit production and parts supply for overseas plants. With the opening of a new battery testing centre and commissioning of the first phase in autumn 2024, the location is also a key facilitator for electromobility. An entirely new area of expertise is the door and flap centre for Rolls-Royce.

The BMW Group core staff at the Regensburg and Wackersdorf locations in eastern Bavaria consists of around 9,250 employees, including about 350 apprentices.

Munich/Shanghai. Driving dynamics at the limits of physics: At the world's largest motor show in Shanghai, BMW presents the ##BMW Vision Driving Experience##, a driving experience of the highest order. Developed on the basis of the ##BMW Vision Neue Klasse##, the high-performance test vehicle will be unveiled to the public for the first time at Auto Shanghai 2025.

Inside, the lightning-fast ##Heart of Joy## control computer, which works in conjunction with the BMW Dynamic Performance Control software stack to centrally calculate all driving dynamics functions, is visible in the centre console of the BMW Vision Driving Experience in Shanghai - unlike later in series production.

The BMW Vision Driving Experience has been specially designed to challenge the Heart of Joy at the limits of driving physics.

Test drivers Jens Klingmann and Elias Houndtonji, the main attraction of the BMW Brand Night, demonstrate the extraordinary potential of the car with spectacular driving manoeuvres. BMW presents the show's vision vehicle in a special luminescent paint.

“This evening in Shanghai, BMW Group presented the most powerful prototype BMW has ever built. With up to 18,000 Nm of torque, the BMW Vision Driving Experience demonstrated Joy of Driving in its ultimate form. Equipped with our new super brain “Heart of Joy”, the VDX is converting the ultimate electric power into controlled driving pleasure - no wonder we’ve experienced overwhelming feedback from the audience”  said Jochen Goller, member of the Board of Management of BMW AG, responsible for Customers, Brands and Sales.

The first all-electric Neue Klasse vehicles will roll off the production line at the Debrecen plant in Hungary from the end of the year. The Heart of Joy central computer, which ensures a new level of precision and driving dynamics, will be fitted as standard in every Neue Klasse vehicle.

The ultimate endurance test for the next generation of drive and driving dynamics control.

With the visionary BMW Vision Driving Experience test vehicle, BMW is pushing the boundaries of familiar driving dynamics. With a torque of up to 18,000 Newton metres, the "fastest test rig in the world" is the ultimate endurance test for the Heart of Joy and BMW Dynamic Performance Control developed entirely by BMW. Thanks to active aerodynamics, the "driving machine" develops a downforce up to of 1.2 tonnes and lateral forces of up to 3g - a dimension on a par with Formula 1 and far beyond the requirements of conventional vehicles in road traffic. The logic behind this: If the hardware and software can tame the brute forces of this test rig, they can easily cope with the demands of everyday use.

In the new functional architecture of the Neue Klasse, the Heart of Joy is the central computer responsible for driving, braking, recharging through recuperation and some steering functions. With fast information processing and direct control of the electric motors, the Heart of Joy not only achieves a new level of agility and driving stability with fewer system interventions, but also enables 98 per cent of braking operations to be carried out using brake energy regeneration. This represents a 25% increase in efficiency compared to today's architectures. The vehicle can also be brought to a standstill more smoothly than ever before.

Innovative, fluorescent paint for the show in Shanghai.

Although the BMW Vision Driving Experience was designed for development purposes only and is not intended for series production, its exterior is based on the design language of the BMW Vision Neue Klasse. The monolithic-looking body, powerful wheel arches, recessed greenhouse and "shark nose" front end are all part of the purist aesthetic that will also characterise the Neue Klasse. A new interpretation of the characteristic BMW radiator grille and twin headlights creates a striking, three-dimensional light signature at the front.

For the presentation in Shanghai, the BMW Vision Driving Experience, which had previously been covered in camouflage film and shown at a preview in the USA, was given an innovative, self-illuminating paint finish. The paint's special light-sensitive pigments recharge in daylight, with even the smallest amount of ambient light sufficient. In the dark, the colour varies from a whitish yellow to an expressive neon yellow, depending on the state of charge. In addition, the rear of the car has been fitted with a "magic film" which, when stimulated by UV light, creates an expressive gradient from yellow to orange to pink from the rear to the front of the car. These special looks underline the uniqueness and innovative power of the car.

In case of queries, please contact:

BMW Group Corporate Communications

Dieter Falkensteiner,
Press Spokesperson Driving Experience
Phone: +49-151-601-51813
E-mail: Dieter.Falkensteiner@bmwgroup.com  

Bernhard Ederer,
Communication Drive Technology, Efficiency, Driving Experience
Phone: +49-176-601-28556
E-mail: Bernhard.Ederer@bmwgroup.com

Almut Stollberg,
Head of Communication Innovation, Design, Technology, Digital Car
Phone: +49-151-601-96543
E-mail: Almut.Stollberg@bmwgroup.com

Munich. As it pulls back the curtain on a new era in 2025, fuelled by the all-electric Neue Klasse models, BMW is creating a holistic driving and user experience that breaks genuinely new ground. One of the elements of the far-reaching BMW Panoramic iDrive concept is the new HypersonX soundscape. Developed by the BMW Group Sound Design Studio, it comprises 43 sound signals and special driving sounds for Personal Mode and Sport Mode. The multi-dimensional spectrum adapts the sounds precisely to the driving situation at hand and, in so doing, creates an emotional interaction between the driver and their vehicle.

This new stage in the evolution of the automotive sound experience has been made possible by the technological advances in hardware and software brought by the Neue Klasse. The revolutionary BMW Operating System X and a newly developed control unit pave the way for an innovative audio architecture. This allows the overall experience offered by the Neue Klasse to be perfected at an acoustic level, as well as in terms of vehicle character, driving experience and functional range.

A new dimension in drive sounds: distinctive and precisely honed.

“The unique sound spectrum of HypersonX plays a major role in giving a Neue Klasse model its own, highly distinctive character acoustically. Through our focus on precision, warmth and lightness, we can create a direct emotional connection between the driver and their vehicle,” emphasises Renzo Vitale, Creative Director of Sound Design BMW Group. In both Personal Mode and Sport Mode, the drive sounds focus on the essentials and are inspired by tones from nature and structures from the worlds of art and science. HypersonX has fewer basic notes than the sound experience previously employed. But at the same time, the acoustic spectrum has grown to include a new dimensional level. This gives the sound more “colour”, depth and precision, and it embodies more than ever the pleasure of driving for which BMW is renowned.

One of the main elements underpinning this capability is the audio control unit developed for the Neue Klasse, which enables a significant expansion of the dynamic range.

Added to which, the spatial modulation of the drive sound achievable in the Neue Klasse ensures that the vehicle occupants are thoroughly immersed in the soundscape generated by HypersonX. Under acceleration, for example, the vehicle gives the impression of moving between different three-dimensional layers of sound, thus transporting the feeling of speed and BMW-typical driving dynamics authentically into the cabin.

Humanity is a central design element of the welcome sound.

As well as intelligent reduction to the essential elements, the human aspect played an important role in the development of the soundscape for the Neue Klasse. The middle and lower frequency ranges of the BMW HypersonX sound spectrum have been brought to the fore to create a well-balanced acoustic ambience. In conjunction with intuitive operation, precisely adjusted light effects and homely interior design, this gives those on board a fine sense of wellbeing.

A choir made up of BMW Group Design Studio employees brings voice – in their respective native languages – to moments of driving joy, infusing the welcome sound with a particularly empathetic flavour. Carefully isolated elements of these recordings enhance the overall composition of the welcome sound to excellent effect and treat the driver to moments of joy and human warmth.

BMW HypersonX gives the sounds for the Neue Klasse an expressive and distinctive, but also understated and sensitive feel. To this end, more than nine million sound instances based on BMW’s sound DNA were generated using a new algorithm. At the BMW Group Sound Design Studio, these were then filtered into a brand-typical essence that in turn generates a cohesive and multi-dimensional acoustic experience. The result is a sound that creates an emotional connection between human and vehicle in all driving situations and brings a positive, congenial and inviting aura to the acoustic presence of the Neue Klasse.

+++ With 342,521 cars produced in 2024, Plant Regensburg was the BMW Group’s highest-volume vehicle plant in Europe +++ Plant Director Armin Ebner: “New body shop will help meet high market demand” – with over 120 vehicle bodies produced per workday +++ Preparations for next model generation +++

Regensburg. Today, BMW Group Plant Regensburg commissioned a new body shop at Plant Site 6.12 (Neutraubling), attended by Regensburg’s local commissioner, Tanja Schweiger, and Neutraubling mayor, Harald Stadler. Plant Director Armin Ebner: “The BMW X1 and BMW X2 produced in Regensburg remain extremely popular with customers worldwide. In the new production hall in Neutraubling, we currently manufacture over 120 vehicle bodies per day, helping us meet high market demand.” Once completed, the bodies from Neutraubling are transported to the vehicle plant in Regensburg, where they are assembled into finished cars around the clock in three-shift operation.

Local Commissioner Tanja Schweiger: “In these increasingly challenging times, BMW continues to be a key player in the automotive industry. The decision to expand the body shop for these two best-selling models represents a clear strategy for the future and marks a significant positive development for the Regensburg district’s status as a location for industry.” Neutraubling Mayor Harald Stadler added: “The fact that you are expanding your plant here is a strong commitment to the location and shows that the economy feels at home with us. As mayor, I am also very proud when BMW vehicles with bodies 'made in Neutraubling' are on the roads all over the world.”

Regensburg: the BMW Group’s highest-volume European vehicle plant

Every 57 seconds, a new vehicle rolls off the Regensburg assembly line – adding up to more than 1,400 vehicles per day. With an annual production of 342,521 cars, Plant Regensburg was the BMW Group’s highest-volume vehicle plant in Europe in 2024, exceeding its 2023 production (238,301 units) by more than 100,000 vehicles. Over a third of the vehicles manufactured in Regensburg in 2024 were electrified, either as plug-in hybrids or fully-electric models. “We build our vehicles for the global market and contribute to the growth of electromobility,” emphasised Ebner.

Body shop expanded to approx. 40,000 m² – with about 150 employees

An approx. 40,000-square-metre hall on Berliner Straße was remodelled to accommodate the new body shop in Neutraubling. To the north, four smaller extensions were built, covering nearly 1,000 square metres. Around 150 employees currently work in the hall in a single shift. The production hall, which was built in 2003, is located on premises owned by the firm Preymesser. BMW previously rented this facility, using the space for logistics purposes. In April 2024, the company successfully applied for a change of use from the town of Neutraubling and the Regensburg County Administration Office. “I would like to say a big thank to the authorities for approving this request and for the excellent support from the town and County Administration Office,” underlined Ebner.

Implemented in record time of less than 12 months – thanks to “tremendous team effort”

The new body shop was constructed in a record time of less than 12 months. “What we have achieved here in recent months is not only impressive because of the speed. The cooperation with all internal and external partners has been outstanding,” said Ebner, praising the “tremendous team effort of everyone involved”. Dismantling of the previous logistics facilities and construction of the new body shop went hand in hand. The first test bodies rolled off the assembly line in January and production ramped up in early March. A total of 294 robots are in use. 238 welding guns set up to 4,771 welding points per vehicle body. As part of the capacity expansion, BMW X1 bodies will no longer be produced solely in the existing body shop in Regensburg, but also in Neutraubling.

Preparations for next model generation

With an investment of over 550 million euros in the past two years, the BMW Group has also secured the long-term future of both Upper Palatinate locations: Regensburg and Wackersdorf. Plant Director Armin Ebner: “This signals our firm commitment to Upper Palatinate as as location for industry.” At the same time as building current models, BMW Group Plant Regensburg is already preparing for production of the next model generation. “With the NEUE KLASSE, the company aims to set new standards for digitalisation, electrification and circularity – and we are gearing up for this in Regensburg as well,” said Ebner. During the production break over the New Year period, remodelling at the plant continued in the body shop, paint shop and vehicle assembly. Further, more extensive structural measures will follow during a five-week production downtime in summer 2025.

“FACTORY OF THE YEAR” award recognises outstanding performance

Numerous accolades for the plant and vehicle models built in Regensburg have confirmed the location's outstanding performance in recent years. Just a few days ago, the Plant Regensburg team was presented with the “FACTORY OF THE YEAR” 2024 award in the category “excellent large-series assembly” at a congress in Ludwigsburg. The award is regarded as one of Germany’s most prestigious industrial competitions. The judges noted that “the innovation and dynamism with which Plant Regensburg is implementing the transformation towards the iFACTORY, together with the entire workforce, is highly impressive. In particular, the flexibility in both the factory set-up and among its employees is exemplary and serves as inspiration for successful production in Germany.”

BMW Group Corporate Communications
Christian Dürrschmidt, Communications Regensburg
Cell phone: +49 151 6060 5194, Email: Christian.Duerrschmidt@bmw.de
Saskia Graser, head of Communications Regensburg and Wackersdorf +49 151 6060 2014, Email: Saskia.Graser@bmw.de

Media website: https://newsroom.bmwgroup.com/global/en

Email: presse@bmw.de

BMW Group Plants Regensburg and Wackersdorf

The BMW Group vehicle plant in Regensburg has been in operation since 1986 and is one of more than 30 BMW Group production locations worldwide. Every workday, around 1,400 vehicles of the BMW X1 and BMW X2 models roll off the production line at Plant Regensburg, destined for customers around the globe. Different types of drive trains are flexibly manufactured on a single production line – ranging from vehicles with internal combustion engines to plug-in hybrids and fully-electric models. 
BMW Group Plant Regensburg was recognised as “FACTORY OF THE YEAR” 2024 in the category “excellent large-series assembly” of the prestigious industrial competition. As it implements the so-called BMW iFACTORY, the BMW Group is focused on digitalisation of the Regensburg plant site to create a digital and intelligently connected factory. It is already possible to experience in virtual form what the factory will look like a few years from now. Production of models for the NEUE KLASSE, BMW’s next generation of vehicles, will ramp up in Regensburg in the second half of the decade.
The BMW Group plant in Wackersdorf is home to cockpit production and parts supply for overseas plants. With the opening of a new battery testing centre and commissioning of the first phase in autumn 2024, the location is also a key facilitator for electromobility. An entirely new area of expertise is the door and flap centre for Rolls-Royce.

The BMW Group core staff at the Regensburg and Wackersdorf locations in eastern Bavaria consists of around 9,250 employees, including about 300 apprentices.

www.bmwgroup-werke.com/regensburg/de.html

Debrecen. The future BMW Group plant in the Hungarian city of Debrecen is on the finish straight as the ramp-up of the assembly line sees the heart of the plant come to life. This is the beating heart of all the technologies in the plant, and also where the most employees work. The assembly launch thus marks the reaching of another milestone.

“Our highly efficient and ergonomic assembly line immediately started running without any issues,” said Hans-Peter Kemser, Managing Director BMW Group Plant Debrecen. “We achieved this thanks to virtual planning and tests, as well as the outstanding collaboration between our new, highly motivated employees in Debrecen and our experts within the BMW Group’s global production network.”

In assembly, the individual components and systems are installed in the painted body – at the end of the process, a car ready to drive rolls off the production line. The innovative vehicle architecture of the Neue Klasse opens totally new possibilities with regard to assembly: greater efficiency thanks to modularisation, fewer different connecting elements, and a simplified installation of the wiring harness. An innovative cockpit assembly also accelerates the process.

The BMW Group Plant Debrecen is already producing test vehicles for the first model of the Neue Klasse: the new BMW iX3.* Thus, the new plant is gradually ramping up for series production.

Neue Klasse allows simple, fast assembly process

A number of features of the Neue Klasse are new territory for everyone. Unlike in previous models, the cable harness is divided into multiple parts, making it easier and more ergonomic to install. The zonal wiring harness architecture requires 600 fewer metres of wiring and weighs 30 percent less than the previous generation.

On the other hand, some components are modularised when one module is formed from many small individual parts. The variation of connecting elements has also been radically reduced for the Neue Klasse. This in turn reduces the number of different plugs, screws and clips. All of this makes assembly significantly more simple. 

Furthermore, with the Neue Klasse, a wide range of quality checks can be performed digitally whilst still on the production line. This procedure will also be implemented at other sites after its initial use in Debrecen. The next point of use will be the home plant in Munich, which will produce the sedan model of the Neue Klasse as of 2026.

The innovative cockpit assembly accelerates processes at Plant Debrecen. It is one of the most compact in the BMW Group’s production network, yet still allows full flexibility and variety. As at Plant Lydia in China, cockpit pre-assembly is located right next to the main line. Once the cockpit has been pre-assembled, it is then installed directly in the vehicle just a few metres ahead.

Assembly in Debrecen adopts innovations from existing plants

When planning the new production site in Hungary, the BMW Group used a completely virtual design process. In line with the principles of the BMW iFACTORY, the tried-and-tested standards and high-tech solutions from existing plants were referred to many times. For example, many ideas and proven structures from Plant Lydia in China and Plant Leipzig can be found in the assembly in Debrecen.

Further development of the finger structure from Leipzig

These structures include the so-called finger structure, or comb structure, which the BMW Group developed specifically for Plant Leipzig, which opened in 2005. This structure allows supply parts and preassembled modules to be transported directly to the assembly lines. A record proportion of parts, up to 80%, can be delivered directly in Debrecen, as the fingers will enjoy logistics supply from both sides for the first time. This is the highest ratio in the BMW Group’s production network. The finger structure allows subsequent extension and the integration of further assembly steps – flexibility is a characteristic of production at the BMW Group.

Production processes, as at Plant Lydia in China

Plant Lydia in China was also an inspiration for many structures and processes in the assembly. The plant opened in 2022 and was the first BMW Group site to be completely planned and simulated in the virtual world from the outset. The shop floor for the assembly line and complete conveyor system in Debrecen are set up identically. Therefore, the technology was available quickly and had already been tried and tested, simplifying the commissioning of a completely new production line.

Series production of the new BMW iX3 set to start at the BMW Group Plant Debrecen in late 2025. The Hungarian plant has been designed specifically for the production of all-electric vehicles. As with the start of any new model or new plant, production capacities are increased gradually after start of production. The plant in Debrecen will be the first automobile plant in the BMW Group to operate entirely without the use of fossil fuels during normal operation.

*Since this is a pre-production model, consumption data for the new BMW iX3 is not available at this time.

Vancouver, BC.  Today at the 2025 Vancouver International Auto Show, BMW’s innovative Digital Key Plus feature has been awarded the prestigious 2025 Best Safety Innovation Award by the Automobile Journalists Association of Canada (AJAC). This recognition highlights BMW's commitment to enhancing vehicle safety and convenience through cutting-edge technology. This win comes on the heels of the BMW i4 winning AJAC’s 2025 Electric Car of the Year, the second car of the year title for the BMW i4 in Canada.

BMW Digital Key Plus, first introduced on the BMW iX in 2022, allows drivers to unlock and start their vehicle using their smartphones, providing a seamless and secure experience. Utilizing cryptographically secure, ultra-wideband (UWB) technology, Digital Key Plus offers enhanced security by ensuring that the key is only recognized when the user is in close proximity to the vehicle.

"The use of ultra-wideband technology is an innovative way to combat the 'relay' car thefts that have hit the headlines across Canada,” said Graham Heeps, chair of the AJAC Innovation Awards. “BMW Digital Key Plus is a worthy and timely winner of AJAC's Best Safety Innovation Award."

Furthermore, Digital Key Plus offers a range of functionalities that enhance the overall driving and ownership experience, while always keeping safety at the forefront. Owners can share a digital key with family and friends, allowing them to access the vehicle without the need for a physical key. Shared digital keys are active only at the owner’s discretion and can be revoked at any time. The feature is compatible with both iOS and Android devices, making it accessible to a wide range of users.

A notable secondary safety feature of Digital Key Plus is the "Restricted Driving" option when sharing a digital key. This functionality allows the primary key holder to set limitations on the vehicle's speed and other driving parameters for a shared digital key. This is particularly beneficial for parents who wish to lend their vehicle to younger or less experienced drivers, ensuring that they can drive safely within predefined limits. By providing this level of control, BMW enhances the safety of all drivers while promoting responsible vehicle use.

The AJAC Best Safety Innovation Award win is a testament to BMW's dedication to safety and innovation in the automotive industry. The award is given annually to recognize outstanding advancements in vehicle safety technology, as determined by a panel of expert automotive journalists.

Digital Key Plus is just one of the many ways BMW is leading the charge in automotive innovation, ensuring that safety and convenience remain at the forefront of its vehicle offerings.

For more information about BMW's Digital Key Plus and other innovative features, please visit BMW Canada’s website.

-30- 
 

BMW Group in Canada

BMW Group Canada, based in Richmond Hill, Ontario, is a wholly owned subsidiary of BMW AG and is responsible for the distribution of BMW luxury performance automobiles, Sports Activity Vehicles, Motorcycles, and MINI.  BMW Group Financial Services Canada is a division of BMW Group Canada and offers retail financing and leasing programs and protection products on new and pre-owned BMW and MINI automobiles, as well as retail financing for new and pre-owned BMW Motorcycles. A total network of 51 BMW automobile retail centres, 26 BMW motorcycle retailers, and 31 MINI retailers represents the BMW Group across the country.

For more information, please contact:

Marc Belcourt

Director, Corporate Communications

BMW Group Canada

905-428-5078 / marc.belcourt@bmwgroup.ca                                             

Jean-Francois Taylor

Product and Technology Manager, Corporate Communications

BMW Group Canada

905-428-5366 / jean-francois.taylor@bmwgroup.ca

Munich. The BMW Group is the first automotive manufacturer to launch a completely newly developed digital nervous system for all drivetrain variants and vehicle segments. It is more intelligent, more powerful and more efficient and will be rolled out for the first time in the models of the Neue Klasse. Four high-performance computers, also called "Superbrains", consolidate the computing power for the most important customer functions: infotainment, automated driving, driving dynamics, and basic functions such as vehicle access, climate control, and comfort. The four Superbrains provide more than 20 times the computing power compared to the current vehicle generation and are already designed for upcoming software and function updates, including AI-powered customer experiences.

"Technology openness is the key to BMW's success. Starting with the first model of the Neue Klasse, we will roll out the technologies of the Neue Klasse across the entire future model portfolio – across all segments and all drivetrains. This also applies to our completely newly developed electronic architecture made up of powerful 'Superbrains' and highly interconnected software platforms. This architecture allows us to decouple the development of the vehicle and software from each other. The advantage: More than ever before, all future BMW models will remain digitally up to date via over-the-air upgrades and will receive updates even from the next and subsequent vehicle generations," says Frank Weber, Board Member for Development at BMW AG.

A fundamental component of the digital nervous system is the radically simplified wiring harness. It is based on a so-called zonal wiring harness architecture, which uses 600 meters less wiring and brings 30% weight savings compared to the previous generation. The wiring harness is divided into four zones: front end, center, rear and roof. The Superbrains are connected via high-speed data connections to smaller control units, the zonal controllers, which manage and consolidate the data flow of the electronics in and out of the zones. The wiring in the vehicle is therefore zone-related and can thus be shorter, thinner, and lighter.

A crucial prerequisite for thinner and lighter wiring are the so-called "Smart eFuses". These are digital fuses that replace up to 150 traditional fuses. Smart eFuses can be intelligently programmed for digitally controlled energy distribution to components. The selective activation of components allows for the design of intelligent power modes for various vehicle states such as driving, parking, charging, and upgrading, in which unnecessary consumers can be identified and switched off. Thus, the eFuses make a significant contribution to the 20% improved energy efficiency.

The completely newly developed electronic architecture forms the basis for the next generation SDV. From the launch of the Neue Klasse, the upcoming BMW model generation will benefit from it. The first fully electric derivative of the Neue Klasse will go into series production later this year at the Debrecen plant (Hungary).

The advanced software architecture of the BMW Group builds on this new electronic architecture. With the multitude of digital functions in SDVs, it is crucial that functions can be continuously developed on stable software platforms rather than being newly developed for every new generation. This is precisely what is achieved with the Neue Klasse. In the vehicle the software platforms run on the respective Superbrains, and the vehicle functions run on top of them. The "Shared Service Layer" acts as a connecting element (middleware) and provides, among other things, state-of-the-art cybersecurity and flexible over-the-air updates. It also enables customer-relevant AI functions thanks to intelligent networking of cross-domain data sources.

"With the introduction of the Neue Klasse, we are entering a mode of software development where we achieve software continuity. This means we continuously develop software rather than starting from scratch each time," says Christoph Grote, Senior Vice President BMW Group Electronics and Software. "Based on our advanced software architecture and the fact that today our global development teams generate 130 times more software than ten years ago, we see ourselves in an excellent competitive position. More than ever, our software developers can focus on product innovations."

For the Neue Klasse, the development teams are working on well over 1,000 software modules, over 20 GB of software, and over 500 million lines of code, which will ultimately be integrated into the Superbrains and the rest of the electronic architecture in the vehicle. To achieve this, the BMW Group has established a solid foundation for future-proof and highly effective vehicle software development in recent years. Innovative methods and tools have been anchored in the continuously growing global developer network. At the heart of vehicle software development is the integrated developer environment: a tailored tool-chain called "CodeCraft." The speed and quality of development have been enhanced with the use of a variety of tools that support the software developer with generative AI. CodeCraft runs in the cloud on up to 75,000 virtual CPUs, supports the simultaneous work of well over 10,000 software developers, and records up to 200,000 software builds per day at peak times. This corresponds to a productivity increase of more than 130 times compared to ten years ago.

In the event of enquiries in the period from 11.03.2025 to 21.04.2025 please contact Benedikt Fischer (Benedikt.Fischer@bmwgroup.com). 

Munich. All locations in the BMW Group production network are able to manufacture different drive train types and model variants on a single line – from internal combustion engines to plug-in hybrids to fully-electric drive trains. A combination of plant splits – where a model is produced at multiple locations, flexible substitution of drive train variants and smart distribution of vehicle concepts ensures good capacity utilisation at all sites.

The German plants lead the way on e-mobility in the BMW Group’s production network: The sites in Munich, Dingolfing, Regensburg and Leipzig all produce at least one model for the global market alongside traditional drive technologies. Even in a volatile environment, the BMW Group continues to grow at its domestic locations, manufacturing over a million vehicles there last year (2024: 1,087,067; +16% YOY). The BMW Group thus accounts for a quarter of the automotive industry's total production volume in Germany.

However, electromobility is not just making inroads at the company’s German plants. The BMW Group’s Chinese plants have fully-electric vehicles in their production portfolio and Plant Spartanburg (USA) is gearing up for electrification. From 2026, it will build fully-electric vehicles alongside its existing production portfolio. Starting in 2027, Plant San Luis Potosí in Mexico will also ramp up the fully-electric vehicles of the NEUE KLASSE.

As one of the pioneers of e-mobility, the BMW Group soon recognised that the ramp-up would not be linear but would progress at varying speeds. In the initial phase of the ramp-up, it primarily relied on “flex-plants”, which can manufacture both vehicles with internal combustion engines and electric drive trains. In this way the company is able to ensure its delivery capabilities in different market situations and maintain good capacity utilisation at individual locations. 

With increasing electrification of the product portfolio, the plant environment is also changing. By the end of the decade, the BMW Group expects a significant increase in the market shares of fully-electric vehicles. For this reason, the plant in Debrecen and, later, the main plant in Munich will be the first facilities dedicated exclusively to fully-electric vehicles, enhancing electrification capacities across the network. The fully-electric NEUE KLASSE will launch at the new plant in Debrecen, Hungary before the end of the year. Once refurbishment is complete, the main plant in Munich will also produce only fully-electric vehicles from 2027.

The ability to make flexible substitutions is also a feature at plants designed solely for electric vehicles: Shifts in drive train variant production can be managed within the network. This enables the production network to respond in an agile manner to different scenarios in the ongoing ramp-up of e-mobility.

In addition to flexible substitution, BMW Group production is also characterised by “flexibility elements”. Order flexibility enables customers to modify their vehicle configuration up until six days before production begins. Volume flexibility relies on the sites’ flexible work-time models, which are constantly being refined. Measures include short-term tools, such as shift extensions and breaks, as well as medium-term modifications to shift models. A third shift was added at both the Regensburg and Leipzig plants.

Production follows the market – globally balanced plant capacity allocation 
The main criterion for plant capacity allocation, i.e. determining which models are produced at which plants, is proximity to the market. For example, Plant Spartanburg is the Competence Centre for BMW X models, because the US is the main sales market for the BMW Group’s Sports Activity Vehicles. Production and sales volumes both totalled just under 400,000 units in 2024. Almost 50 percent of all BMWs sold in the US in 2024 were built at Plant Spartanburg.

The Chinese market accounts for more than a quarter of the BMW Group’s total sales. The region is so large that the BMW Brilliance Automotive (BBA) joint venture produces vehicles almost exclusively for the local market. Here, also, sales and production volumes are closely aligned (2024 sales: 715,159; 2024 production: 695,579). Almost 90 percent of vehicles produced locally in China are also sold there.

The German plants in Munich, Regensburg and Leipzig manufacture UKL and compact-class vehicles primarily for the European market. Other locations, such as South Africa and Mexico, benefit from established free trade agreements.

The BMW Group's global distribution of value creation forms an important foundation for the resilience of its overall system, strengthening its ability to navigate trade policy and geopolitics. It also mitigates risks associated with currency fluctuations.

Munich/Landshut. The BMW Group is presenting its next leap forward in the field of electric drive technology – and in the process ushering in a new era of all-electric driving. At the Tech Days event in Landshut, the company has provided some initial insights into the development and production of high-voltage batteries and electric drive systems using the sixth generation of BMW eDrive technology. Every fully electric Neue Klasse vehicle will enjoy the benefits. The first Neue Klasse model will go into series production later this year at Plant Debrecen in Hungary. Below is an overview of the technology highlights:

• The Energy Master intelligent central control unit on the high-voltage battery – developed by the BMW Group and produced at Plant Landshut.
• A new high-voltage battery concept that, together with the BMW cylindrical cell, promises to bring about a technological quantum leap – including significant improvements in energy density, charging speed and range.
• The BMW Group also demonstrates its technology-openness with electric drive systems – through the use of different electric motor types: SSM and ASM.
• A modular approach to electric motor production gives the BMW Group an exceptional degree of flexibility.
• The BMW Group pools together expertise from the entire electric mobility value chain in Bavaria and Austria – from development, via purchasing and production, to recycling.
• The BMW Group demonstrates both technology-openness and full expertise across all areas of electric mobility.

Adopting a technology-open approach while setting the pace in electric mobility

“For the BMW Group, electric mobility is the future and a key area of growth. We are leading the way with this drivetrain technology. At the same time, we are deliberately taking a technology-open approach, recognizing that mobility needs vary between different regions of the world,” explains Dr Joachim Post, Member of the Board of Management of BMW AG, Purchasing and Supplier Network. “We want to offer our customers the best drive concept for every need. It is possible to do both: offer the best drive technology for every need and be at the forefront of electric mobility.”

Slimmer, faster, further: the high-voltage batteries for Gen6

With the new sixth-generation BMW eDrive technology (Gen6 for short), the BMW Group is making a technological quantum leap. Improvements on the product side include a 30% faster charging speed and 30% increase in range, with certain models achieving even higher figures. Added to which, the Gen6 high-voltage battery concept benefits from the new 800V technology. Gen6 will make its debut this year in the Neue Klasse and subsequently be used to drive models across the BMW Group’s fully electric product range. The concept for the Gen6 high-voltage batteries is fundamentally new and will find applications in all vehicle segments – right up to the high-performance models from BMW M GmbH. Its new, even slimmer design allows the high-voltage battery to be integrated into a spread of different models, regardless of vehicle height. The high-voltage battery takes on the role of a structural component in the bodies of the Neue Klasse models (“pack-to-open-body”), and the new cylindrical cells will be integrated directly into the high-voltage battery (“cell-to-pack”). The new BMW cylindrical cell has a 20% greater energy density than its predecessor, the Gen5 prismatic battery cell. And charging in both directions will be possible: the BMW Group has confirmed bidirectional charging as standard for Gen6.

Highly intelligent central control unit: the BMW Energy Master

All of the elements that enable this technological leap forward come together in the BMW Energy Master. This central control unit is positioned on the high-voltage battery and provides the interface for high- and low-voltage power supply and for data from the high-voltage battery. It also controls the power supply for the electric motor and vehicle electrical system and ensures the safe and intelligent operation of the high-voltage battery. The BMW Group has filed a whole series of new patent applications for the vehicle electrical system, including its electronic fuses. Both the hardware and software of the Energy Master were developed fully in-house at the BMW Group. This ensures technological developments and updates for vehicles can be implemented independently and in real time via Remote Software Upgrades, providing a particular benefit for customers.

“Local for local” approach for high-voltage battery assembly and supplier network

The high-voltage batteries for the Neue Klasse are assembled in five new production facilities that the BMW Group has located close to its vehicle plants as part of a “local for local” approach. For example, cutting-edge assembly locations for Gen6 high-voltage batteries are taking shape in Irlbach-Straßkirchen (Lower Bavaria), Debrecen (Hungary), Shenyang (China), San Luis Potosí (Mexico) and Woodruff, near Spartanburg (USA). This approach safeguards production even in the event of unforeseen political and economic events. In addition, the existing locations are being strengthened, with jobs both secured and created. The “local for local” principle continues in the supplier network for battery cells: in order to cover the demand for Gen6, the BMW Group has reached contractual agreements for five battery cell factories – spread across Europe, China and the USA – with various partners.

“Cell-to-pack” and “pack-to-open-body”

Production of the Gen6 high-voltage batteries follows the “cell-to-pack” and “pack-to-open-body” principles. “Cell-to-pack” involves positioning the cylindrical cells – manufactured by the suppliers according to BMW Group specifications – directly in the housing of the high-voltage battery, without the intermediate step of a module being produced. “Pack-to-open-body” refers to the high-voltage battery’s new role as a structural component in the vehicle architecture. Numerous innovations patented by the BMW Group can be found here.

Know-how from Bavaria and Austria – in demand around the world

Before series production of the high-voltage batteries gets underway worldwide, the production processes will be developed and pre-series batteries subjected to thorough testing. This will happen at the BMW Group pilot plants for high-voltage batteries in Parsdorf, Hallbergmoos and Munich. The new series production plants around the world will then be ready. The product and process expertise is centred in Bavaria. Production of the Energy Master will take place at Plant Landshut, which will then supply all the high-voltage battery assembly plants around the world. There, the highly intelligent control unit will be installed on the high-voltage battery. The electric motor with sixth-generation BMW eDrive technology is produced at Plant Steyr in Austria, which is also home to a development centre for electric drive systems and thermal management.

Production of the Energy Master at BMW Group Plant Landshut

A state-of-the-art production system for the BMW Energy Master is taking shape at Plant Landshut. The plant is currently producing the highly complex control unit in pre-series. Series production on the first production line will begin in August 2025, with a further expansion stage to follow in mid-2026. This is the first time the development and production of this central control unit has taken place in-house at the BMW Group. “As the company’s largest in-house component manufacturer, Landshut plays an important role for the Neue Klasse,” says Dr Joachim Post. “The plant is an innovation hub and a driver of transformation.” Around 200 people will be employed in the Energy Master production area at Landshut when production begins, rising to as many as 700 people as it ramps up further. The BMW Group has channelled investment in the high hundreds of millions of euros into the expansion of electric mobility at Plant Landshut since 2020, strengthening both the production facility itself and Germany’s status as an industrial powerhouse for the long term. The modular manufacturing system used to produce the Energy Master was also designed fully in-house by the BMW Group. It is supplied with subcomponents by a supply chain set up by the BMW Group. This extends to the n-tier supply chain for supply-critical components such as semiconductors. The benefits of this set-up can be seen in terms of both costs and supply security. The scalable production system enables the company to respond quickly and flexibly to market requirements. The high degree of automation, involving up to 400 robots in the final expansion stage, maximises efficiency. Comprehensive in-process monitoring, which includes the use of AI-based camera systems, and 100-per-cent end-of-line system checks in a clean-room environment ensure optimum quality.

Different recycling processes within the value chain

As electric mobility ramps up, there is an increasing focus on recycling of high-voltage batteries at the end of their lifecycle. Under a long-term partnership with SK tes – a leading provider of innovative technology lifecycle solutions – cobalt, nickel and lithium from end-of-life batteries are recovered from the BMW Group and integrated into the supply chain for the manufacture of new batteries. This closed-loop approach increases the efficiency and resilience of the BMW Group as part of a circular economy. The BMW Group will follow a similar path in the USA, Mexico and Canada up to 2026 with a separate partnership.

Innovative direct recycling at the BMW Group

The BMW Group is also exploring other recycling options in the value creation process. One example of this is the direct recycling method developed in-house. The BMW Group is working with its joint venture Encory to set up a competence centre for battery cell recycling in Lower Bavaria, where the company will put its direct recycling ideas into practice. This innovative process will enable residual materials from battery cell production and whole battery cells to be mechanically broken down into their valuable constituent components. The raw materials obtained in this way will be re-used directly in the pilot production process for battery cells at the company’s competence centres.

Technology-open approach for electric mobility: the new e-drive system of Gen6

The BMW Group has retained the principle of an electrically excited synchronous motor (EESM) for its Gen6 power unit. On this type of synchronous motor, the magnetic field in the rotor is generated by windings fed with direct current rather than permanent magnets. In this way, the strength of the rotor’s magnetic field can be optimally adjusted to the prevailing load conditions. This results in both excellent levels of efficiency at customer-relevant operating points and constant power output at high rotational speeds. As with the Gen5 version, the synchronous motor will be positioned above the rear axle and feature a compact housing incorporating the electric drive unit, power electronics and transmission. Many of the motor’s technical details were created with the help of patented expertise, with the non-potted rotor alone accounting for more than ten patent applications.

Neue Klasse additionally incorporates ASM technology

The Gen6 powertrain employs a second, additional electric motor technology in the form of the asynchronous motor (ASM). Here, instead of being generated by permanent magnets (PSM) or electrical excitation (EESM), the rotor’s magnetic field is induced by the stator. On this type of motor, the rotor takes the form of a metal cage. The asynchronous motor offers the advantage of a more compact design and superior cost efficiency. The ASM motor variants will be fitted at the front axle of Neue Klasse cars with BMW xDrive.

Extensive improvements to EESM technology

Besides the addition of ASM technology, the EESM technology has also undergone a major upgrade for Gen6: rotor, stator and inverter have all been fully designed for the new 800V architecture of the Gen6 tech in order to maximise drive system performance and efficiency. This has been further helped by a complete redesign of the oil and water cooling systems. In addition to this, the experts from the BMW Group have also succeeded in improving the electric motor and central housing in terms of their weight and rigidity too. The transmission still uses a two-stage helical design, but has been further optimised by enhancements to its geometry and cooling, lower friction levels and more pleasant acoustics. The electrically excited synchronous motor’s “brain”, the inverter, now features 800V technology along with silicon carbide (SiC) semiconductors to boost efficiency. The inverter is completely integrated into the electric motor’s housing. Its task is to convert the DC power supply from the high-voltage battery to AC for use in the electric motor. The inverter was developed in-house by the BMW Group and is produced at Plant Steyr in Austria.

Lower weight, costs and energy losses – greater efficiency in the vehicle

The results obtained from intelligently incorporating new technologies into the electric powertrain while consistently enhancing existing systems make impressive reading. When compared to a Gen5 xDrive model, a future Neue Klasse model complete with EESM and ASM technology boasts the following improvements: energy losses have been reduced by 40%, costs by 20% and weight by 10%. By combining different types of electric motor, the BMW Group’s technology-open approach is therefore clearly in evidence within the field of electric mobility. In future, customers will be able to choose from models equipped with one, two, three or four electric motors to suit their individual preferences and requirements. The sixth generation BMW eDrive technology is a significant factor in the gain in overall vehicle efficiency of around 20 per cent for the Neue Klasse. This figure is based on a comparison with the current generation of all-electric vehicles from the BMW Group.

Modular concept provides crucial advantage for manufacturing electric motors

The manufacturing concept for the Gen6 electric drive system uses the principle of modular building blocks. This forms the basis for highly flexible manufacturing of various electric drive variants across the entire Neue Klasse model range. The modular "building block” concept leads to positive economies of scale and cost savings in development and production. It also has the effect of improving the scalability of production volumes. The modular approach ensures a high degree of flexibility in production, the supply networks and procurement.

The Gen6 electric drive systems: made in Steyr

Series production of the Gen6 electric drive systems will commence at BMW Group Plant Steyr in summer 2025. Pre-production already got underway at the Austrian facility in September 2024. The pre-production motors are undergoing rigorous testing and some are already being fitted in Neue Klasse test vehicles from Plant Debrecen. By 2030, the BMW Group will have invested over one billion euros at the site since the project’s launch in 2022 to expand its development and production expertise for electric drive systems. Thanks to the increase in capacity, the plant will retain its status as the BMW Group’s leading facility for drive systems. The plant has been developing and building combustion engines for the BMW and MINI brands for over 40 years. Plant Steyr’s many years of experience and high level of expertise in the field of drive systems make it the ideal site for manufacturing the Gen6 electric motors. It has an annual production capacity of 600,000 electric drive units. Diesel and petrol engines continue to be manufactured there alongside the electric motors. By 2030, around half of the on-site employees should be working in electric mobility – a vital step for safeguarding the more than 4,700 jobs at the plant in the long term. In future, all key components of the innovative, highly integrated electric drive unit – i.e. the rotor, stator, transmission, inverter and housing – will be produced at Steyr. This will include manufacturing the inverters in an in-house clean room environment for the first time, thereby taking the engine plant into the realm of electrical engineering. The electric drive components will be built on two new assembly lines at Steyr.

Thermal management: complex interaction, crucial for performance
Thermal management involves highly complex interaction between various systems in an electric vehicle and is of critical importance for a host of performance parameters, including range, real-world consumption, acceleration and charging time. Thermal management is a question of constantly keeping the temperature of the electric motor, power electronics and high-voltage battery in the optimum range, while maintaining standards of passenger comfort at the same time. Efficient thermal management is important for fast charging too. Here, the battery temperature must be kept within a defined window in order to make optimum use of the available charging capacity. Unlike combustion engines, electric motors give off little heat. This means that, depending on the operating state, the battery and the passenger cell have to be not only cooled, but heated too. The Steyr site develops the thermal management systems for all electric vehicles from the BMW Group. The plant’s development centre is also responsible for the brain at the heart of the electric motor – the inverter.

BMW Group Plant Landshut – a multi-talented component manufacturer

BMW Group Plant Landshut is the BMW Group’s largest component plant anywhere in the world, supplying components to all the company’s vehicle and drive system plants. Its workforce of around 3,700 employees produces a broad spectrum of cutting-edge components for vehicles from the BMW Group. Working closely with the BMW Group’s Research and Innovation Centre (FIZ) in Munich, Plant Landshut plays a pivotal role as a hub of innovation for the automotive industry. It develops pioneering technologies and manufacturing processes that serve to maintain the company’s competitive edge. Over the course of the Neue Klasse project, the site is investing some €200 million in its light metal foundry to increase annual production capacity for the electric motor housings. The Injector Casting (ICA) process developed and patented in Landshut is a prime example of the plant’s innovative strength. This globally unique process is used to manufacture the electric motors’ highly complex aluminium housings that set new standards for lightweight design and functional integration.

In the event of enquiries please contact:

Corporate Communications

Christian Marxt

Spokesperson Production Network, Powertrain and High-voltage Batteries

Mobile: +49-151-601-79158

E-mail: Christian.Marxt@bmwgroup.com

Carolin Seidel

Spokesperson BMW Group Plant Landshut

Mobile: +49-151-601-90340

E-mail: Carolin.Seidel@bmwgroup.com

Florian Moser

Team Lead Purchasing and Supplier Network, Spokesperson Dr Joachim Post

Mobile: +49-151-601-62847

E-mail: Florian.Moser@bmwgroup.com

Bernhard Ederer

Spokesperson Drive Technology, Battery, Charging, Efficient Dynamics

Mobile: +49-176-601-28556

E-mail: Bernhard.Ederer@bmwgroup.com

Diana Schaidnagel

Spokesperson Sustainability

Mobile: +49-151-601-38407

E-mail: Diana.Schaidnagel@bmw.de

The BMW Group

With its four brands BMW, MINI, Rolls-Royce and BMW Motorrad, the BMW Group is the world’s leading premium manufacturer of automobiles and motorcycles and also provides premium financial services. The BMW Group production network comprises over 30 production sites worldwide; the company has a global sales network in more than 140 countries.

In 2024, the BMW Group sold 2.45 million passenger vehicles and more than 210,000 motorcycles worldwide. The profit before tax in the financial year 2023 was € 17.1 billion on revenues amounting to € 155.5 billion. As of 31 December 2023, the BMW Group had a workforce of 154,950 employees.

The economic success of the BMW Group has always been based on long-term thinking and responsible action. Sustainability is a key element of the BMW Group’s corporate strategy and covers all products from the supply chain and production to the end of their useful life.

Munich , Leipzig . The BMW Group has acquired two zero-emission fuel cell trucks, as it launches a pilot operation as part of the European H2Haul project, which is aimed at promoting hydrogen mobility in freight transport. The two vehicles will run between Leipzig, Landsberg and Nuremberg, in order to trial the practicality of this technology. To allow serial operation, two state-of-the-art hydrogen fuelling stations are being built in Leipzig and Hormersdorf. They allow rapid refuelling with large quantities of hydrogen, which is crucial to the continuous use of fuel cell trucks in the logistics sector. The BMW Group is implementing the H2Haul project in cooperation with Iveco, DHL and TEAL Mobility.

“In global logistics, it is important to select the right means of transport, in order to operate in a future-oriented and efficient manner. To this end, the openness to technology in the BMW Group is also reflected in its transport logistics. For the first time, hydrogen-powered trucks will now be used in serial operation for German automobile production. We have been working with our partners for several years to implement this pilot fleet. This project is an important milestone as we gain experience in serial operation and continue to advance this important technology,” says Michael Nikolaides, Head of Production Network and Logistics BMW Group.

Two of 16 trucks subsidised in Europe will drive for BMW Group Logistics

The aim of the H2Haul project is to test hydrogen trucks with fuel cell drivetrains under realistic conditions, and to investigate the important contribution they can make to decarbonising heavy traffic. Testing this technology will pave the way for the commercialisation of fuel cell trucks in Europe. Funded by the Clean Hydrogen Partnership, a total of 16 trucks will run in various European countries, including two IVECO S-eWay Fuel Cell trucks operated within Germany by BMW Group Logistics. The findings of the BMW Group when running the two trucks will help develop the technology to market maturity and pave the way for a wide-scale introduction in the road freight sector. Short refuelling times and longer ranges mean hydrogen trucks can represent an important addition to E-trucks, which are also in use at the BMW Group, on long routes. Another attribute worth emphasising is the flexible logistical operation of H₂ trucks, without having to put a charging infrastructure in place or expand a network.

BMW Group Strategy for Reduced Logistics Emissions

Participation in the H2Haul project, with the practical use of hydrogen fuel cell trucks in long-distance and heavy transport, is part of the BMW Group Strategy for Reduced Logistics Emissions and an important step towards achieving the BMW Group’s own climate goals on the road to zero-emission transport logistics. The cross-departmental “Reduced Logistics Emissions” team develops concepts to reduce CO₂ across all global BMW Group transport, whether by road, rail or ship. The team evaluates drive technologies, taking into consideration different future scenarios, with the goal being to make transport within the global production and distribution network zero-emission. Positive assessments lead to the implementation of pilot projects and the development of plant concepts, the emission data from which is then consolidated in order to allow a CO₂ report.

Additional use of H₂ combustion engine trucks within the HyCET project

As well as participating in the H2Haul project, the HyCET project to test trucks with H₂ combustion engines was also launched under the consortium leadership of the BMW Group. As part of the HyCET project, two 40-ton trucks and one 18-ton truck will be used in BMW Group Logistics in the future. The project is funded by the Federal Ministry for Digital and Transport (BMDV). Affiliated partners in this project are DHL, Volvo Trucks, Deutz, KEYOU and TotalEnergies. By testing H₂ fuel cells and H₂ combustion engines at the same time, the BMW Group is also consistently following its approach to technological openness in the transport logistics sector. Compared to fuel cells, the combustion engine does have higher consumption. However, the similarity to the established diesel engine means it costs less to produce. The particularly low level of emissions produced by burning hydrogen means the H₂ combustion trucks are classed as zero-emission vehicles in accordance with EU regulations. Both H₂ fuel cell trucks and trucks with H₂ combustion engines are used on the same BMW Group Logistics route and will use the same fuel stations. Comparing the two drive technologies will determine the best possible areas of application for the respective technology within BMW Group Logistics.

Hydrogen vehicles also used in intralogistics in Leipzig

Within the BMW Group, the Leipzig plant has for years played a pioneering role in the use of hydrogen in logistics. In 2013, the first indoor hydrogen fuel station in Germany was built on the grounds of the plant in Leipzig. Forklifts and tugger trains for internal plant logistics can be refuelled there. Over ten years later, the Leipzig plant possesses one of the largest fleets in Europe, with over 200 fuel cell-powered industrial trucks. Nowadays, five hydrogen fuel stations are located on the grounds of the plant, the newest of which allows fully-automated refuelling for the first time.

Use of flexible hydrogen burners in the paintshop

BMW Group Plant Leipzig is the first automobile plant in the world to operate a newly developed burner technology, which can use both natural gas and hydrogen, in its paintshop. Five bivalent, hydrogen-capable burners are currently used when applying the contrast roof paint on the MINI Countryman. Other burners in the paintshop are gradually being converted, so that there will be no need to use natural gas at all in the long term. This makes the Leipzig plant a pioneer in the automobile industry and takes another step towards reducing CO₂ emissions. “Our vision for Leipzig is the extensive decarbonisation of production. Among other things, this can be achieved by replacing fossil fuels with hydrogen,” says Petra Peterhänsel, Head of BMW Group Plant Leipzig, describing the long-term orientation of the plant.

First hydrogen-powered BMW production model in 2028

As part of its holistic approach and after the successful global testing of the pilot fleet of BMW iX5 Hydrogen vehicles, it is now preparing to start the series production of vehicles with hydrogen drivetrain in 2028. The series production models will be integrated into BMW’s existing portfolio, i.e. BMW will offer an existing model in an additional hydrogen fuel cell drive system variant. As fuel cell technology is another electric vehicle technology, the BMW Group explicitly views it as complementing the drive technology used by battery electric vehicles (BEV) and next to plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEV) and internal combustion engines (ICE).

Munich. The BMW Startup Garage is celebrating its tenth anniversary. Its achievements so far: 4,700 startups assessed, joint projects with more than 220 fledgling companies from 26 countries, and a total of 30 startups now established as suppliers, service providers and an integral part of the BMW Group network.

The BMW Group’s venture client unit was founded in February 2015. The aim was to provide support for startups that could significantly benefit the company’s products, services and processes. But what’s special about this type of collaboration is that the business founders get to keep their stake in their company, as the BMW Group is involved not as an investor but as their client – a venture client. It assesses and accelerates their development with a view to making them suppliers and long-term partners.

“For the BMW Group, integrating innovative startups for a specific purpose is crucially important,” says Robert Hein, Head of the BMW Startup Garage, summing up his team’s first ten years of work. “We benefit from new ideas and perspectives we get from the collaboration and from the dynamism and agility of the startups. This allows us to make focused contributions to strong innovation development at the BMW Group.” But the startups themselves also reap the rewards: they have the backing of a strong partner who supports them as they develop their technologies and business models, and smooths the way for them to enter the automotive industry.

“In our anniversary year, we are going to continue our successful work and develop our global focus even further,” Hein announced. “We’re on the lookout across the globe for innovative startups working closely on future mobility.” Emerging companies can apply for a place on the venture client programme at any time via bmwstartupgarage.com.

Born in Garching, at home around the world

The BMW Startup Garage was launched in 2015 in Garching, just outside the city of Munich. Today it operates offices in Mountain View, Shanghai, Seoul, Tokyo, Tel Aviv and, since 2024, Greenville (USA). 18 employees currently work in the  global BMW Startup Garage network which, in combination with the venture capital arm BMW i Ventures, forms the startup ecosystem of the BMW Group. BMW i Ventures is based in Silicon Valley and Munich and invests in emerging startups with a formative influence on the future of the automotive industry, production and the supply chain.

From startup to BMW Group logistics partner. The Embotech success story

One example of how close collaboration between the BMW Startup Garage and a fledgling business can lead to a lasting cooperation is Embotech AG. The Swiss-based company developed a solution known as automated vehicle marshalling (AVM), which allows vehicles to move around BMW plant premises automatically. AVM is now an integral part of the BMW Group’s state-of-the-art production logistics, and Embotech – supported by the BMW Group since 2018 – is an established global logistics partner in which BMW i Ventures has held a stake since December 2024.

Spartanburg / Munich. Showcasing driving pleasure up to the physical limits is the BMW Group’s mission with its new high-performance test vehicle – the BMW Vision Driving Experience. This Vision Vehicle is not destined for series production, but is instead serving as a rolling test rig for drivetrain and driving dynamics management technology developed specially for the Neue Klasse – the next generation of BMW vehicles – and referred to by BMW as the “Heart of Joy”. The prototype car put the capabilities of the Heart of Joy to the ultimate test of endurance at the BMW Performance Driving Center in Spartanburg, USA. And the company provided exclusive insights into its development programme for the electric driving experience on board the Neue Klasse as part of a preview presentation. Every fully electric Neue Klasse model will benefit from the Heart of Joy. The first taller Neue Klasse electric model will go into series production later this year at Plant Debrecen in Hungary. The new Heart of Joy adds a fourth dimension – BMW’s hallmark Sheer Driving Pleasure – to the existing trio of Neue Klasse characteristics (electrical, digital, circular). Oliver Zipse, Chairman of the Board of Management of BMW AG, took to the stage at the IAA 2023 show holding the small black box. It is important to note that the control unit will go into series production, but the Vision Vehicle will not.

“The Heart of Joy enables us to take driving pleasure not just to the next level, but another one beyond that,” says Frank Weber, member of the Board of Management of BMW AG, responsible for Development. “In addition, we are further increasing efficiency, and therefore boosting range, as in future the driver will brake almost exclusively using energy regeneration. This is Efficient Dynamics squared.”

Computer processing now ten times faster

The Heart of Joy control unit for the drivetrain, brakes, charging, recuperation and steering subfunctions processes information ten times faster than previous systems. Working in tandem with the BMW Dynamic Performance Control software, the Heart of Joy computes all the driving dynamics functions with a whole new level of speed and precision. The software has been developed entirely in-house on the back of experience in the field of driving dynamics amassed by BMW engineers over more than a century. The Vision Vehicle develops 18,000 Newton metres (13,269 lb-ft) of torque. The reasoning behind this is that if the control system can deal with an explosion of power of this magnitude, it will be able to handle the demands of everyday driving with ease.

Energy recovery under braking (also known as recuperation) sees the drivetrain and braking functions of electric vehicles forming a symbiosis. In the innovative electronics architecture of the Neue Klasse, the Heart of Joy is one of four central control units and combines drivetrain and driving dynamics functions for the first time. These innovative control functions are protected by several patent applications. The high-performance unit controls acceleration and braking, vehicle stabilisation, dynamic steering functions and charging management. The central processing unit and perfectly coordinated BMW Dynamic Performance Control software developed in-house enable all connected actuators to respond directly and with minimal delay: latencies are in the millisecond range. By contrast, conventional systems have separate control algorithms for the drive system and brakes. This means the full handling potential of vehicles with powerful electric drive systems cannot be fully exploited.

Precise cornering and the smoothest stopping process in the history of the car

The driver and passengers here experience a harmonious and noiseless driving feeling – regardless of the situation and speed they are travelling at. In dynamic driving scenarios, the new Heart of Joy / BMW Dynamic Performance Control combination serves up cornering poise and assurance beyond compare. The car generates impressive traction and can be threaded through corners with exceptional precision. Fewer control inputs are required and the car’s line can be maintained with greater precision and stability. This helps the car to develop consistent, reproducible cornering behaviour and allows it to be steered more intuitively and smoothly. At low speeds – such as in stop-start driving or when parking – direct signal transmissions and rapid information processing ensure an even more compelling driving experience. In driving modes D or B, or when using Active Cruise Control, the parking brake or parking lock, stopping and restarting merge seamlessly into one another.

Recuperation fuels a 25 per cent increase in efficiency

Furthermore, integrated drivetrain, braking and energy recuperation control allows energy to be used more sustainably. 98 per cent of drivers do not need to make any inputs using the conventional brakes. The braking power generated using energy recuperation is sufficient for normal, everyday driving. Only under heavy braking, e.g. in an emergency situation, is intervention required from the friction brakes. All in all, this system increases efficiency by up to 25 per cent.

The BMW Vision Driving Experience test vehicle demonstrates how the Heart of Joy works using illuminating colour codes on the wheel rims: acceleration is indicated in green, energy recuperation in blue and braking using the friction brakes in orange.

Four totally new super-brains will go to work in the BMW of the future. These high-performance computers cleverly combine various elements that previously ran separately. The Heart of Joy was developed 100 percent within the company. It allows four important control units to be brought together within a single high-performance computer.

Another three super-brains are responsible for features including automated and highly automated driving, infotainment and basic functions such as climate control and comfort-enhancing systems, vehicle access, interior and exterior lighting.

World Premiere at Shanghai Auto Show

The BMW Vision Driving Experience will celebrate its official world premiere at Auto Shanghai 2025.